Royalton sits at the intersection of the Mississippi River and Platte River in central Minnesota at around 1,100 feet elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summers reach the mid-80s with high humidity. Camping areas near Royalton feature a mix of oak savannah and tall grass prairie ecosystems, with several campgrounds offering direct water access for paddlers along the Mississippi River Water Trail.
What to do
Paddling and fishing access: Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground offers canoe-in sites along Pike Creek with access to the Mississippi River. "This is one of the most beautiful campsites we have stayed at in the midwest. The canoe campsite is located on a small creek just off of the Mississippi river," reports one visitor who enjoyed the water access.
Historical exploration: Visit the Lindbergh homestead near the campground to learn about aviation history. "The land encompassed by the park is historic for 2 reasons: Zebulon Pike spent the winter here with a search party who were going up river to search for the source of the Mississippi River, and a century later it was the homestead of the Lindbergh family and where aviator Charles grew up."
Biking trails: Holdingford City Park on the Lake Wobegon Trail connects to extensive paved trails. "It happens to be adjacent to an official trailhead of the SooLine spur of the Lake Woebegone Bike Trail, and as such is an awesome place to overnight if on a multi day bike or hike trek on the trail!" A unique feature includes "bike-peddled surreys that seat 2, 4 or 6 people, and the RENTAL IS FREE to groups peddling together with a friend or family member who is disabled."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at water-access sites. At the canoe-in campsite at Lindbergh State Park, "There is a fire ring, picnic table, and ample tent space. There is about a 500yd walk to the restrooms, and you have to go another 500yds to the main campground to find the showers."
Clean facilities: St. Cloud Campground & RV Park maintains well-kept shower buildings and restrooms. "This campground is well maintained. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The shower house was clean. We enjoyed our stay here and will return."
Water recreation options: Two Rivers Campground offers multiple water features for families. "They have a lazy river, a splash pool for little ones, and another pool for all ages. The campground also features a beautiful beach area on the river that's perfect for swimming."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Charles Lindbergh State Park, campers note significant differences between sites. "Do not book site 30... site 29 and 30 have nothing separating them which is kind of awkward. Also, behind site 30 is a vault toilet that people would occasionally walk directly through our campsite to get to."