Camping near Austin, Minnesota offers choices along the I-90 and I-35 corridors with sites generally open April through October. Winter camping options are limited, though White Fox at Myre-Big Island State Park remains open year-round. The area features a mix of privately-owned RV parks and state facilities, with most campgrounds sitting at elevations between 1,100-1,300 feet above sea level in southern Minnesota's gently rolling farmland terrain.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at state parks: Myre-Big Island State Park offers abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "We visited in early April so the sites were quite exposed, I can imagine they would be more private in the summer," notes one camper. The park features over 20 miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems. "A bald eagle flew over the car on our way in. When we pulled up, there were 5 deer on our site," reports another visitor.
Fishing and water activities: Albert Lea Lake provides fishing access within Myre-Big Island State Park. The park has equipment rentals available for those without gear. "The lake is gorgeous but just a few places to get to the water. Saw a sign on the park door saying kayaks and canoes available to rent," mentions a camper who stayed at White Fox Campground.
Museums and local attractions: The region offers cultural sites within driving distance of rv sites near Austin, Minnesota. KOA Kampgrounds of America provides convenient access to regional attractions. One visitor mentioned: "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."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Autumn Woods RV Park receives praise for its upkeep. "Very clean, quite and friendly helpful people. Easy in and out, that's important to me because we have a large trailer," notes one reviewer. Sites accommodate various RV sizes with back-in and pull-through options.
Privacy at certain locations: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. At Myre-Big Island State Park, a camper observed, "Got back to our site on the island and there was hardly anybody else around. Our closest neighbors were 7-8 sites away and around the bend in the road. Couldn't even see them."
Peaceful atmospheres: Despite interstate proximity, many campgrounds maintain quiet environments. Three Fingers Campground & RV Park combines accessibility with tranquility. "We spent a few nights here before moving closer into town waiting for Winnebago service. This is primarily a long-term RV site with a few transient sites. People are friendly," shares one visitor.
What you should know
Additional fees beyond nightly rates: Many camping areas charge supplemental fees. Myre-Big Island State Park requires a daily vehicle permit. "Paid $45 online than had to pay $7 at gate," reports one camper, highlighting the importance of budgeting for all costs when planning stays at RV parks near Austin.
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit close to major highways for easy access, but this can affect the camping experience. Oakwood RV Park balances accessibility with atmosphere. "Great campground for our overnight, would be a wonderful extended stay as well. Easy access off I-35," notes one visitor, though some campgrounds experience traffic noise.
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the region close during winter months. Weather conditions make camping difficult from November through March, with unpredictable snowfall and below-freezing temperatures common. Only select facilities maintain year-round operation.
Cell service variability: Connectivity changes between campgrounds and carriers. One camper at KOA noted adequate service despite the rural setting. Some state park locations may have more limited coverage depending on proximity to towers.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: While some campgrounds focus on adult campers, others welcome families. Crystal Springs RV Resort accommodates various groups. "Very quiet, nice sites. Everyone was very friendly easy to work with. It's meant for adults no park for kids. But everyone was good with our kiddos playing outside," shares one family who visited.
Consider campground layout: Some facilities offer more space between sites, important for families needing room to spread out. "The campground was nice with grassy sites along with electric and water hook ups, there was a dump station also. We saw deer by the primitive camp areas and had nightly campfires in our fire ring," notes a camper at Hidden Meadows RV Park.
Check activity options: Certain campgrounds offer more recreational opportunities. The KOA near Albert Lea makes special efforts for younger campers. One visitor mentioned, "In the morning they had a goody bag for our kiddos which made their whole day! Clean bathrooms, friendly campers, easy pull through sites and lots of charm."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies significantly: RVers report differences in pad quality between campgrounds. Hidden Meadows RV Park receives mixed reviews on this aspect. "The parking pads are very unlevel. Also oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements," reports one RVer, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling equipment.
Road conditions within campgrounds: Interior roads at some facilities present challenges for larger rigs. At Myre-Big Island State Park, a camper with a 40-foot fifth wheel noted, "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!"
Hookup availability and quality: Full-service sites with sewer connections are available at most private RV parks, while state park campgrounds typically offer electric-only connections with shared water access. Water pressure and amperage options differ between locations, with most private parks offering 50-amp service.
