Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Faribault, MN has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Minnesota camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Faribault, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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!"
"We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."
"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."
$25 / night
"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!"
"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."
$24 - $42 / night
"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."
GuideFrontenac 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.
TravelerSites are a little close with little to no privacy in most. Fun little trails nearby for an afternoon walk. Reservation system is weird and the sites are much bigger than they say. All rv sites are the listed length plus 16’ for your tow vehicle, which you need to call to find out.
GuideSpent one night passing through Ellendale Minnesota. Our reservation paperwork was waiting for us at the gatehouse with directions to our back-in site 11. A close walk to the laundry, showers and restroom pavilion was terrific. I can’t remember but I believe this was the best campground for low road noise of our entire trip!
TravelerPros: 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
GuideRed 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.
GuidePaid $45 online than had to pay $7 at gate. Some trails, saw bear poop, restrooms were confusing (7 choices 😳)
TravelerI love the location and how quiet it is and secluded each spot is
RangerBig Island was nicely wooded, keeping a very cool temperature but with little cover from other campsites. Tent pad and fire pit were well maintained. Restrooms were well cleaned, if not exactly maintained (soap and Toilet paper ran light over the weekend, and spiders hung out after a cleaning). ADA accessible. Even with a few trails closed, plenty of trails to explore around the Big Island campground. Rented a tandem kayak from the ranger station, looked like one of the two kayaks, plenty of canoes for rent. Spotted pelicans, turtles, and birds along the shore. Campground host never came by, but the ranger was spotted twice once to keep hammock straps off a smaller tree. Mosquitos were out in full force during the cooler weather.
ScoutGreat pricing and friendly staff. Nice beach. A few spots are pull through which is nice for larger RVs and travel trailers.
Camping near Faribault, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.
Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a family adventure, the Faribault, MN campgrounds have something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
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?
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?
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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