K
Keil S.
Traveler
TravelerFrontenac State Park Campground
Gorgeous Area
I camped at site 42 for 2 days. It was a huge camp space that backs up into the woods. Great hiking and views.
Camping near Faribault, MN
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Faribault, Minnesota's central location provides access to multiple camping environments ranging from riverside sites to wooded retreats. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, located approximately 10 miles east of Faribault, offers both drive-in and walk-in tent camping with electric hookups available at select sites. Other notable options include Cannon River Wilderness Area with primitive tent sites and Rice County McCullough Park for RV camping with modern amenities. The region includes several mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV campers, while some locations like Sakatah Lake State Park and Kamp Dels also provide cabin accommodations and glamping opportunities.
Most campgrounds in the Faribault area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter accessibility. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park typically opens April 1 and closes October 23, while other facilities like River View Campground operate May through mid-October. Several facilities offer electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, though amenities vary significantly between developed campgrounds and more primitive areas. The Cannon River Wilderness Area provides free camping with minimal amenities, requiring hikers to pack in all supplies. Weather considerations impact camping experiences throughout the season. One camper noted about Cannon River Wilderness Area: "For free the area is awesome right by the river. We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk."
Campers consistently highlight the natural features and varied terrain around Faribault as key attractions. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park receives positive reviews for its hiking trails and waterfall, with visitors mentioning the "beautiful falls" as a highlight of their experience. The park's "spacious camp sites" are frequently cited as a benefit compared to more crowded state parks near the Twin Cities. While some campgrounds like Roberds Lake Resort provide waterfront access with "spectacular sunsets at the private beach," others focus on woodland immersion. Proximity to nearby towns offers convenient access to supplies, with Northfield's downtown area frequently mentioned as a complementary destination for campers seeking dining and shopping options. Reviews suggest that campsites at most developed campgrounds tend to be relatively open with limited privacy between sites.
Best Campgrounds near Faribault (97)
1. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground
"There are four “walk in” sites, and you can see one another from all of them. Sites 1 and 3 require a walk about three car lengths to the tent pad, and 4 is not much farther."
"Nerstrand is nestled just outside Faribault MN. The town has a great downtown area on the river with places to eat and little shops."
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability2. Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
"Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. "
"Great park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths. Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads."
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability3. Kamp Dels
"We reserved a spot right next to the pool area. It was a tight fit to back the camper it, but I was able to do it. They have cement pads for a patio area and a fire ring."
"The one drawback, in my opinion, is that the lake it is right next to doesn’t have a beach for swimming. That was a little disappointing for me."
4. Cannon River Wilderness Area
"We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."
"If you camp with animals: Sites all sit directly off walking trail very popular with dog walkers."
5. Rice Lake State Park Campground
"My only complaint was how close together the walk-in sites were."
"Beautiful forested area just outside Owatonna. Easy drive past beautiful farms to town. Camp host told us mosquitoes were light this year; they seemed plentiful to me!"
from $24 - $50 / night
Check Availability6. Roberds Lake Resort and Campground
7. River View Campground
"Outside of this the children spent most of the weekend in the pool!"
"Neighbors decided movie night was important with surround sound but over all I would stay here again. Lots of seasonal golf cart traffic and kids on bikes."
8. Rice County McCullough Park
"Two boat/fishing docks, playground, pavilion, and hiking trails for things to do. Price is very reasonable for water and electric hookup. Just be prepared for the bugs!"
from $25 / night
Check Availability9. Lake Byllesby Regional Park
"Near lake and excellent bike path. Great brewery and winery close by."
"Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they’re right in the lake with a wonderful view. The facilities are very clean and well-kept."
10. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
from $24 - $42 / night
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Drive Time
- 40 min from Mankato, MN
- 41 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 51 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 30 min from St. Cloud, MN
Recent Camping Photos near Faribault, MN
145 Photos of 97 Faribault Campgrounds
Nick G.
Cannon River Wilderness Area
amber N.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground
Tonya B.
Rice County McCullough Park
Thomas D.
Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
Erick R.
Kamp Dels
Erick R.
River View Campground
Rocky B.
Rice Lake State Park Campground
Tonya B.
Lake Byllesby Regional Park
Erik R.
Champion Valley
leanne G.
Hope Oak Knoll Camp Ground
Heather N.
Cannon Falls Campground
Jamee H.
Bray County Park
Recent Reviews near Faribault, MN
583 Reviews of 97 Faribault Campgrounds
Jason W.
ScoutWhite Fox Campground — Myre-Big Island State Park
Nice quiet campground
Spacious sites, clean (very clean) shower and bathroom facilities.
- T
Thomas D.
GuideSakatah Lake State Park Campground
Beautiful campground in southern Minnesota
I have gone to this campground a few times and we love it. It’s beautiful and peaceful, secluded lots. Very overlooked this is a gem.
- Stina M.Guide
Lake Auburn Campground
Nice and clean.
No hookups. No privacy at sites. Nice and clean, beautiful beach area. Nice pier for fishing. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards. Many miles of bike paths on site. Great family campground. FYI, 10 sites are dedicated for generator usage, however you cannot use them overnight.
- SShannon R.Scout
Town & Country Campground & RV Park
Family Friendly
Great spot close to attractions in the twin cities. The family friendly activities are perfect for families with younger kids, playground, swimming, crafts and games. Park & bathrooms well kept and clean.
