Best Glamping near North Mankato, MN

Sakatah Lake State Park Campground and Flandrau State Park house upscale glamping accommodations within an hour's drive of North Mankato, Minnesota. These locations feature camper cabins with comfortable furnishings, electricity, and climate control options that elevate the outdoor experience beyond traditional camping. Sakatah Lake's glamping sites are strategically positioned near the Sakatah Singing Hills Trail, offering convenient access for cyclists and hikers. "The campground was nice. It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours. We were able to get potable water at the entrance. And firewood. Had great trails to walk and bike on," noted one visitor about Sakatah Lake. Flandrau State Park's glamping accommodations provide a perfect balance of natural immersion and comfort, with sites featuring picnic tables, fire rings, and proximity to modern bathroom facilities with showers. Both parks maintain eco-friendly glamping practices while ensuring guests have access to essential amenities.

Fort Ridgely State Park Campground, situated along a scenic creek, offers distinctive glamping experiences with cabins nestled in wooded settings. The park's glamping accommodations provide easy access to miles of hiking trails through prairie landscapes filled with wildflowers in summer months. A recent visitor highlighted, "This is now my favorite MN State Park. Campground is VERY WELL MAINTAINED. BRAND NEW Bathroom/shower building with large ADA showers." The creek running through the campground creates a peaceful soundtrack for glamping guests while providing recreational opportunities. Lake Washington County Park adds another glamping option with clean facilities and tranquil surroundings. Seasonal considerations are important when booking glamping accommodations in the area, with most parks operating from April through October, though Flandrau State Park offers year-round glamping options. The proximity to New Ulm's German heritage attractions and Mankato's urban amenities makes these glamping resorts ideal for travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.

Best Glamping Sites Near North Mankato, Minnesota (17)

    1. Rapidan Dam Co Park

    6 Reviews
    Skyline, MN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 304-4049

    "Small trails for car/ tent camping. Not trailer friendly. Small vehicles only. At the foot of the road in there a small food/ice cream shop with friendly staff."

    "Beautiful location in the woods witha stream next to it. There are a few water pumps and some outhouses. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring. Restaurant onsite is fantastic."

    2. Bray County Park

    5 Reviews
    Mankato, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 243-3885

    "Even before we arrived, the camp host called me to see if I wanted to pay my bill before we came so I didn't have to bother coming to the office."

    "There was a vault toilet near by and full bathrooms a short walk away. The showers by the lake could use some updating but the bathrooms by the bigger loop are very nice and clean."

    3. Lake Washington County Park

    2 Reviews
    Kasota, MN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 995-1161

    "Some traffic noise during the day. Bathrooms and showers were very clean. The lake is down the road with public access for your boat."

    4. Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Waterville, MN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 362-4438

    "It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours. We were able to get potable water at the entrance. And firewood. Had great trails to walk and bike on. Sites are spaced out."

    "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."

    5. Flandrau State Park

    14 Reviews
    New Ulm, MN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 233-9800

    "They had mobile electric fences set up so that goats could graze on the invasive species plants which was pretty cool. I’d like to go back in the summertime and see the giant sand bottom pool full."

    "The campsites have no privacy at all unless you go with one of the hike in sites. we stayed at site 91, which you have about a 500 ft walk to get to."

    6. Daly Park & Campground

    5 Reviews
    Blue Earth, MN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 524-3000

    7. Kieslers Clear Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Waseca, MN
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 835-3179

    "Plenty for kids to do and the staff was great"

    "There was a pretty bad storm that came through and the staff was quick to clean up downed branches and help all the folks who got damage."

    8. Fort Ridgely State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Morton, MN
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 426-7840

    "Most others along the river don’t have the view but you can still sleep to the sound of running water (until you wake to the same sound…)."

    "BRAND NEW Bathroom/shower building with large ADA showers. I was there Tuesday through Saturday and I was THE ONLY CAMPER in the whole park Wednesday through Saturday!"

    9. Eagle Nest Park

    1 Review
    Mountain Lake, MN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 375-3393

    10. Minneapolis Southwest KOA

    9 Reviews
    Jordan, MN
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (952) 492-6440

    "A couple weeks ago we spent some time at the Northwest koa...that one had private tent sites surrounded on 3 sides by trees, quiet spaces etc."

