Best Campgrounds near Kellogg, MN

Camping areas near Kellogg, Minnesota provide a mix of primitive and developed options throughout the Mississippi River Valley region. Kruger Campground in Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest offers secluded tent and RV sites, while Whitewater State Park provides more developed camping with electric hookups and showers. The area also features unique accommodations like Aefintyr, which offers hike-in glamping and cabins. Zumbro Bottoms State Forest provides opportunities for dispersed camping in a more remote setting.

The camping season in this region typically runs from April through October, with most campgrounds closing for winter. "This area is off a low maintenance dirt road. It is best to come in from the south as sometimes the gate on the river bridge to the north is closed," notes one visitor about accessing Zumbro Bottoms State Forest. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with spring bringing potential flooding along river areas, summer featuring high humidity, and fall offering colorful bluff views. Many primitive campgrounds like Kruger have limited amenities, typically offering vault toilets and hand pumps for water. Cell service can be spotty throughout the bluff country, particularly in valley areas.

Most campgrounds in the Mississippi River Valley receive positive reviews for their natural surroundings and hiking opportunities. Several visitors highlight the privacy between sites at Kruger Campground, with one camper noting it has "a good amount of space between sites so you feel like you have some privacy." Train noise affects some campgrounds situated near the railway that runs along the Mississippi River. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, particularly eagle watching along the river bluffs. Developed campgrounds in the region typically provide showers, electrical hookups, and sometimes sewer connections for RVs, while primitive sites offer a more secluded experience with basic amenities. Many campgrounds are situated near hiking trails and fishing access points, particularly along the Zumbro River and Mississippi backwaters.

Best Camping Sites Near Kellogg, Minnesota (119)

    1. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park

    50 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3007

    "Whitewater is by far one of the top state parks in Minnesota. Their camping facilities are clean with running water and free showers. The campsites are quite spacious but not too wooded."

    "Easy access to hiking trails. My site was close in distance to adjacent ones, but was on the edge by the creek, so it was pretty quiet."

    2. Frontenac State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Frontenac, MN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 345-3401

    "Quiet, pretty hiking trails, nice people, close to home but tucked away enough to be away from everything"

    "The ranger station was small and charming, stocked with board games to rent, and it’s clear the staff cares about creating a positive camping experience."

    3. Kruger Campground and Management Unit

    4 Reviews
    Kellogg, MN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 345-3401

    $14 / night

    "Nice and tucked away. Sites are very private. Has beautiful trails. Next to the river great for exploring and fishing."

    "Lovely walking trails. Near Lake Pepin. One negative was orange/rusty water from hand pump well. $14 a night!!! We plan to camp there again."

    4. Merrick State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Fountain City, WI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 687-4936

    "We always bring the kayaks, so the water access offered is why we stay.   3 Campgrounds:

     - Island sites offer the best-in-park privacy for a campsite, but they are walk in (carts provided for hauling"

    "Really close to the river, as well. Yes… the trains do go by quite a bit, but it really hasn’t bothered us. Beautiful tall trees, clean pit toilets. This park is a gem! We’ll be back."

    5. Nelson's Landing RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Nelson, WI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 951-2842

    $10 - $40 / night

    "Walking distance to local restaurants and shops. Just pay online. No worries about checking in."

    "There was a large open grassy area behind us that our two dogs enjoyed. Brand new fire rings/pits. Beautiful view of the bluffs. Walking distance to several restaurants."

    6. Big River Resort

    2 Reviews
    Nelson, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 565-9932

    $68 / night

    "Short drive to Stockholm and Pepin Wisconsin."

    7. Carley State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Plainview, MN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3007

    "Carley State Park is easy to overlook in favor of nearby Whitewater State Park. Whitewater has an actual visitor center, the dramatic scenery, the flush toilets, and spacious/level sites."

    "Site #2 is further down a path with 4 picnic tables and room for 4-5 tents. The site is right at the park border, with farm land/prairie just on the other Side of the trees."

    8. Kruger Unit - RJD Memorial Hardwood State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Kellogg, MN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 299-3000

    $17 - $50 / night

    "Hiking trails and the Zumbro river are available for outdoor adventures. Primitive camp ground. Pit toilets and a well, though we brought our own water supply."

