Best Campgrounds near Mankato, MN

Camping near Mankato, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

• Hiking and Trails: Explore the beautiful trails at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The trails are also nice and well kept," making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. A camper shared, "Fishing was great; we enjoyed ourselves the whole thing," highlighting the fun you can have by the water.
• Wildlife Viewing: Check out Red Fox Campground — Minneopa State Park for a chance to see bison. One happy camper said, "This park has one of my favorite sites," emphasizing the unique wildlife experience.

What campers like:

• Privacy and Space: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve. One reviewer noted, "Peaceful, quiet, with spacious sites that are situated in a staggered way," making it a favorite for those seeking a little solitude.
• Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the facilities. A camper at Myre-Big Island State Park remarked, "Showers were what you can expect but good pressure and hot water," which is always a plus after a day outdoors.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at various campgrounds. One visitor at Baker Park Reserve said, "Everyone here at Baker is so helpful and accommodating," making the experience even better.

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. A camper at Rice Lake State Park warned, "Mosquitos are awful," so bring bug spray.
• Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lebanon Hills Regional Park advised, "Must reserve months in advance as usually full," so plan ahead.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like High Island Creek Park, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "There isn't any potable water on site," so be sure to bring your own supplies.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby lakes or trails. A family at Myre-Big Island State Park enjoyed, "My kids loved skipping rocks at the little shore," which is perfect for little ones.
• Safety First: Always check for weather updates and park guidelines. One camper at Fort Ridgely State Park mentioned, "The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing," so keep an eye on water safety.
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A visitor at Baker Campground suggested, "Firewood is available at the office," making it easy to cook over a campfire.

Tips from RVers:

• Space for Big Rigs: Many campgrounds, like Baker Campground, are big rig friendly. One RVer noted, "RV pads are gravel," which is helpful for larger vehicles.
• Check Hookups: Make sure to check if your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Myre-Big Island State Park mentioned, "Electric hookup for RV and easy dump station," which is essential for a comfortable stay.
• Quiet Spots: Look for campgrounds that offer quieter areas. A visitor at High Island Creek Park said, "The campground is kept up very well," which can make for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Camping near Mankato, Minnesota, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun.