RV camping near Hay Creek, Minnesota places visitors in Minnesota's Bluff Country where elevations reach up to 1,400 feet in the surrounding region. Located in Goodhue County, this area receives approximately 32 inches of annual precipitation, with summer temperatures averaging around 80°F. Most local campgrounds operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to Do
Geocaching opportunities: Lake Byllesby Campground offers several geocaching spots within walking distance of the camping area. One camper noted, "We had fun geocaching spots" while visiting the park.
Mississippi River fishing: Frontenac State Park Campground provides access to fishing along Lake Pepin, which is actually a wide section of the Mississippi River. A reviewer mentioned, "There were a few boats on the water, which looked so appealing on our hot day." The park features steep hiking trails down to the water.
Shuttle transportation to attractions: Dakotah Meadows RV Park provides shuttle service that "picks you up and drops you at your site" for those wanting to visit Mystic Lake Casino without driving. This park is located about 50 minutes northwest of Hay Creek.
What Campers Like
Clean restroom facilities: Frontenac State Park received praise for having "some of the nicest campground bathrooms and showers I've ever seen—clean, and modern." Another camper appreciated that the ranger station was "stocked with board games to rent" and included a little free library outside the bathrooms.
Spacious sites: Hidden Meadows RV Park in Pine Island features a lower area that campers particularly enjoy. One reviewer shared, "The lower area of this park is so nice and right near a river. The owners are really nice, bathrooms/showers clean and everybody is friendly."
Natural wildlife: Hidden Meadows RV Park offers opportunities to see local wildlife. A visitor reported, "We saw deer by the primitive camp areas and had nightly campfires in our fire ring."
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Lake algae can affect swimming conditions. One Lake Byllesby Campground visitor mentioned, "When we went the lake had a blue green algae problem." This typically occurs during warmer summer months.
Cell service variability: Service strength differs between providers at most campgrounds. At Autumn Woods RV Park, a Verizon customer reported weak signal strength: "If you have Verizon don't count on service. Antenna strength is weak."
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the region experience train noise due to proximity to railway lines. A Nelson's Landing RV Park visitor reported, "We heard two around 10 pm and either there were no more until the next morning, or we mercifully slept through them!"
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Lake Byllesby Campground offers "two great playgrounds" according to reviewers, making it suitable for families with younger children. One camper noted the campground has "great views of the lake and two great playgrounds. Very close to town and good priced."
Site selection for privacy: At Frontenac State Park, families should seek specific sites for better experiences. A reviewer recommended: "Favorite sites: 37 – Shady and on the edge with just one neighbor. Decent privacy and potential for hammocking."
Limited activities at some parks: Be aware that not all campgrounds provide recreational facilities. A Hidden Meadows visitor cautioned: "If you're bringing the kids there is literally nothing to do there. They do have a play-set but that's where it ends."
Tips from RVers
Levelness considerations: Many RVers noted the importance of leveling at area campgrounds. At Hidden Meadows RV Park, a visitor warned, "The parking pads are very unlevel. WiFi signal is weak at best."
RV service amenities: Dakotah Meadows RV Park provides specialized services for RVers. A reviewer highlighted, "There is fuel on site as well as RV wash station. Bath house and laundry and card controlled ($5 card deposit on check in)...well maintained facilities."
Site spacing varies significantly: Treasure Island RV Park offers good spacing between sites despite its parking lot setting. One camper observed, "It is just a parking lot but the sites are all pull through and there is plenty of room between sites."
