The Money Creek area offers camping experiences within the carved limestone bluffs of southeastern Minnesota's driftless region. Average summer temperatures range from 65-85°F with humidity levels reaching 70-90% in July and August. Campgrounds near Money Creek provide access to cold-water trout streams with water temperatures remaining below 65°F year-round, creating ideal fishing conditions from April through September.
What to do
Tubing on the Root River: Old Barn Resort offers equipment rentals for floating right from the campground. "They offer kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttles. They also have bike rentals," says Jeremy L. about nearby Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground.
Cave exploration: Mystery Cave tours operate from April through October with varying schedules. "If you get the chance, go do the 1 hour walking tour of Mystery Cave - well worth the entry fee. If you go on weekend probably need to make reservations," shares Jim C. from Forestville Mystery Cave State Park.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can access groomed trails in several parks. "Winter would also be good. There are 9 miles of groomed X-country ski trails; you need a MN Ski Pass," notes Mary S. about Great River Bluffs.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region. "I spent a day here hiking and had a blast! I hiked up Chimney Rock and then looped back to tackle part of the Dakota trail! The hiking paths were well taken care of," explains Sarah C. about Whitewater State Park.
What campers like
Minimal mosquitoes: Unlike many Minnesota destinations, some campgrounds have fewer biting insects. "We were surprised that there were minimal mosquitoes at Whitewater. We have always enjoyed hiking here too," reports Amber Z.
Wildlife viewing: The river valleys provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "We saw a cardinal and 3 hummingbirds because they came to hang out right in our campsite! The fireflies at night were an added bonus!" notes Mi S. about Great River Bluffs State Park.
Family activities: Multiple campgrounds offer structured recreation. "From golf to tubing to an indoor swimming pool and restaurant. This place has a lot to offer," Brett M. shares about The Old Barn Resort. Another visitor, Jeremiah B., adds, "If your a bike riding family, there are a lot of trails! If you want to float the river they got it!"
Scenic river camping: Many sites offer direct water access. "Big sites on river. Bike trails. Tubing," summarizes Tiffany W. about Eagle Cliff Campground.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can occur even in summer. "We spent the whole day hiking the Great River Bluffs. Bring binoculars; the river valley is a great viewing area for waterfowl, eagles, and hawks," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "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," warns Bryan P. about Great River Bluffs State Park.
Limited cell coverage: Most glamping in Money Creek, Minnesota area has restricted connectivity. "I had the entire State Park to myself. It was super cool be eerie," reports Erik R. about Whitewater State Park. Another camper notes, "There is NO CELL SERVICE in the campground - no Verizon, ATT or T-Mobile. Wifi down at the ranger office."
Water safety: River conditions can change rapidly. "Located on the Root River. This part of Iowa is a treasure," mentions Kelly D. from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Shower facilities: Bathroom access varies widely between campgrounds. "The shower house is the newer style - individual shower rooms and then a separate mens/women/handicapped bathroom. Showers were clean," shares Jim C. about Forestville Mystery Cave.
Camping with pets: Most sites allow animals with restrictions. "My dog enjoyed all the room he had at this site!" reports Tori K. about Great River Bluffs State Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds have dedicated recreation options. "There is also an outdoor bar area w yummy slushy drinks and games. The pool was fun," notes Cindy G. about The Old Barn Resort.
Off-peak opportunities: Seasonal timing affects the experience significantly. "We arrived late in the day and the office was closed but they have all the instructions and QR codes for an online reservation and check in," shares Ken B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "Every spot is different and some numbers are skipped," notes a reviewer about Great River Bluffs State Park.
Utility connections: Hook-up availability varies widely. "The sites are spacious and shaded and have a picnic table and fire pit," shares Mary S. about Great River Bluffs State Park.
Reservation planning: Advance booking is essential during peak times. "We stayed just one night and were very happy with this area - really pretty with good facilities," explains a visitor about the glamping options near Money Creek.
Level sites: Many campgrounds have relatively flat parking areas. "Good level campsite and in walking around all the ones in the electric loop looked pretty level," shares Jim C. about Forestville Mystery Cave State Park.
