The best camping near Albert Lea with hiking

·
99% (660) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Albert Lea

Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

1. Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

98%
(109)
37mi from Albert Lea · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Start your morning with a perfect view of the sunrise (site 2), or a more shaded, sleep-in a bit (site 1) along with your favorite morning beverage. Take a walk on our country road or into town, approximately a mile and a half to restaurants, visitors center at the Jolly Green Giant Statue, hardware stores, Shell gas station & food mart or access to miles of paved trails around the town. Explore and have fun locating the dozens of "Little Sprouts" (baby Green Giants) around town. Very easy entrance and exit to Blue Earth, site is located at the intersection of Interstate 90 & HWY 169.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
The Edge

2. The Edge

96%
(308)
47mi from Albert Lea · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Prairie Creek Campground

3. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
49mi from Albert Lea · 4 sites
Booking for 2026 is open. Our season begins April 1st, no foolin'! Thank you for a great 2025 camping season! We hosted more Hipcampers than any year before and are excited to have been honored again with a Best in Minnesota award. Thank you and we look forward to 2026! Pitch your tent at one of our Walk-In forest campsites on 60 acres along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock" erratic, a 60 acre county park featuring waterfalls and trails, including a single track mountain bike trail. 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. We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. 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. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside our hilltop site 4 is up an adventurous gravel road (but is very accessible). Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Stephen's grandparents bought this farm. In addition to farming they also operated a trail riding stable here. Over the years, the arable land has been sold, but we retained the wooded areas which are twice crossed by creeks. About 30 years ago, a 60 acre county park bordering the south and west sides of our land was created. We are very excited to host campers as a way to preserve and share this beautiful property.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
Myre - Big Island State Park

4. Myre - Big Island State Park

100%
(5)
State park 3mi from Albert Lea · 93 sites
Discover Myre-Big Island State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pilot Knob State Park

5. Pilot Knob State Park

100%
(1)
State park 30mi from Albert Lea · 60 sites
Pilot Knob State Park is a go-to for seasoned campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

6. Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

100%
(9)
42mi from Albert Lea · 1 site
Hidden Springs Hideaway is a little 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. Only a half-mile to the quaint town of Mantorville (some 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 Hidden Spring Hideaway is an off-grid, sustainable glamping experience set on a 25-acre working homestead just 15 miles west of Rochester, MN. Along with forest views and trails, don’t be surprised if a few friendly chickens wander by to say hello. Enjoy a pot of coffee or a bottle of wine, among the trees. The bell-shaped canvas tent provides private sleeping accommodations for two (a real queen bed, not an air mattress), an outdoor kitchen space and a gravel patio to relax with a campfire. The property offers walking trails throughout the 25-acre 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 the woodland property, one of the site hosts - Steve (a tree expert), would gladly show you around the land. Please send a message and we will arrange this for you. Please note, the Hidden Spring Hideaway has no running water or electricity. Everything is run on solar, rechargeable batteries and propane. There is adequate lighting inside and outside, plus lanterns, flashlights and headlamps for your use. For drinking, cooking and washing, there is a three-gallon cooler full of water for you. You're welcome to bring more of your own water as well or there is a convenience store a half-mile down the road (Casey's). There is a new outhouse on the property that includes a bench seat toilet. There is compostable material provided to sprinkle in after you finish your business. Handwashing supplies are provided. Firewood is available for purchase. $5 a bundle. Please message me at least a day before your stay to reserve and it will be delivered to the site. Add-on a sauna + cold plunge experience for $75.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$99
 / night
1854 * 7th Gen Farm * Cowboy Casita

