Seasonal camping opportunities around New Ulm, Minnesota vary from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks. The area sits at approximately 899 feet above sea level in the Minnesota River Valley, with most campgrounds positioned along streams or waterways. Fall and spring camping can include temperature swings from 40-75°F within a single day, and many sites offer winter camping options with heated facilities.
What to do
Historic exploration at Fort Ridgely: Visit the restored fort buildings and museum at Fort Ridgely State Park Campground. "The MN State Historical Society could do a much better job at EDUCATING what really happened at the Fort and why. The signage is in need of repair and restoration. Make sure to read up about the fort before arriving so that you can appreciate the importance of the site you're camping on," noted one visitor.
Swimming in sand-bottomed pools: Flandrau State Park offers a unique swimming experience in their large sand-bottomed pool, typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Took my friends young girls there and the pool was well taken care of and clear clear clear! Nice paths that lead to other parts of the campground," one camper reported.
Bison viewing drives: Visit Red Fox Campground at Minneopa State Park to drive through the bison enclosure. "Bison Drive: Herds of ~20–40 bison grace the 330‑acre enclosure, accessible via a scenic auto‐drive; brings pure awe from safety of your car," reported a recent visitor. Note that the bison drive road may close during wet conditions.
What campers like
Creek access for kids: Campsites along Fort Ridgely's creek offer natural play spaces. "There is a nice little creek about 50 ft behind our site, that our boys loved playing in!! Nice trails, I wish there were a few more miles, but overall very decent," shared one family.
Golf course proximity: Sawmill Campground provides easy access to adjacent golf courses. "Great golf course right next to it. Nice large sites and great price. We have always had friendly people staying next to us," a regular visitor commented.
Off-season solitude: Many campgrounds in the region offer peaceful experiences outside peak season. "I was THE ONLY CAMPER in the whole park Wednesday through Saturday! Drinking water is very good and many fountains and hydrants are located all throughout the park, even way out on the trails there are water fountains," reported a spring visitor to Fort Ridgely.
What you should know
Varying levels of privacy: Site layout differs significantly between campgrounds and loops. "The rustic campsites felt very exposed and were directly under black walnut trees, which were noisy and uncomfortable when the nuts dropped—especially in the fall. Definitely clear the walnuts before setting up a tent," cautioned one camper at Flandrau State Park.
Free camping options: For budget-conscious RVers and tent campers, free sites exist in the region. "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," noted a visitor to High Island Creek Park.
Casino camping alternatives: Some RVers opt for boondocking rather than paid sites at casino locations. "I decided to boondock in the general parking lot, couldn't see paying $40+ for one night of hookups. No showers, bathrooms etc. so not for me. I want the campground fee to be free or really cheap if I come to a casino," shared a visitor to Jackpot Junction.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Oak Leaf Park offers extensive recreation options beyond camping. "The park has 13 RV sites with 30/50amp and water, four tent sites. Fishing pond, two baseball fields, basketball court, playground, disk golf, and aquatic center/swimming pool. Little town has a lot to offer," noted a recent visitor.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Families can enjoy natural encounters throughout the region. "Had tons of peaceful animal visitors including herds of white tail deer walking through our camp ground! Owls and coyotes singing in the distance," reported a camper at Flandrau State Park.
Sheriff patrols at free sites: Parents may appreciate the security at unattended campgrounds. "The sheriff drove through once at night and once in the morning. I felt very safe," mentioned a camper at High Island Creek Park, where camping is free but authorities recommend calling ahead.
Tips from RVers
Level gravel pads: RV campers report good site conditions at most parks. "The sites are gravel but level. Bath houses are nice and well maintained," noted a visitor to Sawmill Campground.
Seasonal camping considerations: Most RV parks in the area close between late October and early April, with Peaceful Valley Campground being an exception. "One of the few camps open in MN past Oct 1st. Owners and host were very friendly and accommodating. They visited each camper to say hey and small talk," a late-season camper reported.
WiFi availability: Cell service limitations can be offset by campground WiFi in some locations. "Call signal is weak, but WiFi is surprisingly good," shared an RVer at Peaceful Valley Campground, noting "The spot is really easy to get to, but feels super secluded. It is quiet and peaceful, well maintained, helpful staff."
