Belle Plaine camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks within a 30-minute drive. The area sits within the transition zone between prairie and deciduous forest, with elevations ranging from 720 to 820 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with night lows in the 60s, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Auburn: Lake Auburn Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities on its small, motor-restricted lake. "I bought new camping gear and this campground, given its proximity to our house, made for an easy weekend getaway to give the gear a trial run. The beach area looks nice but we didn't use it," notes a recent visitor to Lake Auburn Campground.
Trail exploration: The ravines and creeks at High Island Creek Park provide secluded hiking. "Good vibes it's a magical place when u go hiking down the hill to the hidden creeks trails and absolute peace being one with nature," shares one camper about their experience at High Island Creek Park.
Golf and lake activities: Cleary Lake Regional Park combines camping with recreational facilities. "The golfing nearby seemed reasonably priced for those interested," mentions a camper who appreciated the diverse activities available.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers privacy not commonly found so close to a metropolitan area. "Tent camp sites are far enough from each other that neighbors can't be seen, and we didn't hear them either," notes a visitor to Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Proximity to small towns: The rural character and access to nearby communities enhances the camping experience. "Gulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills. The entire park is surrounded by farms, nearby are some really nice Minnesota small towns like Henderson and the somewhat larger St. Peter (but still small town)," explains a camper from High Island Creek Park.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance stands out at many locations near Belle Plaine. "Bathrooms are clean. Campground management is helpful and friendly, and even has little fire starting bundles if you're having a rough time getting that fire going," reports a camper from Lake Auburn Campground.
What you should know
No-reservation options: Some campgrounds near Belle Plaine operate on a first-come basis. "We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations... If after hours and there are no spots, you can dry dock in large lot in front of office," explains a visitor to Dakotah Meadows RV Park.
Limited water access: Several campgrounds restrict water availability during shoulder seasons. "The water wasn't turned on yet, but we were able to fill our fresh water tank with a hose from their laundromat," notes one camper about early season conditions.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly at creek-side sites. "I stayed four nights. I would have stayed longer but ran out of water. There isn't any potable water on site. During a hot day, I took my two dogs and we hiked to a nearby river. We cooled off and enjoyed the peace and quite. The only downside is no potable water and lots of mesquites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Baker Park Reserve offers family-friendly amenities with convenient access. "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," shares one visitor to Baker Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer structured activities for children. "The playground is good for kids and they have programs every Saturday night, some of the ones we've been to were about bugs, raptors, bees, and snakes, there are usually programs during the day at the nature center as well."
Beach selection: Swimming areas vary significantly in quality and depth. "The lake is nice, smaller with not many motor boats so good for kayaking or canoeing, the beach is pretty clean, some weeds floating in the water and very shallow for kids."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Dakotah Meadows offers premium surfaces for leveling. "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are paved and have well-maintained grass. We were located near the casino road, which has an occasional loud car, even at night."
Late-season options: Finding open campgrounds after early October can be challenging. "One of the few camps open in MN past Oct 1st. Owners and host were very friendly and accommodating. They visited each camper to say hey and small talk," explains a camper at Peaceful Valley Campground.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on surroundings, not just hook-ups. "We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps. We stayed at site 72 which is at the beginning of the loop. This site isn't as secluded by trees as the other sites."
