Cabin camping near Blue Earth, Minnesota offers diverse accommodation options within a landscape of hardwood forests and prairie lakes. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with summer highs reaching into the 80s, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences. Most cabins in this region sit at elevations between 1,100-1,300 feet above sea level, providing gentle rolling terrain rather than dramatic elevation changes.
What to do
Explore prairie wildlife viewing spots: At Myre-Big Island State Park, visitors can spot diverse wildlife across 20+ miles of trails. "We stayed on the mainland campground White Fox in site #78, bordered on 3 sides by trees and shrubs for privacy... This park is unique as you can drive across a causeway and get on the Big Island which has more trails and another campground," notes a camper.
Enjoy water recreation: Multiple lakes provide fishing and paddling opportunities near cabins. "We dropped our kayak into the lake at the boat launch, which was a 2 minute drive to the other side of the island from the campsite. The lake was great, and calm," reports a visitor to Myre-Big Island State Park.
Visit historical sites: Within driving distance of Pilot Knob State Park, campers can explore regional historical attractions. "Located by New Ulm, MN this campground has plenty of activities in the park or very near the park. Plenty of hiking trails, playground for the kids, and an amazing sand bottom swimming pond surrounded by sand beach. Golf is also nearby at The New Ulm Country Club which is open to the public."
What campers like
Modern cabin facilities: Jackson KOA features updated cabin accommodations with thoughtful touches. "One thing I noticed that I thought was really cool was they had a good sewer hose at the dump station for guests to use so they didn't have to dig theirs out. That is the kind of thought the owners put into the experience at their park."
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings enhance cabin camping experiences. At Myre-Big Island State Park, one visitor noted: "Seeing large groups of deer was a daily/nightly thing! The park has 20+ miles of hiking trails through prairies, woodlands, and along the lake too!"
Lake proximity: Many cabins offer easy water access. "We arrived on a Sunday and stopped at the Park Welcome area. We got the last spot with electric for 3 nights. Nice staff! Ice was available... The lake is gorgeous but just a few places to get to the water. Saw a sign on the park door saying kayaks and canoes available to rent."
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: While some cabins remain open year-round, others have limited seasons. "We stayed in a camper cabin during the winter and it was lovely! The park was so quiet and trails were great for both hiking and snowshoeing," shared a winter visitor to Red Fox Campground.
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance is essential, especially for cabins. "When we pulled up, there were 5 deer on our site. I will definitely go back here. I highly recommend the island campground over the main campground," noted a camper at Myre-Big Island State Park who secured a desirable location.
Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is necessary during warm months. "We were here in May and the bugs were awful (I get it, they're part of being out in nature). At one point I just had to yell 'RUN' at my partner as I fled with our dog because the may flies were swarming so thickly that it was all you could hear and see."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple cabin locations offer play facilities for children. At Flying Goose Campground, "there are three playgrounds (one at the swimming beach), a mini golf course, and an actual phone booth. The owners live on site and are very kind and accommodating."
Kid-friendly water options: Swimming beaches provide safe water recreation. "We found this place by accident, and were very happy we did. It's a small family run campground with mostly seasonal campers. Set along the shores of Lake Imogene, which comes out of nowhere surrounded by farm land, and you can't even see it from the road."
Bathroom proximity: Check cabin location relative to facilities when traveling with small children. "The bathroom has nice showers, and running water in the sinks, but has pit toilets," observed a visitor to Red Fox Campground, highlighting the importance of knowing facility types when planning with kids.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose cabin locations carefully if arriving with large vehicles. At Flandrau State Park, a visitor observed: "We arrived at our campsite (43E) on a Thursday in early June. We first noticed that Flandrau SP was conveniently located close to downtown New Ulm... Then we got to the campsites and noticed they are very tightly packed in a small area."
Electrical considerations: Most cabin sites offer limited electrical options. "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. Love being on the bike trail and the hiking is fair."
Check dump station locations: When mixing RV and cabin camping, note facility locations. "Dump station was clean and modern and located close by," mentioned a camper at Myre-Big Island State Park, providing valuable information for those bringing portable facilities.
