Nerstrand, Minnesota sits in the southeastern portion of the state at an elevation around 1,170 feet, with seasonal temperature swings from below zero in winter to humid 80°F summers. The nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park contains one of the largest maple-basswood forests remaining in Minnesota, influencing camping conditions throughout the region with ample shade in summer and vibrant foliage in fall. Campgrounds in the area typically range from primitive to full-service facilities, with an increasing number offering yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional camping.
What to do
Biking excursions: The Sakatah Lake State Park Campground connects directly to the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail, providing miles of paved routes through diverse landscapes. "Biked the trail. Campfires, hammocked and just enjoyed chillin!" reports one camper who appreciated the combination of activities.
Water recreation: Lake Byllesby Regional Park offers multiple water activities including fishing, boating and swimming. According to a visitor, "The lake is nice for fishing, boating or swimming. Has a small store." Another family noted how they "didn't get to swim at the lake because it was shut down due to a chemical spill at the time," highlighting the importance of checking conditions before visits.
Stargazing events: Some parks in the area host scheduled astronomical viewings for campers. At Rice Lake State Park, one visitor shared their experience: "We sat and watched the sun set and join in on the star gazing event that was going on in the park. We got to look at the moon and Saturn through a few big telescopes."
Wildlife observation: The diverse habitats around Nerstrand support extensive wildlife viewing opportunities. Campers report seeing everything from frogs to birds of prey. As one Rice Lake visitor noted, "We saw a bull frog and a few leopard frogs at the boat launch... We saw a few cool birds, lots of berries and a few interesting bugs."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Lake Auburn Campground receives consistent praise for its upkeep. "All of the campsites are very clean along with all of the other facilities and amenities they offered," explains one detailed review. Another notes, "Nice, well-maintained campground good for drive-in camping and RVs."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Nerstrand, Minnesota has become increasingly popular, with Afton State Park Campground among those offering these structures. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," explains one camper who appreciated the alternative camping option.
Privacy levels: Campgrounds vary significantly in how secluded sites feel. Some visitors to Rice Lake State Park found that "walk-in sites were very close together" while a camper at Afton State Park noted, "The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion."
Easy access beaches: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas within walking distance of campsites. A visitor to Lake Auburn explained, "The Eady walk to the lake, sitting on the dock or the grass and swimming in the water are a great way to destress," highlighting the convenience of water access.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities in the region operate on limited schedules. Rice Lake visitors noted restricted services: "As of now NO showers," during certain times. Another campground visitor mentioned, "Outside water is shut off during some parts of the year, so bring your own drinking water if you are camping close to/during winter."
Booking challenges: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins are notoriously difficult to reserve. "It's difficult to get reservations, so I recommend trying to start booking 120 days in advance, which is the farthest out you can reserve. For example, as of this review (early June), all weekends are booked for all cabins," advises one regular visitor.
Water quality concerns: Several lakes in the area experience seasonal algae issues. A camper at Sakatah Lake noted, "Sakatah Lake is quite shallow so late season is at risk of algae bloom - 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." Similarly, a Lake Byllesby visitor observed, "The only thing disappointing is the lake becomes green with algae as the summer goes on."
Limited cell service: Signal strength varies widely between campgrounds. At Whitetail Woods, a visitor reported, "There's WiFi available, but depending on which cabin you reserve signal will be too weak for real usage. Same for mobile data -- don't plan on cell service here."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers recreational areas for various age groups. "The playground is awesome for all ages as it accommodates something for all ages and size groups from a traditional playground set for the younger ones, volleyball net and concrete bag toss boards," notes one visitor who appreciated the diverse options.
Site selection strategy: When camping with children, location matters. At Lake Byllesby, one family shared, "We stayed in a RV spot next to the lake which had water and electric hookups. 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!"
Weather contingency plans: Yurt camping near Nerstrand provides better shelter options during inclement weather. A Whitetail Woods visitor advised, "No cooking is allowed inside the cabins, which can make things rough if the weather isn't cooperating." This highlights the importance of planning alternative meal preparation options.
Kid-friendly trails: Several parks offer accessible hiking for younger visitors. One family at Lake Byllesby mentioned, "We had fun going on a short hike and finding wild blackberries to eat," demonstrating how natural features can engage children in outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. One RVer at Sakatah Lake warned, "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."
Electrical hookup availability: Most parks offer limited electrical sites that book quickly. "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric," advises a Sakatah Lake visitor, emphasizing the need for advance planning.
Dump station conditions: RVers should verify operational status of facilities. One Minneapolis Southwest KOA visitor warned about "broken dump station" issues during their stay, showing the importance of having backup options.
