Glamping in Red Wing, Minnesota provides access to the Mississippi River valley with elevations ranging from 680 to 1,140 feet and diverse terrain of bluffs, valleys, and waterways. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter dropping to 5-20°F. Most glamping accommodations have enhanced amenities compared to standard campsites, with some sites requiring moderate hiking through oak and maple forest lands.
What to Do
River fishing access: Minneiska Campground offers excellent spots for trout fishing along spring-fed waters. "I hiked 11 miles here and it was awesome," notes Mike K., who enjoyed the extensive trail system alongside fishing opportunities.
Beach recreation: Despite being inland, several sites have swimming areas during summer months. "Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk," explains Alison at Afton State Park.
Hiking trail networks: The area features interconnected trails with varying difficulty levels. "Lots of hiking. Nice campsites. Beautiful park," reports Chris S. about the trail systems that connect many glamping sites to scenic overlooks and natural features.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer optimal wildlife spotting opportunities. "We heard Barred Owls and Sandhill Cranes. The cranes flew over making strange LOUD calls. Cool," shares Mary K. about her experience at Rice Lake Campground.
What Campers Like
Varied terrain options: Kruger Campground provides diverse site settings. "Very affordable, a lot of space between sites so you feel like you have some privacy. A beautiful hiking trail," reports Erica about the rustic glamping experience.
Waterfront views: Proximity to water features ranks highly among visitor preferences. "This is a great family campground! Camping spots are rather close, but we have two little ones so they made friends quick with other children," says Angela L., who appreciated the lake views and family-friendly atmosphere.
Privacy between sites: Several glamping locations provide natural buffers between accommodations. "The sites are wooded and the woods made it very secluded. It was close enough to water and bathrooms so it wasn't bad if you planned," explains Adam P. about the canvas accommodations.
Modern comforts: Enhanced amenities distinguish glamping from traditional camping. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird) perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds," describes Alison O. about her stay at Afton State Park.
What You Should Know
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping accommodations operate from April through October with limited winter availability. "Super simple camping cabins. They each have 4 spots and have contactless entry as you get sent a code to use," explains Scott M. about the Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins that remain open year-round.
Reservation requirements: Book 3-4 months in advance for peak season weekends. "It's difficult to get reservations, so I recommend trying to start booking 120 days in advance, which is the farthest out you can reserve," advises Blair about securing glamping sites.
Access challenges: Some premium sites require physical effort to reach. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites," notes Andrew C., highlighting the effort needed to reach certain glamping locations.
Water availability: Water access varies significantly by location and season. "This may be an ongoing issue but none of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center," warns Warren H.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: Lake Byllesby Regional Park offers family-friendly amenities. "The playground is a short walk to the tent area, which was a big hit with our kids. Our girls didn't want to leave!" shares Angela L., noting the convenient recreation options.
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer interpretive programs during summer weekends. "We had so much fun playing on the river and exploring the park! Everything is right there and the river is so pretty! Despite the rain we had a great time! Because of the rain we went to the eagle center near Wisconsin. A must see if your looking for something indoors!" recommends Kate H.
Swimming options: Family-friendly water features are available but vary by location. "Less than an hour drive from Minneapolis this is a good get away. As expected it has many walk trails. Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath," explains Alison.
Winter activities: Cold-weather glamping provides unique experiences for families. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees. The cabins are well-built and heated. The wooded cabins have what seems like full-sized mattress bunk beds built into the wall," reports Krista T.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing concerns: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park accommodates various RV sizes but with limitations. "This campground is very nice and well kept. Clean thru out the park. Some very nice shaded sites. Not the greatest for big RV's," advises Tim B. about parking larger rigs.
Electrical hookup options: Power availability varies significantly between sites and campgrounds. "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view. The facilities are very clean and well-kept," notes Deb M. about the electrical service options.
Water and utility connections: Plan accordingly for limited hookups at some locations. "Very nice water front sites, clean, clean restrooms and showers, dump station. Plan on coming back. They're adding a bunch new sites. Should be ready for next season," shares Daryl L. about site improvements.
Paved pad availability: Some glamping sites offer improved parking surfaces for RVs. "Nice showers and restrooms. Paved RV pads. Near lake and excellent bike path. Great brewery and winery close by," recommends Daryl L. about the hard-surface parking options.
