Camping in the Comfrey area offers several options within easy driving distance. Located in southwest Minnesota at approximately 1,100 feet elevation, the region features rolling prairies, small lakes, and deciduous woodlands that transition between seasons. Winter temperatures frequently drop below 0°F, while summer camping often means dealing with humidity and temperatures in the 80s.
What to do
Hike prairie trails: Fort Ridgely State Park provides diverse hiking options through woods and open prairie. "In JULY The Prairie Trails are stunning with all the wild flowers in full bloom. Many trails and nice overlooks too," notes a visitor to Fort Ridgely State Park Campground.
Explore historic sites: The region has significant Dakota War history. "It's 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 on the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862," explains a camper at Fort Ridgely.
Visit local attractions: The area offers small-town charm and cultural sites. "I didn't expect this pretty town and state park to emerge from the surrounding small farm towns I'd been driving through," commented a visitor at Flandrau State Park. Another attraction nearby is "the Laura Ingels Wilder Pageant" mentioned by a Lake Shetek visitor.
What campers like
Sand-bottom swimming: Flandrau State Park's unique swimming area remains popular. "We stayed here for an over night, the sand bottom pool wasn't opened but we've used it on past visits and always enjoyed it. Sites are well maintained and the staff is friendly."
Creek access: Creekside camping provides water sounds and play opportunities. "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," writes a Fort Ridgely visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The parks offer excellent animal spotting. "We had tons of peaceful animal visitors including herds of white tail deer walking through our camp ground! Owls and coyotes singing in the distance," describes an early spring visitor at Flandrau State Park.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds differ dramatically in seclusion. "The non electric sites are very wooded and private. The electric sites are very open and offer little privacy," notes a Fort Ridgely camper. At Island View Campground, visitors report "Clean Park, have fun things to do at Lawcon park across the street! Frisbee Golf, playground, and a 5mile trail around lake."
Yurt camping Comfrey, Minnesota options: While traditional yurts aren't common, the area offers glamping alternatives at several parks. Jackson KOA provides glamping with premium services, and Island View offers "Full hook up, quiet, clean" accommodations according to visitors.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Flandrau maintains some year-round availability. "We camped here during Oktoberfest and had a great time. Cheep can ride into town kept us safe and responsible. They had mobile electric fences set up so that goats could graze on the invasive species plants which was pretty cool."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Several parks offer water recreation. At Everett Park, "It was serene and beautiful. The sunset over the water was absolutely amazing. Breathtaking scenery. There is a shower and toilets. And it costs $20 for a tent sight, $25 for a power hookup sight."
Playground access: Many campgrounds include play areas. "Friendly and helpful staff, very accommodating. Beautiful spot, close to the lake. Water fill station, 30A power, washroom & shower if needed. Great price $25 per night (20 if tenting). If you have kids, looks like a great playground, plenty of room to run & play."
Animal encounters: Children enjoy the wildlife viewing opportunities. At Alexander Ramsey Park, families appreciate the "Nice campground with lots of hiking trails that take you along the river and a few falls. Great family place with all of the animals they have to feed including buffalo, goats, elk, geese, and prairie dogs!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on services needed. At Rapidan Dam Co Park, visitors note it's "great primitive only sites. Cycling into sites can be difficult because some have lots of sand on the path." Not all parks accommodate larger RVs.
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between parks. "Full hook up, quiet, clean" at Island View, while Jackson KOA provides "Nice clean and quiet. Super friendly staff." Many campgrounds offer 30-amp service rather than 50-amp.
Accessibility issues: Some campgrounds have terrain challenges. "This is a great spot with numerous sites along the river. Small trails for car/tent camping. Not trailer friendly. Small vehicles only," warns a Rapidan Dam visitor.
