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Best Campgrounds near Eyota, MN

530 Reviews

Campgrounds near Eyota, Minnesota range from state parks to county-operated facilities, with several options for both tent and RV camping. Chester Woods Park, located directly in Eyota, offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations from mid-May through mid-October. Approximately 15 miles east, Whitewater State Park provides year-round camping with drive-in, walk-in, and hike-in access. The region includes both developed campgrounds with full hookups and more primitive cart-in sites for those seeking a more secluded experience.

Most campgrounds in southeastern Minnesota operate seasonally, with peak availability from late spring through early fall. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. "Whitewater is by far one of the top state parks in Minnesota. Their camping facilities are clean with running water and free showers. The campsites are quite spacious but not too wooded," noted one visitor. Winter camping is limited primarily to Whitewater State Park, while other facilities like Chester Woods Park close from mid-October until May. The terrain features rolling hills and bluffs characteristic of the Driftless Area, with some campgrounds situated along creeks and small lakes.

Campers report high satisfaction with water-adjacent sites throughout the region. Several visitors mentioned the peaceful sound of flowing water as a highlight of their stay at Whitewater State Park. The cart-in sites at Whitewater's Gooseberry Glen area receive particularly positive reviews for their creek-side locations, though visitors should be prepared for a half-mile trek with gear over uneven terrain. A recent review noted, "Site 4 is right on a rushing creek, which was perfect, and provided a great noise to fall asleep to." Wildlife sightings are common, with reports of deer, eagles, and various bird species. Proximity to hiking trails is another frequently mentioned benefit, with many campgrounds offering direct access to scenic paths through wooded bluffs and along waterways.

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Best Camping Sites Near Eyota, Minnesota (127)

    1. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park

    50 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3007

    "Whitewater is by far one of the top state parks in Minnesota. Their camping facilities are clean with running water and free showers. The campsites are quite spacious but not too wooded."

    "Easy access to hiking trails. My site was close in distance to adjacent ones, but was on the edge by the creek, so it was pretty quiet."

    2. Chester Woods Park

    6 Reviews
    Eyota, MN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 285-7050

    "It has a campground and man-made lake (created when Bear Creek was dammed for a flood control project) with hiking trails, a horse trail, picnic shelters, a beach, and a playground."

    "Has many walking trails that you can take your dog on and just a couple that you can’t."

    3. Carley State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Plainview, MN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3007

    "Carley State Park is easy to overlook in favor of nearby Whitewater State Park. Whitewater has an actual visitor center, the dramatic scenery, the flush toilets, and spacious/level sites."

    "Site #2 is further down a path with 4 picnic tables and room for 4-5 tents. The site is right at the park border, with farm land/prairie just on the other Side of the trees."

    4. Rochester-Marion KOA

    5 Reviews
    Marion, MN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 288-0785

    "We got back on the Interstate & got off on exit 224. Took Co Rd 7 to HWY 52. This is a lot easier than the directions the KOA gave."

    "It has convenient access to the freeway and the city of Rochester. Bathrooms are cleaned frequently and we'll stocked."

    5. Lazy D Campground and Trail Rides

    5 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3098

    "Our campsite was next to the river, we enjoyed the sound of it drowning out vehicle noise from nearby roads."

    "was a little high but clear of fallen limbs ( for the most part) the woman who drove the bus to pick us up was amazingly friendly, you could tell she loved her job and it made you feel happy to be around"

    6. Chester Woods Patk

    1 Review
    Marion, MN
    4 miles

    "Shade on most, stick to the outsides of camp for better shade."

    7. Aefintyr

    4 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 513-5598

    $29 - $139 / night

    "Short drive to White Water State Park. A lot of great trout fishing spots along the river. Very peaceful campground, great view of the stars on clear nights! Will definitely be back."

    "It was so fun to socialize in the shared space around the fire and play games.  If you are up in the bluff, be sure to wear good shoes for the hike up. "

    8. Autumn Woods RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Stewartville, MN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 990-2983

    9. Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging

    16 Reviews
    Lanesboro, MN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 467-2598

    $30 - $46 / night

    "Stopped here on the way up to Minnesota and our campsite was gorgeous! Everyone was very friendly and the sites were very clean. We stayed right on the water."

    "They have several on the rivers edge which are by far the best! The campground rents out tubes as well as provides a shuttle to the starting point and you float down to the campground."

    10. Gooseberry Glen Cart-in Campground — Whitewater State Park

    2 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 312-2300

    "My husband had a fall break at the beginning of October, and we were looking for beautiful fall colors a short drive from the twin cities for a one night camping trip."

    "Right when you park you see the push carts and it is a very short walk to the campsite. You are able to slightly see 1 cart-in site neighbor, but besides that it was very private and quiet."

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Recent Camping Photos near Eyota, MN

179 Photos of 127 Eyota Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Eyota, MN

530 Reviews of 127 Eyota Campgrounds

  • Sarah D.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Secluded Site and Great Views Close to the Twin Cities

    We did a one night camping trip for my birthday at Cart-In Site 1 the second to last weekend of September.

    We loved the hiking at Frontenac State Park - walking along the lake and then walking along the bluffs at sunset was magical! Fantastic views. I imagine if we had gone two weeks later, we would have had a fantastic display of fall color. We went a little too early to catch the changing leaves.

    We loved how easy Frontenac was for a casual weekend getaway. It was an easy, scenic one hour drive from St. Paul that was very enjoyable. The park was also nice with great bathrooms at the main campsite, nice trails, and they even had board games to check out at the front office for a rainy day- a great idea!

    We stayed at Cart-In Site 1. I would rate the site itself a 3. It was very secluded and spacious, which was fantastic! We could not see any other campsites from our site, which was fantastic. We only occasionally saw some hikers on a nearby trail. We could hear some other noisy campers, but it wasn't too much of a disturbance. Very wooded, nice, spacious site. There is not water at the Cart-In parking lot, so be aware that you will have to fill up prior to parking and heading to your site (easiest place to do so is the main office/ visitor center).

    I also slept poorly because of a nearby train that kept going past and honking at least until midnight. So if you're a light sleeper, be aware of persistent train noise at these sites!

    Overall good site and an easy, fun, and relaxing weekend getaway from the twin cities.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Great hiking trails NICE Bathrooms

    The campground is well maintained, all of the sites are clean and laid out nicely. Some sites are kinda close but there is brush growing between sites.

    There are a LOT of NICE TRAILS at this park. Many nice prairie trails and some fun trails in the bluffs along the Mississippi River too. One trail down along the River can be challenging because of MANY STAIRS.

    Large drive in picnic areas away from the campground that many people drive in to us and had a nice overlook on the Mississippi River. There are 2 nice overlooks that are great to walk to in the dark and watch the calmness and peaceful nature of the river and forest.

    The men’s bathroom and showers are GREAT! There is also very nice large full handicap bathrooms. The SHOWER WATER IS VERY HOT so be careful!

    Dump station is sloped so it makes it easy to drive in either direction to help dump waste water easily. Also fresh water at the dumping station.

    Always Plenty of firewood in the shed next to the office.

  • Ken B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Great River Bluffs State Park Campground

    Very nice

    I arrived late in the day and the office was closed but they have all the instructions and QR codes for an online reservation and check in. Very clean including the showers and bathroom. View of the Mississippi is amazing!

  • Maria D.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Cleanest Campground Bathrooms Ever!

    Frontenac State Park had some of the nicest campground bathrooms and showers I’ve ever seen—clean, and modern. The ranger station was small and charming, stocked with board games to rent, and it’s clear the staff cares about creating a positive camping experience. I also loved the little free library outside the bathrooms.

    The downsides are that the campsites run small, usually only fitting two tents at most, and there aren’t many trees for hammocking. It’s also a popular park, so it can get pretty loud at times.

    Favorite sites: 37 – Shady and on the edge with just one neighbor (though the main road is on the other side). Decent privacy and potential for hammocking.

    21 – Nice views, but likely best for just one tent/car.

    22 – Very private, though the ground looked a little uneven.

    Other solid tent sites: 36, 25, 48, 49, 51. Site 57 also looked spacious with no neighbors, but it does border the visitor parking lot.

  • L
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Holden Park Campground

    Fall Ride in Ocotber

    Our group has been camping at the Holden County Park for 4 years now, this will be our 5th year.

     We are so happy that the shower/restrooms are finally done, its a great plus and we feel that more people will camp there now. 

    We love how quiet it is when we return from our daily rides, its like its our own place as there aren't many if any at all other campers there. This year may be different and if it is we won't mind at all, hopefully they don't either as we do stay up late by the fire but aren't wild crazy loud.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Zumbrota Covered Bridge Park

    Scenic

    Pros: great paved walking and bike trail; leads to state bike trail; MN only covered bridge; huge park playground; disc golf course; along branch of the river; easy walk into town; friendly camp host; very quiet Cons: few site pads, you just drive onto grass where you see electric/water posts and fire ring; restroom with 1 toilet and 1 shower were dirty (husband said it looks like it hadn’t been cleaned in a month) I concur on woman’s as well but there was toilet paper (happy) but no hand soap or paper towels; garbage in women’s shower

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Haycreek Valley Campground

    Beautiful surroundings

    Red Wing, Minn might be the prettiest small town in the US. Rolling hills, greenery, the Mississippi River, and genuinely nice people in a small city with lots of attractions.

