Glamping in Stewartville, Minnesota offers diverse options set against the backdrop of southeastern Minnesota's distinctive bluff country. This region sits approximately 800-1,000 feet above sea level in the Driftless Area, characterized by rolling hills and river valleys carved by glacial meltwater. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer days often reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity, creating varying camping conditions throughout the season.
What to do
Explore mystery caves: Visit Forestville Mystery Cave State Park for guided tours through fascinating underground formations. "I came here to explore the caves and it blew me away. I think 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," notes Kevin T.
Fish for various species: Cast a line at Chester Woods Park where the man-made lake offers good fishing opportunities. "The campground is very clean and nice. The bathrooms and showers we pristine clean and close and easy to walk to. Fishing was great," reports Erik O.
Bike the Root River Trail System: The Old Barn Resort provides direct access to the extensive trail network. "It really is a treat that the Root River Bike Trail System runs right along the campground. We spent most of our time exploring the trail, visiting Lanesboro and Whalen," shares Jason S.
Float the Root River: Enjoy tubing adventures with convenient access points. "The Root River goes right alongside most of the campsites which creates a really peaceful space. The grounds are super clean including the showers and porta-potties that are available for campers," explains Jen H. at Eagle Cliff Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer well-designed sites. "We had a reservation on the North Shore, but switched it to Whitewater when we saw the ice and snowstorms in the forecast. Our site was large and easy to back into, all sites have a picnic table and fire ring," notes Karla J.B. at Minneiska Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "This facility is clean and very well kept. Even the shower rooms are very nice and sanitary," one reviewer stated about Eagle Cliff Campground.
Abundance of wildlife: Many sites offer opportunities to spot local fauna. "I thought I was getting punked. I had the entire State Park to myself. It was super cool be eerie. Great hikes and the view from the top was worth it," shares Erik R. about Whitewater State Park.
Multiple recreational options: Rice Lake State Park provides varied activities. "We saw a bull frog and a few leopard frogs at the boat launch. And continued on our hike. We saw a few cool birds, lots of berries and a few interesting bugs. We sat and watched the sun set and join in on the star gazing event that was going on in the park," describes James B.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor or no connectivity. "We had no cell service at our site, but 2 bars plus WIFI outside the visitor center," notes a camper at Whitewater State Park.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate between April and October. "Season is 3rd weekend May to 2nd weekend October," indicates Chester Woods Park's information.
Temperature fluctuations: Cave explorations require proper clothing. "Neat formations and knowledgeable tour guides," says one camper about Mystery Cave, while another advises: "bring a jacket because it is quite cold down there."
Reservation requirements: During peak season, sites fill quickly. "If you go on weekend probably need to make reservations," advises a camper about Mystery Cave tours.
Varying site amenities: Myre-Big Island State Park offers distinct campground features. "The interior roads are dirt roads with a few potholes they are very narrow. The camping sites are nice sized and relatively private. There is a gravel pad on each site and some have a tent pad. Each site had a picnic table and a fire ring," explains Cheryl W.
Tips for camping with families
Natural play areas: Several campgrounds feature unique play structures. "Nice park for everyone's type from tents, cabins and all size RV's. Very creative natural play park for children to play on," notes a review of Riverside County Park.
Swimming options: Oakwoods Trails Campground provides kid-friendly facilities. "Beautiful large sites along the river so you can fish as well as has a pond that you can swim in with three beach entry areas," describes a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer ranger-led programs. "We did a little hiking, took trout fishing lesson, sat at the beach and had relaxing evenings by the fire," shares Melissa H. about Whitewater State Park.
Observe quiet hours: Some campgrounds strictly enforce noise regulations. "They are sticklers on the quiet time after 10 or 11pm. My friends and I have been given warnings about being quiet, so it's definitely more of a family campground," advises Jennifer M. about Eagle Cliff.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric only. "Nice place but it is a campground not an rv park, 30 & 50 amp service but no water hookup (fill when you come in) and dump tanks when leaving," notes Kevin about Chester Woods.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have navigation challenges. "The interior roads are dirt roads with a few potholes they are very narrow. We were able to drive through the campground with our 40 foot fifth wheel. But just barely, be careful!" warns Cheryl W. at Myre-Big Island.
Pull-through availability: Look for specific sites at certain campgrounds. "Some were even 'pull through' which would be extra nice if you wanted it (either big rig type RV or pull behind)," suggests Amy G. about Whitewater State Park.
Dump station access: Plan accordingly for facilities. "They do have a fresh water filling station and a dump station. Well worth the $30 per night charge," notes Kirk J. about Chester Woods Park.
