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Campgrounds surrounding Nerstrand, Minnesota provide access to a mix of natural environments from heavily wooded areas to lakeside settings. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground serves as the region's primary camping destination, featuring both drive-in and walk-in sites accommodating tents and RVs. Nearby options include Lake Byllesby Regional Park and Sakatah Lake State Park Campground, which offer additional camping styles including glamping and cabin accommodations. The concentration of established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius creates numerous options for weekend getaways, with most facilities located within short driving distance of Northfield and Faribault.
Most campgrounds in the Nerstrand area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited or no winter camping available. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park typically opens April 1 and closes October 23, while nearby facilities follow similar seasonal patterns. Reservations are recommended for all established campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and fall color season. The area's amenities vary considerably, with most campgrounds offering drinking water, electric hookups, and fire rings, while fewer provide sewer connections or dump stations. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly at Nerstrand Big Woods. As one camper noted, "No cell/very patchy cell signal and could only get WiFi signal when standing next to Ranger station."
Visitors frequently mention the waterfall at Nerstrand Big Woods as a highlight of camping in the area. The Hidden Falls trail connects directly to the campground, making it easily accessible for overnight guests. Many campers appreciate the tent pads which have been upgraded to pea gravel in recent years, improving drainage during wet conditions. Sites along the outer loop receive positive reviews for increased privacy and woodland settings, though several campers mention the campground can feel somewhat open with limited screening between sites. The proximity to the Twin Cities (approximately 45 minutes from St. Paul) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations. Fall receives particular praise, with reviewers noting exceptional autumn colors throughout the Big Woods area and suggesting it as an ideal time to visit the region's campgrounds.
"To be on the safe side, incase we had issues, we decided to stay close to home so we decided to hit up a new park, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park just outside Northfield, Minnesota."
"Nerstrand is nestled just outside Faribault MN. The town has a great downtown area on the river with places to eat and little shops."
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability"Near lake and excellent bike path. Great brewery and winery close by."
"Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they’re right in the lake with a wonderful view. The facilities are very clean and well-kept."
"We didn’t get to swim at the lake because it was shut down due to a chemical spill at the time, but we did walk over and check it out. The views are great! We stayed in a RV spot next to the lake."
"Sites were so easy and the bike trails were awesome! Lots of nature paths too."
from $39 - $60 / night
Check Availability"My only complaint was how close together the walk-in sites were."
"Beautiful forested area just outside Owatonna. Easy drive past beautiful farms to town. Camp host told us mosquitoes were light this year; they seemed plentiful to me!"
from $24 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Close to the Twin Cities yet out in the country. Mostly grass sites. Beautiful pool. Susan and Brad are wonderful hosts and very accommodating. We took our grandkids and they had a blast!"
"Nearby are bike trails, a winery, and a brewery."
"We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."
"If you camp with animals: Sites all sit directly off walking trail very popular with dog walkers."
"Great park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths. Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads."
"Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. "
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. 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."
from $24 - $42 / night
Check Availability"Outside of this the children spent most of the weekend in the pool!"
"Neighbors decided movie night was important with surround sound but over all I would stay here again. Lots of seasonal golf cart traffic and kids on bikes."
TravelerStayed at group camp side - great shaded area with beautiful views. I bet air conditioned camper cabins across the road are also just as good. Beautiful sandy beach is another gem!
GuideMy only problem was they wouldn’t let us keep our vehicle at the camp sight but great people and nice sites. This is a tent only campground.
GuideCabins have AC and bed which is great after a day outdoors. Campsites have amazing views Well maintained and clean. Bring quarters for the showers and you'll be set!
GuideI have gone to this campground a few times and we love it. It’s beautiful and peaceful, secluded lots. Very overlooked this is a gem.
ScoutVery friendly! Lake is across the street and it’s gorgeous here.
GuideNo hookups. No privacy at sites. Nice and clean, beautiful beach area. Nice pier for fishing. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards. Many miles of bike paths on site. Great family campground. FYI, 10 sites are dedicated for generator usage, however you cannot use them overnight.
ScoutThe sites are mostly separated giving a “real wilderness “ vibe. The lake is good, the bathrooms are cleaned (ish) and amenities are satisfactory. I will stay here again!
TravelerThis place wasn’t bad, but I don’t think it is Maintenanced well because all of the spots that were supposed to be dispersed camping were completely overgrown and not even recognizable. But on that note, I stayed here on a Tuesday ended up just staying right in the campground, and i was the only one there! It was technically 22 dollars, but nobody came to check on me…… Along with this, there is absolutely no service so make sure you download a map or know what your plan is! Be prepared for the most amount of bugs you will ever see(literally ever) and check the weather! I woke up to hail the same size as the ice in my cooler
ScoutGreat spot close to attractions in the twin cities. The family friendly activities are perfect for families with younger kids, playground, swimming, crafts and games. Park & bathrooms well kept and clean.
