83 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Albert Lea, MN cover a range of options from tent sites to RV camping with electric hookups, tables, and fire rings. Minneopa State Park stands out for its trails and wildlife viewing, while Maple Springs Campground gives campers a quiet place to fish and hike without crowds. Most people find spring and fall camping best here because of milder temperatures. Summer brings more campers to the area, making reservations important. Few people camp during Minnesota winters, though some places do stay open. If you're heading to Albert Lea to camp, book early if you're coming during busy times. Myre-Big Island State Park sits nearby with more hiking and good bird watching spots. The lakes around Albert Lea make for good fishing and boating between camping sessions. Both new and experienced campers will find sites that match their needs in this part of Minnesota. Remember to check the rules before you go and pack what you'll need for the weather conditions.
"34/night plus Minnesota State Park pass @ $8/day.😩
Not super spacious but very comfortable distance between spaces. Well maintained dirt road in campground. Grassy and mowed."
"Nice fire pit and located right next to the lake. Only downside was the site was electric only. No option for full hookup but water was located between the sites."
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability"Met up with friends to get outside. They brought their dogs and we had a grand time."
"I've always considered myself blessed to have this state park so close to home. This is a beautiful, well kept state park."
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability"It’s pretty close to the interstate, so just be aware you’ll hear that noise, it might be better once the trees have leaves on them. Would stay again!"
"Drive over to Austin and visit the Spam Museum...who knew?"
"You have a choice between a grassy walk or walking mainly on tar and gravel as part of the Blazing Star Trail. They are also accessible by boat."
"At my site, BP1 or backpack 1 or R1, you have water access nearby so prep for the sounds of waterfowl. PELICANS! They flap loudly when entering or exiting the water. Very cool to watch."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Check in was quick, spots were easy to pull into, the bathrooms were really clean, and it was surprisingly quiet despite the proximity to the highway. "
"We stopped for the night driving between Black Hills and Chicago and the service was awesome. The hosts called to tell us about construction and give us alternative directions."
"Would recommend if you prefer a nice quiet campground away from busy roads."
"My site was right next to the bathroom building which did have a light on all night, but I had an eye mask so that didn’t bother me. 25/night for a tent site"
"I'd recommend trying to snag this spot later in the summer when the lake is more inviting. But we did see lots of migratory birds over the weekend."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"Spent one night passing through Ellendale Minnesota. Our reservation paperwork was waiting for us at the gatehouse with directions to our back-in site 11."
"Our check-in package was ready when we arrived at the little self-registration building at the entrance."
"The toilet situation is the only thing that is a negative. It rained today and the men’s side had standing water through most of the floor. But they are totally serviceable."
TravelerLooks like it has about four sites with grill grates. It has two electrical hook up posts. They are rated for 20 Amps. The toilet situation is the only thing that is a negative. It rained today and the men’s side had standing water through most of the floor. But they are totally serviceable. Overall, I would stay here again.
ScoutGreat time friendly people and owners and campers.
ScoutWe booked site 31 which is directly in the middle of seasonal campers. Not very many people around. Bathrooms are definitely old but clean. I would not waste the extra 10 dollars on a lakeside site (trees blocking view)
ScoutMy two boys and I camped here for one night on a weekday in late August. It was a great place to relax and spend time together. We chose the cart in campsite and we had the area all to ourselves. The vault toilets near the campsite were clean, and the main bathrooms and showers in the main campground were also very nice and clean. We enjoyed a great hike around the park and had a successful birding outing. The trails closer to the water had more mosquitoes, although their numbers decreased the closer we got to our campsite. From our campsite, we saw five new bird species without even having to get out of our chairs. All in all, I would definitely come back.
ScoutBig grass field, truck camper friendly.
