Lake Byllesby Regional Park and Whitetail Woods Park provide upscale glamping options near Cannon Falls, Minnesota. Located in Dakota County with an elevation of 816 feet, these areas experience warm summers and cold winters with average July temperatures around 83°F. Cannon Falls sits at the confluence of the Cannon River and Little Cannon River, creating a unique landscape for outdoor recreation throughout all four seasons.
What to do
Explore biking trails: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park connects to an extensive trail system ideal for cyclists. "Great walking paths and clean restrooms. Great for a quick weekend camping trip," notes one visitor to Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park.
Visit local wineries: The Cannon Falls area features nearby wineries for day trips during your stay. "Great brewery and winery close by," mentions a camper at Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
Boat on Lake Byllesby: The lake provides multiple water recreation opportunities beyond swimming. "The lake is right next to the campground with RV sites right on the water," explains a reviewer about Lake Byllesby.
Fish from shore: Multiple parks offer fishing access without needing a boat. "Fishing from shore and there is a boat launch. Nice playground for kids," states a visitor to Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at certain parks. At Cleary Lake Regional Park, a reviewer noted, "Lots of good trees and space between campgrounds which isn't always the case at the regional parks."
Storage solutions: The cabins at Whitetail Woods receive praise for their practical design features. "The storage in this place is amazing. Storage under the bed, one counter with ample storage under it, and even the windows are so deep that I was able to store most of my food on the sill," comments a visitor to Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins.
Reading lights: Thoughtful amenities make glamping in Cannon Falls comfortable after dark. About Whitetail Woods, one camper shared, "Each bunk has its own reading light."
Water access: Many sites offer direct water views. "I can't really speak for any of the other sites here, but 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery," explains a visitor to Cleary Lake Regional Park.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular glamping spots fill quickly, especially on weekends. One visitor to Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins advised, "Super simple camping cabins. They each have 4 spots and have contactless entry as you get sent a code to use. Plan ahead as these are hard to come by."
Shower limitations: Some facilities have restrictions you should prepare for. "There are two year round showers as well, but don't plan on a long shower to unwind unless you like cold water. There was maybe 2 minutes of hot water," warns a camper at Whitetail Woods.
Algae concerns: Water quality changes seasonally at some locations. "The only thing disappointing is the lake becomes green with algae as the summer goes on," notes a visitor to Lake Byllesby.
Cooking restrictions: Plan accordingly for meal preparation at glamping sites. "No cooking is allowed inside the cabins, which can make things rough if the weather isn't cooperating," explains a camper at Whitetail Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Shades of Sherwood Campground offers multiple kid-friendly amenities. "Great tent sites some along river lots of activities for children and adults tubing down the river, man-made lake with blowups, scooters, swimming pool and jumping pillow," reports a family that visited.
Friends for kids: Some campgrounds naturally foster social interaction. A visitor to Lake Byllesby Regional Park shared, "We have two little ones so they made friends quick with other children."
Winter activities: Glamping near Cannon Falls works year-round with proper preparation. A reviewer at Whitetail Woods noted, "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees."
Treat options: Some locations offer special refreshments for kids. At Lake Byllesby, a parent mentioned, "The girls loved going inside for ice cream treats when the weather was a little too hot to handle."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Sakatah Lake State Park Campground, RVers need to be cautious about site limitations. "Very nice park if your RV is not too big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," warns an experienced RVer.
Electric hookups: Several sites offer powered options. A visitor to Lake Byllesby Regional Park noted, "We stayed in a RV spot next to the lake which had water and electric hookups."
Lakeside opportunities: Prime spots with utilities exist for those who book early. "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view," explains a camper at Lake Byllesby.
Paved sites: Some campgrounds offer improved surfaces for easier setup. "Paved RV pads. Near lake and excellent bike path," mentions a reviewer about Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