Camping options near Nerstrand, Minnesota vary from state parks to regional facilities, with most sites within a 30-mile radius of town. The area receives approximately 32 inches of rainfall annually, making spring camping occasionally muddy but creating ideal conditions for the region's waterfalls and wetland habitats. Camping season typically runs from April to October when temperatures range from 55°F to 80°F.
Bicycle along the Sakatah Trail: The paved Sakatah Trail runs through Sakatah Lake State Park Campground connecting Mankato to Faribault. "I love the location and how quiet it is and secluded each spot is," notes Thomas D., who enjoyed the trail access directly from the campground.
Winter recreation options: While most campgrounds close for winter, the parks remain open for day use. "This park is great for hiking and winter snowshoeing and cross country skiing," notes Tim B. about the Cannon River Wilderness Area, offering alternatives when camping isn't available.
Kayaking on small lakes: Several area campgrounds offer lake access with varying amenities. "Nice little lake to kayak on," describes Chris S. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which features a lake with rentals. "Single and double kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards" are available according to reviewers.
Secluded walk-in sites: Several campgrounds offer walk-in sites for added privacy. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," reports Matt C. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. For those seeking seclusion, these sites provide a more remote feel while still maintaining accessibility.
Upgraded facilities: Many campgrounds have updated their amenities in recent years. "This was a fantastic campsite! The tent pad was very spacious and flat, great for sleeping! The bathrooms and showers were clean and well lit," notes Hannah Y. about her stay at Nerstrand Big Woods.
Lakeside camping: Some campers prefer direct water access. "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view," reports Deb M. about her stay at Lake Byllesby Regional Park. The park offers both water activities and scenic views from lakefront sites.
Booking windows: Reservations open several months in advance and fill quickly, especially for electric sites. "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric," warns Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Site spacing considerations: Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds and loops. "Our site was a perfect tent-in site (site 15), as it was far enough away from the highway and other sites, so noise was minimal," reports Matt C. about his experience at Sakatah Lake State Park.
Seasonal water conditions: Lakes in the area can develop algae issues in late summer. "The lake was pea soup green when we got there at the end of August, so go early in the season if you want to get on the water," advises Emma G. from her visit to Sakatah Lake State Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The playground is a short walk to the tent area, which was a big hit with our kids. Our girls didn't want to leave!" shares Angela L. about her family's stay at Cannon Falls Campground.
Pool facilities: For families who prefer swimming pools over natural water features. "Outside of this the children spent most of the weekend in the pool!" mentions Alec S. about his family's experience at River View Campground. The pool provides a controlled swimming environment when lakes develop algae issues.
Kids activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events. "Lots of activities for kids and teens. Teen social on Fridays to help them meet friends," notes Kim R. about River View Campground, making it suitable for families with children of various ages.
Site selection for larger RVs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Very nice park if your RV is not too 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," cautions Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Level site considerations: Site quality varies between loops and campgrounds. "Sites are nice and pretty level," reports Kris L. about River View Campground, while other reviewers mention challenges with unlevel sites at other facilities.
Electric hookups: Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but availability varies. "The sites have quite a few trees separating them, but most of the sites on the C loop back up almost into the sites on the right side of the B loop," notes Deb M. about her experience at Nerstrand Big Woods, providing insight into the campground layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the main campground at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park located?
The main campground at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground is located just outside of Faribault, Minnesota. The campground features both standard drive-in sites and a separate group camping area that's a short walk from the main camping area. There are also walk-in sites opposite the group camping area that offer a more secluded experience. The park itself is nestled in a beautiful wooded setting that preserves one of the last remnants of the Big Woods that once covered much of southern Minnesota.
What amenities are available at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park campground?
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park campground offers well-maintained bathroom facilities with showers, vault toilets in the group campground area, and spacious campsites set in a partially wooded environment. The sites include both electric and non-electric options, with the outer non-electric sites (like 12, 14, 16) offering more space and less mud during wet conditions. Unlike Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground, which has swimming facilities, Nerstrand focuses more on hiking opportunities with a network of trails that connect to a main path. The park also features picnic areas and access to natural attractions like seasonal wildflowers.
Do I need reservations for camping at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for camping at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, especially if planning to visit during peak seasons like spring for wildflower viewing or summer weekends. The park accommodates both tent campers and RVs, with visitors noting they've successfully brought 30-foot travel trailers to the campground. Unlike Frontenac State Park Campground where spontaneous camping might be possible, Nerstrand is a popular destination near the Twin Cities metro area, making advance bookings essential to secure your preferred site. Reservations can be made through the Minnesota State Parks reservation system.
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