Camping near Mankato

Enjoy winter wildlife from snow-packed trails or misty waterfalls when summer camping near Mankato.

98% (610 reviews)

United States
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Minnesota
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Mankato

98% (610 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Mankato

Community favorites near Mankato

Public campgrounds near Mankato

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(2)

Minneopa State Park Group Campground

4 sites In Minneopa State Park

100%

(1)

Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

69 sites · RVs, Tents In Sakatah Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Fort Ridgely Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Fort Ridgely State Park

100%

(2)

Rice Lake Campground

50 sites · RVs, Tents In Rice Lake State Park

Flandrau Campground

92 sites · RVs, Tents In Flandrau State Park

Equestrian Campground

6 sites In Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

If you venture off the beaten path , you may end up here , with views of the breathtaking waterfall . You can get close enough to touch it , if you wish .

67%

(3)

Red Fox Campground

68 sites · RVs, Tents In Minneopa State Park

Nerstrand Big Woods Campground

54 sites · RVs, Tents In Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

Stories from the community

2 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

My family and I really enjoyed our site. My labradors especially loved being right on Prairie Creek. There’s a bunch of trails to access from the property which was awesome. The sites were well maintained and having a cart to bring our gear back was a great surprise. I would recommend this to anyone.

2 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

This campsite was amazing! 5min off the road but completely surrounded by woods. Could hear owls and coyotes at night. Easy access to Caron Park and the waterfall next door. The campsite was clean and taken care of and Stephen was very friendly. Definitely coming again!

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Camping here was such a peaceful and adventurous experience! So many trails near the campsites to explore and the creek is just beautiful. Would definitely recommend staying here!

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

We loved tent camping. The fire ring was easy to use and very safe. We hiked to the local county park with a beautiful but chilly stream. Overall, peaceful and lovely stay.

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Great host and beautiful sunrise! Quiet and accommodating. A+

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Loved this place. It is so idyllic. Nearby are the Farmers Daughter restaurant, with excellent pancakes. And it is the home of the jolly green giant! Soooo nice!

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Great host. Great spot. Safe & quaint. My kids especially loved the property!

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

A great spot close enough to the highway to be convenient, far enough to be peaceful. Enjoyed the friendly canine company of “Emma” and “Lady” and that of the lovely host.

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Stephen always has the sites in clean and top shape. Always comes and greats your stay with a positive attitude and always appreciative. Beautiful area and so peaceful. Would highly recommend to anyone.

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

This was my first time using hipcamp. What a positive experience! Site 4 was perfect. It was private and spacious. Close to the trails that Steve has designed. My friends and I will definitely be coming back. Stephen greeted us our first day. Very pleasant and takes great care of his property.

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Great spot! Easy to find, refreshing wading for me and my pup in the waterfall, beautiful surroundings. Stephen came to greet me and answer any questions. We had a good time.

Weekend Trip to Stadings Farm & Ranch

A beautiful spot to camp near Mankato. There are a choice of spots to park and since we needed electric we used the concrete pad near the barn. Owners are super friendly and they have a super cute cow! One thing to take note of is if you need to park on the pad, the black flies are pretty annoying during the day. However, they do not bite and we put out fly strips and some spray and it helped immensely. But we were gone most of the time during the day and they died down in the early evening like someone turned off the switch. Perfect campfire location next to the lake too! A really solid spot for a base camp to explore the area - we shopped at cute stores in ‘Kato and hiked around Minneopa as well as attending the Cake concert at the amphitheatre in town. A great weekend - thanks so much!

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

We really enjoyed our stay. The site was amazing. The privacy on each site was great. Having the creek next to our site was very peaceful. It was our first time bringing an 9 year old dog (with anxiety) camping and he loved it. There were dogs at the other sites as well and no barking from any of the dogs. The owner came and introduced himself and made us feel welcome. Relaxing environment and great trails to explore if you like that. Lots of picture/memory opportunities. Thank you for the experience, we will be back!

