Glamping accommodations in Winona, Minnesota sit within the Driftless Area, a region characterized by deep river valleys, limestone bluffs, and hardwood forests untouched by glaciation. The area features elevation changes of 600+ feet from valley floor to bluff tops, creating diverse microclimates for camping. Seasonal temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to fall lows near 45°F during prime glamping season.
What to do
Explore cave systems: At Forestville Mystery Cave State Park, visitors can tour unique underground formations. "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. Tours cost $15 for adults and $10 for children 5-12.
Enjoy water recreation: The Root River flows alongside many campsites at Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging, where seasonal rentals are available. "They offer kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttles. They also have bike rentals," reports Kayla S. The campground provides shuttle service to drop-off points for float trips back to the campground.
Hiking through bluff country: The trail system at Great River Bluffs State Park provides multiple scenic overlooks. "The trail system is very well labeled with maps along each trail. The trail system is mostly level and I would label as easy hiking with rolling hills," explains GoWhereYouAreDraw N. Most trails can be completed in under 3 hours.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Great River Bluffs offers secluded glamping spots within natural settings. "The sites are a bit too close to each other, but do offer enough privacy. We saw a cardinal and 3 hummingbirds because they came to hang out right in our campsite! The fireflies at night were an added bonus," reports Mi S.
Low light pollution: The rural setting of The Old Barn Resort provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "All in all, it's a pretty great place to camp. Beautiful, quiet, spacious, and relaxing. Also, it doesn't hurt that you're away from the bright lights of the city, so star gazing is amazing," notes Joe W.
Unique seasonal observations: Winter camping offers a different perspective at Whitewater State Park. "We visited in winter (February) and while there was snow on the ground, the spaces were kept plowed with easy access to the electric boxes," explains Amy G. The park maintains year-round access to select sites with reduced seasonal rates.
What you should know
Weather variations: Glamping structures at Neshonoc Lakeside in nearby West Salem provide protection from regional weather patterns. "The sites are grassy or gravel and are very roomy and level. Lots of activities for the kids…basketball, horseshoes, volleyball, sizeable pool, and playground. This place is older but very clean," reports Susan & Kevin W.
Campsite reservations: During peak seasons, securing spots in advance is essential. "You are far better off as a 'no show' than 'cancelling', since there is actually a cancellation fee on top of losing your nightly rate if you actually 'cancel'," advises Amy G. about Whitewater State Park.
Cell service limitations: Many glamping locations have limited connectivity. "There is NO CELL SERVICE in the campground - no Verizon, ATT or T-Mobile. Wifi down at the ranger office," reports Jim C. about Forestville Mystery Cave State Park. Several campgrounds offer Wi-Fi only near main buildings.
Tips for camping with families
Educational options: Historic attractions complement outdoor activities. "On top of that it has this awesome living history 1800's village managed by the Minnesota Historical Society," Jason S. notes about Forestville's preserved town site. The historical village operates seasonally with demonstrations and guided tours.
Swimming facilities: Chester Woods Park offers beach access and water recreation for families. "The beach was great and clean. Fishing was great," reports Erik O. The man-made lake maintains a designated swimming area with gradual depth changes suitable for children.
Nature programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "We hiked, took trout fishing lessons, sat at the beach and had relaxing evenings by the fire," describes Melissa H. about Whitewater State Park. Programs typically run from May through September with increased frequency during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping considerations: Whitewater State Park maintains limited winter RV access. "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. Some were even 'pull through' which would be extra nice if you wanted it," notes Amy G. Electric sites remain available year-round at $35 per night.
Hookup availability: Kruger Campground offers more rustic accommodations with limited services. "This is a well maintained campground with private feeling sites. Some with firewood provided. Fire rings have attached grills," reports Neen K. Sites cost approximately $14-17 per night without electric hookups.
Dump station access: Most area campgrounds provide dump facilities. "Electric only at the camp sites but have water and dump station on site. Clean bathrooms and showers. Best value I've seen for fire wood," notes Mark N. about Chester Woods Park. Many campgrounds maintain central water fill locations rather than individual site hookups.
