Cart-in sites positioned where hiking trails converge create an unusual camping dynamic at Rice Lake State Park Campground. The walk-in sites sit close to trail intersections, with site #1 offering lake views but little privacy from passing hikers. Chandra C. notes the site "is right on the hiking trail, and positioned where 3 paths meet."
The electric campground provides more traditional RV camping with sites spaced among thick woods. Rangers actively help match campers to appropriate sites based on rig size, as some spots don't accommodate larger RVs well. Weekend visits mean full capacity, though wooded barriers between many sites offer natural screening. Barred owls and sandhill cranes provide the soundtrack, with the cranes making particularly loud calls during flyovers.
Rice Lake itself draws mixed reactions from campers. The water allows paddling and small boat access, but swimming isn't available. Cattails ring much of the shoreline, creating habitat for frogs and various bird species. The 2.5-mile trail system loops around the property and crosses through some tent sites, connecting the boat launch area with the rest of the park.
Facilities remain basic, with periodic closures affecting showers and restrooms. Firewood costs $6 at the office, where staff handle reservations and site assignments. The park sits in a forested area outside Owatonna, with Kathy S. describing an "easy drive past beautiful farms to town."
Mosquitoes can be heavy during summer months, though they diminish by fall. For campers exploring the region, campgrounds around Owatonna provide additional options within the agricultural landscape of southern Minnesota.
Description
Campground is open April 1 - October 23
Arrive prepared. Go to mndnr.gov/ricelake for visitor alerts and seasonal updates.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundRice Lake State Park Campground is located in Minnesota
Directions
Located 7 miles east of Owatonna on Rose Street. From Hwy 35, take exit 42A. Follow the signs to Rose Street. East on Rose Street to the park.
Address
8485 Rose Street
Owatonna, MN 55060
Coordinates
44.08890307 N
93.05886723 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/13/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/13/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/13/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/13/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 35 min from Rochester, MN
- 48 min from Mankato, MN
- 1 hr 7 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 2 hrs 15 min from Eau Claire, WI



