1 night at Prairie Creek Campground

The directions were fairly easy to follow. The #4 site was well out of site of other campers, which is what we wanted. The host was easy to contact. At one point, the other campsites were playing music very loudly. Stephen checked in with me and with the other campsites, and it all worked out great. The hiking trails nearby were fun to explore as well. The bathroom was a fair walk, and when the site says they recommend 4-wheel drive to get up to the site, that is good advice! We loved being in our hammocks and being surrounded by so many trees. No matter the time of day, it was easy to find sun or shade at the site.

Weekend Trip to Mn River Valley Sanctuary

We Loved!! Camping on Edwin's Land. It was so fun to bike ride and see all the animals. Ed and his wife were so accommodating and we hope to return soon.

Weekend Trip to Stadings Farm & Ranch

Easy to find, peaceful and relaxing! Host wasn't home so we did not meet personally, but he was quick to respond to our questions. We enjoyed having room to set up our bathroom tent and badminton while still have plenty of space. The dock/canoe werent available, but we enjoyed floating on our tubes, and caught fish off shore. Loved being able to walk up and interact with the cow! Town was a short drive to get what we needed. We didn't walk the trails, so no comment on them. It felt like our own little escape even though there were others there( they seemed to stay in their units, hopefully not because we were out and about) only downside was only having one fire pit/swing on the lakeside where two of us were set up, we didn't want to be distracting to others, yet wanted to utilize them, so when noone else was using it we did and just closed down early in case they wanted to after.

6 nights at Champion Valley

One of the nicest spots and we've been all over the US. Dogs loved it as well. We stayed at Turtle point, Base camp and Gus's Grove. Will return!

Weekend Trip to field view campsite

The field view campsite is a very nice and cozy campsite with BEAUTIFUL sunsets. You feel you are one with nature with the amazing sounds of all the wildlife from turkeys, birds, and coyotes. The goats at the farm provide entertainment and are the cutest to watch. Kristin also welcomed us at the campsite and was very kind and welcoming. It was a wonderful way to spend the weekend.

2 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

We always have a good time camping here. It is quiet, relaxing, and beautiful. The parks near by are a must see and all of the sites are charming. The new pathways give a visual charm that was a nice surprise this year. Always a favorite that we will be back to again.

2 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

We had a short but lovely stay at campsite 3—the flowing creek and surroundings were beautiful and the site was quiet and private. This was our second visit and I would DEFINITELY return. Thank you, Stephen!

Top camping destinations

Afton State Park

87 campgrounds

Lake Maria in late August, unbelievably green!

Lake Maria State Park

93 campgrounds

Frontenac State Park

81 campgrounds

A quick snapshot my awesome friend, Kyle took of me admiring the scenery and waterfall.

Willow River State Park

6 top campgrounds near Mankato

99%

(788)

Prairie Creek Campground

7 sites · Tents60 acres · Nerstrand, MN

Hello 2025, Camping Season is Here! 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 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. 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 steep gravel road (but it is accessible). We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. Sites are priced for one tent, please let us know if you need to have more than one tent. Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. 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. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Ted's parents 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 25 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.

90%

(56)

Champion Valley

4 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Lakeville, MN

Champion Valley is a 150-acre outdoor adventure park in Lakeville, MN featuring ax-throwing, airsoft, paintball, escape rooms & archery tag. We are located 5 minutes off of Interstate 35W. It is situated on 150 acres of beautiful hills and waterways covered with thousands of trees.

98%

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Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Blue Earth, MN

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.

95%

(30)

Stadings Farm & Ranch

3 sites · RVs15 acres · Lake Crystal, MN

Enjoy a peaceful campsite alongside a prairie lake in Southern MN, where towering oaks shade and fill the landscape. Sit by the lake with a campfire as you watch for Bald Eagles and Swans. We have a paddle boat and canoe available to explore the lake or bring your kayak or paddle board. Our farm is designed for RV's, Campers, any thing that is self contained. Water and electricity are available for an additional $25 per day for both. We offer firewood to purchase $10, place payment donation box. Pick your own veggies, please place payment in our donation box. With a mile of lake shore, you can camp in secluded Grass fields, to Oak Savanna.