    9. Reicks Lake Park

    2 Reviews
    Alma, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 685-3330

    $20 / night

    "Rieck’s Lake is located 3 miles northwest of Alma, Wisconsin. For $15 a night you will enjoy paved camping pad, fire pit, picnic table, coin-operated shower, and restroom."

    10. Aefintyr

    4 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 513-5598

    $29 - $139 / night

    "Short drive to White Water State Park. A lot of great trout fishing spots along the river. Very peaceful campground, great view of the stars on clear nights! Will definitely be back."

    "It was so fun to socialize in the shared space around the fire and play games.  If you are up in the bluff, be sure to wear good shoes for the hike up. "

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Recent Reviews near Kellogg, MN

487 Reviews of 119 Kellogg Campgrounds


  • Sarah D.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Secluded Site and Great Views Close to the Twin Cities

    We did a one night camping trip for my birthday at Cart-In Site 1 the second to last weekend of September.

    We loved the hiking at Frontenac State Park - walking along the lake and then walking along the bluffs at sunset was magical! Fantastic views. I imagine if we had gone two weeks later, we would have had a fantastic display of fall color. We went a little too early to catch the changing leaves.

    We loved how easy Frontenac was for a casual weekend getaway. It was an easy, scenic one hour drive from St. Paul that was very enjoyable. The park was also nice with great bathrooms at the main campsite, nice trails, and they even had board games to check out at the front office for a rainy day- a great idea!

    We stayed at Cart-In Site 1. I would rate the site itself a 3. It was very secluded and spacious, which was fantastic! We could not see any other campsites from our site, which was fantastic. We only occasionally saw some hikers on a nearby trail. We could hear some other noisy campers, but it wasn't too much of a disturbance. Very wooded, nice, spacious site. There is not water at the Cart-In parking lot, so be aware that you will have to fill up prior to parking and heading to your site (easiest place to do so is the main office/ visitor center).

    I also slept poorly because of a nearby train that kept going past and honking at least until midnight. So if you're a light sleeper, be aware of persistent train noise at these sites!

    Overall good site and an easy, fun, and relaxing weekend getaway from the twin cities.

  • Anne P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Blueberry Fields Forever

    Great little spot

    Second time I’ve stayed up on Peach Peak. I’ve never had an issue driving up the hill. Great views of the stars. Plenty of deer this last time! It seems very secluded, but I did hear music from nearby one of the nights on my last trip.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Great hiking trails NICE Bathrooms

    The campground is well maintained, all of the sites are clean and laid out nicely. Some sites are kinda close but there is brush growing between sites.

    There are a LOT of NICE TRAILS at this park. Many nice prairie trails and some fun trails in the bluffs along the Mississippi River too. One trail down along the River can be challenging because of MANY STAIRS.

    Large drive in picnic areas away from the campground that many people drive in to us and had a nice overlook on the Mississippi River. There are 2 nice overlooks that are great to walk to in the dark and watch the calmness and peaceful nature of the river and forest.

    The men’s bathroom and showers are GREAT! There is also very nice large full handicap bathrooms. The SHOWER WATER IS VERY HOT so be careful!

    Dump station is sloped so it makes it easy to drive in either direction to help dump waste water easily. Also fresh water at the dumping station.

    Always Plenty of firewood in the shed next to the office.

  • Ken B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Great River Bluffs State Park Campground

    Very nice

    I arrived late in the day and the office was closed but they have all the instructions and QR codes for an online reservation and check in. Very clean including the showers and bathroom. View of the Mississippi is amazing!

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Lake Byllesby Regional Park

    Very nice campground

    This is a good campground. Very well kept. Fishing from shore and there is a boat launch. Nice playground for kids. Sites are fairly close. Many have no privacy from others, but some do. No water at the sites and pit toilets are the biggest weaknesses. Nice paths for walking and biking.

  • Maria D.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Cleanest Campground Bathrooms Ever!

    Frontenac State Park had some of the nicest campground bathrooms and showers I’ve ever seen—clean, and modern. The ranger station was small and charming, stocked with board games to rent, and it’s clear the staff cares about creating a positive camping experience. I also loved the little free library outside the bathrooms.

