Tent camping near Eyota, Minnesota offers a mix of prairie and woodland settings located in the Driftless Area of southeastern Minnesota. The region sits at approximately 1,300 feet above sea level and features a landscape of deep river valleys, limestone bluffs, and hardwood forests untouched by glaciers. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with cooler nights in spring and fall that can drop into the 40s, requiring campers to pack appropriate gear for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Hiking Hidden Falls: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, trails lead through rare old-growth forest to a secluded waterfall. "We went there last July just go hiking for the day. The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," notes reviewer Halie B.
Biking the Root River Trail: Located at the trailhead of this popular route, Houston Nature Center provides direct access to miles of paved trails. "This bike trail is so awesome and by far the best in the tri-state area! The nature center is tent camping only but they do have nice spots with picnic tables and grills," shares Alison.
Trout fishing: The streams around Eyota provide excellent fishing opportunities, particularly near Schmidt Farm. "This location offers the opportunity to explore both private trails and less traveled areas of Forestville State Park. Secluded campsites so you are not camping side by side with others," explains Karen S.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Schmidt Farm by Forestville offers a back-to-nature experience. "If you're looking for a simpler camping experience focused on getting away from everything and solitude, then this is the place for you. The peace and quiet allowed me to have one of the best nights of sleep while camping that I've had, I didn't hear a person or a vehicle the whole night," reports Amos K.
Waterside sites: At Gooseberry Glen Cart-in Campground, the stream creates a peaceful soundtrack. "Our campsite was perfect in October, with sun and golden leaves and the sound of the water. We were in site 3, which was very spacious. If we came again just the two of us, we would book site 4 because it was the most private and right next to the water," recommends Sarah D.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain excellent restroom facilities. "The nature center has clean bathrooms and free showers. They recommend donations for the use of the showers," notes a Houston Nature Center visitor, while another camper mentioned Nerstrand's "bathroom/shower building was new and clean."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (June-September) and require advance booking. At some locations like Schmidt Farm by Forestville, you'll need to reserve specific sites, while others like Houston Nature Center operate on a first-come basis with a $10-20 nightly fee.
Site access limitations: Many sites require short walks from parking areas. At Aefintyr, prepare for a steeper hike: "If you are up in the bluff, be sure to wear good shoes for the hike up," advises Tiffany B., while another camper noted, "The hike to the site is steep but worth it once you get up there."
Seasonal considerations: Fall offers spectacular colors but cooler temperatures. "We were looking for beautiful fall colors a short drive from the twin cities for a one night camping trip. Several people recommended Whitewater State park for fall colors close to the twin cities," shares Sarah D. of her experience at Gooseberry Glen.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature kid-friendly play areas. "Trail Head Park has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite. The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more," notes a reviewer about Houston Nature Center.
Cart-in convenience: For families with gear, Gooseberry Glen's cart-in sites offer an excellent compromise. "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," explains Molly Y.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature centers and wildlife viewing. "Inside the Nature Center, they have interactive and interesting displays. The highlight of this campground is the Root River State Bike Trail and the Owl Center in the town of Houston," mentions a reviewer from Houston Nature Center.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Eyota focuses on tent camping, with few dedicated RV sites. At Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground, RVs aren't permitted as "this campground is a tent only campground with a couple cabins as well, which adds to its secluded feel," according to Beth W.
Pad considerations: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, the tent pads are level but may require adjustment for RVs. "The tent pad was very spacious and flat, great for sleeping!" notes Hannah Y., though other reviewers mention "some sites that are tricky to back a trailer into."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the area close between late October and April. According to Tim B., Nerstrand Big Woods State Park has a specific season: "Great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails."