Levi S.GuideRed Fox Campground — Minneopa State Park
Standard State Park Campground
Pretty standard campground. Clean well maintained. Bathrooms are clean. Campground host so really quiet after hours. Site A5 has full shade 24 hours a day. A6 across from us looks like the worst site. Ranger station was suppose to be open until 4. It was closed at 3:45. It's also located a few miles away. Any bike trail is not accessible from here without biking a few milew on hill roads with no shoulder. It's ridiculous there's no access considering the plethora of trails in the area. Stay at Sakata of you're coming to this area to bicycle.
- MMelissa W.Scout
Kiesler’s Campground & RV Resort
Wonderful RV Park
We have been camping at this RV park annually since 2021. It’s always very clean, the staff is wonderful, the pools are warm! Never had a bad experience! Recommend 100%
- Crystal R.Guide
Big Island Campground — Myre-Big Island State Park
Beautiful but watch out for raccoons
I have stayed here 3 or 4 times and have enjoyed my time for the most part. Except the last time I was there (last summer) the raccoons were absolutely out of control. I didn't even have food unpacked out of my car yet and they were rummaging through my stuff while I was standing right there. They had no fear. I had a giant duffel bag full of tarps (not any food at all in it) and around 1am I hear the racoon trying to steal it. So I get up and put it in my trunk. The raccoon climbs into my trunk! While I'm standing right there, I've never seen anything like it.
Honestly everything else about this park is great. The island is gorgeous with beautiful sunsets, the hiking is great, the sites are nice, etc. But I probably will not come back just because of raccoons. Because keeping a clean campsite doesn't seem to matter for these critters.
- Crystal R.Guide
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground
Cute campground
I've stayed here twice now. I love that it's close to home. The park has a cute little waterfall that's fairly close to the main campground. They also have a whole different section of the park with hike in and cart in sites.
Guide to Faribault
Campgrounds surrounding Faribault, Minnesota range from developed state parks to more rustic options along waterways. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park provides both electric and non-electric sites about 10 miles east of Faribault, featuring trails that lead to a 14-foot waterfall. Roberds Lake Resort and Campground offers waterfront access directly in Faribault, while Cannon River Wilderness Area provides more primitive camping experiences with paddle-in or hike-in options. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate tents and RVs, with several facilities like Kamp Dels and River View Campground also offering cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort.
The camping season in this part of southern Minnesota typically runs from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly at established sites with electrical hookups and shower facilities. State parks like Nerstrand Big Woods and Sakatah Lake implement reservation systems that fill quickly during summer weekends and fall color season. Water access varies significantly between locations, with some offering boat launches and others providing hiking trails to reach waterfront areas. Weather conditions can affect trail quality, particularly after heavy rainfall. As one camper noted about Cannon River Wilderness Area, "For free the area is awesome right by the river. The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site."
Campers consistently mention the beautiful waterfall at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park as a highlight, with multiple trails leading to this natural feature. The park's woodland setting provides a stark contrast to the surrounding agricultural landscape. While most developed campgrounds offer amenities like showers, bathrooms, and electrical hookups, more rustic sites at places like Cannon River Wilderness Area appeal to those seeking solitude. "The sunsets were spectacular at the private beach," reported one visitor to Roberds Lake Resort. Sites with water views tend to be more popular and fill quickly during peak season. Several campgrounds near Faribault offer fishing access, with proximity to both lakes and rivers providing diverse water recreation opportunities within a short drive of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Faribault, MN?
What are the best campgrounds near Faribault, MN?
The Faribault area offers several excellent camping options. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground is nestled just outside Faribault with scenic wooded sites and hiking trails. It's especially beautiful during fall when leaf-peeping is at its best. Another top choice is Sakatah Lake State Park Campground, located less than an hour from the Twin Cities with wooded, shady sites and access to the paved Sakatah Singing Hills Trail that runs from Faribault to Mankato. For a more primitive experience, Cannon River Wilderness Area offers free riverside camping with sites that require a short 10-minute hike from the parking area. Roberds Lake Resort and Campground provides a boat-in experience close to town for water enthusiasts.
Are there any RV-friendly camping options in Faribault?
Are there any RV-friendly camping options in Faribault?
Yes, several RV-friendly camping options exist near Faribault. River View Campground near Owatonna accommodates big rigs with drive-in access, water hookups, and toilet facilities. Rice County McCullough Park is another good option with big-rig-friendly sites, reservable spots, and basic amenities like toilets. For those willing to travel slightly farther, Kamp Dels near Waterville offers comprehensive RV facilities including water hookups and accommodations for larger vehicles. The campgrounds generally provide essential hookups for RVs, though specific electricity amperage and sewer connections may vary by location. Most RV-friendly sites in the area are available by reservation, which is recommended especially during peak summer months.
What amenities are available at Faribault campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Faribault campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Faribault offer varying amenities depending on their type. Lebanon Hills Regional Park provides comprehensive family amenities including Schultz Beach for swimming, mountain bike trails, and miles of hiking paths for various outdoor activities. Frontenac State Park Campground features spacious sites with basic facilities, though not all sites offer complete privacy. Many state parks in the area provide shaded campsites, drinking water, toilet facilities, and shower houses. The Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail is accessible from several campgrounds for biking enthusiasts. Primitive sites at Cannon River Wilderness Area offer riverside camping but minimal facilities. For water recreation, several campgrounds provide lake or river access, though swimming beaches aren't available at all locations. Most campgrounds feature fire rings and picnic tables at individual sites.
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