ScoutAs a newer resident on Roberds Lake I decided to walk my son in his stroller down to the resort. It looked like a tropical paradise. The water is treated, there were tons of kids splashing around, his age.. It was the hottest day this year so far. It was packed! Lots of welcoming smiles on the beach...I saw the sign saying "Public Not Allowed." I was like aw that's disappointing ,and I understand completeley, why they do this. I have worked in the food and bev/entertainment industry for all of my life. Im 44...
I went into the little eatery to ask permission from what appeared to be the owner or manager. I asked her and she replied with " NO!" in the rudest way you could say it, and pointed her finger at the door....I mean, come on. Im my opinion, I think she could have handled it a little more professionally and suggest somewhere else, offer a cup of ice water, anything kind....no. All she was, was straight up cruel and I had to rush the first 2 blocks before I lost it. My son, didn't make a peep..anyways. . .I dont like saying negative things about people but in the case, I cant hold back. If you cant be kind and hospitable to EVERYONE that walks in that door, find a new profession like a prison guard or something....
ScoutThis is a smaller KOA, owner off hwy 90. Closed during winter. We were in spot 53, beautiful end site with corn views. Owner is working on fixing the dump portion of the full hookup as it sits to high to dump. Overall the spot was beautiful
ScoutQuiet, peaceful and well organized. All showers and toilets are clean. Staff and the management are the best. Will return again for longer stay
GuideWe stayed 1 night and the host was Amazing! Our site had everything included. Site was easy to back into and the location is just an hour from Mall of America
Camping options around Albert Lea, Minnesota range from state parks to private campgrounds within a 25-mile radius. The region sits at about 1,250 feet elevation in Minnesota's southeast corner, characterized by prairie landscapes and multiple lakes. Seasonal temperature swings are significant, with winter lows often below zero and summer highs regularly reaching the 80s, making campground availability vary considerably by season.
Hiking trails on Big Island: At Myre-Big Island State Park, visitors can explore more than 20 miles of trails through varied terrain. "The hiking trail on the island is cute as well. The near by town is also nice and fun to stop by for lunch," notes Amber S., who recommends the car camping sites for their shade and cooling breeze.
Water recreation options: Albert Lea's lakes provide multiple water activity options within a short drive of most campgrounds. "The lake was great, and calm," writes Gene Z., who stayed at Myre-Big Island State Park and "dropped our kayak into the lake at the boat launch, which was a 2 minute drive to the other side of the island from the campsite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife, especially for bird watchers. "We spotted pelicans, turtles, and birds along the shore," reports Leni K. after staying at Myre Big Island campground. Matt C. adds that even in cooler months, "we did see lots of migratory birds over the weekend" while camping at the island group camp.
Modern bathroom facilities: White Fox — Myre-Big Island State Park receives consistent praise for its updated facilities. "Beautiful, clean, and recently updated bathrooms and showers!" Michael C. writes, adding that the park has "20+ miles of hiking trails through prairies, woodlands, and along the lake too!"
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer larger sites than expected. At Oakwoods Trails Campground, Jordan M. found "Site 6&7 were perfect for hammocks" while Torey H. noted it was "Clean and well maintained campground about a quarter mile past owner's farm buildings" with "mature trees" providing good shade.
Attentive campground hosts: Several Albert Lea area campgrounds feature staff who enhance the camping experience. At Albert Lea-Austin KOA, Briana H. found "Brian in the office was SO nice and generous. It was pretty quiet there, he upgraded us to a nicer spot and threw in an extra bundle of wood."
Reservation requirements: During peak season, booking early is essential for most campgrounds. Melissa C. found KOA Kampgrounds of America to be a "Perfect stop!" where "the hosts called to tell us about construction and give us alternative directions."
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near major highways, creating ambient noise. Daniel H. notes that at Albert Lea-Austin KOA, "This is a nice little campground, but its location (although convenient) right off the freeway is less than ideal. The background noise isn't terrible but it's always there."
