Glamping options near Pipestone, Minnesota provide access to the unique prairie and quartzite landscape of southwestern Minnesota. This region sits at approximately 1,700 feet above sea level and experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80°F and winters dropping below freezing. Campgrounds in the area offer varying levels of protection from prairie winds that can sweep across the relatively flat terrain.
What to do
Observe bison herds: At Blue Mounds State Park Campground, visitors can view the protected bison herd from designated viewing areas. "Park features natural prairie and a buffalo herd. Bison tours are available. Plenty of hiking trails and some cliff climbing," shares Bruce P.
Rock climbing opportunities: Several parks in the area offer rock climbing on quartzite formations. "Would love to come back and do some rock climbing here now that I learned there are spots!" notes Tori K. about Blue Mounds State Park.
Prairie hiking trails: The open grasslands provide distinctive hiking experiences with seasonal wildflowers. "Love the hiking and lack of bugs compared to most Minnesota parks. Great prairie views and it's always great to see Bison," reports Sydney J.
Fishing in local waters: Regional parks offer fishing opportunities in lakes and streams. At Oak Woods Campground, campers can enjoy lakeside activities. "The park is lovely. We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan," explains Deanna J.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. "Bathrooms are nice and clean. There's a little free library near the restroom," mentions Tori K. about Blue Mounds State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The prairie ecosystem supports diverse wildlife. "We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan. We saw deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a mink. We heard coyotes the first night," shares Deanna J. about Oak Woods.
Swimming areas: Several parks feature designated swimming areas for summer recreation. At Camden State Park Campground, visitors can cool off during warm months. "Pretty spacious separated by lots trees, good place for camping with kids as well. Has a swimming pond and beach. Clean restrooms," notes Anup S.
Diverse camping options: From RV sites to yurts and glamping accommodations, the area offers various lodging choices. "Very quiet even on holidays, sites are in the woods so all sites have shade. All types of camping is available, tent, RVs trailers, 5th wheels, Class A, etc," explains Bruce P.
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Some parks have experienced water quality concerns. "Love the hiking and lack of bugs compared to most Minnesota parks. Great prairie views and it's always great to see Bison. Didn't love the lack of potable water," notes Sydney J. about Blue Mounds.
Weather preparedness: The open prairie landscapes offer limited natural shelter from storms and winds. "Honestly, a severe storm and leaky tent ruined the night. But the grounds and park are beautiful!" shares Kara B.
Highway noise: Campgrounds closer to major roads may experience traffic sounds. At Tower Campground near Sioux Falls, "My site backed up to the highway and was very loud. Actually, the whole campground is kind of highway loud. But, if you need a place to stay overnight, it's nice," explains Tracey S.
Site selection matters: The layout of campsites varies significantly by campground. "Sites in the lower campground are fairly close together and we didn't have cell service (Verizon), which wasn't a big deal," explains Makayla B. about Camden State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: At some campgrounds, you can request sites near play areas. At Big Sioux Recreation Area, one camper noted: "They had only a few tentsites available amid all the RV sites, but they were right on the edge of the playground, so the families had to walk right through my campsite to get to the play area."
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming ponds ideal for children. "We have stayed here many times. Nice quiet state campground. Our site was nice, level, spacious, and had plenty of grass coverage. Bike trails are awesome," shares Heidi M. about Big Sioux.
Wildlife spotting activities: Create wildlife checklists for kids to mark birds and animals they observe. "The park is lovely. We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan," mentions Deanna J.
Glamping for beginners: Families new to camping might appreciate glamping close to Pipestone, Minnesota. "We stayed in the TeePee and it was definitely an experience our family will cherish forever. Awesome staff as well," shares Alison R. about their stay at Sioux Falls KOA.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: At some campgrounds, power connections may require extension cords. At Magnolia City Campground, "The power boxes are set up is only few spots with multiple power boxes on the post. So you could need a power cord extension. If all spots by the power boxes are taken up," reports Jesse H.
Leveling considerations: Check site descriptions for level ground information. "Sites are clean and manicured and pretty level. Would definitely stay here again," notes Jennifer K. about Blue Mounds State Park.
Year-round availability: Some campgrounds remain open through winter months. "Very friendly people all around. Very quiet and beautiful campground. Well minus the semitrucks going down the road here and there," comments Jennifer K.
Dump station access: Note the location of dump stations, as some parks have unusual layouts. "Layout for getting water and dump station is a little odd as you have to drive through the campground to get to it rather than it being on your way out," explains Tori K.
