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High Island Creek Park allows pets across its free camping areas with fire pits and trash bins. The campground provides clean portapotties and multiple camping spots with good tree cover. Pet owners can select from various grassy sites, some situated near wild ravines. Campers reference The Dyrt for top tips on camping near Henderson, Minnesota. The peaceful environment makes it ideal for dogs, with multiple visitors noting they felt safe at this campground. Several other pet-friendly options in the area include Allansons Park in Henderson and Peaceful Valley Campground in nearby Le Sueur, both accommodating both tent and RV camping with pets.
Dogs enjoy the natural landscape at High Island Creek Park with hiking trails leading down to a gentle flowing creek, perfect for cooling off during hot days. The campground's secluded setting offers virtually no noise pollution, creating a stress-free environment for pets and their owners. Most campsites require calling the sheriff's office before arrival to register camping intentions, including length of stay and vehicle information. Riverside Park and Municipal Campground in St. Peter also welcomes pets with electric hookups and showers, situated behind the police station for added security. The Minnesota River provides additional water access for dogs at several locations, though campers should note that High Island Creek Park has no potable water on site, requiring visitors to bring their own supply.
"Gulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills."
"Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Boat access is 1 mi on the Minnesota River."
"The owners were very accommodating with our changing situation during the weekend we stayed."
"The other direction is the BISON DRIVE. Yes, you can actually drive amongst bison if the road is open."
"My dog loves the bison drive! Firepit and picnic table provided. wood is available for purchase at the office. Shower and bathroom facility was clean and close to this campsite."
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability"A couple weeks ago we spent some time at the Northwest koa...that one had private tent sites surrounded on 3 sides by trees, quiet spaces etc."
"Great park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths. Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads."
"Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. "
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability"It was a large back in site with plenty of room for our two very large dogs. The water wasn't turned on yet, but we were able to fill our fresh water tank with a hose from their laundromat."
"The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained. Campground is right next to the hotel/casino and very much within walking distance."
from $40 - $50 / night
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TravelerLebanon hills has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation
GuideI never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!
LegendSmall little campground next to large casino. We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations….only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th…large concert event happening across the street. You will need to call early in the day to talk to office staff…who are very friendly. If after hours and there are no spots, you can dry dock in large lot in front of office. 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. Dog park available, watch a few spots in fence near bottom where fencing has risen up…little dogs could easily climb under. Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis…25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America (Aquarium) and Security patrols regularly and there is shuttle if you want to visit casino. Pool at hotel is not included. Golf attraction is being completed next door so there was some construction traffic during day as expected.
GuideSites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground.
GuideGulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills. The entire park is surrounded by farms, nearby are some really nice Minnesota small towns like Henderson and the somewhat larger St. Peter (but still small town). I hiked in about 1/2 a mile and camped in the trees but they also have some clearings closer to the entrance, with grills, where you could easily set up. $10 suggested donation. Trash bins located all over which is good , but the wind seems to blow debris around here and there, and irresponsible people leave their beer cans/water bottles strewn about, so pick them up if you find them like I did. Website and signage on location recommends to call the sheriff's office to let them know you're camping there which I did and they were nice enough, but it's probably not the end of the world if you don't. Overall this was a pleasant spot, especially being the only camper there, so hope you all enjoy! Places like this are what I love about The Dyrt, I don't think I would have found this otherwise.
TravelerWe just found this campground in September and this year we've been there 3 times and we live in Montana, there's no place I'd rather stay. It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups
The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very helpful.
lots of things in the area to do, and the "city" isn't that far to drive to.
ScoutThis is such a great campground for families! So many activities including a water recreation area, petting zoo, shuffleboard, mini golf, pool, toddler water park, multiple playgrounds, basketball and more. The only drawback is they REALLY pack you on like sardines and the roads are really narrow so unless you get there early your camping tip is going to start with the “backing in argument.”
GuideWe had stayed here with our 37' 5th wheel. We reserved a spot right next to the pool area. It was a tight fit to back the camper it, but I was able to do it. They have cement pads for a patio area and a fire ring. The sites are close to each other, but far enough apart to be able to get slide outs and awnings out. There is SOOO much to do here. There is a petting zoo, mini golf, basketball hoops, lots of playgrounds and even a tram to help you get around the campground. The campground itself is huge! There is a store on site to buy supplies and/or food you might need. You are able to rent paddle boats, pontoons and other water based things. The lake was very green and gross when we rented a pontoon. The pontoons are very homemade!! They are old and have folding chairs to sit on. Overall, we had a GREAT time here. The kids absolutely LOVED all there is to do at the pool area. There is a splash pad, climbing tower and slides to go down. Would definitely recommend this place and we would definitely stay here again!
