Tent camping options near Redwood Falls, Minnesota encompass several county parks spread across the Minnesota River Valley. Located in southwestern Minnesota at approximately 1,030 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summers with high humidity and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most campgrounds remain open from May through October, closing during winter months due to harsh conditions.
What to do
Creek fishing: Beaver Falls County Park provides accessible fishing opportunities along the creek running through the park. According to visitor Jamison W., the park is a "Good spot to stop for a short stay" with areas suitable for bank fishing.
Historical exploration: Birch Coulee County Park sits near a significant historical site. As one camper noted, it's a "Very special place" that allows visitors to explore Minnesota history while camping. The park is located near the Birch Coulee Battlefield, site of a significant 1862 conflict.
Catfishing on the Minnesota River: The water access at Vicksburg County Park creates opportunities for river fishing. One visitor reports it's "Fun, good for catfish" with multiple dispersed camping spots allowing anglers to select sites with good river access.
What campers like
Horse trail access: Skalbekken County Park offers extensive horse trails through river bottom terrain. A regular visitor notes there are "Lots of horse trails" and the park is "Very clean and well kept" with water available but no electrical hookups.
Peace and quiet: Campers appreciate the secluded nature of many sites. One visitor to Beaver Falls County Park describes it as "Off the beaten path..so lots of peace & quiet to enjoy" with "trails throughout the park for walking" that enhance the sense of solitude.
Creek play for children: Several parks feature shallow creeks suitable for children's exploration. At Birch Coulee County Park, camper Josh B. notes it's a "Well kept park" where "kids had fun playing in the creek," making it suitable for families seeking water features.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds provide basic facilities. At Skalbekken County Park, camping is "nice and quiet" but offers only water hookups without electricity, according to regular visitor Jamison W.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some parks have limited space for maneuvering. Beaver Falls accommodates RVs with some limitations, as one camper notes it has "Not much room for bigger rigs to get around but doable if dry."
Dispersed camping options: Vicksburg County Park offers more primitive camping with "Lots of places to choose for dispersed camping" and "Public water access for river" but lacks established amenities like electrical hookups or formal RV sites.
Tips for camping with families
Creek activities: Several parks feature child-friendly water features. At Beaver Falls County Park, families can "camp right next to the creek" with "fun fishing for kids" that provides natural entertainment without requiring additional equipment.
Close-to-home adventure: The region offers family camping without long travel times. Jamison W. describes Skalbekken as a place to "Stay there when ever in the area" with "nice friendly local people," making it suitable for weekend getaways.
Casino proximity: Birch Coulee County Park offers camping "near jackpot casino" according to Jamison W., providing an additional entertainment option for families with older children or adults seeking evening activities after a day outdoors.
Tips from RVers
Water but no electric: RVers at Birch Coulee County Park can access "Water and electric hookups" according to Josh B., though sites are limited with only seven camping spots available.
Weather considerations: The Minnesota River Valley experiences significant seasonal variations. RVers should note the area can become muddy after rain, making Beaver Falls potentially challenging as it's "doable if dry" for larger rigs but potentially problematic during wet conditions.
River valley navigation: When accessing campgrounds in the river valley, RVers should prepare for occasional steep grades. The Skalbekken area offers "Beautiful views of minnesota river valley" but accessing these views may require navigating terrain less suitable for larger RVs.