Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground offers 51 spacious campsites within a 2,884-acre deciduous forest preserve. Located 13 miles south of Faribault at an elevation of 1,060 feet, the park's unique microclimate supports plant species rarely found this far north. The surrounding area has several dog friendly campgrounds near Faribault where pets can accompany their owners throughout their stay with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.
What to do
Trail exploration for canines: Cannon River Wilderness Area features free primitive camping sites that require a short 10-minute hike from the parking area. "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river. The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site," notes Nick G., making it ideal for dogs that enjoy both hiking and water access.
Wildlife observation: Rice Lake State Park Campground offers excellent opportunities for birding and wildlife viewing with your leashed pet. "I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds. I wish I could distinguish between them. Also the frogs and toads were adding their voices too," reports Shelly S., highlighting the rich natural soundscape your dog can experience alongside you.
Seasonal color viewing: Fall camping at Sakatah Lake State Park Campground provides spectacular autumn colors on pet-friendly trails. "We love this park!! Very quiet and peaceful. Biked the trail. Campfires, hammocked and just enjoyed chillin!" says Carla A. The park permits pets throughout the campground and on designated trails, with electric hookups available at many sites.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers tent camping sites with good separation between neighbors. "Tent camp sites are far enough from each other that neighbors can't be seen, and we didn't hear them either," notes Blair. The park welcomes pets and provides clean bathroom facilities maintained "several times a day."
Clean facilities: Lake Byllesby Regional Park maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities that campers consistently praise. "The facilities are very clean and well-kept. Cannon Falls is a nice town to explore, and it's close to home and work," says Deb M. The park accommodates pets at all sites, though some lakeside spots position campers closer together than others.
Water recreation: Kamp Dels offers water-based amenities alongside pet-friendly camping. "Nice water park area and pool. Has a nice walk they animal area for the kids to look at goats donkey pigs and such. Friendly staff as well," writes Mark B. While the campground can get busy during peak season, the surrounding area provides additional options for exercising pets.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring camping at Rice Lake State Park may encounter muddy conditions affecting trail access. "Sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet," reports Timothy S. from an April visit. Pet owners should bring towels for wiping muddy paws after trail walks.
Site spacing varies: River View Campground offers full hookups but site privacy differs significantly. "While the long term sites were pretty, level, and relatively private, our site was definitely none of those. Very unlevel gravel and mud and very close to our neighbors," notes Elizabeth R., highlighting the importance of requesting specific sites when traveling with pets.
Limited swimming: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Faribault have lakes with limited swimming options. At Sakatah Lake, one camper observed: "On the lake but you need to be in middle of this lake if you want to get wet. Unless you enjoy swimmers itch. Not even very nice fishing on the dock Unless you like green fish." Dogs that enjoy water should be monitored closely for algae exposure.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Rice County McCullough Park features recreational amenities alongside camping. "Sites were long enough for our 40ft fifth wheel camper plus the truck and we had a large yard. Grounds are well maintained. Two boat/fishing docks, playground, pavilion, and hiking trails for things to do," shares Tonya B., making it suitable for families with both children and dogs.
Educational opportunities: Nerstrand Big Woods contains rare plant species and seasonal wildflowers along pet-friendly trails. "Nerstrand is so lovely in October. We reserved sites 2 and 4. Though they were right next to each other, they felt very secluded," notes Maria D., who appreciated the fall colors and updated facilities even during a water outage.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience varying noise levels that might affect pets sensitive to sounds. At Lake Byllesby Regional Park, tent sites generally offer more seclusion than RV areas. "It's a nice park, sometimes hard to get into on weekends. The lake is right next to the campground with RV sites right on the water," explains Kayla O., noting accessibility challenges during peak times.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Lebanon Hills Regional Park requires careful navigation for larger rigs. "Sites are a little close with little to no privacy in most. 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," advises Davis D., information particularly relevant for RVers traveling with pets.
Seasonal considerations: RVers with dogs should note that Sakatah Lake State Park's shade can make maneuvering challenging. "Very nice park if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," warns Tim B., suggesting careful site selection for those with larger rigs and pets needing exercise space.
