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The best camping near Rice Lake State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rice Lake adventure.

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

Discover Rice Lake State Park's scenic trails and diverse wildlife.  

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Community favorites near Rice Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Rice Lake State Park

99%
(688)

Prairie Creek Forest Campground

7 sites ¡ Tents60 acres ¡ Nerstrand, MN
Pitch your tent at one of our Walk-in campsites on 60 acres of forest or hilltop prairie along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock", a 60 acre county park featuring a waterfall and more trails, including a single track mountain bike course. That's 120 acres of exploring outside your tent; this campground truly offers a large amount of remote forest for recreation right on site. Big Woods State Park is less than 2 miles away. Faribault is 8 miles and Northfield is 9 miles from our driveway; they offer dining, boutiques, and all other amenities. Nerstrand is 4.5 miles east and has a gas station and a fantastic meat market. Numerous Cannon River put-ins are within 10 miles. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside site 4 is up a very steep hill. Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. Sites are priced for one tent, please let us know if you need to have more than one tent. A map of the land is in the photos and shows locations of sites, parking and more. All Sites are Walk-In! We have a cart you may use to haul gear in. Site 1 is near the creek. Approximately 200 feet from main parking area. Stone fire ring and grill grate, picnic table. Site 2 is in the pines. Approximately 200 feet from main parking area. Stone fire ring and grill grate, picnic table, this site has good hammock trees. Site 3 is by the creek. Approximately 300 feet from main parking area. Steel fire ring, steel grill ring, picnic table, this site has good hammock trees. Site 4 is on the hilltop. Approximately 100 feet from the secondary parking area Steel fire ring with grill grate, stone fire ring, picnic table, this site has good hammock trees. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by he and his father Ted. In 1961, Ted's parents bought this farm. Over the years, the arable land has been sold but we retained the wooded area which is crossed twice by a stream. About 20 years ago, a 60 acre county park was created to the south and west. The property is bordered on two sides by this county park. When Ted was in high school, the family sold the dairy cows and started a bare bones horseback riding ranch using trails in these woods as riding trails.
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$25
 / night
100%
(304)

Belle Creek Bluff

3 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents28 acres ¡ Welch, MN
Belle Creek Bluff is on 28 acres of prime land in Welch. Belle Creek runs through the middle of the property. Walk, swim, paddle, fish and explore the this beautiful spring fed trout stream. There are a number of hiking trails on the property. Bordering state lands to the east of the property provide endless exploration and hiking adventures. Hike to the top of the bluff for a spectacular view of Welch valley and the ski hill. Hiking NE along Belle Creek can you spot the old model A truck along the banks? There are eagles, falcons, finches, and many colorful birds to see.
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$40
 / night
97%
(262)

The Edge

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres ¡ Rochester, MN
This 160 acre farm used to be a sod farm, and then a Christmas tree farm. Camping provided is in the remnants of the uncut Christmas tree forest. 
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$25
 / night
98%
(156)

The Double J

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents71 acres ¡ MN
Welcome to the Double J! Of the 71 acres we own, about half is tillable and the other half is woods and pastures for our horses. Within that, there is a beautiful secluded 3-acre meadow nestled down along along a beautiful 1,200 foot stretch of the Zumbro River where we have 5 spacious tent/RV campsites. While the campsites are all adjacent to each other along the river, they are each very spacious (the smallest being 100' wide and 75' deep), with some mature trees scattered around. Each sites (except Site #1) is able to accommodate up to 8 people and more than one tent or RV. There is a small meadow above all the sites where campers can play catch or other games. We provide and maintain a centrally located outhouse and keep the entire area mowed throughout the year. All sites offer great shade trees (perfectly spaced for hanging up a hammock) and access to the river - great for those hot summer days! Water activities to be enjoyed include fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and tubing (equipment not included). Some campers will drop in upstream at the Covered Bridge Park and float down to their campsite (Note there is a large log jam or two that will require portaging around). The Zumbro River, especially in the fishing hole, offers great fishing including Trout, Small-mouth, Red-horse, and an occasional Northern or Sauger. Campers are welcome to to meander out into our pasture to pet our two horses, Shiloh and Champ. Also, we are only 1.5 miles from town where you can visit Covered Bridge Park which has a Frisbee golf course and a nice play area for younger kids. Reserving adjacent sites, or all of the sites, makes for the ideal setting for a large family or group camp-out. In order to prevent overcrowding, we do reserve the right to limit number of sites, or campers per site based on overall parties/campers in the camping area. We will notify you if there are any limits prior to confirming your booking. We enjoy being able to share our property with others, and it is our desire to promote a safe, peaceful, family-friendly environment, therefore, be sure to note, we do have a NO ALCOHOL policy. PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to read the "RV Details" on the site information page as the road to the camping area may limit the type or size of RV due to a couple dips, a sharper curve, and it's steeper slope. Also, keep in mind, we reserve the right to cancel any reservations due to heavy rains or floods that may require our sites some additional time to dry out sufficiently. For updates and notice of last minute cancellations be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DoubleJCamping Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! We look forward to being able to serve you!
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$40
 / night
98%
(33)

