Camping near Comfrey, Minnesota occurs primarily across flat agricultural terrain with elevations ranging from 1,050 to 1,150 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasonal patterns with camping season typically running from early May through mid-October when temperatures become favorable. Most campgrounds sit along small lakes or creek systems that provide water recreation opportunities within predominantly farm country.
What to do
Swimming at sand-bottom pools: Flandrau State Park offers a unique swimming experience with its sand-bottom pool. "There is a beach for swimming. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Bathroom and showers are in the campground and there is wood available for purchase," notes one camper. The pool becomes a popular summer attraction when temperatures rise.
Creek exploration for children: At Fort Ridgely State Park Campground, families can enjoy creek access right from their sites. "Kids had a blast playing in the creek," one visitor shared. Another camper added, "The creek through the campground is beautiful and the sound of water over the rock is great for sleeping. The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing."
History exploration: Learn about the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862 at Fort Ridgely. A visitor described it as "a great park in an area of Minnesota that is not well traveled. There's also a lot of history here with an interesting museum." The historical fort site features excavations with informational signage, though some visitors note there's a fee to enter the museum.
What campers like
Quiet water access: Weber's Campground receives praise for its affordable rates and peaceful setting. "This campground has a good bit of seasonal workers with RVs and you can't beat the price. Since we can camp we don't have to have power and water so Brian let us park and shower for 10.00. RVs pay 22.00 for hookup and power a night," shared one satisfied camper.
Prairie trails with wildflowers: The prairie landscape offers seasonal beauty, particularly in July when wildflowers bloom. One Fort Ridgely visitor remarked, "In JULY The Prairie Trails are stunning with all the wild flowers in full bloom. Many trails and nice overlooks too. I walked and hiked the trail over and over because of the beautiful flowers and trails."
Clean facilities: Sportsman Park maintains well-kept facilities that campers appreciate. "Shower and bathroom facility is new," notes one reviewer. The park also offers "a 5k paved trail that goes around the lake connecting the campground to the park on the other side of the lake, bike rentals (using an app on your phone), the lake to fish/kayak/boat."
What you should know
Limited privacy at some locations: Several campgrounds in the area have open sites with minimal screening between campers. At Flandrau State Park, "The campsites have no privacy at all unless you go with one of the hike in sites," reports one camper. Another visitor mentioned, "The sites are pretty much on top of each other with no privacy whatsoever."
Limited cell coverage: Cedar Hanson Co Park and other campgrounds in the area have spotty cellular service. "Cell service is sketchy!" warns one camper. At Fort Ridgely, a visitor noted there's "no cell phone reception" at the campground, though service could be obtained "up on the hill."
Water quality varies: Lake depth affects water activities at some parks. Cedar Hanson has limitations as "the lake is shallow so fishing is best early early camping season." Farm proximity can sometimes affect the camping experience, with one visitor noting "wind sometimes brings farm odors into area."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: Families can enjoy cycling opportunities at several campgrounds. Sportsman Park offers "a 5k paves trail that goes around the lake connecting the campground to the park on the other side of the lake, bike rentals (using an app on your phone)," along with "a beach on the opposite side of the lake, playgrounds (small one in campground, medium on next to lake, and large one on other side of lake if you follow the paved trail)."
Playground access: Island View provides recreation options for children. One visitor described it as having "fun things to do at Lawcon park across the street! Frisbee Golf, playground, and a 5mile trail around lake. As good as you get for a Municipal Campground." Most city and county parks in the area feature playground equipment suitable for various age groups.
Budget-friendly camping: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates for families. Sites at Cedar Hanson run "$25 for electric and water, $15 for primitive," while Weber's Campground charges "$22.00 for hookup and power a night" and tent campers can park and shower for just $10.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should check site dimensions before booking. At Fort Ridgely, "the non electric sites are very wooded and private. The electric sites are very open and offer little privacy." Other campgrounds have similar distinctions between electric and non-electric sites.
Seasonal availability: Most RV sites with hookups are available from May through September, though specific opening dates vary. One visitor to Sportsman Park noted their season runs from "mid may-mid sep," while Fort Ridgely operates "April 1 to MEA weekend," offering a slightly extended season for RVers.
Hookup options: RV campers will find various hookup configurations throughout the region. At Voss Park City Campground, there are "50 amp, 30 amp and 20 amp services as well as boondocks sites. Dump station at park with blue tote available from the office." Another visitor confirmed it "has electric and water hook ups."