7. 1854 * 7th Gen Farm * Cowboy Casita

100%
(9)
45mi from Albert Lea · 1 site
TINY HOME BARN APARTMENT ON 25 ACRE NATURE PRESERVE with 5 miles of trails on site. LOCATED IN MINNESOTA, 30 MINUTES WEST OF ROCHESTER. 1 hr. from MSP. Delight in the design, beauty, and authenticity of our 171-year-old family farm; now organic, sustainable, solar-powered and chemical free. Stay comfortably in the Cowboy Casita, a small handcrafted tiny home apartment built into the 75-year-old barn we call THE OUTRIDER. Established in 1854, we're one of only a handful of Century Farms that remain in Minnesota. This Pioneer Property boasts 25 PRIVATELY OWNED acres for you to freely roam. Homesteaded since 1854, the Farm has been chemical free since 1985. We are closing in on 2 centuries here. Certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. We plant food plots with our wildlife friends in mind. We produce our own honey. We cater to pollinators. Some foraging is ok. Enjoy the abundance of animals and birds in the heavily wooded pristine moors at the bottom of the hill. Bluffs, creek, Medieval Forest; pastures are used for organic, chemical-free hay farming. You have access to privately owned portion of the Richard Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest. Authentic experiences on trails, cliffs, creek, meadows, wetlands, moors, prairie all in their natural state. Leave no trace. Be mindful of wildlife and considerate of others. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. We can host horses in Guest stalls and space for trailers for endurance equine sports. Learn more about this land: * 1 bed/1 bath 5* rated rustic tiny * Highest cleaning protocols. * Entire unit is yours; not shared. * Unit is a small apartment built into a barn. * Access to shared laundry, shared gym. Private patio with firepit/grate/BBQ * 25 acres of farm has been carved out as Nature Preserve. * 5-star Airbnb when not a Hipcamp spot * Good Internet * Self-Check-In. Enjoy locally sourced snacks - WHEN AVAILABLE -- provided by your Hosts. Whimsically curated decor with a tongue-in-cheek nod to cowboy roots. Put on sturdy shoes and stroll down to the scenic creek; you've been transported back in time. Nearby Mantorville: coffee shop, saloon, nice dining room, ice cream, antiques. Pine Island is the start of the Douglas Trail for bikes.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night
Oakwood RV Park

8. Oakwood RV Park

38mi from Albert Lea
Nestled in the heart of Clear Lake, Oakwood RV Park stands out as a premier destination for those seeking an upscale camping experience. Established in 1987, this privately owned RV park has become a beloved fixture in the community, offering a unique blend of comfort and nature. Our park features spacious premium pull-through sites designed for easy accessibility, making it ideal for larger RVs. Guests can choose between pull-through or back-in sites, both equipped with full hookups and complimentary Wi-Fi to ensure a convenient stay. In addition to our top-notch amenities, Oakwood RV Park is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities and natural attractions. Visitors can explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and local parks, while also enjoying access to a variety of restaurants and shops in the area. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on an adventure, Oakwood RV Park is the perfect base for your Clear Lake getaway.
Autumn Woods RV Park

9. Autumn Woods RV Park

48mi from Albert Lea
Discover the charm of our unique RV park, where comfort meets convenience during your stay in Rochester, MN. Whether you're passing through for a single night or seeking a longer-term stay while receiving treatment at the renowned Mayo Clinic, we strive to create a welcoming atmosphere that feels just like home. Our park is ideally situated just minutes away from key attractions, including the Mayo Clinic, Mayo Civic Center, and a variety of golf courses. You'll also find an array of restaurants and grocery stores nearby, making it easy to enjoy local dining and shopping options. With our prime location, we proudly stand as Rochester's most convenient RV park, ensuring you have everything you need right at your fingertips. Come experience the perfect blend of relaxation and accessibility during your visit!
Rice Lake State Park

10. Rice Lake State Park

100%
(2)
State park 34mi from Albert Lea · 50 sites
Discover Rice Lake State Park's scenic trails and diverse wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
McIntosh Woods State Park

11. McIntosh Woods State Park

State park 37mi from Albert Lea · 51 sites
Discover the Serenity of McIntosh Woods State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Sakatah Lake State Park

12. Sakatah Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 40mi from Albert Lea · 69 sites
Discover Sakatah Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Louise State Park

13. Lake Louise State Park

100%
(1)
State park 43mi from Albert Lea · 39 sites
Discover the natural charm of Lake Louise State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

14. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

83%
(3)
State park 49mi from Albert Lea · 54 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
99% (660) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Albert Lea

Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

1. Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

98%
(109)
37mi from Albert Lea · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Start your morning with a perfect view of the sunrise (site 2), or a more shaded, sleep-in a bit (site 1) along with your favorite morning beverage. Take a walk on our country road or into town, approximately a mile and a half to restaurants, visitors center at the Jolly Green Giant Statue, hardware stores, Shell gas station & food mart or access to miles of paved trails around the town. Explore and have fun locating the dozens of "Little Sprouts" (baby Green Giants) around town. Very easy entrance and exit to Blue Earth, site is located at the intersection of Interstate 90 & HWY 169.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
The Edge

2. The Edge

96%
(308)
47mi from Albert Lea · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Prairie Creek Campground

3. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
49mi from Albert Lea · 4 sites
Booking for 2026 is open. Our season begins April 1st, no foolin'! Thank you for a great 2025 camping season! We hosted more Hipcampers than any year before and are excited to have been honored again with a Best in Minnesota award. Thank you and we look forward to 2026! Pitch your tent at one of our Walk-In forest campsites on 60 acres along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock" erratic, a 60 acre county park featuring waterfalls and trails, including a single track mountain bike trail. 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. We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. 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. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside our hilltop site 4 is up an adventurous gravel road (but is very accessible). Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Stephen's grandparents bought this farm. In addition to farming they also operated a trail riding stable here. Over the years, the arable land has been sold, but we retained the wooded areas which are twice crossed by creeks. About 30 years ago, a 60 acre county park bordering the south and west sides of our land was created. We are very excited to host campers as a way to preserve and share this beautiful property.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
Myre - Big Island State Park

4. Myre - Big Island State Park

100%
(5)
State park 3mi from Albert Lea · 93 sites
Discover Myre-Big Island State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pilot Knob State Park

5. Pilot Knob State Park

100%
(1)
State park 30mi from Albert Lea · 60 sites
Pilot Knob State Park is a go-to for seasoned campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

6. Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

100%
(9)
42mi from Albert Lea · 1 site
Hidden Springs Hideaway is a little 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. Only a half-mile to the quaint town of Mantorville (some 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 Hidden Spring Hideaway is an off-grid, sustainable glamping experience set on a 25-acre working homestead just 15 miles west of Rochester, MN. Along with forest views and trails, don’t be surprised if a few friendly chickens wander by to say hello. Enjoy a pot of coffee or a bottle of wine, among the trees. The bell-shaped canvas tent provides private sleeping accommodations for two (a real queen bed, not an air mattress), an outdoor kitchen space and a gravel patio to relax with a campfire. The property offers walking trails throughout the 25-acre 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 the woodland property, one of the site hosts - Steve (a tree expert), would gladly show you around the land. Please send a message and we will arrange this for you. Please note, the Hidden Spring Hideaway has no running water or electricity. Everything is run on solar, rechargeable batteries and propane. There is adequate lighting inside and outside, plus lanterns, flashlights and headlamps for your use. For drinking, cooking and washing, there is a three-gallon cooler full of water for you. You're welcome to bring more of your own water as well or there is a convenience store a half-mile down the road (Casey's). There is a new outhouse on the property that includes a bench seat toilet. There is compostable material provided to sprinkle in after you finish your business. Handwashing supplies are provided. Firewood is available for purchase. $5 a bundle. Please message me at least a day before your stay to reserve and it will be delivered to the site. Add-on a sauna + cold plunge experience for $75.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$99
 / night
1854 * 7th Gen Farm * Cowboy Casita