    "Spacious spaces, friendly staff. Had a great indoor pool, clean shower and bathroom building"

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Glamping Reviews near North Mankato, MN

120 Reviews of 17 North Mankato Campgrounds


  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 27, 2019

    Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

    There is plenty to do for the outdoor enthusiasts

    We biked the Sakatah Singing Hills Trail from Faribault, MN to Mankato, MN (39 miles). The whole trail was paved, which was really nice and runs through hardwoods forest. We camped in Sakatah State Park and then explored the City of Mankato. Sakatah Lake is a relatively calm lake and seems like a great place to kayak.

    They have 5 bike-in campsites near the trail. Other campsites include drive-in sites, electric sites, group sites, and camper cabins. The campsites are secluded just enough so that one feels like they are camping in the woods by themselves.  Unlike a lot of campgrounds, Sakatah State Park has its fire pits above ground. Very nice for keeping warm. Amenities at the campground include showers, flush toilets, vault toilets, dump stations.

  • Tracy O.
    May. 25, 2021

    Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

    Close drive to Minneopa!

    We stayed here while visiting Minneopa state park. The campground was nice. It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours. We were able to get potable water at the entrance. And firewood. Had great trails to walk and bike on. Sites are spaced out. Our 34’ trailer fit easily. Vault toilets on site. Bathrooms were closed (covid). The loops near the entrance had more shade. Spaces are large and accommodating!

  • T
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Flying Goose Campground & Resort

    Nice campground on nice lake

    Large campground with a play park and other sporting area. Lake to swim in - no lifeguard offered. Large sites with water/electric hook up - some full hook sites and big rig friendly. The site we were put in was not set up well for the connections however it was a large site. Very muddy site but they offered to let us use a rug so we didn’t get ours all Muddy.

  • Timothy W.
    Jun. 3, 2022

    Flandrau State Park

    Packed in Tight

    We arrived at our campsite (43E) on a Thursday in early June. We first noticed that Flandrau SP was conveniently located close to downtown New Ulm. New Ulm is a lovely town with German heritage, a beautiful downtown and great beer! 5 Stars!!!
    Then we got to the campsites and noticed they are very tightly packed in a small area; they are so close together and there isn’t much to block the view or noise from your neighbors. But, it was Thursday and not many people there (yet).
    In the morning, we went for a hike on one of the trails, only to get half way around when we discovered it was blocked by an electric fence (no pre-warning); I guess they use goats to control vegetation growth. Sure would have been nice to know it was closed at the trailhead. And, the knats / bugs were terrible! Friday afternoon arrived and so did all of the campers! This is a popular place AND it’s noisy. -2 STARS

    Note: T-mobile service is available - 2 bars.

  • Maria D.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Flandrau State Park

    Rustic Site

    We stayed at the rustic campsites and weren’t impressed. The sites 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. The rustic bathrooms were poor, and the nicer running water bathrooms required a drive to reach.

    The regular (non-rustic) sites were even more crowded, packed with RVs and lacking privacy. On top of that, planes flew overhead constantly from about 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.—so loud and frequent it felt like a flight school was nearby. Mosquitoes were also heavy, likely from the large marsh in the park.

    The nearby town of New Ulm was very charming, but overall, I wouldn’t camp here again.

  • Chris S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2021

    Flying Goose Campground & Resort

    Really nice set up for a quick stay over off of I-90

    We found this place by accident, and were very happy we did. It’s a small family run campground with mostly seasonal campers. Set along the shores of Lake Imogene, which comes out of nowhere surrounded by farm land, and you can’t even see it from the road. Mature shade trees everywhere, Impeccably clean bathrooms, showers, etc. playground, small homemade mini golf course, volleyball, basketball, the works to keep the kids happy and entertained while you relax in a quiet clean setting. We stayed in a bull through site with two other campers, were nice and spaced out and didn’t hear them at all, but we’re told on weekends because of an on-site wedding venue, there are more people and the campsites are full. Mid-week night stats are tops though, and we would absolutely stay here again. The pull through sites have electric, water and sewage at every site.

    Everyone we met (owners, staff, other campers) were extremely nice. Good people, great stay.

  • Ken F.
    Oct. 15, 2021

    Fort Ridgely State Park Campground

    Great river!

    Campsite 37 is right on a bend in the river and has an amazing view! Most others along the river don’t have the view but you can still sleep to the sound of running water (until you wake to the same sound…). Best part: no cell reception there (but there’s an app to help you not get lost that doesn’t require cell reception.

  • anne K.
    May. 4, 2022

    Flandrau State Park

    Oktoberfest!

