Camping options near Zumbrota, Minnesota sit within the rolling hills of Goodhue County at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet above sea level. The area features deciduous forest interspersed with prairie remnants and numerous creeks and rivers. Fall camping season offers particularly vibrant foliage with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 55-75°F in September and October, making it an excellent time to visit the region's parks.
What to do
Explore waterfall trails: Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, located 25 minutes from Zumbrota, offers several hiking options leading to Hidden Falls. "We went there last July just to go hiking for the day. The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but they were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," notes Halie B. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground.
Visit historic sites: The campground at Zumbrota provides direct access to Minnesota's only covered bridge, built in 1869. A paved trail from the campground leads directly to this landmark. As Pad F. mentions, the park offers "great paved walking and bike trail; leads to state bike trail; MN only covered bridge; huge park playground; disc golf course; along branch of the river; easy walk into town."
River tubing: Summer visitors can enjoy tubing down the Zumbro River at several locations. "A wonderful campground with a saloon that was great! Friendly service and fun activities!" notes Chris P. about Shades of Sherwood Campground, which offers tubing opportunities along with other water activities.
What campers like
Clean modern facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathroom facilities in the region. "The bathrooms/shower building was new and clean, the camp host was friendly and helpful, and the hike to the hidden falls did not disappoint," reports Deb M. about Frontenac State Park Campground, which recently upgraded its facilities.
Riverside sites: Several campgrounds offer premium sites along waterways. "We like spots 161 & 162 as you can park parallel with the river and nobody bothers you. It is just beautiful," explains Lisa D. about Bluff Valley Campground. Another camper adds, "the draw from this camp ground for us is sitting in the river and relaxing watching the tubers go by."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Oxbow County Park combines camping with unique wildlife experiences. "Zoo and nature center are great. Animals are all rescued and given a home. Bison herd and elk and deer too," shares Tom about Oxbow County Park. Multiple trails also provide opportunities for spotting native wildlife.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite quality and privacy can vary significantly within the same campground. About Frontenac State Park, Maria D. advises: "The downsides are that the campsites run small, usually only fitting two tents at most, and there aren't many trees for hammocking. Favorite sites: 37 – Shady and on the edge with just one neighbor. Decent privacy and potential for hammocking."
Seasonal conditions: Fall offers spectacular colors but requires preparation. "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The colors are amazing. Nice hiking trails. Little area to get wet but not swimming," shares Tim B. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region. One camper notes about Lake Byllesby Regional Park: "Cell service was good," but others report spotty coverage at other parks. Tom mentions about Oxbow: "No cell service but able to text."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "This is a great family campground! Camping spots are rather close, but we have two little ones so they made friends quick with other children," notes Angela L. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park, adding "The playground is a short walk to the tent area, which was a big hit with our kids."
Water activities: For summer family adventures, consider campgrounds with swimming options. "Great tent sites some along river lots of activities for children and adults tubing down the river, man-made lake with blowups, scooters, swimming pool and jumping pillow," reports Melissa R. about Shades of Sherwood Campground.
Educational opportunities: For pet friendly camping near Zumbrota, Minnesota with an educational component, Oxbow Park combines natural experiences with learning. "The zoo is just 500 yards away, but you would never know it is there. It's a donation only entry, so you pay what you can for the zoo. There is an awesome park near the sites for children," explains Lindsay K.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement considerations: Some RV sites have unusual utility arrangements. "Our site was rather odd as the electric and water post was on the opposite side of our camper. Our standard water hose and electrical cord wouldn't reach," warns Karin W. about Haycreek Valley Campground, recommending extension cords for some sites.
Level sites: Finding level ground for larger rigs requires research. "The parking pads are very unlevel," notes one camper about Hidden Meadows RV Park. At other parks, campers report better conditions: "Paved RV pads. Near lake and excellent bike path," shares Daryl L. about Lake Byllesby.
Fire ring placement: Fire ring locations can impact RV camping comfort. One camper notes about Haycreek Valley Campground: "The fire pits were located in very odd spots too - basically unusable unless you wanted to light your rig on fire."