GuideThis was our first time there & we are so glad we came. One of our kids & her husband live in Minneapolis, a sister & several nieces & nephews live close by. Covid held us back with visiting, but our daughter & husband & our grand puppy came to visit. Parking for visitors (or 2nd vehicle) is the bad part as they are all quite way from some/most of the sites. They are strict and no parking on the grass (understandable when you see the pictures in the office.) The park is very well maintained! It is pet friendly. Office sells firewood for use $7.00 for 12 pieces (split pieces) There are bathrooms thoughout, but the main one has a separate, awesome, private showers. The beaches are stellar, We took out kayaks while some of us sat on the dock. There are dedicated walking trails & bike trails that are really as long as you want to go! From the park, we rode the trail that goes under the road 19 and all the way around Lake Katrina (we took the left way around, less hills to go up for this 62 year old🤣) It is BEAUTIFUL with the leaves turning. We loved our stay. The only thing we may do differently next time is to get a site closer to a parking lot. At night, it is DARK! & visitors would have a hard time finding their way back to their car without being driven. We WILL be back!
High Island Creek Park features dispersed camping along the Minnesota River valley, positioned in a secluded rural area northwest of Henderson. The campground sits at a relatively low elevation of approximately 740 feet, characteristic of the river valley topography. Summer temperatures typically range from 60°F to 85°F, with higher humidity levels due to proximity to waterways. Free camping sites are arranged in grassy clearings surrounded by deciduous forest, creating natural divisions between camping areas.
Explore hidden creek trails: Head down to the ravines at High Island Creek Park where hiking paths lead to secluded water access. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek. One of me and my hubbies favorite drop in campsites!!" reports Alison O.
Visit the bison sanctuary: Drive 30 minutes to Red Fox Campground at Minneopa State Park to see the herd in their natural habitat. One camper notes, "My journey to visit all 64 MN State Parks lead me through Minneopa State Park... The cool thing about the park is the walk and/or drive through the Bison sanctuary."
Fish the Minnesota River: Access points near Henderson offer catfish, walleye, and northern pike fishing opportunities. The river runs at a gentle pace during normal conditions, making it suitable for beginners. "I hiked in about 1/2 a mile and camped in the trees but they also have some clearings closer to the entrance, with grills, where you could easily set up," shares one visitor about finding spots near water.
Complete quiet: Campers value the lack of noise pollution at High Island Creek Park. "I'm spending three nights here. The campground is kept up very well. It has garbage cans and porta pottys. When I got here it was empty. Nice open spots and a good amount of tree cover," writes Ron R., noting the "virtually noises" environment.
Reasonable fees: Peaceful Valley Campground offers affordable sites with hookups and clean facilities. "We loved our water and electric site in the woods. Large sites, well kept, super clean bathrooms. Hosts were very nice and stopped for a quick visit after we got settled," shares one camper.
Natural surroundings: The secluded ravines create a unique camping atmosphere unlike typical flat campgrounds. "Good vibes it's a magical place when u go hiking down the hill to the hidden creeks trails and absolute peace being one with nature," explains Sherry H. about exploring the landscape.
Water access limitations: No potable water is available on-site at High Island Creek Park. "I stayed four nights. I would have stayed longer but ran out of water. There isn't any potable water on site. During a hot day, I took my two dogs and we hiked to a nearby river," notes Travis A.
Registration requirements: Contact the sheriff's office before staying overnight at High Island Creek Park. "Call ahead to stay overnight so sheriff is aware. Not a lot of people know about it and is at end of long gravel road for peace and quiet," advises Mike G.
Bathroom facilities: Sakatah Lake State Park Campground offers more developed facilities than dispersed camping areas. "Our site was a perfect tent-in site (site 15), as it was far enough away from the highway and other sites, so noise was minimal... the modern restrooms were closed, and the lake isn't swimmable," reports Matt C.
Playgrounds available: Some local camping areas have recreational facilities for children. "This park is by the river that allows fishing and it does have a volleyball area and a basketball court, full bathrooms and a nice pond," notes Lizzy Z. about Riverside Park and Municipal Campground.
Site selection strategy: When camping with kids, choose sites with natural boundaries. "We had an awesome time roasting mallows and hotdogs over the fire and singing songs!" shares Sarah F. about her family-friendly experience at Sakatah Lake State Park.
Safety considerations: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Henderson provide secure environments for families. "I was late getting to my site due to being delayed by some bison in South Dakota, so I was racing the dark to set up my tent and start a fire... It was very peaceful and quiet...far enough from the highway that there was no noise or light pollution. The sheriff drove through once at night and once in the morning. I felt very safe," explains Angie B.
Access challenges: The narrow entrance roads at some sites require careful navigation. "Sakatah Lake State Park is very nice 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," advises Tim B.
Hookup options: Dakotah Meadows RV Park provides full-service sites for larger rigs. "The sites are paved and have well-maintained grass... Sites are 60+ feet, concrete and level. Each site has their own fire pit," notes one experienced RVer.
Dump station locations: Plan your water and waste management around available facilities. "The sites were a little difficult to get into being we have a 42ft fifth wheel but when we did find the sight we could fit in it was level. The dump sight could use some work and there is no water hook up but we had a great time!" shares Matthew C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Henderson, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Henderson, MN is High Island Creek Park with a 4.7-star rating from 13 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Henderson, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 66 dog-friendly camping locations near Henderson, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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