Verified
Established Camping
Aefintyr
Aefintyr, near Whitewater State Park, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some cozy comforts. With options for both tent camping and cabin stays, it caters to a range of preferences, whether you want to rough it or kick back in style.
This campground is known for its beautiful surroundings and great amenities. Each site comes with its own fire pit and firewood, perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around the fire. Visitors have raved about the cozy cabins, especially during winter, making it a year-round destination. One camper noted, “The cabin was cozy even during winter,” highlighting the comfort you can expect.
The hike-in sites offer a bit of adventure, with some reviewers mentioning the steep trails that lead to stunning views. If you’re up for it, the hike is worth it, and you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to stargaze on clear nights. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the scenic trails and trout fishing spots of Whitewater State Park, making it easy to fill your days with outdoor activities.
With a friendly vibe and a community space for socializing, Aefintyr is a great choice for those looking to connect with fellow campers. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, this campground has everything you need for a memorable experience.
Description
Aefintyr campground is located in the scenic woods of the Whitewater River Valley in the Driftless Area of Southeastern Minnesota. We offer beautiful blufftop hike-in camping and glamping and cozy treehouse inspired camper cabins. The hike-in camp/glamp sites offer a backpacking like experience (1460 ft hike with a 230 ft elevation gain) and are great for people who like to get some exercise and want to immerse themselves in a woodland setting. Perfect relaxation destination or home base for your Whitewater Valley adventures. Aefintyr is a small operation that values peace, quiet and quality over quantity. Get away from crowds and get into the woods! Onsite, enjoy a campfire, stargazing, hiking and observing the amazing animals, plants and fungi.
Nearby recreation opportunities include:
Within 2 miles of Whitewater State Park, the Elba Fire Tower, Whitewater State Wildlife Management Area (hunting, trout fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing) and the Whitewater River State Water Trail (canoe/kayak/tube). There is a gas station (bait and fishing supplies, convenience store items), 2 bars and a restaurant within a mile in the town of Elba. Whitewater Wines Winery is also just a few miles up the road!
Shared amenities:
Bathhouse with individual rooms, with a hot shower, vanity and composting toilet
Outhouse with composting toilet on top of the bluff within 400 feet of each campsite
Community area (requires short hike) with tent shelters (2, each 10' x 20'), outdoor furniture, tables, chairs, propane grill w/ side burner, firepit w/ cooking grate/skillet.
Propane Gas Grill (at base of the hill by the bathhouse)
Stargazing area with reclining chairs
Cell service: AT&T typically works well, Verizon works intermittently, and T-mobile doesn't have a good signal.
Wi-fi: Available at the bathhouse and parking area, data speeds up to 25 Mbps.
**Parking: **On site, 2 vehicle limit, no vehicles larger than a full-size truck, no trailers.
**Host accessibility: **Available 24/7/365 via phone and email/messaging, frequently on site.
**Security: **Campground community areas are under video surveillance.
Setting: Aefintyr campground is located in the hilly, wooded, blufflands of the Whitewater River Valley just north of the tiny town of Elba, MN. Views are primarily of the woods and valleys. The campground is off of a 2 lane county highway so there is some intermittent road noise. It is otherwise very peaceful and filled with the sounds of nature, including lots of birds and other wildlife.
Aefintyr is a peaceful place with chill vibes and we like to keep it that way! It is not a place for parties or rowdy groups. We like to listen to nature, not loud music or rowdy people blabbering into the night. Please see our rules/polices to know what to expect.
20240824
Location
Aefintyr is located in Minnesota
Directions
From Elba (Hwy 74, AKA Main Street) - turn onto West Center Street, which heads up hill. There is an autobody shop on your right soon after your turn, then the St. Aloyisious cemetery also on the right, Aefintry is next on your left. Watch for the sign. Coming from the East (heading west) on Winona Country Hwy 26 (AKA Co Hwy 25 in Olmsted County) you will pass several farms/homesteads, watch for the Aefintyr sign on your right after you begin to drop into the valley.
Coordinates
44.096854812608456 N
92.01915152550733 W
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 33 min from Rochester
- 52 min from La Crosse
- 1 hr 33 min from Eau Claire
- 1 hr 44 min from Minneapolis