The best beach camping near Burr Oak

32mi from Burr Oak · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Brownsville, MN

(316)

Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.

2. Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

99%

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41mi from Burr Oak · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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!

3. Bollman Bluffs River Camp

9.5mi from Burr Oak · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cresco, IA

Experience the Driftless Region like never before at Fossilstone Camp, tucked along the Upper Iowa River. Pitch your tent or park your camper near the spacious beach and tranquil pond, refresh in the outdoor shower, and wander the trails that wind through the property. Evenings come alive with crickets, wildlife, and rolling fog, creating the perfect backdrop for a stunning stargazing night. Fossilstone Camp is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside escape.

4. Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

174 sites · Frontenac, Minnesota

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Discover the natural splendor of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.

5. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park

135 sites · Wykoff, Minnesota

(2)

Discover the allure of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.

6. The Prairie Lodge

41mi from Burr Oak · 1 site · Lodging · Elkader, IA

Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks. The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed. Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land. Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars. For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability. Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.

7. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

18mi from Burr Oak · 40 sites · RVs · Dorchester, IA

Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals. At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance! Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available. Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line

8. Blackhawk Park

175 sites · De Soto, Wisconsin

Discover Blackhawk Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.

9. Lake Louise State Park

39 sites · Le Roy, Minnesota

Discover the natural charm of Lake Louise State Park.

10. Goose Island Park

Discover Goose Island Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

400 sites · Wisconsin

11. Great River Bluffs State Park

31 sites · Dakota, Minnesota

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Discover the serene beauty of Great River Bluffs State Park.

12. Whitewater State Park MN

114 sites · Elba, Minnesota

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Hike a mountain, hit the beach, or fish for trout at this popular park.

66 sites · Fountain City, Wisconsin

13. Merrick State Park

Discover Merrick State Park's river access and scenic trails.

Public campgrounds near Burr Oak

20mi from Burr Oak · 2 sites · in Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

Isinours Management Unit

22mi from Burr Oak · 135 sites · Tents, RVs · in Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park

(2)

Forestville Campground

Oak Ridge / Wet Bark Recreation Area

22mi from Burr Oak · 5 sites · in Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

25mi from Burr Oak · 8 sites · in Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

Money Creek & Vinegar Ridge

31mi from Burr Oak · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

(2)

Reno Horse Campground

32mi from Burr Oak · 175 sites · Tents, RVs · in Blackhawk Park

Blackhawk Park Campground

34mi from Burr Oak · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Louise State Park

Lake Louise Campground

37mi from Burr Oak · 400 sites · Tents, RVs · in Goose Island Park

Goose Island Park Campground

41mi from Burr Oak · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Great River Bluffs State Park

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Great River Campground

43mi from Burr Oak · 114 sites · Tents, RVs · in Whitewater State Park MN

(7)

Cedar Hill and Goosberry Glen

Merrick Campground

48mi from Burr Oak · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Merrick State Park

Stories from the community

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Highly recommend! A beautiful, secluded place! Owner is very responsive too!

J

Jeannie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

5 STARS! Will stay again. Drove down the hill and camped at the river. It was perfect.

B

Brent

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Terrific location, quiet and set away from any neighbors. Gentle slope ensures even recent rains drain off reasonably well. Beautiful fall colors, short hike down to the river & bluffs with great wading for our visit. Even the toilet facilities were clean, well kept, and better than expected (though bring a lantern to keep in there as it gets a bit dark).

Peter

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

We loved our camping trip at Eric’s Bluff Hollow Camp. The site is a tranquil GEM nestled underneath scenic bluffs at a sharp turn of the Root River. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and Eric is a responsive and affable host. I have been scouting for private campsites near trout streams and this IS the place! We are looking forward to returning next spring!

W

William

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Went tent camping here and it was worth every dollar. Quiet, private, and absolutely beautiful scenery. The property owner is generous, communicative, and maintains the land very well. Cleanest outhouse I've ever seen!! Lots of deadwood for fires and a nice stream for collecting water to filter.

K

Kyle

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Shady Rest Acres

Patty and Michelle are awesome hosts. Very available and acommodating if you need anything but totally out of your hair otherwise. Heart's Content was a lovely spot where you could hear the soft trickle of water flowing from pond to pond as you slept. Very close to a lot of cool spots including a great bluff hike in Reno, MN, and great boating/island hopping opportunities at Goose Island in LaCrosse, WI. The farm animals were all very chill and friendly and were very respectful of our space at the campsite, like not wandering in and being all up on us while we prepped meals or anything like that. They'd sometimes graze on the underbrush that rings the site. The goats loved being fed food scraps like carrot/potato skins, banana peels, etc. There was a very clean and well maintained outhouse on the premises and a water spigot nearby with very clean water. Great price on a generous amount of firewood that is stored in a dry shelter. Buy it in person, not through the app. ;)

B

Barbara

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Great location, great site, great fishing! Lots of space. Toilet was clean and not smelly. Loved our time here!

A

Amy

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Another wonderful weekend at Bluff Hollow! Great weather, fun fishing in the river, such a peaceful place...just what I needed to recharge. I hope to be back next year!

Noelani

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Absolutely gorgeous site. It's huge, you really feel like you have the ENTIRE forest and river to yourself. Me and my dogs had the time of our lives just wandering around. Lots of critters around. I heard coyotes nearby so watch your small dogs!

Wes

September 2025

Tent

This was our second stop across the country. I absolutely loved the place and wish I had an opportunity to stay longer. Even though a crazy storm kept me up, almost toppled the tent, and flooded everything it was an amazing experience. Would absolutely go back. 🥰

C

Caitlin

September 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

This is our second year camping at this site and absolutely love it! Eric is such a great host and so prompt with communication. We look forward to our next weekend at Bluff Hollow!

Amanda

September 2025

9 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Beautiful, extremely private. Trees are just starting to turn and it’s gorgeous. This time I opted not to bring my fishing pole and of course I saw multiple trout in the river. I realized on day 2 of our stay that we booked during deer opener and worried that nearby hunting could provoke my reactive dog, but any shots heard were far away and it wasn’t a problem! The most impressively clean port-a-potty I’ve ever used. Love this site. Eric is great host—clear directions and expectations are appropriately set!

S

Shannon

September 2025

11 ft campervan

With pets

What an amazing and tranquil place. Hicking trails and a river surrounded by bluffs to enjoy. Very clean and well maintained property. Will definitely be coming back hopefully for years to come.

Tynan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Well maintained. Private and peaceful. Easy to find using google maps.

J

Justin

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Amazing piece of land along the river. Quiet with tons of space and camping options.

E

Elizabeth

September 2025

16 ft car