Campgrounds near Minneota, Minnesota offer sites for tents and RVs across prairie landscapes and wooded river valleys. Most campgrounds in this region are positioned between 1,100 and 1,500 feet elevation in southwestern Minnesota's rolling terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with higher humidity in July and August when mosquitoes can be abundant near water features.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Loon Island Trail at Lake Shetek State Park features a one-mile loop accessed by a causeway across the lake. "We especially enjoyed the Loon Island loop, which is accessed by a causeway across the lake. There is an observation deck with a viewing telescope at Eastlick Marsh, which is where we saw the nesting swan and a beaver dam," notes one visitor.
Birdwatching opportunities: Lac qui Parle State Park serves as a major stopover on the Red River/Minnesota River flyway. "During migration, the thousands of birds convening on the headwater lakes of these two rivers makes it sound as though the lake itself is speaking up in its own voice, hence the french furtraders name of 'Lac Qui Parle'," explains a camper who visited the park.
Disc golf: Plum Creek Park Campground offers disc golf along with hiking trails and kayak rentals. A camper remarks, "This is the definition of a hidden gem. The park is well maintained with friendly staff. There are nice trails around the lake and more in the lower unit. There is disc golf and kayak rentals and a small store where you can buy ice, firewood, souvenirs, and an ice cream treat."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas including a swimming pond at Camden State Park Campground. "Great trout stream, swimming, tubing, camping, horse trails, hiking... my kids loved it," shares a visitor about the recreational options available.
What campers like
Prairie views: The Upper Campground at Lac qui Parle State Park offers open prairie camping with panoramic views. "We spent two nights tent camping at the Upper Campground of Lac Qui Parle State Park in May 2022. This is a prairie setting, essentially a very large grassy field without trees or shrubs to provide privacy from neighbors or protection from winds... While the campground lacks privacy, its wide open skies provide wonderful stargazing on clear nights."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds in the region provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan. We saw deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a mink. We heard coyotes the first night," reports a camper at Lake Shetek State Park.
Clean facilities: Pipestone RV Campground maintains well-kept amenities that campers appreciate. "We recently spent a long weekend in May camping here with family! This campground is a great example of what camping really is. The owners are attentive, the facility is clean, neighbors are friendly, and it's located close to restaurants, shopping, and anything else you could need or want!"
Historical attractions: The region has significant historical sites, particularly related to Laura Ingalls Wilder. A camper at Plum Creek Park Campground notes, "It just outside of Walnut Grove and full of Laura Ingalls Wilder history."
What you should know
Seasonal operating dates: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October. Camden State Park Campground remains open year-round, allowing for winter camping options including camper cabins.
Campsite privacy varies: Many campgrounds in the region offer limited privacy between sites. At Oraas County Park, a camper notes, "Each site had plenty of space. We happened to be the only one in the park all weekend, which was awesome. Close to neighboring towns for any essentials that were missed. Hidden gem!"
Mosquito conditions: Bug activity can be significant during summer months. "The park and campground are nice, but the mosquitos weren't! Stayed right after a mosquitos hatch sadly," reports a visitor to Lac qui Parle State Park.
Boat traffic: Some lakes permit motorized boats, which can impact the camping experience. A visitor to Lake Shetek State Park observes, "Lake Shetek allows motor boats and there was a lot of boat traffic. There are other resorts on this lake so it's very active. We brought our kayaks and enjoyed kayaking the lake, though there was always a pretty big wake and we stayed near the shoreline."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camden State Park Campground offers play areas for children near the lower campground. "The lower campground is close to the playground and swimming pond," notes one camper.
Family reunion spots: Several parks accommodate larger family gatherings. "My family does a annual family reunion camping once a year! We stayed here and it was beautiful! Perfect for all the kids off all ages, adults, grandparents...we had a really good time," shares a visitor about Camden State Park.
Kid-friendly water features: Swimming areas are available at multiple parks during summer months. A camper at Lake Shetek State Park reports, "There is a 'beach' located near the Oak Wood campground however it was underwater, people still enjoyed swimming as it was shallow and warm in June."
Beginner-friendly sites: Plum Creek Park Campground provides amenities that make camping accessible for families new to the activity. "If you are new to camping this is the place for you. Nice facilities, close to town and it's like a backyard," advises an experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric options: Numerous rv parks near Minneota, Minnesota provide electrical hookups with water access. Kuhar Park offers "electrical hookups, water, bathrooms and a location in town for dumping. $20/night 7th night free $375 per month. About 10 sites in park/playground."
Leveling considerations: Some sites may require equipment for leveling. A camper at Pipestone Family Campground notes, "We had a pull thru spot, leveling was tricky. They let us put up a tent for no additional cost. I think it was around $25 night for full hookup."
Monthly rates: RV campgrounds near Minneota provide extended stay options with monthly rates for travelers needing longer accommodations. Kuhar Park offers monthly rates of $375 for those staying longer periods.
Casino RV options: Jackpot Junction Casino Campground provides parking for RVs, though with limited amenities. "I decided to boondock in the general parking lot, couldn't see paying $40+ for one night of hookups. No showers, bathrooms etc. so not for me. I want the campground fee to be free or really cheap if I come to a casino," advises one RVer.