    The downsides are that the campsites run small, usually only fitting two tents at most, and there aren’t many trees for hammocking. It’s also a popular park, so it can get pretty loud at times.

    Favorite sites: 37 – Shady and on the edge with just one neighbor (though the main road is on the other side). Decent privacy and potential for hammocking.

    21 – Nice views, but likely best for just one tent/car.

    22 – Very private, though the ground looked a little uneven.

    Other solid tent sites: 36, 25, 48, 49, 51. Site 57 also looked spacious with no neighbors, but it does border the visitor parking lot.

  • L
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Holden Park Campground

    Fall Ride in Ocotber

    Our group has been camping at the Holden County Park for 4 years now, this will be our 5th year.

     We are so happy that the shower/restrooms are finally done, its a great plus and we feel that more people will camp there now. 

    We love how quiet it is when we return from our daily rides, its like its our own place as there aren't many if any at all other campers there. This year may be different and if it is we won't mind at all, hopefully they don't either as we do stay up late by the fire but aren't wild crazy loud.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Zumbrota Covered Bridge Park

    Scenic

    Pros: great paved walking and bike trail; leads to state bike trail; MN only covered bridge; huge park playground; disc golf course; along branch of the river; easy walk into town; friendly camp host; very quiet Cons: few site pads, you just drive onto grass where you see electric/water posts and fire ring; restroom with 1 toilet and 1 shower were dirty (husband said it looks like it hadn’t been cleaned in a month) I concur on woman’s as well but there was toilet paper (happy) but no hand soap or paper towels; garbage in women’s shower


Guide to Kellogg

Camping near Kellogg, Minnesota, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the many trails in the area. At Whitewater State Park, one camper mentioned, "We hiked to Chimney Rock and Inspiration Point and found the trails more challenging than we expected." The park has trails for all skill levels, making it a great spot for everyone.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Merrick State Park noted, "Eagles! and this is a migratory route for thousands of birds." It's a perfect place for birdwatching enthusiasts.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing. One camper at Perrot State Park shared, "This park has good access for a kayak/canoe path." The water access makes it easy to spend a day on the river.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Frontenac State Park highlighted, "Bathrooms are VERY CLEAN. Trails are well maintained." Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable camping experience.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Prairie Island City Campground said, "Spacious campsites on the Mississippi River. Nice wooded area allows for shade." This is perfect for families or groups needing extra space.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Hok-Si-La City Park are noted for their welcoming vibe. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground is very green and luscious, full of beautiful trees, plants, and wildlife." It’s a great spot for kids to explore.

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Merrick State Park warned, "I would think the mosquitoes are bad in summer." Bring bug spray to keep them at bay.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Carley State Park, have fewer amenities. A visitor noted, "There are no showers, toilets, or water hookups." Make sure to plan accordingly.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A reviewer at Prairie Island City Campground mentioned, "It’s very crowded and there were what seemed to be a lot of seasonal pass type campers set up." Consider going during the week for a quieter experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. Crystal Lake Campground has a playground and is close to a golf course, making it a hit with families. One camper said, "Tons of things to do. Kids playground, golf course right next door."
  • Plan Group Activities: Bring games or sports equipment. A camper at Haycreek Valley Campground mentioned, "We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping." Group activities can enhance the camping experience.
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Having food ready can save time and keep everyone happy. A visitor at Prairie Island City Campground praised the staff for their help with food, saying, "The staff offered to help us out, they gave us a helping hand."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Accessibility: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Haycreek Valley Campground noted, "Our site was rather odd as the electric and water post was on the opposite side of our camper." Confirm site details before booking.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials like water and firewood. A visitor at Frontenac State Park mentioned, "There is no firewood within the park, so plan ahead there." Being prepared can make your stay more enjoyable.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A reviewer at Perrot State Park said, "The nice little town of Trempealeau is close by with a cool old hotel and some fun bars." Exploring can add to your camping adventure.

Camping around Kellogg, Minnesota, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Kellogg, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Kellogg, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 119 campgrounds and RV parks near Kellogg, MN and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Kellogg, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kellogg, MN is Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 50 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kellogg, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Kellogg, MN.