Montgomery, Minnesota camping areas feature rolling terrain with elevations between 950-1,100 feet above sea level. The region's glacial history created numerous lakes and waterways, making water recreation a primary draw. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping offers milder temperatures between 45-65°F with less crowded conditions.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, visitors can explore trails leading to Hidden Falls, a scenic natural feature. "We went there last July just go hiking for the dat. The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," shares Halie B.
Bird watching: The diverse habitats around Montgomery provide excellent bird watching opportunities. "I was so amazed with all the sounds of birds in this park. I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds. I wish I could distinguish between them. Also the frogs and toads were adding their voices too," reports Shelly S. about her stay at Sakatah Lake State Park.
Kayaking and fishing: Many campgrounds in the area offer lake access perfect for water sports. "This was my third time camping at this campground and I love it more and more every time. It's next to a lake so we can easily bring our kayaks with," explains Kayla O. about her experience at Sakatah Lake State Park. Cleary Lake Regional Park offers additional water recreation options with a reviewer noting it's "a good size and a kayakers delight!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike many commercial campgrounds, some Montgomery area sites offer good separation. "The sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet," notes Timothy S. about his experience at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. Another camper at High Island Creek Park appreciated that "it was very peaceful and quiet...far enough from the highway that there was no noise or light pollution."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. "Grounds are well maintained. Two boat/fishing docks, playground, pavilion, and hiking trails for things to do. Price is very reasonable for water and electric hookup," notes a visitor to Rice County McCullough Park. At Cleary Lake Regional Park, a camper was impressed by the "amazing bathroom/showers" noting they were "quiet, lots of flies, good spot overall."
Seasonal highlights: Fall offers distinctive camping experiences with changing foliage. "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails," shares Tim B. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Spring camping can present different conditions, with a visitor noting: "Sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet."
What you should know
Free camping options exist: Not all camping in the Montgomery area requires payment. High Island Creek Park offers free camping with basic amenities. "Nice clean campground very well maintained and free. Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack," explains Mike G.
Weather considerations: Spring camping may involve wet conditions. A Lebanon Hills Regional Park visitor advised, "We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. It has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps." At some parks, trails close seasonally due to conditions, as Timothy S. noted at Nerstrand: "Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet."
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Kamp Dels, a family-oriented campground, one visitor mentioned, "Definitely centered around kids. Very busy, pretty expensive...there is a required length of stay, so if u don't have time or are not certain the weather will cooperate to get the most of your $ spent, I don't recommend."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families with children have several water-based activity choices. At Kamp Dels, "the grandkids love the water park and there's so many things for the kids to do. The staff has many activities for the entire family," according to a seasonal camper. Another visitor noted their "kids loved the fishing pond and the rollerball was super fun!"
Playground facilities: Many campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Dakotah Meadows RV Park, "my kids would go stir crazy and not have a thing to do" without the various recreational facilities. Lebanon Hills Regional Park features a "play area [that] was really nice and looked brand new. Our girls loved making new friends to play with."
Petting zoo access: Children enjoy the animal interactions at select campgrounds. "Nice water park area and pool. Has a nice walk they animal area for the kids to look at goats donkey pigs and such. Friendly staff as well," notes Mark B. about Kamp Dels, offering a unique attraction beyond standard camping activities.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. "Sites were long enough for our 40ft fifth wheel camper plus the truck and we had a large yard. Sites have crushed asphalt base and are decently level," notes a visitor to Rice County McCullough Park. This consideration is especially important for larger rigs.
Tree clearance: Some campgrounds have limited overhead clearance for larger RVs. "Very nice park if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," warns Tim B. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, suggesting careful navigation is required.
Electrical hookups: RVers should confirm the amperage available at their selected campground. At Lebanon Hills Regional Park, "We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. It has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps," notes Angela L., highlighting the importance of understanding utility limitations before arrival.
