Near Spring Valley, Minnesota, camping options span flat valley terrain with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. The area features limestone bluffs, trout streams, and hardwood forests with maple, oak, and birch trees. The Root River runs through the region, providing fishing opportunities and water access at several campgrounds.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct access to local streams and rivers. At Maple Springs Campground, campers enjoy a "small trout stream on the edge of the property" and mention the "Root river in beautiful SE MN" as a prime fishing spot.
Cave exploration: Mystery Cave at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground offers underground tours that showcase unique formations. "The cave was around 12-13 miles long and there was water and different formations. The floor was really wet so bring shoes you won't slip in," notes one visitor. Tours cost $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 5-12.
Biking on Root River Trail: The paved trail system connects multiple towns and campgrounds. Peterson City RV Park sits directly on the trail, making it convenient for cyclists. "The campground is on the Root River bike trail which is beautiful, shaded, and paved," reports one reviewer.
What campers like
Private spaces: While some RV parks have tight spacing, many campgrounds offer sites with adequate separation. "The sites are decently spaced for this type of CG," notes a camper about Crystal Springs RV Resort, which provides a quieter atmosphere than some busier parks.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses receive consistent praise. A visitor to Rochester-Marion KOA mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers were very clean. It was extremely quiet." Another camper noted that "Laundry and showers are very nice."
Proximity to town amenities: Many RV sites near Spring Valley, Minnesota are situated close to small towns with services. Peterson City RV Park allows campers to experience local culture: "It was great fun for me to take a morning and/or evening walk around Peterson, a lovely quintessential midwest town, with a feed mill, some lodging, a small cafe, Legion bar, etc."
What you should know
Road access conditions: Construction and road work can affect travel to campgrounds. A visitor to Rochester-Marion KOA reported: "The direct road to the KOA was all jacked up due to a large construction project that closed the whole road. We got back on the Interstate & got off on exit 224. Took Co Rd 7 to HWY 52."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park remains open year-round, but with reduced services in winter: "This time of year, water is not on in the campground, but there is a spigot right across the road at the visitor center that is on (easy 2 min walk)."
WiFi and cell coverage: Internet access varies widely between locations. At Hidden Meadows RV Park, a camper noted: "WiFi signal is weak at best. If you have Verizon don't count on service." Similarly, at Maple Springs Campground, a visitor reported "WiFi intermittent at far end of campgrounds."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas for children. Rochester-Marion KOA offers a pool that families appreciate: "The kids enjoyed the pool. It was perfect for our one nights stay." Some natural water features are also available at certain parks.
Playground access: Peterson City RV Park offers recreational facilities beyond camping: "The park includes a nice playground, horse shoes, a shelter, and HUGE open spaces for your badminton, croquet, or other games."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning experiences for children. Forestville Mystery Cave State Park provides cave tours and a historic village. A visitor commented: "I loved the campground area which nestled in a small valley. On top of that it has this awesome living history 1800's village managed by the Minnesota Historical Society."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when setting up your RV. At Peterson City RV Park, "Note that depending on the site and how far you back in, the electric hookup may be a distance." Another camper at Hidden Meadows RV Park mentioned "Oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements."
Leveling requirements: Many RV sites require adjustment for comfort. A visitor to Hidden Meadows RV Park noted "The parking pads are very unlevel," while another campground received praise for the opposite reason: "Our site was large and easy to back into."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping for RVers requires special preparation. At Whitewater State Park, "We visited in winter (February) and while there was snow on the ground, the spaces were kept plowed with easy access to the electric boxes."
