Maplewood State Park winter operations bolster Pelican Rapids economy and recreation

Maplewood State Park, one of Otter Tail County’s largest and most visited state parks, stands out as a year-round resource that becomes particularly vital in winter. The park’s more than 9,000 acres of lakes, Leaf Hills topography and mixed forest provide about five miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, a groomed snowshoe loop with warming areas, extensive ungroomed backcountry skiing routes and multiuse trails open to hikers and horseback riders in appropriate seasons. Several park lakes see ice fishing and limited winter boating activity when conditions allow.

For residents and visitors that means genuine winter recreation close to Pelican Rapids. Maplewood’s facilities include drive-in campsites many with electrical hookups, backpack sites and camper cabins, some of which are offered year-round. An equestrian campground and maintained horse trails support riders across the region, while vehicle permits are required for park access; check the Minnesota DNR site for daily and annual pass options. Practical safety guidance remains straightforward: dress in layers, carry or download a trail map, use traction devices or skis suited to conditions, check ice and weather before heading out and let someone know your plans. Pets must follow DNR leash and waste rules. The main park entrance sits about seven miles east of Pelican Rapids on State Highway 108; the park office and the Friends of Maplewood State Park provide the most up-to-date local information.

Maplewood’s winter offerings are not only recreational assets but economic drivers for Pelican Rapids and Otter Tail County. Overnight stays in cabins and campgrounds, guided outings, local gear shops and food-and-lodging services see a winter boost when trails are groomed and conditions are reliably posted. That link between DNR operations, volunteer stewardship and the local economy raises governance and accountability questions that residents should consider. Permit revenue and state budget allocations fund upkeep, but community expectations for grooming schedules, trail maintenance and safety communications put pressure on both the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and local partners to be transparent and responsive.

Community engagement matters: the Friends group helps fill information gaps and supports programming, but sustained volunteer support cannot replace predictable public investment. County officials and voters influence priorities that affect trail grooming, emergency response capacity and tourism promotion. If you care about consistent winter access and the revenue it brings, weigh those priorities when engaging county commissioners and the DNR.

The takeaway? Treat Maplewood as a shared resource - check the Minnesota DNR site before you go, follow posted safety rules, support the Friends of Maplewood and tell local leaders you value well-maintained winter recreation. Your input helps keep the trails groomed and the Pelican Rapids winter economy rolling.