Summary
The monument is situated on the site where over 1,600 Dakota prisoners were released after being held captive by the U.S. Army for several months.
Visitors to the monument can explore the grounds and see several points of interest, such as the monument itself, interpretive panels, a reproduction of the fort that was built to hold the Dakota prisoners, and the beautiful natural surroundings of the site.
One interesting fact about the monument is that it is the only state monument in Minnesota dedicated to the Dakota War of 1862. Additionally, the monument is surrounded by a park that offers visitors picnic areas, walking trails, and beautiful views of the nearby Lac qui Parle State Park.
The best time of year to visit the Camp Release State Monument is in the summer months, as the weather is mild and the park is open for visitors. However, the site is open year-round, so visitors can still explore the grounds during the colder months.
Overall, Camp Release State Monument is an important historical site that offers visitors the chance to learn about the Dakota War of 1862 and the events that took place at the campsite. With its beautiful natural surroundings and unique exhibits, it is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in Minnesota's history.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lagoon Park Campground
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Boyd City Park
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Lac qui Parle State Park
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Lion's RV Park
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