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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.
"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 Availability"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 Availability"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."
"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."
"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 Availability"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."
"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 Availability"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."
"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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ScoutNice quiet campground. It's a very basic KOA. Not a whole lot of amenities. Large playground is quite good for children. Our site is right across from the campground.
Campsite is in the middle of nature. Lots of trees cover. Not much of a breeze but well protected.
Water is clean, electrical boxes are in good condition.
TravelerWe stayed for a weekend in the East Loop and had such a nice time! They have many trails to a pretty well-kept bathroom and the sites themselves are private nooks in the trees. They had firewood available that we took advantage of, and we overall had a great time!
ScoutMy two boys and I camped here for one night on a weekday in late August. It was a great place to relax and spend time together. We chose the cart in campsite and we had the area all to ourselves. The vault toilets near the campsite were clean, and the main bathrooms and showers in the main campground were also very nice and clean. We enjoyed a great hike around the park and had a successful birding outing. The trails closer to the water had more mosquitoes, although their numbers decreased the closer we got to our campsite. From our campsite, we saw five new bird species without even having to get out of our chairs. All in all, I would definitely come back.
ScoutAs a newer resident on Roberds Lake I decided to walk my son in his stroller down to the resort. It looked like a tropical paradise. The water is treated, there were tons of kids splashing around, his age.. It was the hottest day this year so far. It was packed! Lots of welcoming smiles on the beach...I saw the sign saying "Public Not Allowed." I was like aw that's disappointing ,and I understand completeley, why they do this. I have worked in the food and bev/entertainment industry for all of my life. Im 44...
I went into the little eatery to ask permission from what appeared to be the owner or manager. I asked her and she replied with " NO!" in the rudest way you could say it, and pointed her finger at the door....I mean, come on. Im my opinion, I think she could have handled it a little more professionally and suggest somewhere else, offer a cup of ice water, anything kind....no. All she was, was straight up cruel and I had to rush the first 2 blocks before I lost it. My son, didn't make a peep..anyways. . .I dont like saying negative things about people but in the case, I cant hold back. If you cant be kind and hospitable to EVERYONE that walks in that door, find a new profession like a prison guard or something....
ScoutThis is a smaller KOA, owner off hwy 90. Closed during winter. We were in spot 53, beautiful end site with corn views. Owner is working on fixing the dump portion of the full hookup as it sits to high to dump. Overall the spot was beautiful
GuideWell tended county campground surrounded by many good fishing lakes. Good spacing between sites , gravel pads, nice and clean shower house. Not much shade. Both paved and grass trails. Not very busy.
ScoutQuiet, peaceful and well organized. All showers and toilets are clean. Staff and the management are the best. Will return again for longer stay
GuideWe stayed 1 night and the host was Amazing! Our site had everything included. Site was easy to back into and the location is just an hour from Mall of America
GuideAmazing staff who were super nice and helpful. Great clean bathrooms and camp sites. We liked the trails and ability to access the lake. Super cheap and easy to rent kayaks.
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?
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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