Payment methods vary: Not all campgrounds accept credit cards. At Oakwoods Trails Campground, Jay advises visitors to come prepared: "Note: it is cash or check only so make sure you have money to pay (we stopped at a nearby gas station to use an ATM). They do sell firewood and ice if you need it."
Seasonal insect preparation: Bug protection is essential during warmer months at the best places to camp near Albert Lea. "We really enjoyed it here! Except for the mosquitoes, so pack repellent!" warns Gene Z. about Big Island campground, while Anne K. specifically mentions "the bugs were awful (I get it, they're part of being out in nature). At one point I just had to yell 'RUN' at my partner as I fled with our dog because the may flies were swarming so thickly."
Child-friendly campgrounds: Some campgrounds cater more to families with play areas. At Crystal Springs RV Resort, Kelsie B. notes it's "meant for adults no park for kids. But everyone was good with our kiddos playing outside," indicating families are welcome despite the adult-oriented nature of the campground.
Wildlife education opportunities: Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting with children. Campers frequently mention deer sightings, with Erin L. reporting at White Fox campground: "We saw a ton of wild life many many many deer!"
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared to work at getting level at some campgrounds. Michelle S. at Big Island campground found "Sites didn't seems to be very level, but we eventually got our rig leveled."
Campground navigation: Some parks have tight interior roads that require careful maneuvering. Cheryl W. warns about White Fox campground: "The interior roads are dirt roads with a few potholes they are very narrow... We were able to drive through the campground with our 40 foot fifth wheel. But just barely, be careful!"
Utility placement and hookups: MickandKarla W. found at Crystal Springs RV Resort that "The utilities are in the middle of the site and worked well with water pressure near 45 psi. The sites are decently spaced for this type of CG. They have WiFi, but their info packet states it's not good enough for streaming but okay for email, etc."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost to camp at Albert Lea campgrounds?
Camping costs around Albert Lea vary by location and amenities. At Myre-Big Island State Park, expect to pay around $34 per night for electric sites, plus an $8 daily Minnesota State Park pass if you don't have an annual pass. For budget options, Otranto Co Park across the Iowa border offers more affordable rates with basic amenities including warm showers. For free camping, some wilderness areas within driving distance provide no-cost options. Most state parks in the region charge between $25-35 per night, with additional fees for vehicle permits. County parks typically offer lower rates, and many campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays or off-season camping.
What campgrounds are available in Albert Lea, MN?
Albert Lea offers several camping options including White Fox — Myre-Big Island State Park, a popular destination with lakeside sites and hiking trails. For a more rustic experience, Hickory Hills Campground provides camping near Albert Lea with big-rig-friendly sites. Nearby options include Daly Park & Campground and Otranto Co Park just across the Iowa border. The area offers a mix of state park camping with amenities like electric hookups, shower facilities, and recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Most campgrounds in the region provide options for both tent and RV camping with varying levels of services and facilities.
Is there a KOA campground in Albert Lea?
While there isn't a KOA directly in Albert Lea, the Albert Lea-Austin KOA is located near Hayward, just a short drive from Albert Lea. This KOA offers the standard amenities typical of KOA campgrounds, including drive-in access, reservable sites, water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly facilities. For those seeking alternatives to KOA, Sakatah Lake State Park Campground is within an hour's drive, offering beautiful wooded sites and recreational activities. The KOA provides a convenient option for travelers along I-90 and I-35 who prefer the consistent amenities and services that KOA campgrounds typically provide.
Are there RV parks near Albert Lea with full hookups?
While full hookup options are limited directly in Albert Lea, Albert Lea-Austin KOA near Hayward offers full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections for RVs. Oakwoods Trails Campground near Austin is another option with RV accommodations. Most state parks in the area like Myre-Big Island State Park offer electric-only sites with access to water fill stations and dump stations rather than full hookups. For RVers needing full amenities, private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Albert Lea typically provide the most comprehensive hookup options. Many are big-rig friendly with pull-through sites, though availability may be limited during peak summer months.
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