Best Campgrounds near Preston, MN
Southeastern Minnesota's bluff country surrounding Preston features diverse camping options within the scenic Root River Valley. Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground, located just outside Preston, offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations nestled among oak and maple forests. The Old Barn Resort provides full-service camping from April through October with amenities including a restaurant, bar, and heated pool, situated along the popular Root River Trail System. More rustic options exist at Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, where dispersed camping provides a more primitive experience for those seeking solitude.
Most campgrounds in the region require reservations during peak season (May through September), though some smaller sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Minnesota state parks require entrance permits in addition to camping fees, with most sites ranging from $20-35 per night depending on amenities. Winter camping is available at select locations like Forestville Mystery Cave State Park, where plowed sites with electrical hookups accommodate cold-weather visitors. According to one camper at Whitewater State Park: "The best part about Whitewater are the trails and views. It is located in a carved glacier valley and is surrounded by limestone. I recommend moderate to experienced hikers due to the intense climb to get to the popular views."
The Root River Trail System connects many campgrounds in the area, providing excellent biking and hiking opportunities. Riverside campsites are particularly popular, with Eagle Cliff Campground offering sites along the water that visitors describe as "gorgeous" despite being close together. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with campers reporting sightings of deer, eagles, and various bird species. Trout fishing is excellent in local streams, though some areas require a Minnesota fishing license. Mosquitoes can be problematic in wooded areas during summer months, with one reviewer noting: "Since the park is in a heavily wooded area you do have to watch out for the Minnesota state bird (the mosquito)." Family-friendly campgrounds predominate, with many enforcing quiet hours after 10 PM.