7. 1854 * 7th Gen Farm * Cowboy Casita

100%
(9)
45mi from Albert Lea · 1 site
TINY HOME BARN APARTMENT ON 25 ACRE NATURE PRESERVE with 5 miles of trails on site. LOCATED IN MINNESOTA, 30 MINUTES WEST OF ROCHESTER. 1 hr. from MSP. Delight in the design, beauty, and authenticity of our 171-year-old family farm; now organic, sustainable, solar-powered and chemical free. Stay comfortably in the Cowboy Casita, a small handcrafted tiny home apartment built into the 75-year-old barn we call THE OUTRIDER. Established in 1854, we're one of only a handful of Century Farms that remain in Minnesota. This Pioneer Property boasts 25 PRIVATELY OWNED acres for you to freely roam. Homesteaded since 1854, the Farm has been chemical free since 1985. We are closing in on 2 centuries here. Certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. We plant food plots with our wildlife friends in mind. We produce our own honey. We cater to pollinators. Some foraging is ok. Enjoy the abundance of animals and birds in the heavily wooded pristine moors at the bottom of the hill. Bluffs, creek, Medieval Forest; pastures are used for organic, chemical-free hay farming. You have access to privately owned portion of the Richard Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest. Authentic experiences on trails, cliffs, creek, meadows, wetlands, moors, prairie all in their natural state. Leave no trace. Be mindful of wildlife and considerate of others. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. We can host horses in Guest stalls and space for trailers for endurance equine sports. Learn more about this land: * 1 bed/1 bath 5* rated rustic tiny * Highest cleaning protocols. * Entire unit is yours; not shared. * Unit is a small apartment built into a barn. * Access to shared laundry, shared gym. Private patio with firepit/grate/BBQ * 25 acres of farm has been carved out as Nature Preserve. * 5-star Airbnb when not a Hipcamp spot * Good Internet * Self-Check-In. Enjoy locally sourced snacks - WHEN AVAILABLE -- provided by your Hosts. Whimsically curated decor with a tongue-in-cheek nod to cowboy roots. Put on sturdy shoes and stroll down to the scenic creek; you've been transported back in time. Nearby Mantorville: coffee shop, saloon, nice dining room, ice cream, antiques. Pine Island is the start of the Douglas Trail for bikes.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night
Oakwood RV Park

8. Oakwood RV Park

38mi from Albert Lea
Nestled in the heart of Clear Lake, Oakwood RV Park stands out as a premier destination for those seeking an upscale camping experience. Established in 1987, this privately owned RV park has become a beloved fixture in the community, offering a unique blend of comfort and nature. Our park features spacious premium pull-through sites designed for easy accessibility, making it ideal for larger RVs. Guests can choose between pull-through or back-in sites, both equipped with full hookups and complimentary Wi-Fi to ensure a convenient stay. In addition to our top-notch amenities, Oakwood RV Park is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities and natural attractions. Visitors can explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and local parks, while also enjoying access to a variety of restaurants and shops in the area. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on an adventure, Oakwood RV Park is the perfect base for your Clear Lake getaway.
Autumn Woods RV Park

9. Autumn Woods RV Park

48mi from Albert Lea
Discover the charm of our unique RV park, where comfort meets convenience during your stay in Rochester, MN. Whether you're passing through for a single night or seeking a longer-term stay while receiving treatment at the renowned Mayo Clinic, we strive to create a welcoming atmosphere that feels just like home. Our park is ideally situated just minutes away from key attractions, including the Mayo Clinic, Mayo Civic Center, and a variety of golf courses. You'll also find an array of restaurants and grocery stores nearby, making it easy to enjoy local dining and shopping options. With our prime location, we proudly stand as Rochester's most convenient RV park, ensuring you have everything you need right at your fingertips. Come experience the perfect blend of relaxation and accessibility during your visit!
Rice Lake State Park

10. Rice Lake State Park

100%
(2)
State park 34mi from Albert Lea · 50 sites
Discover Rice Lake State Park's scenic trails and diverse wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
McIntosh Woods State Park

11. McIntosh Woods State Park

State park 37mi from Albert Lea · 51 sites
Discover the Serenity of McIntosh Woods State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Sakatah Lake State Park

12. Sakatah Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 40mi from Albert Lea · 69 sites
Discover Sakatah Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Louise State Park

13. Lake Louise State Park

100%
(1)
State park 43mi from Albert Lea · 39 sites
Discover the natural charm of Lake Louise State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

14. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

83%
(3)
State park 49mi from Albert Lea · 54 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field