Camping options near Henderson, Minnesota extend beyond traditional RV parks with sites throughout Sibley and adjacent counties. The area sits within Minnesota's prairie and hardwood transition zone, typically 750-800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with higher humidity, making swimming opportunities valuable during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Water recreation at Cleary Lake Regional Park: The lake is ideal for kayaking with multiple access points. "Cleary Lake is a good size and a kayakers delight! The park also has a golf course and is very well kept!" reports Lili R. at Cleary Lake Regional Park.
Hiking trails at High Island Creek Park: Multiple trails follow ravines down to the water. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek," notes Alison O. Hikers can access several miles of trail networks. "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," explains Trenton V.
Casino entertainment near Prior Lake: "Casino operates a round trip Shuttle that picks you up and drops you at your site," notes James and Susan K. Some campers enjoy the convenience without visiting the gaming floor. "Sometimes we don't even go there and just enjoy the area," adds Lisa D.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds but receives frequent positive mentions. "Amazing bathroom/Showers. Quiet, lots of flies, good spot overall," reports Truly W. about Baker Campground. Similarly, at Peaceful Valley Campground, "Clean bathrooms; my wife actually wanted to take a shower in them," notes Justin J.
Site spacing and privacy: Campers appreciate locations with adequate spacing between sites. "Lots of good trees and space between campgrounds which isn't always the case at the regional parks," notes Scott M. This contrasts with more crowded options like Town & Country Campground where some campers report feeling "squeezed in like sardines. Very tight quarters on roads and sites," according to Claire M.
Accessibility to Minneapolis: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for Twin Cities visits. "Highly recommended for a quick weekend stay or a good place to spend an extended holiday weekend," notes Bryan S. Location matters for urban explorers. "Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis—25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America," reports Beth B. at Dakotah Meadows RV Park.
What you should know
Reservations essential for summer: Most established campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with hookups. "We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations....only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th," reports Beth B. Many campgrounds implement no-show policies. "Bad thing is they don't make you pay to make a reservation so people reserve a spot and don't show up," notes Lisa D.
Free camping options exist: High Island Creek Park offers no-cost alternatives. "Nice clean campground very well maintained and free. Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all," reports Mike G. at High Island Creek Park. These sites lack hookups but provide basic amenities.
Cell service varies: Coverage depends on your location and carrier. "Wifi is not great, less than 1MB download speeds from our site, and our Verizon service was pretty poor in our spot, max 2 bars," reports Chris F. Some campgrounds offer free WiFi to compensate for weak cellular signals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "The kids really enjoyed the playground. The owners were very accommodating with our changing situation during the weekend we stayed," reports Justin J. at Peaceful Valley Campground.
Swimming options: Beach access varies by location. "There are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors," notes Jennifer H. Some campgrounds include pool access. "Inground, heated swimming pool; mini golf; pickleball; tennis; arcade room attached to the office," reports Rachel H. about Cokato Lake RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds near highways or casinos may experience noise issues. "We would probably chose a site further from one of the main roads into Mystic Lake Casino. We heard a lot of traffic coming and going well into the wee hours of the night," cautions Michelle A.
Tips from RVers
Site surface quality: RV site foundations vary significantly across the region. "Sites have crushed asphalt base and are decently level. Grounds are well maintained," notes Tonya B. about Rice County McCullough Park. Some parks invest in higher-quality pads. "Cement parking pads with full hookups. The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained," reports Jim M.
RV size considerations: Most parks accommodate larger rigs, but site lengths vary. "Sites are 60+ feet, concrete and level. Each site has their own fire pit," reports James and Susan K. Some parks offer specialized parking configurations. "Sites are two pull-thru's to each site. Your door is opposite of your site mate and you each have your own power pedestal w/water," explains the same reviewer.
Extended stay facilities: For longer visits, look for parks with additional amenities. "There is a RV wash bay available for a fee and the campground even has gasoline available 24 hours a day using a credit card," notes Jim M. Town & Country Campground in Savage maintains year-round operations for extended stay campers.
