Royalton, Minnesota offers a variety of camping experiences with convenient access to both the Mississippi and Platte Rivers. The region features a mix of prairie and woodland landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,050 to 1,150 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler spring and fall conditions requiring additional layers for overnight stays.
What to do
Water recreation at Two Rivers Campground: Located where the Mississippi and Platte Rivers meet, this campground offers excellent river access. "Tubing down the river is a MUST! Lots of fun," notes a camper at Two Rivers Campground. The campground features a beach area for swimming and equipment rentals for water activities.
Visit nearby Quarry Park: St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park serves as a convenient base for exploring local attractions. "We stayed here to visit the nearby quarry park and that was a blast!" reports a visitor at St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park. The park features hiking trails, swimming spots, and unique geological formations.
Ice fishing opportunities: Winter camping enthusiasts can enjoy ice fishing from December through February. "I'm talking winter camping on the lake on the Ice in an 'Ice castle' catching walleye," shares one visitor about Hidden Bay RV Resort. "My largest walleye here was a slot fish, actually caught a lot of slot fish here."
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds near Royalton offer activities for all ages. At St. Cloud Campground & RV Park, campers appreciate the variety of facilities: "Nice facilities including 2 bathroom facilities, playground, volleyball court, dog walking area, baseball field, a lodge with games and a store, and a hall where they hold bingo and other events."
Pool and recreation options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools and organized activities. "Pool was nice and store too," notes one camper about their stay. Another visitor mentions, "This a nice family campground. It has a 9 hole mini golf, shuffleboard, salt water pool, and a lobby/gift shop."
Shaded sites: Tree cover is important during hot summer months. "The campground is very nice with shade and open areas," comments a visitor. Another adds, "Just stayed for the weekend and we had a wonderful time. Shaded lot, much quieter than other sites I've been too."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Royalton operate from early May through mid-October. Visitors should note specific opening dates: "We stayed here Memorial Day weekend and it was their first weekend open," mentions a camper at Hardy's Lake in the Woods RV Resort. The sites are described as "very large" with "nicely wooded" areas.
WiFi limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Some guests report: "Campground is very nice, with shade and open areas. Host stated that the wifi was weak but since there were not a lot of campers we should be alright. We were unable to even get a signal!"
Visitor policies: Some resorts have specific rules about guests. "We give this resort 5 stars because, despite it not being visitor friendly, they are up front in their policies about visitors and the place is great in all other respects," notes one camper, suggesting checking policies before booking if you plan to have visitors.
Tips for camping with families
On-site activities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment options. "Kids will love the giant inflatable bouncy house, mini golf, and the many activities offered," shares a camper at Two Rivers Campground. The campground also features "a lazy river, a splash pool for little ones, and another pool for all ages."
Game facilities: Several campgrounds provide indoor recreation options for rainy days. "They also offer a nice seating area for those hot or raining days with free arcade," mentions one reviewer. Another notes, "Gift shop/office had a pool table and lots of games to borrow/use."
Quiet hours: Families should note campground quiet times. "Quiet beaches one is 1100 to 0900. It's well maintained and taken care of," reports a visitor, referring to the enforcement of quiet hours that help ensure restful nights for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Year-round options: While most campgrounds close seasonally, some RV parks remain open during winter. "Still open in the winter! Convenient location right off I94 and HWY 23," shares a visitor at Love's RV Hookup. "Love's is open 24 hours and has most things you would need. There is also a Hardee's if you need dinner!"
Site spacing considerations: RV campers note significant differences in site sizes between campgrounds. "Sites are huge, very dog friendly, quiet," mentions one RVer. Another points out, "Our area had a few shade trees, but we had no problem hitting the north sky for Starlink. The water pressure was good, and we put on a reducer."
Utility connections: RV campers should check utility placements before arrival. "Our utilities were at the back of the site, and we needed about 35' of electric and water hose. The sewer was more central, and I needed about 18' of sewer hose for our rig," notes a camper detailing their experience at a resort near Royalton.