    Camped here during Oktoberfest and had a great time. Cheep can ride into town kept us safe and responsible. They had mobile electric fences set up so that goats could graze on the invasive species plants which was pretty cool. I’d like to go back in the summertime and see the giant sand bottom pool full. Site 80 didn’t have much for privacy but the sites are well spaced out.

  • Levi L.
    Aug. 2, 2019

    Everett Park

    Typical small town campground.

    Decent little dock and shelter house. Dump station. Campfire rings and picnic tables. Bathrooms were decent. Electrical hookup only. Kids screaming and people partying super late.


Guide to North Mankato

Cabin camping options within 20 miles of North Mankato range from rustic tent sites to deluxe accommodation options with electrical hookups. The Minnesota River Valley terrain creates sheltered wooded camping areas with moderate elevation changes between 800-950 feet. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, making seasonal availability important when planning overnight stays near this south-central Minnesota hub.

What to do

Creek exploration: Swimming and wading opportunities exist at Fort Ridgely State Park Campground, where families can enjoy the water running through the camping area. "The creek through the campground is beautiful and the sound of water over the rock is great for sleeping. The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing," notes a visitor. Marked creek crossing areas provide safe wading spots.

Cycling adventures: The local area contains extensive trails suitable for various skill levels. "Lots of sites all separated by trees. Has a awesome family owned drive thru fast food shop at the entrance. The river is perfect for paddle boarding," says one camper about Rapidan Dam Co Park. Some paths have sandy sections that can challenge cyclists.

Historical site visits: Beyond nature, the region offers cultural learning opportunities. "The historical fort site has lots of great information and signage around the excavations. There is a fee to enter the museum," mentions a Fort Ridgely visitor. These historical attractions provide educational context to your camping experience.

What campers like

Site privacy levels: Campers frequently comment on the varying degrees of seclusion at different parks. At Daly Park & Campground, a visitor noted, "This is located in the middle of beautiful Minnesota farmlands. The swimming beach leaves much to be desired. Lots of kids and families, if that is what you are looking for." Privacy preferences should factor into your site selection.

Natural sounds: The sounds of water and wildlife enhance the camping experience at several locations. A Fort Ridgely camper shared, "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." These natural soundscapes create a peaceful atmosphere.

Staff helpfulness: Many reviewers highlight exceptional service at campgrounds. At Bray County Park, a camper reported, "Once we finally got settled in, the campground host, Katie, offered to bring us wood, and even took our 11 year old for a little ride around the park in the caboda." This personal touch enhances the camping experience.

What you should know

Access restrictions: Some parks have specific entry and exit rules. At Bray County Park, a camper warned, "Biggest problem with the campground is gates in and out lock every night at 10pm and don't open again until 8am. So our first night we got locked out and had to sleep in the vehicle." Verify gate hours before booking.

Seasonal closures: Water availability varies by season at many campgrounds. "It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours. We were able to get potable water at the entrance," observed one camper at Sakatah Lake State Park Campground. Off-season camping requires additional preparation.

Insect conditions: Bug populations vary widely by location and season. "The mosquitoes were so bad they could have carried a small dog," reported one Bray County Park visitor. Consider sites with regular mosquito control measures for summer visits.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "The park has a beach for swimming. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," notes a reviewer about Flandrau State Park. Choosing sites near these amenities reduces travel time with small children.

Swimming options: Water access varies significantly between parks. Flandrau offers "a sand bottom pool that wasn't opened but we've used it on past visits and always enjoyed it." This distinguishes it from natural water bodies that may have water quality concerns.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings. "Had tons of peaceful animal visitors including herds of white tail deer walking through our camp ground! Owls and coyotes singing in the distance," shared a Flandrau visitor. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites were large enough to fit two tents and had plenty of trees to hook up the hammocks. The sites were clean and well maintained," reported a Fort Ridgely camper about the non-electric loop. Bringing leveling blocks is advised.

Tree clearance concerns: Overhead obstacles can complicate RV parking. "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," warned a Sakatah Lake visitor. Call ahead to confirm clearance for larger rigs.

Dump station availability: Not all parks offer full services. "Sites in the back loop away from the lake are big, but not much for shade yet. Sites by the lake looked nice. Beach is nice and clean," mentioned a Bray County Park camper. RVers should verify service availability before arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near North Mankato, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near North Mankato, MN is Rapidan Dam Co Park with a 4-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near North Mankato, MN?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 glamping camping locations near North Mankato, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.