Campgrounds near Owatonna, Minnesota offer diverse camping options within a 30-mile radius of the city. The region features rolling farmland interspersed with small lakes and wooded areas at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. Spring camping often brings temperatures in the 50s-70s°F with periodic rainfall, while summer months can reach the 80s with higher humidity levels, particularly in July and August.
What to do
Hiking through historic forest land: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, the trail system showcases unique old-growth forest. "The hikes were beautiful and the variety of old growth trees was spectacular," notes Erik R. The park features a waterfall that's accessible via hiking trails. "The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but they were pretty," shares Halie B.
Wildlife observation: The region's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At White Fox — Myre-Big Island State Park, visitors regularly spot deer and various bird species. One camper reports: "We heard Barred Owls and Sandhill Cranes. The cranes flew over making strange LOUD calls. Cool." The park also offers "geocashing (and free GPS rental), as well as canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and a small fishing boat that can be rented."
Seasonal water activities: Several local lakes provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddling. "The lake is gorgeous but just a few places to get to the water. Saw a sign on the park door saying kayaks and canoes available to rent," shares a visitor to Myre-Big Island State Park. For families, Kamp Dels features water recreation areas that are popular during summer months.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Many visitors appreciate the secluded feel of certain campsites. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," reports Matt C. about Nerstrand Big Woods. At Rice Lake Campground, "sites are good sized and nicely spaced" according to Scott G., though some campers note that the walk-in sites can feel too close together during busy periods.
Clean facilities: Consistently well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive frequent positive mentions. At Sakatah Lake State Park, "the bathroom/shower building was new and clean, the camp host was friendly and helpful," notes Deb M. Similarly, Crystal Springs RV Resort gets high marks for cleanliness: "The bathrooms and showers were clean and well lit. Will definitely camp here again!" according to Hannah Y.
Family-oriented amenities: Multiple campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. Kamp Dels offers "a water recreation area, petting zoo, shuffleboard, mini golf, pool, toddler water park, multiple playgrounds, basketball and more," as Tami W. describes. Hope Oak Knoll Camp Ground also receives praise for its family-friendly atmosphere, with one camper noting it's "perfect for location for us and the price is supper cheap."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: While some campgrounds offer spacious sites, others pack campers more densely. "The sites on the C loop back up almost into the sites on the right side of the B loop. So we basically had the back of our neighbor's trailer hanging almost into our site," notes one visitor to Nerstrand Big Woods. At Kieslers Clear Lake Campground, reviews mention more generous spacing between sites.
Swimming options are limited: Despite numerous lakes, swimming access isn't universal. At Rice Lake State Park, a 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!" Another visitor confirmed: "It's a nice park but no swimming beach we could find."
Seasonal considerations affect experience: Early spring campers face different conditions than summer visitors. "We visited in early April so the sites were quite exposed, I can imagine they would be more private in the summer," notes Emelia O. about Myre-Big Island State Park. Another camper shared: "Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet" during early spring visits.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for hot days: Campgrounds with swimming pools provide relief during summer heat. "The kids spent most of the weekend in the pool!" reports one visitor to River View Campground. At Kieslers Clear Lake, a visitor praised "the pool has two slides and a kiddie pool. Always something going on for the family!"
Animal encounters for children: Several campgrounds feature opportunities for wildlife education. "We went for a walk around the park. 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," shares James B. about his family's experience at Rice Lake State Park.
Plan for potential weather changes: Minnesota weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and fall. "Did a overnight in the rain at one of the walk-ins. Great area. Everything you need close at hand," notes George W. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Many campgrounds offer shelters or indoor facilities that can provide backup recreation during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: RVers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "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," warns a visitor to Sakatah Lake State Park. Another camper noted some sites "are tricky to back a trailer into, which would have been helped by some maintenance."
Hookup availability varies: Full-hookup sites are limited at state parks but more common at private campgrounds. "All sites (some are waterfront) are level and offer full hookups and free Wi-Fi," notes a camper about Crystal Springs RV Resort. For state parks like Myre-Big Island, visitors advise: "There are no water or electric hook ups. However clean water is available in the park."
Dog-friendly campground options: Many campgrounds near Owatonna welcome pets with specific rules. "The grandkids love the water park and there's so many things for the kids to do," mentions a seasonal camper at Kamp Dels, where pets are allowed but must remain leashed. Hope Oak Knoll Camp Ground and Kieslers Clear Lake Campground both accommodate pets with full hookup RV sites available.
