Campgrounds near Mankato, Minnesota offer access to Blue Earth County's rolling glacial moraines and limestone river valleys. The area sits at approximately 790 feet above sea level and experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs reaching 83°F in July. Campsites typically remain open from early April through late October with peak season June through August.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Sakatah Lake State Park features multiple hiking options through mixed hardwood forests with birdwatching opportunities. "I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds. I wish I could distinguish between them. Also the frogs and toads were adding their voices too," notes a visitor to Sakatah Lake State Park Campground.
Visit the bison enclosure: Take the loop drive around the bison sanctuary at Minneopa State Park. "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," shares a camper at Red Fox Campground.
Kayak and fish: Several campgrounds provide water access. "There is a large pond on the property that is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports, and there is a walking path that circles the pond," explains a reviewer at Crystal Springs RV Resort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Numerous campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "Bathhouse and laundry and card controlled ($5 card deposit on check in)... well maintained facilities," writes a visitor to Dakotah Meadows RV Park.
Quiet environment: Several campgrounds offer peaceful settings despite proximity to highways. "I can't remember but I believe this was the best campground for low road noise of our entire trip!" states a camper at Crystal Springs RV Resort.
Level sites: Campsites typically feature flat, stable surfaces. "Sites have crushed asphalt base and are decently level. Grounds are well maintained," notes a visitor to Rice County McCullough Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Camp sites are very close together. Hiking circles around a buffalo enclosure, you have to drive to a different area of the park to experience the waterfalls," reports a visitor to Red Fox Campground.
Water quality concerns: Lake conditions vary by season and location. "Not even very nice fishing on the dock Unless you like green fish. As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric," cautions a reviewer at Sakatah Lake State Park Campground.
Payment methods: Some campgrounds have outdated reservation systems. "Not really up to date with technology for booking and such but over all great place. Large sites and very reasonably priced for a full hook up site," explains a visitor to Sawmill Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks include play equipment for children. "Small playground. Easy to get on and off Hwy 169 for close-by attractions," shares a camper at Peaceful Valley Campground.
Beach amenities: For water recreation with children, select campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "Beach is nice and clean. Sites by the lake looked nice," reports a visitor to Bray County Park.
Off-site attractions: The area offers family-friendly destinations within driving distance. "Check out the Spam Museum in Austin, MN. We thought the museum would be cheesy, but it was a nice facility and a great experience," recommends a camper at Crystal Springs RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many RV sites near Mankato, Minnesota offer varying degrees of privacy and shade. "Very nice 50+ campground. Everything is nice and well kept. We are looking for a long term site and I can see us staying here," notes a visitor about Crystal Springs RV Resort.
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "Very nice little quiet campground on the outside edge of Mankato. Very nice people and easy to work with... Large sites and very reasonably priced for a full hook up site," reports a camper at Sawmill Campground.
RV size limitations: Some parks have tighter access roads and site constraints. "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," advises an RVer at Sakatah Lake State Park Campground.
