Best Campgrounds near Faribault, MN
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.
