Money Creek camping spots feature a diverse mix of terrain from river valleys to bluff tops in southeastern Minnesota's driftless region. Most campgrounds operate mid-April through October, with freezing temperatures possible in spring and fall. Several campgrounds offer water access via the Root River, which provides tubing and kayaking opportunities during summer months when water levels are suitable.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Great River Bluffs State Park has well-marked trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the Mississippi River valley. "The trail system is very well labeled with maps along each trail. The trail system is mostly level and I would label as easy hiking with rolling hills. The park contains two viewing areas King's and Queen's Bluff," according to one visitor to Great River Bluffs State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Money Creek Haven offers a man-made lake for swimming and relaxation. "The lake is murky And there are a lot of frogs, but that's camping. There are chairs And a shaded area available," notes one camper at Money Creek Haven Inc.
Tubing and kayaking: Chushons Peak provides access to calm water recreation on the Root River. "No rapids here folks, just a lazy river with nice sand bottom, no shoes needed!" according to a regular visitor to Chushons Peak Campground.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Sites along the Root River are particularly popular for the peaceful ambiance. "Eagle Cliff has it all. Situated right along the Root River next to the bike trail. They offer kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttles," notes one visitor at Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. At Beaver Creek Valley State Park, campers can enjoy nature with minimal technological distractions. "We've camped at Beaver Creek quite a few times. some sites are bigger than others, but they're all grassy and private which is nice. The only thing to know is there is no cell reception because of the valley," explains a regular camper.
Night sky viewing: The relative absence of light pollution makes many campgrounds ideal for stargazing. At Whitewater State Park, campers report minimal light interference. "The only noises we were actually aware of were natural ones...some cows in the distance, lots of birds and at night, Barred Owls and a few coyotes. All welcome noises for us!"
What you should know
Road and railway noise: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. "Highway noise from the highway running along the river and from I-90 (while not really noticeable during the day) is ridiculously loud at night. Added to this were the half dozen trains that ran through the night (horns going off too) AND the light aircraft flying into Lacrosse airport," reports one camper at Perrot State Park Campground.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes are prevalent in wooded areas, particularly after rain. "The bugs and mosquitos were almost unbearable. We fogged the site daily, had thermacells, and coated ourselves in bug spray - still came home completely bit up," notes one visitor to Perrot State Park.
Water advisories: Some campgrounds have water quality notices posted. "There were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates. But we brought our own water anyways," advises a camper at Perrot State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Houston Nature Center offers child-friendly recreation areas. "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," notes a visitor to Houston Nature Center.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs during summer months. "During a cross country trip we were tired and looking for a place to rest. Found this campground it was clean. Nice bathrooms and easy access," reports a visitor to Whitewater State Park.
Spring-fed swimming: Certain areas provide safe water play for children. "The Big Spring was also a great natural water feature to relax in after a hot hike!" notes one camper at Beaver Creek Valley State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations with appropriate hookups and level pads. At Great River Bluffs State Park, one RVer advises: "I love this area as the bluffs are stunning. It's Minnesota's little Switzerland. The park isn't much to look at and there's only a few look-out point onto the Mississippi but its a nice little campground."
Electric availability: Hookups vary by campground and season. "The campground is tent camping only but they do have nice spots with picnic tables and grills," notes a visitor to Houston Nature Center, highlighting the importance of checking power options.
Water crossings: Access to some campsites requires driving through shallow water. "Be warned that in order to get to sites #27 through #37 you have to drive through some water. In September it was only about 8 inches," advises an RVer at Beaver Creek Valley State Park.
