Campgrounds around Owatonna, Minnesota occupy a unique geographic position where the rolling farmland of southern Minnesota transitions to patches of hardwood forest. Most camping options sit at elevations between 1,100-1,300 feet above sea level, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. Spring camping often means muddy trails at several parks, particularly after Minnesota's snowmelt from March to early May.
What to do
Hiking to hidden waterfalls: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, visitors can access beautiful forest trails leading to Hidden Falls. "We went there last July just go hiking for the dat. The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," notes reviewer Halie B. The falls are most active after spring rains.
Bird watching opportunities: Sakatah Lake State Park offers excellent opportunities for spotting various bird species. "I was so amazed with all the sounds of birds in this park. I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds," shares reviewer Shelly S. Early morning hours provide the best viewing opportunities, particularly in May during migration season.
Biking on paved trails: Sakatah Lake State Park features access to the Sakatah Singing Hills Trail. "Biked the trail. Campfires, hammocked and just enjoyed chillin!" says Carla A. The paved trail extends approximately 39 miles between Mankato and Faribault, with several access points near campgrounds.
Star gazing events: Rice Lake State Park occasionally offers organized star gazing. "We sat and watched the sun set and join in on the star gazing event that was going on in the park. We got to look at the moon and Saturn through a few big telescopes," notes James B. Events typically occur monthly during summer.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campsites near Owatonna provide better separation than others. At Myre-Big Island State Park, "We stayed on the mainland campground White Fox in site #78, bordered on 3 sides by trees and shrubs for privacy," shares reviewer Anne K. This state park offers two distinct camping areas - the mainland and island campgrounds.
Clean, updated facilities: Many campgrounds have invested in facility improvements. "This campground is very well kept and managed with great customer service in the office. My only complaint was how close together the walk-in sites were," notes Rocky B. about Rice Lake State Park. The bathrooms at Myre-Big Island received particular praise: "Beautiful, clean, and recently updated bathrooms and showers!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Rice Lake State Park provides excellent wildlife encounters. "We saw a bull frog and a few leopard frogs at the boat launch. And continued on our hike. We saw a few cool birds, lots of berries and a few interesting bugs," shares James B. Myre-Big Island State Park is known for deer sightings: "Seeing large groups of deer was a daily/nightly thing!"
Walk-in camping options: Several parks offer walk-in camping for those seeking a more secluded experience. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," says Matt C. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Most walk-in sites require carrying gear less than 100 yards.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter access. "All RV and ridiculously expensive for tent camping," notes Lexi E. about Rice Lake State Park, where off-season rates don't necessarily decrease despite reduced services.
Weather-related closures: Spring conditions can affect trail access. At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, "Sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet," reports Timothy S. Call ahead during early spring camping to check trail status.
Lake access variations: Lakes at some parks have limited access points. At Myre-Big Island, "The lake is gorgeous but just a few places to get to the water," notes Shari M. Swimming options are limited at certain parks: "There is no place to swim at this lake which is a bit disappointing, but it is a very beautiful lake with lots of wildlife!" reports Chandra C. about Rice Lake.
Variable cell service: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. At Nerstrand, "Cell service (both AT&T and TMobile) was terrible. There's WiFi at the office, which is just a short hike from the campground," reports Deb M. Download maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Kamp Dels provides extensive water activities for children. "This is such a great campground for families! So many activities including a water recreation area, petting zoo, shuffleboard, mini golf, pool, toddler water park, multiple playgrounds, basketball and more," shares Tami W. Daily passes are available for non-campers at $10-15 per person.
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds feature opportunities to view animals. "My wife and I camped at cart in site 4. And went for a walk around the park. We saw a bull frog and a few leopard frogs at the boat launch," notes James B. about Rice Lake State Park. Kamp Dels offers a "nice walk they animal area for the kids to look at goats donkey pigs and such."
Fishing for beginners: Some parks have accessible fishing areas ideal for children. "On the lake but you need to be in middle of this lake if you want to get wet. Unless you enjoy swimmers itch. Not even very nice fishing on the dock Unless you like green fish," warns Tim B. about Sakatah Lake. Consider bringing fishing equipment during spring and fall for better experiences.
Spacious camping spots: River View Campground provides family-friendly sites. "Clean level sites, clean restrooms and showers, friendly Rangers, lots of activities for the kids," says Corey P. Sites average 30-40 feet wide with room for games and activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For larger RVs, careful site selection is necessary. At Sakatah Lake State Park, "Very nice park if your RV is not to 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," cautions Tim B. Some campgrounds provide pull-through sites while others require careful backing.
Electric hookup availability: State parks have limited electric sites that book quickly. "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric. If your good without. It's a great park," advises Tim B. Private campgrounds typically offer more electric options but at higher rates.
Seasonal camper options: Hope Oak Knoll Camp Ground offers seasonal camping arrangements. "For working here from 8 hours away it's perfect for for location for us and the 1600 for the season even better there were a few rules and regulations that caught me off guard but they do require you to mow the lawn," notes Anthony R. Seasonal rates run April through October.
Dump station access: Not all parks have sewer hookups at individual sites. "Nice dump station," mentions Tim B. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. State parks typically provide dump stations near campground exits while private campgrounds more commonly offer full hookup sites.
