Camden Trail Races

The Camden Trail Races return to Lynd, Minnesota on August 22nd, inviting runners of all ages for a scenic journey through the heart of the Coteau des Prairies plateau at Camden State Park. This year marks the second running of this event, which has quickly become beloved by participants who appreciate its challenging yet rewarding terrain and community atmosphere. The race offers five different distance options to choose from: 10 Miler, 7 Miler, 3 Miler, plus youth divisions for each distance.
On race day morning, Lynd's Camden State Park welcomes runners with firm but slightly soft trails that wind through the wooded valley formed by the Redwood River. The park’s natural beauty is on full display as participants make their way along paths lined with trees and native prairie grasses, offering both shade from early summer sun and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. As part of the Sioux Falls Area Running Club's Trail Race Series celebrating its 10th year anniversary in 2026, the Camden Trail Races have established themselves as a key event for serious runners looking to test their abilities on varied terrain.
The race series has evolved based on feedback from last year’s participants. This includes changes to age group classifications and the reintroduction of swag items such as neck gaiters given out at each event. Additionally, new partner races have been added to expand opportunities for earning points in the overall Trail Race Series competition. The Camden Trail Races continue to attract a growing number of runners who appreciate both the competitive aspect and the chance to explore Minnesota’s natural beauty.
The race course through Camden State Park features a mix of elevated highland trails and river valley paths, providing varied elevation changes that challenge even seasoned trail runners. Participants will start and finish at 1897 Camden Park Road where they can expect aid stations strategically placed along each route for hydration needs during the event. The firm but slightly soft trail conditions make running both comfortable and engaging as participants navigate around natural obstacles like rocks, roots, and small hills.
On race day in August, Lynd’s weather typically presents runners with warm temperatures ranging from 68°F to 75°F (20°C - 24°C) and a high UV index of 7. This means that while the morning may start cool enough for comfortable running conditions, midday could see increased heat requiring proper hydration strategies. The risk of light precipitation is minimal but always possible given Minnesota’s climate variability.
The Camden Trail Races offers five distances: a challenging 10 Miler at 16.1K with an adult fee of $36.50 and a youth option for those under the age of 18 priced at $11.50; a mid-distance 7 Miler, also known as the 11.3K race, costing adults $36.50 while the junior division is only $11.50; rounding out with an introductory or family-friendly option in the form of a shorter but still engaging 3 Miler distance at 4.8K for adult entrants ($36.50) and youth runners under 18 years old can register for just $11.50.
Registration for the Camden Trail Races is available online through [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=136719](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=136719). The standard entry fee stands at $40 with discounts provided to current members of the Sioux Falls Area Running Club. Those under 18 years old on race day can register for a reduced rate of $15. Early registration is encouraged as space fills quickly and there are special pricing options available when signing up for multiple events within the series.
For those picking up their bibs, it’s important to visit Camden State Park early in the morning before race start times at 7:00 AM on August 22nd. Participants will need their confirmation email and photo ID if under 18 years old during pickup days which occur between one week prior to the event date.
Runners should plan accordingly by arriving at the starting address of 1897 Camden Park Road in Lynd, Minnesota where all distances begin and end on race day. Age requirements vary based upon each distance category but generally adhere closely to standard youth divisions for under-18 runners with adult categories open from age 18 upwards.
The Camden Trail Races at Lynd, Minnesota on August 22nd is a must-run event for those who appreciate challenging trails and scenic views alongside the Redwood River. This race offers more than just miles; it provides an opportunity to explore one of Southwestern Minnesota’s most beautiful parks while supporting local running traditions that continue to grow stronger each year.