Glamping in the Welch, Minnesota area offers multiple options for campers seeking comfortable outdoor accommodations. Located in southeastern Minnesota's bluff country, the region sits at elevations between 700-1,000 feet and experiences warm summers with high humidity. Winter camping is possible at several locations where heated cabins provide shelter from temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Biking on state trails: The Sakatah Lake State Park connects to a 39-mile paved trail running from Mankato to Faribault. "I love being on the bike trail and the hiking is fair," notes a visitor to Sakatah Lake State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Lake Byllesby: This reservoir provides calm waters for paddling with easy shoreline access. "The lake is nice for fishing, boating or swimming. Has a small store," reports a camper from Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunities for spotting native birds and animals. "We heard Barred Owls and Sandhill Cranes. The cranes flew over making strange LOUD calls. Cool," shares a visitor to Rice Lake Campground.
Winter recreation: Several parks maintain groomed trails for cold-weather activities. "We stayed here while visiting Minneopa state park. The campground was nice. It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between camping spots. "The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion," writes a visitor to Afton State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms stand out in reviews. "Amazing bathroom/Showers. Quiet, lots of flies, good spot overall. The golfing nearby that seemed reasonably priced for those interested," notes a camper at Cleary Lake Regional Park.
Waterfront locations: Sites with water views rank highly among visitors. "Our site was perfect. The woods made it very secluded. It was close enough to water and bathrooms so it wasn't bad if you planned."
Storage solutions: Cabins with built-in storage features receive positive mentions. "I was able to store most of my food on the sill."
What you should know
Limited water access: Some parks have restricted water during certain seasons. "NO WATER ON TRAIL 4TH JULY WEEKEND 2019 (FILL UP AT VISITOR CENTER)," warns a visitor about summer conditions.
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers for the best experience. "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."
Reservation timing: Secure spots well in advance during peak seasons. "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric," advises a camper at Minneiska Campground.
Hot water limitations: Shower facilities may have time restrictions on hot water. "Basically enough to wash your body quickly, it was easy enough to avoid getting my hair wet. The shower room is also set to a cool 58 degrees in the winter."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. "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!"
Beach options: Swimming areas provide recreation for children. "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."
Glamping alternatives: For families new to camping, glamping accommodations offer an easier entry point. "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!"
Wildlife encounters: Parks provide nature education opportunities. "We went to Afton for a day trip filled with hiking, picnicking and scoping out future camping sites. Then I saw the snake. I literally grabbed my husband to hold him back from stepping on it."
Tips from RVers
Site size constraints: Check campground limitations before booking. "Very nice park if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees."
Hookup availability: Confirm which utilities are available at specific sites. "Water and electric hookups. The lake is nice for fishing, boating or swimming."
Winter camping preparations: RV campers should verify year-round facilities. "We were in a teardrop trailer. Plenty of space for the car and the teardrop in space #202, but all spaces that were plowed had plenty of room to pull in."
Access roads: Some parks have challenging navigation for larger vehicles. "Beware of lots of trees."
