Southeastern Minnesota's camping options near Le Roy feature limestone bluffs, spring-fed rivers, and hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. The region's karst topography creates unique cave systems and clear flowing streams. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping offers milder temperatures with colorful seasonal changes.
What to do
Biking on Root River Trail: The 42-mile paved trail connects several campgrounds including Eagle Cliff Campground where "This campground has it all. Situated right along the Root River next to the bike trail. They offer kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttles. They also have bike rentals," according to one camper.
Cave exploration: Mystery Cave features underground pools, formations, and guided tours. "I came here to explore the caves and it blew me away. I think the cave was around 12-13 miles long and there was water and different formations. The floor was really wet so bring shoes you won't slip in," notes a visitor to Forestville Mystery Cave State Park.
Trout fishing: Several streams near Le Roy offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Forestville Mystery Cave State Park, visitors mention "Lots of hiking - down to historic village and back is about 4.5 miles round trip. If you get the chance, go do the the 1 hour walking tour of Mystery Cave - well worth the entry fee."
What campers like
Private river sites: Many campgrounds feature riverside camping spots. At The Old Barn Resort, "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."
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds in the area often include recreational facilities beyond standard camping. "Super great campground in a beautiful area. This campground was really good. It was located right on the Root River Trail System which we liked for biking and running. It has an indoor/outdoor heated pool, a big barn with a restaurant and bar, and clean restroom and shower facilities," shares a visitor about The Old Barn Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report seeing diverse wildlife throughout the area. At Myre-Big Island State Park, "So much wildlife to see at this park. Seeing large groups of deer was a daily/nightly thing! The park has 20+ miles of hiking trails through prairies, woodlands, and along the lake too!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October with limited or no winter facilities. At Whitewater State Park, one camper notes "We visited in early April so the sites were quite exposed, I can imagine they would be more private in the summer. Water and showers were not open yet as it was too cold but the vault toilets were well maintained."
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited or no cell coverage. At Forestville Mystery Cave State Park, a camper reports "TV was able to pick up about 15 stations - but there is NO CELL SERVICE in the campground - no Verizon, ATT or T-Mobile. Wifi down at the ranger office."
Reservation needs: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "We arrived at 2:00pm on Saturday, after a long 5 hour drive from northern Minnesota... Check in time is 4:00pm, but our spot was empty when we arrived, so the park rangers let us set up early."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming or river activities. "The Root River goes right alongside most of the campsites which creates a really peaceful space. The grounds are super clean including the showers and porta-potties that are available for campers," shares a visitor to Eagle Cliff Campground.
Natural playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature unique play areas. At Oakwoods Trails Campground, "Clean and well maintained campground... There is a small but well maintained playground and horseshoes. Note: it is cash or check only so make sure you have money to pay (we stopped at a nearby gas station to use an ATM)."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer interpretive programs. "Mystery Cave State Park is surrounded in a lush green forest with huge oak and maple trees that hang over the road like a huge living canopy... We didn't do our homework, but if we would have known, we would have brought our fishing rods as the rivers were full of trout!!"
Tips from RVers
Site lengths and layouts: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. At Whitewater State Park, a visitor explains "Adequate shower facilities. Very nice trail system, very will maintained trails all through park. Historic Forestville is a fun stop (additional $)."
Hookup options: Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but full hookups are limited. "Nice camp ground! Nice and quiet! Although, we checked in on Sunday! So that is likely not a normal review. Lots of trees and grass's! Water, electric hook up, small general store, dump station, even loaned us an extension cord!"
Dump station access: All state parks and most private campgrounds provide dump stations. "Overall great experience! Located on the Root River. Cliff View has very clean bath houses. Lots of sites to choose from. 50 amp service, sewer hook up and of course water. If your close enough to the office wifi available."
