Rice Lake State Park offers cart-in tent camping and RV sites within a 1,060-acre reserve near Owatonna. The park sits at 1,250 feet elevation in southern Minnesota's agricultural region, with 3 miles of shoreline along its shallow lake. Weather varies dramatically with humid summers reaching 85°F and winters dropping well below freezing, making April through October the primary camping season.
What to do
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Rice Lake State Park features 2.5-mile hiking trails where visitors can spot diverse wildlife. One camper noted, "We saw a bull frog and a few leopard frogs at the boat launch. And continued on our hike. We saw a few cool birds, lots of berries and a few interesting bugs" at Rice Lake State Park.
Paddling and fishing: The lake provides opportunities for small watercraft and fishing, though swimming isn't available. A camper reported, "OK lake access, good for padding and small boats" at Rice Lake State Park. Another visitor at Sakatah Lake State Park Campground mentioned "This was my third time camping at this campground and I love it more and more every time. It's next to a lake so we can easily bring our kayaks with."
Stargazing events: The park occasionally hosts organized astronomy activities. A 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."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Most campgrounds offer well-sized sites with varying degrees of privacy. A visitor to Rice Lake State Park commented, "Sites are good sized and nicely spaced. Facilities are primitive. Nice walking trail around the property about 2.5 miles."
Wildlife encounters: The area's diverse ecosystem provides excellent wildlife viewing. A camper at Myre-Big Island State Park shared, "My best friend and I camp all the time with our pups! This park was lovely, it's on an island and we had a pretty amazing view!! We did a little hiking and enjoyed the semi empty campground only 10-15 people!! We saw a ton of wild life many many many deer!"
Biking opportunities: The Sakatah Singing Hills Trail offers excellent cycling through varied landscapes. A visitor remarked, "Loved this park!! Very quiet and peaceful. Biked the trail. Campfires, hammocked and just enjoyed chillin!"
What you should know
Limited swimming options: Several campgrounds lack swimming beaches. A Rice Lake camper noted, "There is also no place to swim at this lake which is a bit disappointing, but it is a very beautiful lake with lots of wildlife!" Similarly, at Lake Byllesby Regional Park, a visitor mentioned, "The only thing disappointing is the lake becomes green with algae as the summer goes on."
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly with some sites offering more privacy than others. A reviewer at Rice Lake State Park observed, "My partner and I stayed at cart-in site #1 which had a pretty view of the lake. However, the site is right on the hiking trail, and positioned where 3 paths meet."
Seasonal facility closures: Bathroom and shower availability changes throughout the season. One camper reported, "As of now NO showers," while another mentioned, "Bathrooms were closed when we visited."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Kieslers Clear Lake Campground shared, "The owner is top notch. They spray for mosquitoes every year and never an issue. Two playgrounds, the pool has two slides and a kiddie pool. Always something going on for the family!"
Cart-in camping considerations: Rice Lake offers cart-in sites requiring short walks from parking. A reviewer explained, "My wife and I camped at cart in site 4. And went for a walk around the park," which can be manageable for families with children who can help carry gear.
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and location. One camper at Lake Byllesby noted, "The mosquitoes were so bad they could have carried a small dog," suggesting families bring appropriate repellent, especially during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions for larger rigs. A visitor to Oakwoods Trails Campground mentioned, "The campground was extremely clean and well maintained. This sites are spread out enough that you have a little privacy and each site has a fire pit and picnic table."
Electric hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer limited electric sites that book quickly. A Sakatah Lake camper advised, "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric. If your good without. It's a great park."
Tree navigation: Many wooded sites require careful maneuvering. One RVer at Sakatah Lake State Park warned, "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."
