Camping sites near Winona, Minnesota range from riverfront locations with water access to secluded bluff settings offering isolation from crowds. The area sits within the unglaciated Driftless Region with deep valleys carved by the Mississippi River and tributaries. Winter camping temperatures can drop below zero, while summer highs typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity levels.
What to Do
Paddling on backwaters: At Merrick State Park, campers can access calm Mississippi River backwaters. "We always bring the kayaks, so the water access offered is why we stay. The Island sites offer the best view and launch, with not as much riprap as the other island sites, but you can make any of them work," notes Beth D.
Fishing spots: Multiple access points exist for both river and stream fishing within a 15-minute drive of most campgrounds. "This park has good access for a kayak/canoe path. Great access to awesome fishing!" reports Tiffany K. from her stay at Merrick State Park.
Heritage programs: Educational activities run regularly during summer months. "The Saturday we were there they had a heritage camp set up to learn about how things were done in the past," explains a visitor from Merrick State Park, adding value for families interested in history.
Hiking trails: Whitewater State Park features upland trails with elevation changes for more challenging hikes. "I hiked up Chimney Rock and then looped back to tackle part of the Dakota trail! The hiking paths were well taken care of. There were plenty of places to stop and rest if you need to," says Sarah C.
What Campers Like
Island camping: North Campground at Merrick offers some of the most secluded sites. "The sites are large and nicely spaced out with mature trees separating the areas. There is a very clean shower house with sinks and flushing toilets, as well as an outhouse with toilets," reports Misty S.
Fall colors: October brings dramatic color changes to the bluffland forests. "Stayed here in the fall. Hikes here offer great views of the river and bluffs and the fall colors are gorgeous!!!" shares Tori K. about her experience at Great River Bluffs State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Areas near water attract diverse bird populations. "There's a beautiful view from King's Bluff Overlook which is about a 2.5 mile roundtrip from the parking area. You could make it about 5.5 miles if you hike from campground," notes Mary S. about the viewing opportunities at Great River Bluffs State Park.
Farm experiences: Some camping options include agricultural settings with local produce. "Neat to see baby pigs and also grill some tasty steaks from the cool farm store!!" remarks Andy F. about staying at Frickson Family Farms.
What You Should Know
Mosquito seasons: Bug activity peaks from June through August, particularly near water. "Being so close to the river, the bugs were awful. I did love that it was quiet even peak season and there were plenty of spots open so it felt like a nice getaway," reports Shelby N. from Merrick State Park.
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines with nighttime traffic. "The frequency of trains and the loudness of their horns at night was enough to drive me nuts. Every time I was almost asleep another one would go past," warns Megan P. about her stay at North Campground.
Water levels: Spring flooding can impact sites nearest to the Mississippi. "The river was high when we visited, and some of the river-facing sites were flooded out," notes Patrick M. during his visit to South Campground at Merrick State Park.
Off-season closures: Many campground amenities shut down during colder months. "Water is not on in the campground, but there is a spigot right across the road at the visitor center that is on (easy 2 min walk)," reports Amy G. about her winter camping experience at Whitewater State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer organized programming for children. "We spent a day here hiking and had a blast! There are also many places for non-campers to grill out and picnic," shares Sarah C. about Whitewater State Park.
Water safety: River currents can be strong for young swimmers. "We had so much fun playing on the river and exploring the park! Everything is right there and the river is so pretty! Despite the rain we had a great time! Because of the rain we went to the eagle center near Wisconsin. A must see if your looking for something indoors!" recommends Kate H. from Whitewater.
Playgrounds and recreation: Camp Everyday Winona offers more developed recreation options. "There was a rec room with a pool table and pinball machines. There's a pool there but it was empty when we got there. Too cold to swim anyway. There's a playground for kids near the tent area," notes Patti M.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Most RV sites are moderately spaced with varying privacy levels. "Spacious campsites on the Mississippi River. Nice wooded area allows for shade. The road along the river is narrow making it hard to back your camper into the riverfront sites if you have neighbors," advises Tracy B. about Prairie Island City Campground.
Water quality alerts: Some campgrounds have water restrictions. "There were signs posted that the drinking water cannot be boiled, nor can it be given to babies or elderly due to high nitrates. But we brought our own water anyways," warns Kayla F. from her stay at Perrot State Park.
Electric availability: Winter campers should plan for electric sites when available. "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. Price is $35 for the space/night with electric," explains Amy G. about the winter camping setup at Whitewater State Park.