field view campsite

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents20 acres ¡ Northfield, MN
Learn more about this land:You"ll camp right next to the Horse pasture and on our field drive with wonderful views and sunsets. The field is surrounded on three sides by Rice County Wilderness Park so it is very private and quiet.
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$25
 / night
88%
(13)

Lionheart

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents36 acres ¡ Millville, MN
Our land is a unique find with a little bit of everything. With river access, you can enjoy swimming/water activities and wind down with the wildlife sounds and campfire crackle. We have a few standup paddle boards, and river tubes available to rent and farm fresh eggs to purchase and enjoy with your morning campfire breakfast. The best on the Zumbro! Come experience life outdoors on the river :)
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$39
 / night
83%
(127)

Harbor Bar

12 sites ¡ RVs, TentsHager City, WI
Located at Harbor Bar across from Red Wing MN. said to be on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river. Fish from shore in one of the best fisheries in the country. Full restaurant & bar with live music on weekends.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent along the banks of the mighty Mississippi river. bar, restaurant, outdoor music festivals, fishing. View pretty Red Wing from across the river. Located on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river.
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$20
 / night
99%
(250)

Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

1 site ¡ RV, Tent8 acres ¡ Stewartville, MN
The property is one of a kind. The Driftless Region starts right here in SE Minnesota. It is secluded with mature trees, beautiful bluffs, fishing, kayaking! It is a nature lovers dream!
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$55
 / night
100%
(7)

Brookside Meadows

3 sites ¡ Tents35 acres ¡ Nerstrand, MN
Tired of the traffic? Can't stand all the continuous noise from the craziness of the cities? Do we have a place for you less than an hour away from the twin cities or Rochester! It is a 35 acres site with walking trails (3 miles). This property has a creek flowing through the property. It is the middle of nowhere. We are on a gravel road with very little traffic. We have 3 spots for tents and 1 for RV/campers. Each has a stone fire-ring & picnic table/wood table. We would love to have you out here. Restore & renew at what we consider to be our own retreat-like oasis. Pets are welcome and children will love playing by the brook and walking the trails. Check in after 3 (no entrance after sunset), Check Out at Noon Pack in Pack out- no littering please We are Rustic so no public restrooms/showers No smoking 2 vehicles max unless prior approval with management Pets OK- on leash in public areas/trails, off leash at campsite OK ***No entrance to grounds after sunset Onsite: Firewood available ($5 a bundle cash preferred or Venmo) Dennison (2 miles): Gas station & Fireside restaurant (check out their ribs, wings & waffle fries!) Nerstrand (2 miles): Gas station & Boots & Lu restaurant (breakfast on weekends) ***Nerstrand Big Woods Park! Walk to their waterfalls- Northfield (8 miles): Breweries, grocery, and antiquing Can't wait to meet you!
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$28
 / night
100%
(3)

