Camping options near Cottage Grove, Minnesota range from seasonal facilities to year-round parks accessible for various types of outdoor stays. The area sits within the Mississippi River Valley at approximately 800 feet elevation, creating diverse terrain with wooded areas and waterways throughout Washington County. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Tubing and canoeing experiences: Country Camping RV Park offers river activities along the Rum River with rentals available. "Great tubing and canoeing," notes reviewer Rory T. Another visitor adds, "The river is very clean and sandy bottom," making it ideal for water recreation.
Swimming options: Cleary Lake Regional Park features lake access for kayakers and swimmers. "Cleary Lake is a good size and a kayakers delight!" according to one visitor. The park also includes a golf course for those seeking land-based recreation.
Geocaching adventures: Lake Byllesby Campground provides geocaching opportunities throughout the park. "It was great and had fun geocaching spots," reports camper Kerstin W. The park includes hiking trails connecting geocaching locations, making it suitable for all skill levels.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Dakotah Meadows RV Park offers generously sized camping spots with concrete pads. "Sites are paved and have well-maintained grass," notes Chris F. Another reviewer mentions, "Sites are 60+ feet, concrete and level. Each site has their own fire pit."
Clean facilities: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve maintains high standards for bathrooms and amenities. "Facilities were really well maintained," states Robert B. Another visitor adds, "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming."
Privacy between sites: Hidden Meadows RV Park provides more secluded camping experiences. "The lower area of this park is so nice and right near a river," says Lisa D. The park operates seasonally from April 8 to November 1, with grassy sites featuring electric and water hookups.
What you should know
Cell service considerations: Cell reception varies significantly between campgrounds. At Dakotah Meadows RV Park, one camper noted, "Our Verizon service was pretty poor in our spot, max 2 bars." Similar issues affect wifi connections at multiple locations.
Reservation requirements: Lake Byllesby Campground requires advance planning, especially for premium waterfront sites. "Spots 1-17 have remained the same and are awesome. Spots 18-46 are second best. Even numbered sites on the lake are better than the odd numbered sites," advises Lisa D.
Site limitations: Town & Country Campground has space constraints affecting comfort. "It's a nice park but very close compact. Everyone is squeezed in like sardines. Very tight quarters on roads and sites," reports Claire M. The campground remains accessible year-round despite limited spacing.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Country Camping Tent & RV Park provides extensive recreational facilities for children. "It was fantastic great playground and heated pool the spaces were well kept and spaced apart 10-10 would most defiantly go again! A ton for the kids to do!" shares Beasty B.
Swimming facilities: Lake Elmo Park Reserve features a chlorinated swimming pond designed for family use. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds," explains one visitor. The swimming area remains popular during summer months when temperatures rise.
Entertainment options: Country Camping offers multiple activity choices. "It's has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites!" according to Spencer C. These amenities provide alternatives when weather conditions change unexpectedly.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Campsites at various parks require adjustment for comfortable overnight stays. At Hidden Meadows RV Park, campers noted that "The parking pads are very unlevel." Bring stabilizing equipment to ensure proper trailer positioning.
Hook-up placement: Utility connections vary between sites. Hidden Meadows RV Park has "Oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements," according to Jaime P. Bring additional length cords and hoses to accommodate unusual layouts.
Overflow parking options: Town & Country Campground provides solutions for extra vehicles. "Only a little space for one vehicle but overflow parking isn't terrible if you're close to office," advises Claire M. Arrive early to secure convenient overflow spots for towed vehicles or additional cars.
