Several campgrounds around Kasota, Minnesota offer diverse overnight accommodations within 30 miles of the city center. The area sits in the Minnesota River Valley at approximately 800 feet elevation, featuring a mix of prairie and deciduous forest landscapes. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, making spring through fall the primary camping season for visitors without winter equipment.
What to do
Bison viewing: 30 minutes from Kasota at Red Fox Campground — Minneopa State Park, visitors can drive through or hike around a 330-acre bison enclosure. "The bison drive brings pure awe from safety of your car," reports camper Alison O., while Shane T. notes, "Have to pay for a separate vehicle pass but that gets you access to the bison refuge and the waterfall."
Hiking and water activities: Sakatah Lake State Park offers trails and water access less than 20 miles from Kasota. One visitor observed, "I heard everything from eagles, Canadian geese and swans to woodpeckers and multiple song birds" along the trails. Camper Kayla O. mentioned, "It's next to a lake so we can easily bring our kayaks with."
Golf: Sawmill Campground provides convenient access to a neighboring golf course. "Great golf course right next to it. Nice large sites and great price," wrote Jeanne S., who also recommends a side trip to "Schmidt's meat market in Nicollet, MN. Outstanding items to grill."
What campers like
Large, level sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites that accommodate larger vehicles and equipment. At Rice County McCullough Park, "Sites were long enough for our 40ft fifth wheel camper plus the truck and we had a large yard. Sites have crushed asphalt base and are decently level."
Quiet atmosphere: Campers frequently mention the peaceful environment at many Kasota area campgrounds. One reviewer at Peaceful Valley Campground noted, "The spot is really to get to, but feels super secluded. It is quiet and peaceful well maintained helpful staff." Another camper shared, "We loved our water and electric site in the woods. Large sites, well kept, super clean bathrooms."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers consistently earn positive reviews. At Crystal Springs RV Resort, a visitor wrote, "This CG is very well kept, with mostly seasonal and permanent parties." Another camper reported, "Clean bathrooms and showers!" making it a "Nice place to stay!"
What you should know
Off-season availability: Many campgrounds close between November and April. A notable exception is Town & Country Campground & RV Park, which operates "All year" according to their information.
Reservation requirements: Book early for prime sites during peak season. Availability at Dakotah Meadows RV Park becomes particularly limited during special events: "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."
Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sakatah Lake State Park Campground, Emma G. noted, "Most sites are private, but they are a bit crammed together in multiple loops so some sites are not so private."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Sawmill Campground has "a very very small swing set for kids" according to one reviewer. At Dakotah Meadows RV Park, families appreciate the nearby attractions: "Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis...25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America."
Consider water quality for swimming: Not all lakes in the area are suitable for swimming. At Sakatah Lake State Park, Matt C. mentioned, "The drinking water had consumption warnings, the modern restrooms were closed, and the lake isn't swimmable." Another camper noted, "Sakatah Lake is quite shallow so late season is at risk of algae bloom - the lake was pea soup green when we got there at the end of August."
Seasonal insect preparation: Bring appropriate protection during summer months. At Rice County McCullough Park, a visitor advised, "Just be prepared for the bugs!" This sentiment is echoed at other campgrounds in the region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on size and privacy needs. At Sakatah Lake State Park Campground, Tim B. warned, "Very nice park if your RV is not too 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."
Utility locations: Pay attention to hookup placement when selecting sites. At Crystal Springs RV Resort, MickandKarla W. observed, "The utilities are in the middle of the site and worked well with water pressure near 45 psi. The sites are decently spaced for this type of CG."
Alternative parking options: Some facilities offer overflow options when sites are full. Dakotah Meadows RV Park provides solutions for late arrivals: "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."
