Best Campgrounds near Cottage Grove, MN

Searching for the best camping near Cottage Grove, MN? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Cottage Grove campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cottage Grove, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Cottage Grove, Minnesota (103)

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Recent Reviews near Cottage Grove, MN

676 Reviews of 103 Cottage Grove Campgrounds



Guide to Cottage Grove

Camping near Cottage Grove, Minnesota, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. With lush parks and scenic trails, it’s a great place for families and friends to enjoy nature together.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area.” Another camper noted, “Plenty of sites and hiking to do. Very cool area.”
  • Water Activities: Head to Interstate State Park for canoeing or kayaking. A reviewer shared, “Canoe and kayak rentals for more adventures on the river.”
  • Wildlife Watching: At Wild River State Park Campground, you can spot deer and other wildlife. One camper said, “The woods surrounding dense enough to obscure others while still feeling open.”

What campers like

  • Secluded Sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, “Sites are wooded so you don’t have neighbor issues.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Lebanon Hills Regional Park stated, “The showers were clean and the hot water was great.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Elmo County Park Reserve are great for families. One parent said, “Great camping... Good hiking and geocaching.”

What you should know

  • No Alcohol Allowed: Some parks, like Afton State Park Campground, have strict rules against alcohol. A camper noted, “NO alcohol allowed.”
  • Limited Amenities: Campers at Lake Maria State Park mentioned, “There is no adjusting the shower temperature.” Be prepared for basic facilities.
  • Bug Spray is Essential: Many campers warn about mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. One reviewer at William O'Brien State Park said, “We went through a lot of bug spray and coils.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites like Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve. A visitor shared, “Spacious sites that are situated in a staggered way, so you never feel like you’re on top of each other.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Afton State Park enjoyed the trails, saying, “Great trails for all different skill levels.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep the kids happy with snacks during hikes. A camper at Wild River State Park mentioned, “Hiking was awesome.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: RV campers at Lebanon Hills Regional Park recommend checking site sizes before booking. One said, “Some sites are more shaded than others.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Campers at Interstate State Park noted, “The site did not have electricity, but there were plenty of sites in the inner circle that did.”
  • Stay Connected: If you need to stay connected, check cell service availability. A visitor at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park mentioned, “T-Mobile service is one (1) bar of LTE.”

Camping around Cottage Grove, Minnesota, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Cottage Grove, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Cottage Grove, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 103 campgrounds and RV parks near Cottage Grove, MN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Cottage Grove, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cottage Grove, MN is Willow River State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 58 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cottage Grove, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Cottage Grove, MN.

  • What parks are near Cottage Grove, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Cottage Grove, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.