Cabin camping near Money Creek, Minnesota provides access to the unique bluff country landscape of southeastern Minnesota. The area sits within the Driftless Area, a region untouched by glaciers during the last ice age, resulting in dramatic limestone formations and river valleys. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F while summer camping season typically runs May through September with temperatures in the 70-80°F range.
What to do
Trout fishing: The cold, clear streams attract anglers to many campgrounds. Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground offers prime fishing opportunities right from the shoreline. "Small quiet campground with sites that back up to the creek. Very easy walking trail winding through the park and stream. An easy way to trout fish and enjoy the park," notes Bruce C.
Tubing: Float down the Root River for a relaxing afternoon. Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging provides tube rentals and shuttle service to the starting point. "This campground rents out tubes as well as provides a shuttle to the starting point and you float down to the campground," writes Jennifer M. The entire float typically takes about an hour to complete.
Cave exploration: Visit underground formations within a short drive. Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground offers guided cave tours for $15 per adult and $10 for children ages 5-12. "The cave tours are well done and the sites are scenic and tucked into the woods. There is also a winery (Four Daughter) not far away that's more than worth stopping at," recommends Elisabeth M.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Some campgrounds offer private camping spots away from crowds. Shady Rest Acres features unique cabin and tent options including an unusual pasture site. "There are 2 campsites, if you wish. One is in the middle of the pasture (that's right...near the goats). They will pen up the larger animals if you stay at that site, but it's perfect for stargazing! The other is nestled in the woods," explains Amy G.
Waterfront camping: Sites directly on rivers or creeks are popular. The Old Barn Resort offers sites with easy access to the Root River. "Our site was very large, which was nice as it gave us more than enough room to set up our tent, leaving space between us and the neighboring sites," Joe W. reports. The campground has multiple river-access points for activities.
Stargazing: Limited light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing. Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground sits in a valley with minimal ambient light. "Loved camping at this campground! The sites were spread out enough that it really felt like I was at a dispersed spot at times. The sound of the creek was so peaceful and the hiking trails behind the sites up the bluff were great!" according to Shelby N.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many cabin rental areas have spotty coverage. "There is no cell reception because of the valley. This is great if you want to get away from it all, but if you're staying a while and need to work, this isn't the place to do it," warns Kat C. about Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground.
Winter cabin limitations: Not all cabins are available year-round. While Whitewater State Park offers year-round cabin accommodations, most other cabin rentals in the region close between October and April. "We visited in winter (February) and while there was snow on the ground, the spaces were kept plowed with easy access to the electric boxes," notes Amy G.
Water crossings: Some campgrounds require driving through shallow streams. "Tent sites further back in the campground through multiple water crossings (ok for cars). Campsites beautiful wooded sites in the bluffs," explains Stephanie K. about Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground. These crossings typically involve water less than 8 inches deep.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Look for cabins near swimming facilities for summer visits. River's Edge Campground - Black River offers family-friendly amenities within 30 minutes of Money Creek. "Tons of activities at this campground! They have inflatable rafts, a game room, a pool, boat dock, permanent and non sites, sand pit for kids, pounce pad, basketball court and playground; it has more than enough to keep everyone busy!" shares Megan S.
Quiet time enforcement: Check policies before booking party-friendly cabins. Eagle Cliff Campground enforces strict quiet hours for all cabin rentals and campsites. "They are sticklers on the quiet time after 10 or 11pm. My friends and I have been given warnings about being quiet, so it's definitely more of a family campground," Jennifer M. notes.
Educational activities: Some parks offer structured learning for children. Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground provides ranger-led programs seasonally. "There are fun free activities for kids to check out from the park office and a playground," mentions Lacey F. The visitor center has exhibits explaining local geology and wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric access: Not all cabin areas have equal hookups. Many cabins near Money Creek offer only basic electric service without water connections. "The sites were a perfect size, not over crowded. Easy to get in and out of. Nice pool and shed area," Tracy B. says about The Old Barn Resort, which offers more complete hookups than other locations.
Winter preparation: Year-round cabin rentals require special planning. Whitewater State Park Minneiska Campground operates throughout winter with plowed access. "Plenty of spaces had plenty of room to pull in. Some were even 'pull through' which would be extra nice if you wanted it (either big rig type RV or pull behind)," according to Amy G.
Shower facilities: Quality varies significantly between locations. "Very nice camp ground!! The sites were spread out enough that it really felt like I was at a dispersed spot at times. The bathrooms and showers here were very gross though," reports Amber Z. about her experience at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground.