Tiny*25 Acre*Farm*Barn*WINTER*SNOW*

1 site ¡ Lodging25 acres ¡ TN
QUIRKY BARN TINY HOME ON 25 ACRE NATURE PRESERVE DEER SEASON. LOCATED IN MINNESOTA, 30 MINUTES WEST OF ROCHESTER. Delight in the beauty and history of this authentic 150 year old family farm;  now organic, sustainable, solar-powered and chemical free with a rustic, handcrafted Tiny. Unplug in the charming cabin that pays homage to the founding family who settled and worked these woods.   Established in 1854, The Homestead is one of only a handful of remaining Century Farms in Minnesota;  this Pioneer Property boasts an inviting 25 PRIVATELY OWNED acres for you to freely roam.   Certified as a National Wildlife Habitat, there is an abundance of animals and birds in the heavily wooded pristine moors at the bottom of the hill.  Bluffs, creek, Medieval forest; the pastures are used organic, chemical free hay farming.   Homesteaded since 1858, the Farm has been chemical free since 1985. We raise organic hay. No livestock on the farm. The property you have access to is included in the Richard Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest. Authentic experiences on trails, cliffs, creek, meadows, wetlands, moors, prairie all in their natural state. Since no chemicals have been used "some' foraging is allowed. Please leave no trace. Be mindful of wildlife and considerate of others. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. Learn more about this land: 1 bed/1 bath rustic using the highest cleaning protocols for 5 star stays.  The entire unit is yours; not shared whatsoever.  25 acres of the farm has been carved out as a Nature Preserve.   Enter the property, pass the 150 year old corn crib and proceed down the drive.  We live on property about 150 yards away with no line of sight.   Self-Check In at the house using the key pad.   Enjoy locally sourced snacks - WHEN AVAILABLE -- and drinks thoughtfully provided by your Hosts, while you explore the house.  Whimsically curated decor to bring in woodsy charm of your new favorite getaway.   Put away the basic groceries you purchased en-route.   We know there is no view from the accommodations, because of where it is located.  You're meant to go outside.  Like, FR.  ;-)  Relax on the porch, open the adult beverages you brought with. Put your phone in the "Time Out" box.   Put on your sturdy shoes and take a stroll down to the scenic creek, free from all other distractions.  Check out the picnic pavilion.  Consider a picnic for tomorrow. Hike back up the hill (moderate/rocky) to the house.   Light the fire (wood provided)  and cook some veggies or chops on the gas grill.    [X]  Make S'mores  [X]  Have your own private bonfire.   Visit with other adults on the comfy porch or lawn under big sky while star gazing.   Sleep soundly on comfortable new memory foam mattresses with UGG bedding and hospitality grade linens.   Wake up refreshed and make coffee.  Slip out silently onto the porch and watch wildlife and birds.   Read or journal.  Eat breakfast or pack a knapsack for the trail.  Take eco-friendly bug spray and sunblock (provided). Following the clearly marked trail, admire the wild meadows with no other traffic.  Contemplate the amazing limestone bluffs that are indigenous to the area. Run the trails.  Walk along the scenic creek (again!!)  Have a breakfast bar and juice in the picnic pavilion.  Imagine what this land looked like 150 years ago Spend time re-wilding.  Forage for herbs and plants.  Spot birds.  (Bring the binoculars from the cabin!) Hunt for shed deer antlers and Morel mushrooms.  Watch the eagles. Since no chemicals have been used here since 1987, it is safe to harvest a few plants for yourself.  (Please be considerate, leave some for others, and practice good stewardship of natural resources;  Pack it in/Pack it out/leave no trace.)  The adjoining properties are still used for farming; it is possible you may see workers or animals across the pasture, but they won't intrude on your time, they're busy! These are working animals and machinery, so give them space.  Fences may have electrical current.  Don't touch wire fences. Take a private, romantic hike with your special someone.  Photograph the century old remains of the original farm. Stroll through the rolling hills.  Pick a couple apples from on of the 5 apple trees Nana-Eva planted  in 1942.   Admire the Day Lilys Mom planted in 1967.  (On the driveway, near the gates  Blooming in early summer.)  Eat some wild blackberries or grapes right off the vines.  Planted by Great Grandpa Otis in 1937.  (Look along fence lines for these) [X]  Relax in the safety and awesomeness of your natural wild environment. NEW!!!!!! Art Escapes. As us how. After a quick shower and you're off to explore town! Drive through picturesque S.E. Minnesota.  We are close to Historic Mantorville.  Pass by wineries, quaint antique shops and stagecoach hotel.  So, did you go North, South, East or West? Did you visit a nearby Festival or Fair?  See a Stagecoach?  Visit the Opera House?  Cycling?  Riding?  Find a local small batch brewery?  Did you go to the Farmer's Market?  Did you go to Rochester, Home of the Mayo Clinic and visit the city sights?  Were you berry picking?  Or did you go shopping at a variety of cute shops and boutiques? Antiquing?  We recommend a church supper if you can find one, or a VFW BBQ!  How about the Food Trucks?  Maybe you stopped at Burgers and Shake joint?  Did you get a massage and pedi?  Pop and ice cream at The Chocolate Shoppe?  Walk along the river?  Or were you more adventurous and went tubing on the Zumbro!? Art you participating in our ART INSTALLATION? More late night snuggling under the stars with your favorite person on the Art Studio patio. Another fine, soft, evening here watching the fireflies.   Wake up Sunday, re-energized and re-connected with your loved ones.   Take your coffee and walk down to the covered pavilion.  A quick breakfast of fresh eggs you bough from the Farmers Market and home made bread, and you're off. You have had a perfect small town getaway at The Tiny Lumber Jack! Make sure you have all your things, let Host(s) know you're departing, and lock the door!  Plan your return trip!  See you soon!
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$99
 / night
100%
(5)

Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

1 site ¡ Lodging25 acres ¡ Mantorville, MN
Welcome to your private oasis, nestled in the woods. Located in southeastern Minnesota's driftless region, where you are surrounded by rolling green hills, the Zumbro River, and limestone bluffs. You can walk a half-mile to the quaint town of Mantorville (I call it the Stars Hollow of Minnesota) where you'll find a cute coffee shop, antique stores, a breakfast spot in an old school house, a park on the river, a restaurant built in the 1850s, and a saloon with drinks and live music. The property offers walking trails throughout our woods with mature trees, an array of birds, flowers, a food forest, wildcraft medicinal herbs, and the Zumbro River for guest enjoyment. If you would like a tour of our 25-acre woodland property, my father (Steve), is a tree expert, and he would gladly show you around our land. Please message me and I will arrange this for you.
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$99
 / night
100%
(249)

Daniel's Cabin Retreat

4 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Waseca, MN
The River Farm once owned by Ulysses S. Grant and purchased from former Speaker of the House Rod Searle who held the Governor's Deer Camp here and congressional parties while in office on a private conservation park nicknamed the Jewel of Waseca County because of it's scenic overlook of the LeSueur River Valley, rolling hillside and diverse topography. Remote valley offers peace and quite with the exception of a few coyotes calls some nights. Your pet dog is allowed at site 1 and please check with us about having a dog at site 3. Thanks
from 
$45
 / night

The best camping near Rice Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

The watering hole at Rice Lake State Park is so named because for centuries Native American tribes harvested boatloads of wild rice from these shallow, marshy waters. Not ideal for swimming, this southeastern Minnesota lake is a happy place for boaters and fishers looking to bask in seclusion. Small and private, this major wetland blooms with wildflowers in the spring, making it a pretty magical spot for picnics. Walk-in, cart-in, and even canoe-in sites are available—paddling across the pond to one of the rustic cabins is your best option for a solitary retreat.

Looking for a little taste of society and culture? Head into nearby Owatonna, where the Village of Yesteryear, an historic 1800s town, offers tours to history buffs. Before you head back to your tent, grab a pint at Reggie’s Brewhouse, a Cheers-like spot with billiards and live bands, where locals make the newcomers feel plenty welcome.

When to go

The best time to visit Rice Lake State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be busy. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but be prepared for cold temperatures.

Know before you go

  • Highway 67 is permanently closed; follow alternative routes provided by the park for access.
  • Check the park's official website or contact the office for the latest updates on road closures and detours.
  • Remember that GPS apps may not have updated information; use the park's directions for reliable navigation.
  • For campers, proceed directly to your site; park staff will assist with check-in.
  • Stay connected with event updates by signing up for the park's newsletter.

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