Tent camping near Money Creek, Minnesota offers options beyond the popular Root River Trail area. The region sits within the Driftless Area, characterized by unique sandstone bluffs and stream-carved valleys untouched by glaciers during the last ice age. Elevation changes in this area can exceed 500 feet from valley floor to ridge tops, creating diverse microclimates and habitats that tent campers can experience throughout the camping season from April through October.
What to do
Hike to scenic bluff overlooks: At Reno Horse Campground in R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest, trails lead to stunning vantage points. "There are many hiking trails, including a trail that goes on top of the bluff with views of the forest and of Wisconsin and the Mississippi River," reports one camper who backpacked to the quarry area.
Explore unique wildlife habitats: Aefintyr offers peaceful surroundings for nature observation. A visitor noted, "We explored the land and other sites! Staff are amazing and helpful! Totally on my list to go back!" The property provides access to diverse habitats within the bluff country ecosystem.
Visit the International Owl Center: Located near Houston Nature Center Campground, this unique attraction draws wildlife enthusiasts. A camper mentioned, "The International Owl Center was a welcome discovery," while exploring the area around their campsite.
Swim in local creeks: The Northend Campground in Rushford offers cooling options during summer months. As one visitor observed, "Nice sand bottom creek to swim in right behind campground, pool is a few blocks away. The town of Rushford is cute, the creamery has great pizza and good ice cream."
What campers like
Natural soundscapes: The cart-in sites at Gooseberry Glen Campground in Whitewater State Park offer peaceful audio environments. One camper praised their experience: "The sites were quiet, woodsy and secluded... We could see site 4 from our site, but all we could hear was the stream."
Excellent star-viewing: Schmidt Farm by Forestville provides exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities. A reviewer highlighted this feature: "A quiet, back to nature experience under dark skies. Secluded campsites so you are not camping side by side with others."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being a small tent-focused campground, Houston Nature Center gets high marks for cleanliness. A visitor appreciated the "spotless showers and bathrooms, access to drinking water. $10/night, which is great."
Wildlife encounters: Shady Rest Acres offers unique opportunities to camp near farm animals. "They have donkeys, Scottish Highland cows (a family of them), sheep, goats, chickens... bees, horses, ducks, cats and dogs," shared one enthusiastic camper who enjoyed the hobby farm setting.
What you should know
Campsite access varies significantly: Some of the best tent camping near Money Creek requires physical effort to reach. At Camp Glen Wendel in nearby Yellow River State Forest, "Camp Glen Wendel is about 1 mile in from self camp registration at HQ. Sites have fire rings and benches, some more spacious than others."
Water availability is inconsistent: Bring sufficient water supplies when camping at primitive sites. At Schmidt Farm, one reviewer noted the primitive conditions: "A quiet, back to nature experience under dark skies. Secluded campsites so you are not camping side by side with others."
Seasonal considerations affect experience: Fall colors transform the camping experience in this region. A Gooseberry Glen visitor observed, "We hiked all the trails in the park and the Fall colors were beautiful but not yet at full peak."
Reservation systems differ by location: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served. For Houston Nature Center, "The sites are first come, first serve. Local firewood is available near the restrooms as well; take what you need and leave the center a donation."
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Houston Nature Center offers kid-friendly features beyond camping. "Trail Head Park has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite... The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more," reports a family who visited.
Choose sites based on terrain: For families with young children, consider the hike required to reach your campsite. At Aefintyr, "If you are up in the bluff, be sure to wear good shoes for the hike up. I love that each site has its own fire pit with fire wood."
Plan for wildlife education: The Chimney Rock County Park area provides opportunities for nature learning. Though primarily a canoe landing, it offers basic facilities for overnight camping: "This is just a parking lot for the canoe landing, but have car camped for the night. They have pit toilets."
Pack for variable weather: Spring through fall camping in the Money Creek region can experience significant temperature fluctuations. At Aefintyr, one camper noted the accommodations handle weather challenges well: "The cabin was cozy even during winter. The space was perfect for us."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most camping near Money Creek focuses on tent camping with few RV amenities. Northend Campground provides basic electric hookups without full services. A visitor observed, "Small lil park that they allow people to camp in. I've seen RV's and tents here."
Watch for access limitations: RV campers should research road conditions and campsite access before arrival. The terrain around Money Creek features steep hills and narrow roads that can challenge larger vehicles.
