The Owatonna area sits within Rice County at approximately 1,152 feet above sea level in southern Minnesota's prairie region. Camping options near Owatonna extend through multiple counties with varying terrain from wooded state parks to lakeside county facilities. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April/May through October, with limited winter camping availability due to Minnesota's cold winters.
What to do
Hiking to hidden falls: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, trails lead to a scenic waterfall that's particularly beautiful in spring and fall. "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: Local lakes provide good fishing access with designated docks. "Two boat/fishing docks, playground, pavilion, and hiking trails for things to do," reports a visitor at Rice County McCullough Park, which offers water and electric hookups at reasonable rates.
Visit the Spam Museum: Located in Austin, MN, this unique attraction makes for an interesting day trip from camping areas. "We thought the museum would be cheesy, but it was a nice facility and a great experience," shares MickandKarla W., who stayed at Crystal Springs RV Resort while visiting.
Kayaking options: Some campgrounds feature ponds or water access for non-motorized water sports. "There is a large pond on the property that is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports, and there is a walking path that circles the pond," mentions a reviewer about Crystal Springs RV Resort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathroom and shower buildings. "The bathroom/shower building was new and clean, the camp host was friendly and helpful," writes Deb M. about her stay at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground.
Quiet surroundings: Hidden Meadows RV Park receives praise for its peaceful environment. "This is very convenient if you have Mayo Clinic appointments. The campground was nice with grassy sites along with electric and water hook ups. We saw deer by the primitive camp areas and had nightly campfires in our fire ring," shares Karen S.
Level sites: Finding level camping spots is important for many RVers. "Sites were long enough for our 40ft fifth wheel camper plus the truck and we had a large yard. Sites have crushed asphalt base and are decently level," notes Tonya B. about Rice County McCullough Park.
Landscaping and mature trees: The natural setting enhances camping experiences. "As with most State Parks, the campground sites are really close together and you have very little privacy. The hikes were beautiful and the variety of old growth trees was spectacular," reports Erik R. about Nerstrand Big Woods.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most rv sites near Owatonna, Minnesota close during winter months. Autumn Woods RV Park typically operates from "Feb 15 to Oct 15," while Hidden Meadows runs "Apr 8 to Nov 1," and Crystal Springs is available "May 1 to October 31."
Reservation requirements: Weekend spots fill quickly during summer. "We came in with two other 5th wheels and had no problem getting sites, but we did reserve well before our arrival," advises MickandKarla W.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "And, through no fault of the park, cell service (both AT&T and TMobile) was terrible. There's WiFi at the office, which is just a short hike from the campground," reports Deb M. about Nerstrand Big Woods.
Unlevel sites at some parks: Some campgrounds require additional effort for leveling. "The parking pads are very unlevel. WiFi signal is weak at best. If you have Verizon don't count on service," notes Jaime P. about Hidden Meadows RV Park.
Bug preparation: Be ready for seasonal insects. When staying at Rice County McCullough Park, Tonya B. advises: "Price is very reasonable for water and electric hookup. Just be prepared for the bugs!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: While some campgrounds have limited recreational facilities for children, options exist. "They do have a play-set but that's where it ends," notes Jaime P. about Hidden Meadows RV Park, suggesting families might want additional activities planned.
Consider seasonal noise levels: Dakotah Meadows RV Park can experience varying noise levels depending on events. "We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations...only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th...large concert event happening across the street," shares Beth B.
Adult-oriented vs. family-friendly: Some campgrounds cater more to adults than families with children. "Very quiet, nice sites. Everyone was very friendly easy to work with. It's meant for adults no park for kids. But everyone was good with our kiddos playing outside," reports Kelsie B. about Crystal Springs RV Resort.
Walk-in sites for tent campers: Families seeking a more rustic experience can find walk-in sites at Nerstrand Big Woods. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," says Matt C.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: For RV sites near Owatonna, Minnesota, spacing between campsites varies considerably. "Campsites are very closely spaced together. I was thankful no one was placed near our campsite to give us more room," observes Jaime P. about Hidden Meadows RV Park.
Utility placement challenges: The location of hookups can present difficulties at some campgrounds. "Also oddly spaced power hook up with sewer and water placements," notes Jaime P. from Hidden Meadows, while MickandKarla W. reports about Crystal Springs, "The utilities are in the middle of the site and worked well with water pressure near 45 psi."
Backing challenges: Maneuvering larger rigs requires attention at wooded campgrounds. "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," cautions Deb M. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Casino shuttle service: Dakotah Meadows RV Park offers convenient transportation for adults. "Security patrols regularly and there is shuttle if you want to visit casino," mentions Beth B., while James and Susan K. add "The Casino operates a round trip Shuttle that picks you up and drops you at your site."