    The campground is about a 10 minute ride from the city center. The amenities are sparse and aged, but the sites are level, plentiful, and reasonably priced.

    Be aware however…..The Dyrt is wrong. There are no sewer hookups at this campground. They have a dump station and will pump for a fee.

    There is a perfectly average pub on site. The food is okay, the price is reasonable.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Lake Hendricks Co Park

    Paved sites, simple Accomodations

    A good place for a place to stop next to a lake. Good hookups and picnic tables

Guide to Eyota

Camping near Eyota, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy nature while making lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do:

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Whitewater State Park. One visitor mentioned, "We hiked to Chimney Rock and Inspiration Point and found the trails more challenging than we expected." The park has trails for all skill levels, making it perfect for everyone.
  • Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. A camper at Beaver Creek Valley State Park noted, "Good trout fishing here, some sites are primitive, some have electric and water."
  • Cave Tours: Don’t miss the cave tours at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park. One camper shared, "Love the cave tours! Some trails in the park are horse trails also, so you may encounter the occasional horseback rider."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Perrot State Park Campground said, "The sites are well spaced and well separated by trees."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Frontenac State Park Campground remarked, "Great showers with DRY AREAS to dress after taking a shower. Bathrooms are VERY CLEAN."
  • Natural Beauty: The stunning views and natural surroundings are a big hit. A camper at Great River Bluffs State Park noted, "Great views on the hiking trails!"

What you should know:

  • Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. A camper at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park mentioned, "No cell/ very patchy cell signal."
  • Mosquitoes: Depending on the season, mosquitoes can be a nuisance. One visitor at Perrot State Park Campground warned, "Had to pull out the heavy-duty spray right out of the car."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited amenities. A camper at Beaver Creek Valley State Park noted, "The bathroom/shower building was strange - vault toilets on one side with the showers on the other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. A reviewer at Myre-Big Island State Park said, "Great spot for nature seekers. Great bike trails."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Great River Bluffs State Park mentioned, "The trails are well maintained and accessible from the cart-in area."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids during hikes. A camper at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park shared, "Good fire rings with lots of room for lounging."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A visitor at Frontenac State Park Campground noted, "Some of the sites are on the small side."
  • Be Mindful of Low Branches: If you have a taller RV, watch out for low branches. A camper at Great River Bluffs State Park mentioned, "The sites are short and tree branches low."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Plan your trips to the dump station, as some campgrounds may have tight turns. A reviewer at Beaver Creek Valley State Park said, "A bit of a tight turn to get to the dump station."

Camping near Eyota, Minnesota, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful parks and campgrounds, you can create unforgettable experiences with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season for camping in Eyota?

The optimal camping season near Eyota runs from late spring through early fall (May-October). Summer offers warm days perfect for enjoying water activities, while Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground is especially beautiful in fall for leaf-peeping. Frontenac State Park Campground provides quiet, scenic experiences throughout the season with pretty hiking trails. Be aware that some facilities like drinking water may be turned off by mid-October, though bathrooms often remain operational. Spring brings wildflowers but potentially muddy conditions, while summer offers the fullest range of amenities and activities.

Where can I find camping near Eyota, Minnesota?

Several excellent camping options surround Eyota. Chester Woods Park is the closest option, offering drive-in and walk-in sites with water and toilet facilities. For a unique experience, Whitewater State Park is nearby with spacious campsites, clean facilities including free showers, and excellent hiking trails. Other options within a short drive include Carley State Park, Rochester-Marion KOA, and Autumn Woods RV Park in Rochester. Most campgrounds in the area offer a mix of tent and RV camping, though availability varies seasonally.

What amenities are available at Eyota campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Eyota offer varying amenities to suit different camping styles. Sylvan City Park provides RV sites with proximity to downtown and the Root River Trail, plus shower facilities (coin-operated: 4 quarters for 5 minutes). Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground offers a more immersive nature experience with lush forests and numerous activities. Most area campgrounds provide basic amenities like water access, toilets, and fire rings. Some locations feature shower facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails, while others may offer electrical hookups for RVs and access to recreational activities.

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