Camping options around Cannon Falls provide diverse accommodations throughout southeastern Minnesota's rolling terrain. The Cannon River Valley sits at approximately 820 feet above sea level, with surrounding bluffs rising to 1,100 feet. Late spring through early fall sees average temperatures between 50-85°F, with July and August typically reaching the warmest conditions.
What to do
Hiking to Hidden Falls: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, explore trails leading to a secluded waterfall. "Hidden water falls and some what secluded sites. Beautiful weekend with nice trails," shares Kerri N. The park preserves one of Minnesota's last remnants of the Big Woods forest ecosystem.
Biking paved trails: Access regional bike paths directly from your campsite at Haycreek Valley Campground. "We really enjoyed the bike trail that was so close, paved and had lots of tree cover to keep us cool. Very nice ride to Red Wing right from our site!" reports Karin W. The Cannon Valley Trail extends 20 miles between Cannon Falls and Red Wing.
Winter camping: Experience a winter getaway in a heated cabin at Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees," notes Krista T. Each cabin provides four sleeping spots with bunk beds and convertible couches, plus electric heat for cold weather comfort.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Lake Byllesby Regional Park offers room to spread out. "Very nice county park. Water and electric hookups. The lake is nice for fishing, boating or swimming. Has a small store," says Carla A. Sites 1-17 are waterfront with direct views of the lake.
Clean facilities: Lebanon Hills Regional Park maintains excellent bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms were among some of the nicest I've used at a campground. The shower stall was big enough for a meaty human like myself to shower comfortably," explains Joanne M. Bathrooms are cleaned multiple times daily during peak season.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the layout at Frontenac State Park Campground. "Sites 40-49 have a view of Lake Pepin through the trees, which was especially nice at sunset," says Mandee L. Recommended sites for privacy include numbers 42 and 44, which offer views with fewer neighbors.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds book quickly, especially during summer weekends. "The campground gets booked up fast, so book early!" advises Tonya B. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park. For popular sites, make reservations up to 120 days in advance.
Seasonal water conditions: Lake Byllesby sometimes develops algae blooms in late summer. "The only thing disappointing is the lake becomes green with algae as the summer goes on," notes Kayla O. Water quality is typically best from April through mid-July.
Cell service variability: Signal strength varies significantly between campgrounds. "Cell service was good" at Lake Byllesby according to Deb M., while at Whitetail Woods, "don't plan on cell service here" warns Blair.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Byllesby Campground offers excellent facilities for children. "Great views of the lake and two great playgrounds. Very close to town and good priced," shares Nichole G. The playground areas are a short walk from most campsites.
Swimming options: Beach facilities vary across locations. "We didn't get to swim at the lake because it was shut down due to a chemical spill at the time, but we did walk over and check it out," reports Angela L. Check water conditions before planning swimming activities.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "We have two boys 12 and 5 and they love it here! We can't say enough good things about Cannon Falls Campground!" says Heather N. Many locations offer weekend programming during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Cannon Falls Campground, RV sites are predominantly on grass with various hookup options. "We are newer campers with a travel trailer and the sites here are large enough for me to be able to back into comfortably enough," shares Milly T. Sites typically accommodate units up to 40 feet.
Hookup placement: Pay attention to utility locations when selecting sites. "Our site was rather odd as the electric and water post was on the opposite side of our camper. Our standard water hose and electrical cord wouldn't reach," cautions Karin W. about Haycreek Valley Campground. Pack extension cords and longer water hoses as backup.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds limit water access during cold months. "Outside water is shut off during some parts of the year, so bring your own drinking water if you are camping close to/during winter," advises Blair about Whitetail Woods.
