The Hayward, Minnesota area sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation in the agricultural heartland, where rolling farmlands meet scattered woodlands and small lakes. Campgrounds in this region typically feature flat terrain making for easy access, with seasonal operation predominantly from April through October due to the region's cold winters. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with summer highs averaging in the 80s.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: White Fox — Myre-Big Island State Park offers excellent wildlife spotting, particularly deer. "A bald eagle flew over the car on our way in. Things were already looking good," reports one camper. Another visitor notes, "We saw a ton of wild life many many many deer!"
Water recreation: At Crystal Springs RV Resort, the property features a pond for various water activities. According to a visitor, "There is a large pond on the property that is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports, and there is a walking path that circles the pond."
Explore local attractions: The area provides access to unique regional sites within short driving distance. One camper recommends, "Check out the Spam Museum in Austin, MN. We thought the museum would be cheesy, but it was a nice facility and a great experience."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer reasonable spacing. At Hidden Meadows RV Park, one visitor noted, "We were thankful no one was placed near our campsite to give us more room." At Myre-Big Island State Park, campers appreciate the solitude: "Our closest neighbors were 7-8 sites away and around the bend in the road. Couldn't even see them."
Well-maintained facilities: Albert Lea-Austin KOA receives praise for cleanliness. A camper reports, "Definitely the best KOA experience we've had so far. Check in was quick, spots were easy to pull into, the bathrooms were really clean." Another notes, "The showers are one temperature but it's comfortable and the water pressure is awesome."
Friendly atmosphere: Campground hospitality stands out in reviews. At Crystal Springs RV Resort, visitors mention, "Very quiet, nice sites. Everyone was very friendly easy to work with." The KOA staff provides special touches: "They even had some huge Halloween decorations and gave us some awesome free flannel coozies at check-in."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit near major roads. One camper at Autumn Woods RV Park notes, "Some hi way noise." At the KOA, a reviewer states, "This is a nice little campground, but its location (although convenient) right off the freeway is less than ideal. The background noise isn't terrible but it's always there."
Seasonal restrictions: Most rv parks near Hayward, Minnesota operate seasonally. Crystal Springs RV Resort runs from May 1 to October 31, while Three Fingers Campground in nearby Iowa operates April 1 to November 1. Hidden Meadows RV Park maintains a similar schedule from April 8 to November 1.
Cell service and connectivity: Internet access varies by location. Crystal Springs RV Resort provides WiFi with limitations as mentioned in a review: "They have WiFi, but their info packet states it's not good enough for streaming but okay for email, etc. We got 3 bars on Verizon and used our MiFi."
Tips for camping with families
Limited kid-friendly amenities: Some rv campgrounds near Hayward have few dedicated children's facilities. A Hidden Meadows visitor cautions, "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."
Look for age-appropriate parks: Oakwood RV Park welcomes families as mentioned by a camper: "Nice and quiet, many families around." Crystal Springs has age considerations as one visitor notes: "It's meant for adults no park for kids. But everyone was good with our kiddos playing outside."
Bring your own entertainment: Pack games and activities as campground options may be limited. While some parks offer equipment rentals, like Myre-Big Island State Park where "the park offers geocashing (and free GPS rental), as well as canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and a small fishing that can be rented," many others have minimal recreational options.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling varies: RV sites often require adjustment. One Autumn Woods visitor mentions, "This campground has everything they say: nice spots that are level (pull through and back in)." However, a Hidden Meadows camper warns, "The parking pads are very unlevel."
Utility placement considerations: The location of hookups can affect parking. A Hidden Meadows RV Park visitor notes, "Also oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements." At Myre-Big Island, "The interior roads are dirt roads with a few potholes they are very narrow," making navigation challenging.
Off-season limitations: Water access may be restricted during shoulder seasons. A Myre-Big Island camper reports, "We visited in early April so the sites were quite exposed, I can imagine they would be more private in the summer. Water and showers were not open yet as it was too cold."
