Several glamping resorts near Hokah, Minnesota offer tent sites along with luxury accommodations. The bluff country terrain creates distinct camping environments in each direction from Hokah. During summer months, temperatures average 80°F during day and 60°F at night, with humidity making proper gear essential for comfort at primitive campsites.
What to do
River recreation on the Root River: At Eagle Cliff Campground, visitors can rent tubes, canoes, and kayaks directly at the campsite. "This is a very nice campground with a variety of sites. They have several on the rivers edge which are by far the best! The campground rents out tubes as well as provides a shuttle to the starting point and you float down to the campground," notes one reviewer.
Hiking the bluffs: Great River Bluffs State Park offers multiple overlook trails with panoramic Mississippi River views. "I love this area as the bluffs are stunning. It's Minnesota's little Switzerland. The park isn't much to look at and there's only a few look-out point onto the Mississippi but its a nice little campground," shares one camper.
Golf and bike trails: Luxury glamping options at The Old Barn Resort include an on-site golf course and direct access to the Root River Bike Trail System. A reviewer comments, "It really is a treat that the Root River Bike Trail System runs right along the campground. We spent most of our time exploring the trail, visiting Lanesboro and Whalen."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Whitewater State Park, campsites are arranged to maximize natural screening. "The campsites are spacious, completely shaded, and have a fire pit as well as picnic tables. Since the park is in a heavily wooded area you do have to watch out for the Minnesota state bird (the mosquito)," mentions one visitor.
Clean facilities: Wildcat Mountain State Park maintains well-kept shower houses and restrooms. According to one camper, "The facilities are well maintained and clean. Camping sites are spacious and the stars at night is amazing."
Multi-season access: Several glamping options near Hokah remain open beyond the typical summer season. "We visited in winter (February) and while there was snow on the ground, the spaces were kept plowed with easy access to the electric boxes. We were in a teardrop trailer," reports a winter visitor to Whitewater State Park.
What you should know
Quiet hours enforcement: Eagle Cliff Campground strictly enforces quiet hours for family-friendly atmosphere. One camper noted, "They are sticklers on the quiet time after 10 or 11pm. My friends and I have been given warnings about being quiet, so it's definitely more of a family campground."
Seasonal campground makeup: Many campgrounds transform between seasons. A visitor to Neshonoc Lakeside observed, "This campground is all about the seasonal members. I felt a very clicky vibe as well. Like new comers weren't welcomed."
Limited cell service: Communication can be spotty in bluff country. "We had no cell service at our site, but 2 bars plus WIFI outside the visitor center," reports a Whitewater camper, while another notes about Great River Bluffs, "There was no online reservation fee when we paid online on the day of our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for different ages: When planning a glamping trip near Hokah with children, check pool depths. At The Old Barn Resort, "There's a nice covered pool, but we didn't use it because the most shallow point was 4'6", which is great for bigger kids, but with little ones, it's a bit more difficult."
Evening entertainment: Bluebird Family Camp offers multiple child-friendly attractions in one location. "It has a playground with a busted slide. Basketball and volleyball courts, a man made swimming pond fed by a creek, and lots of trails. My kids really liked the pond and playground. They spent most of the weekend getting tadpoles from the water then letting them go again."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Great River Bluffs State Park offers rich birdwatching opportunities. "Bring binoculars; the river valley is a great viewing area for waterfowl, eagles, and hawks," recommends one experienced visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Sidie Hollow County Main Campground, RVers find naturally level sites. "Nice grassy sites next to a cool creek. Electric but no water hook up. There is an RV fill up and a dump. Stayed in site #34 which has shade all afternoon. Also very level."
Road challenges: Access roads to some glamping destinations require careful driving. At Wildcat Mountain, one visitor warns, "The driveway leading to the campground is a bit daunting (especially if pulling a camper), but its well worth it!"
Hookup availability: Many glamping sites near Hokah offer partial hookups only. At Neshonoc Lakeside, "The sites are all flat with a gravel pad, some also have concrete patio and all have nice fire pits. While there aren't a lot of trees or shade, it was a great site with our awning out."
