Prairie landscapes and agricultural surroundings define camping options near Bigelow, Minnesota, located at approximately 1,660 feet above sea level. The region experiences seasonal temperature shifts with summer highs averaging in the 80s and winters dipping below freezing. Camping facilities typically maintain spring through fall operations with most sites closing by mid-October.
What to do
Hiking quartzite formations: Palisades State Park Campground offers unique rock climbing and hiking trails that showcase the area's geological features. "This is a sweet little tucked away oasis near Sioux Falls featuring trails, bluffs and climbing options. Great views and clean camp sites," notes Jennifer S.
Birdwatching at prairie preserves: Spring and fall migrations bring diverse bird species to the area's wetlands and grasslands. "Love the hiking and lack of bugs compared to most Minnesota parks. Great prairie views and it's always great to see Bison," comments Sydney J. from Blue Mounds State Park Campground.
Cycling regional trails: Local parks connect to paved bike routes that range from 1-5 miles in length. "We unloaded our bikes and enjoyed the bike trails that encircle and go through Jackson," shares Peggy M. about her stay at Jackson KOA.
Kayaking quiet waters: The area features small lakes and streams suitable for paddling from April through September. "We kayaked (a short Portage) to 2 smaller lakes that had no one on them. We were able to tie our boats to a tree below our campsite and scaled up the embankment," explains Joanna B. from Oak Woods Campground.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many glamping sites near Bigelow provide updated bathrooms with shower access. "Bathrooms are nice and clean. There's a little free library near the restroom," reports Tori K. about Blue Mounds State Park Campground.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable sites with basic amenities. "Cheap full hookup when passing through," notes Paul A. about Magnolia City Campground, while another visitor mentioned, "For $15 this is a great place to stop while driving I90."
Spacious campsites: Many locations provide adequate room between sites despite limited privacy. "All of the campsites are large and open and grassy. They lack privacy but have good spacing, tall trees, and lake views," explains Deanna J. from Oak Woods Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours offer the best chances to spot local wildlife. "We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan. We saw deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a mink. We heard coyotes the first night," shares a camper at Oak Woods Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Some campgrounds experience temporary water challenges. "Due to flooding a couple of years ago, they are having some water issues. They give you jugs of drinking water on check in, and for now the showers are swim beach are off line," mentions Kara B. about her stay at Blue Mounds.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds, with some areas having no service. "King offers free Wi-Fi with a download speed of 22 Mbps, while Queen has no T-Mobile service," notes Tim R. from Palisades State Park.
Campground layouts: Many sites feature open layouts with minimal privacy. "This was pretty much an open field with people crammed together," shares Morgan Y. about Oak Woods Campground.
Weather preparedness: The prairie region experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. "Lots of sun so bring your sunscreen," advises Maritza R. from Blue Mounds State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The playground was rated 'amazing' by our kids," shares Jessica B. about her family's stay at Magnolia City Campground.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near camping areas offer learning experiences. "At Blue Mounds you can experience the prairie and what it must have been like for early settlers," explains Kristen B.
Safety considerations: Water areas require supervision, especially with high boat traffic on some lakes. "Lake Shetek allows motor boats and there was a lot of boat traffic. There are other resorts on this lake so it's very active," warns Joanna B. from Island Park - Rock Rapids.
Glamping alternatives: Family-friendly cabin options exist for those wanting comfort beyond tent camping. "We stayed in a Camper Cabin in this park in the wintertime. It was a great experience for our kids and a fun winter camping experience for mom and dad," reports Jen A. about her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Pay attention to the layout of utilities when selecting a site. "Layout for getting water and dump station is a little odd as you have to drive through the campground to get to it rather than it being on your way out," advises Tori K.
Site specifications: Some RV sites require extensions for utilities. "The power boxes are set up is only few spots with multiple power boxes on the post. So you could need a power cord extension if all spots by the power boxes are taken up," notes Jesse H. about Magnolia City Campground.
Leveling conditions: Most sites require minimal adjustment for comfortable setup. "Sites are clean and manicured and pretty level," reports Jennifer K. about her experience at Blue Mounds State Park.
Seasonal availability: RV campgrounds in the region typically operate from April through October. "They have only a few tentsites available amid all the RV sites," mentions Carolyn M. about Big Sioux Recreation Area.
