Camping sites near Goodview, Minnesota range in elevation from 660 to 1,100 feet, with many riverfront locations situated within the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F, while summer humidity creates ideal conditions for Minnesota's unofficial state bird - the mosquito. Campgrounds in the area typically open from April through October with limited year-round options.
What to do
Hiking trails with valley views: At Great River Bluffs State Park, trails are mostly level with rolling hills. "I spent a day here hiking and had a blast! I hiked up Chimney Rock and then looped back to tackle part of the Dakota trail! The hiking paths were well taken care of. There were plenty of places to stop and rest if you need to," notes Sarah C.
Boat launches for river access: Several campgrounds offer direct river access points. The area features multiple boat ramps for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. According to Jesse M., Sleepy Hollow Campground is "about a mile from the Mississippi just north of lock and dam no. 5A if you are looking for a quiet place to recharge."
Birdwatching opportunities: The Mississippi River valley serves as a major migratory corridor. "The river valley is a great viewing area for waterfowl, eagles, and hawks," according to one reviewer at Great River Bluffs. Another visitor noted seeing "a white raven spend a few days with us which was wild!" during a stay at Perrot State Park.
What campers like
Secluded island sites: Merrick State Park offers unique island camping options with private, waterfront sites. "Island sites offer the best-in-park privacy for a campsite, but they are walk-in (carts provided for hauling in). Worth the short walk in from the lot for what you get," explains Beth D. who adds, "We think site 50 has the best view and launch, with not as much riprap as the other island sites."
Reduced mosquito areas: Minneiska Campground at Whitewater State Park has fewer mosquitoes than other locations in the area. "Best part: very few mosquitoes!! (The cold, constantly moving water helps keep them away)," writes Leda T. This makes it "one of my favorite parks in the state of Minnesota."
Spacious riverfront sites: The riverfront campsites at Prairie Island City Campground offer ample space. As Lyla W. describes, "We had one of the primitive sites on the riverfront, and it was huge! Highly recommend site 152 if you have some camping games you like to play."
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Trains pass frequently through the area, particularly near riverside campgrounds. At Merrick State Park, one camper reported that "the frequency of trains and the loudness of their horns at night was enough to drive me nuts. Every time I was almost asleep another one would go past."
Seasonal water quality issues: Some campgrounds have water quality concerns. At Perrot State Park, Kayla F. noted, "There were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates. But we brought our own water anyways."
Winter camping limitations: While several campgrounds technically remain open year-round, winter services are limited. At North Campground at Merrick State Park, a visitor found "the shower building is in this loop although it's closed over winter. Vault toilets still available." Water systems are typically shut down, though some parks maintain a water spigot near the visitor center.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: River access provides swimming and boating opportunities, though currents require caution. At Prairie Island, "This campground always has something to do. Whether it's a movie night, live music, food trucks, or kayak rentals, there's always something. There is a playground for kids, and clean bathrooms," according to Lyla W.
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured activities for children. Jennifer B. found Perrot State Park had "lots of amazing views, interactive signs and information that was perfect for our 4-year-old," making it "a great place to explore the region near the Mississippi River."
Indoor backup plans: Rainy weather options exist nearby. Kate H. from Whitewater State Park shares, "Despite the rain we had a great time! Because of the rain we went to the eagle center near Wisconsin. A must see if your looking for something indoors!"
Tips from RVers
Electric site availability: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, but availability varies seasonally. At Whitewater State Park's winter campground, Amy G. found "all spaces that were plowed had plenty of room to pull in. Some were even 'pull through' which would be extra nice if you wanted it (either big rig type RV or pull behind)."
Accessibility challenges: Some riverfront sites can be difficult to access with larger rigs. Tracy B. at Prairie Island noted, "The road along the river is narrow making it hard to back your camper into the riverfront sites if you have neighbors."
Dump station locations: Dump stations are available at most established campgrounds but may close seasonally. At South Campground at Merrick State Park, off-season visitors should verify which facilities remain open, as "Showers and flush toilets at the north campground which is a quick drive or a very long walk."
