Camping cabins near Goodview, Minnesota offer convenient access to the Root River and Mississippi River watersheds, with most properties sitting between 650-800 feet in elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 83°F and winter lows reaching 7°F. Cabins range from rustic accommodations to units with full amenities, depending on the property's location within the valley systems.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Several campgrounds near Goodview provide direct access to quality trout fishing. At Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground, campers appreciate the creek's visibility. "The river that runs through is beautiful, cold, and clear. I didn't have any luck fishing though I could see the trout hanging out in an easily accessible pool at the end of a run," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: The region features well-maintained hiking paths through bluff country. A camper at Aefintyr notes, "The Whitewater area is so beautiful, I enjoy hiking in the area." Another visitor at Whitewater State Park shared, "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."
Water recreation: Canoeing, kayaking and tubing are popular activities on local rivers. At Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging, "They offer kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttles. They also have bike rentals. This facility is clean and very well kept."
What campers like
Scenic riverside cabin sites: Many campgrounds feature cabin accommodations with water views. At Eagle Cliff Campground, "This is a very nice campground with a variety of sites. They have several on the river's edge which are by far the best!" Another camper noted, "Stopped here on the way up to Minnesota and our campsite was gorgeous! Everyone was very friendly and the sites were very clean. We stayed right on the water."
Winter camping options: Some cabin properties remain open year-round. According to a winter visitor 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. We were in a teardrop trailer. Plenty of space for the car and the teardrop in space #202."
Secluded camping experiences: For those seeking quiet, certain periods offer solitude. One camper shared, "I thought I was getting punked. I had the entire State Park to myself. It was super cool but eerie. Great hikes and the view from the top was worth it."
What you should know
Quiet hours enforcement: Some campgrounds strictly monitor noise levels. A camper at Eagle Cliff noted, "They are sticklers on the quiet time after 10 or 11pm. My friends and I have been given warnings about being quiet, so it's definitely more of a family campground."
Winter water access: During colder months, cabin campers should plan accordingly. "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)," reports a winter visitor at Whitewater State Park.
Firewood considerations: Many Money Creek Haven cabins and surrounding properties provide firewood options. At Whitewater State Park, "Firewood is available for $8 per bundle, you can pay by QR code if you have enough service. Or you can grab wood and pay in person at the other end of the park."
Tips for camping with families
Man-made swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer swimming options beyond natural waterways. A visitor at Money Creek Haven reports, "We have stayed here on 2 occasions, once in a tent and once renting their rooms in the lodge. Both great visits! The lake is murky and there are a lot of frogs, but that's camping."
Kid-focused activities: Some properties include specific child-friendly amenities. At Lazy D's Campground, families enjoy "jumping pillow, petting zoo, kids train ride, playground, pool, sandpit, volleyball, peddle bikes, river with tubing, horse rides, close to white water with hiking and beach."
Nature programming: Educational opportunities exist at several parks. "There are fun free activities for kids to check out from the park office and a playground," notes a family that visited Beaver Creek Valley State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Pay attention to cabin and RV site sizes when booking. At Whitewater State Park, "The campground has far more spaces than you can reserve this time of year (typical of 'winter' camps at State Parks in MN). But the loop that had the openings was super easy. Just literally a loop around one side of the camp with a vault toilet on one side."
Highway proximity: Some cabins are closer to roads than others. At Camp Everyday Winona, "The two 4-person cabins are right by the entry way. You are far enough from the highway that traffic noise is not a problem. The main tent/RV area is behind the office."
Seasonal considerations: Availability varies throughout the year. A visitor notes of Whitewater State Park, "Price is $35 for the space/night with electric, and this time of year, there are no other options besides electric spaces. The bonus of making 'day of' reservations means there is no extra service fee."
