RV campgrounds near Nerstrand, Minnesota sit in the transitional landscape between prairie and deciduous forest, creating distinct camping environments with multiple microclimates. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience wider fluctuations and occasional frost. Most campgrounds in this region operate on elevated terrain around 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level, which helps moderate humidity compared to lower areas.
What to do
Hiking to hidden waterfalls: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, the trail system leads to scenic falls. "We went there last July just go hiking for the day. 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," notes Halie B.
Fishing opportunities: McCullough Park provides water access on a quiet lake. "Two boat/fishing docks, playground, pavilion, and hiking trails for things to do," reports Tonya B. The park maintains multiple access points for both shore and boat fishing throughout the camping season.
Geocaching adventures: Several parks in the area maintain geocaching locations. At Lake Byllesby Campground, visitors can find "fun geocaching spots," according to Kerstin W. Approximately 25-30 registered geocaches exist within a 10-mile radius of Nerstrand.
Nature photography: The diverse landscape provides year-round photography opportunities. "The color's are amazing," reports Tim B. about fall camping at Nerstrand Big Woods. Spring wildflower blooms typically begin in mid-April and continue through early June.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses and maintained grounds receive consistent praise. At Crystal Springs RV Resort, "Clean bathrooms and showers!" reports Pat M. Another visitor added, "This family-owned campground prides itself on cleanliness; there is an owner on-site around the clock to ensure it stays in top condition."
Level sites: Properly graded camping sites make setup easier. "Sites are level and offer full hookups and free Wi-Fi," mentions one camper about Crystal Springs. At Rice County McCullough Park, "Sites have crushed asphalt base and are decently level. Grounds are well maintained."
Shuttle services: Casino campgrounds offer transportation amenities. At Dakotah Meadows RV Park, "The Casino operates a round trip Shuttle that picks you up and drops you at your site," notes James and Susan K. This service runs approximately every 30 minutes during peak hours.
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "It was honestly one of the quietest campgrounds we've been to on a Friday night," reports Ashley K. about Treasure Island RV Park. Crystal Springs gets described as "Nice, quiet 50+ campground. Everything is nice and well kept."
What you should know
Cellular coverage limitations: Service varies widely across campgrounds. At Tresure Island RV Park, "Verizon I have full bars," reports one camper, while at Nerstrand Big Woods, "cell service (both AT&T and TMobile) was terrible. There's WiFi at the office, which is just a short hike from the campground."
Site spacing considerations: Proximity between campsites differs by location. "Sites are very closely spaced together," notes Jaime P. about Hidden Meadows. At Dakotah Meadows, sites have "cement parking pads with full hookups. The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained."
Water quality issues: Some lakes experience seasonal algae problems. "The lake had a blue green algae problem," mentions one Lake Byllesby camper. Another notes, "The lake is very dirty but other than that great place."
Reservation requirements: Most RV campgrounds Nerstrand, Minnesota area require planning ahead. Some parks operate with limited availability for walk-ins. "We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations," reports Beth B. about Dakotah Meadows, though this is uncommon during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. At Lake Byllesby, "Camping spots are rather close, but we have two little ones so they made friends quick with other children," notes Angela L. The "two great playgrounds" provide recreation options within walking distance of most sites.
Swimming options: Water activities vary by location. At Hidden Meadows RV Park, "If you're bringing the kids there is literally nothing to do there. They do have a play-set but that's where it ends," cautions Jaime P. Several campgrounds have age restrictions or limited child-focused amenities.
Adult-oriented environments: Some campgrounds cater primarily to older campers. "It's meant for adults no park for kids. But everyone was good with our kiddos playing outside," mentions Kelsie B. about Crystal Springs RV Resort. Families should research age-appropriate activities before booking.
Multiple sleeping arrangements: Walk-in sites at Nerstrand provide alternatives to RV camping. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," reports Matt C. These sites typically require carrying gear 50-100 feet from parking areas.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some parks have uneven surfaces requiring adjustments. At Hidden Meadows, "the parking pads are very unlevel," reports one camper. Consider bringing additional leveling blocks even at developed sites.
Hookup placement: Utility connections vary by campground. "Oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements," notes one RV camper at Hidden Meadows. Green Acres RV Park offers "a place to rest and hookup your rig for a night. It also has laundry, which is a nice bonus!"
Washing facilities: Some campgrounds provide RV cleaning stations. At Dakotah Meadows RV Park, there is "an RV wash bay available for a fee and the campground even has gasoline available 24 hours a day using a credit card," according to Jim M.
Back-in challenges: Site accessibility varies by location. At Nerstrand Big Woods, "there's some sites that are tricky to back a trailer into, which would have been helped by some maintenance - there were LOTS of branches that needed to be trimmed back," reports Deb M. Crystal Springs offers both "pull-thru and back-in sites" with varying degrees of accessibility.
