Camping options in southeastern Minnesota's rolling bluff country provide versatile options for campers seeking river access and trail connectivity. Preston sits at 830 feet elevation in the Root River Valley, where limestone bluffs create microclimates that can affect overnight temperatures even in summer months. Winter camping is available year-round at select parks, while others operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Tubing on Root River: Eagle Cliff Campground offers tube rentals with shuttle service to starting points, allowing for a relaxing float back to camp. "The campground is on the Root River bike trail which is beautiful, shaded, and paved. Note that depending on the site and how far you back in, the electric hookup may be a distance," notes Amy E.
Cave exploration: A short drive from Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground leads to unique underground formations. "The cave was around 12-13 miles long and there was water and different formations. The floor was really wet so bring shoes you won't slip in," advises Kevin T. Tours cost $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 5-12.
Downtown exploration: Stay at Sylvan City Park in Lanesboro for access to small-town amenities. "It is located in a city park within a couple minutes walk of the downtown area. The bike trail crosses the south end of downtown so close to that too," notes Jake L. The campground charges $20 per night for tent sites.
What campers like
River proximity: Hidden Meadows RV Park offers sites near flowing water. "The lower area of this park is so nice and right near a river. The owners are really nice, bathrooms/showers clean and everybody is friendly," says Lisa D. Sites include grassy areas with electric and water hookups.
Minimal insects: Camping near Preston often means fewer mosquitoes than other Minnesota locations. "Quiet and mosquito free campground on the root river in beautiful SE MN. Near Forestville State Park and great gravel riding. Free WiFi. Hiking Trails. Fly fishing. Did I mention no mosquitoes!" reports Kim H. about Maple Springs Campground.
Scenic hiking options: Whitewater State Park provides varied terrain for day hikes. "I hiked up Chimney Rock and then looped back to tackle part of the Dakota trail! The hiking paths were well taken care of. There were plenty of places to stop and rest if you need to," shares Sarah C.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Most campgrounds around Preston have variable service. "With no Verizon cell service, not sure if others did, I needed to communicate with family," notes John C. about Maple Springs Campground. WiFi access points are typically available near office buildings or in designated areas.
First-come sites: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. "The sites are first come first served (no reservations). There are also numerous tent sites, as this seems to be popular with the bicycling crowd," explains Peter K. about Sylvan City Park.
Winter access: RV camping near Preston, Minnesota continues through winter months at select parks. "We visited in winter (February) and while there was snow on the ground, the spaces were kept plowed with easy access to the electric boxes," notes Amy G. about Whitewater State Park, which maintains plowed sites and keeps water available at the visitor center.