97%

(54)

field view campsite

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Northfield, MN

Learn more about this land: You"ll camp right next to the 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.

97%

(67)

Mn River Valley Sanctuary

6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Franklin, MN

Welcome, we have a small flock of waterfowl and chickens and a herd of goats to interact with, volunteer some time in our organic garden, peer up into endless night skies or use us a s a base camp to go exploring the several county and state parks, Natural and Scientific areas, hiking trails and local communities. We are located about 5 miles from either Franklin or Fairfax and less than 20 minutes to Redwood Falls, Jackpot Junction and New Ulm.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

80%

(5)

Minneopa State Park

North Mankato, Minnesota

100%

(1)

Sakatah Lake State Park

Waterville, Minnesota

100%

(2)

Fort Ridgely State Park

Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

Jordan, Minnesota

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

Nerstrand, Minnesota

Other options near Mankato

Booked 2 times

Pihls Park

41 sites · RVs, TentsWells, MN

Pihl’s Park stands out as a unique destination due to its rich history as a private retreat transformed into a public haven for nature lovers. Originally established by Joe Pihl, who cherished sharing his stunning 20-acre property, the park was generously donated to Faribault County in the 1960s. This act of kindness ensured that everyone could experience the beauty of the land. Nestled along the shores of the expansive 256-acre Rice Lake, Pihl’s Park offers a fantastic environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is a popular activity here, with anglers often casting lines for pan fish such as crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. Visitors to the park can immerse themselves in its natural beauty, whether they choose to spend a day, a week, or an entire season exploring the scenic landscapes. With a variety of outdoor activities available, Pihl’s Park is the perfect spot for families and friends to create lasting memories while enjoying the great outdoors.

Booked 1 time

Dakotah Meadows RV Park

52 sites · RVs1 acre · Prior Lake, MN

Discover the unique charm of Dakotah Meadows, the premier RV Park in the Twin Cities, where nature and comfort blend seamlessly. Set against the backdrop of a serene pond in the picturesque Minnesota River Valley, this RV park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Guests can wake up to the breathtaking beauty of a Minnesota sunrise and unwind in the evenings by the campfire, enjoying the warmth of the crackling flames in the cool night air. For those seeking excitement, Dakotah Meadows is conveniently located just steps away from Mystic Lake Casino, one of the most impressive casinos in the nation. With over 4,000 slot machines, blackjack tables, bingo, diverse dining options, and top-notch entertainment, there’s never a dull moment. Additionally, the park is in close proximity to a variety of family-friendly attractions in the Twin Cities area, including Valley Fair amusement park, Cleary Lake Regional Park, the iconic Mall of America, and the renowned US Bank Stadium. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat immersed in nature or an exhilarating getaway filled with casino thrills, Dakotah Meadows is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

Lake Washington Regional Park & Campground

33 sites · RVs, TentsKasota, MN

Lake Washington Regional Park and Campground stands out as a unique destination due to its expansive 164 acres of natural beauty, nestled along nearly a mile of pristine shoreline on Lake Washington. Located near Kasota, just 10 miles northeast of Mankato, this park offers visitors an exceptional blend of tranquility and outdoor adventure. Campers and day users can immerse themselves in a variety of recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike. The park features ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to its natural attractions, Lake Washington Regional Park is conveniently situated near local restaurants and shops, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant community of Le Sueur County. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed day outdoors, this campground provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. For those interested in exploring the area further, Le Sueur County offers a wealth of resources, including city maps, community events, and historical insights. With its stunning landscapes and diverse amenities, Lake Washington Regional Park and Campground is truly a gem in the heart of Minnesota.

Kamp Dels

1 siteWaterville, MN

Welcome to Kamp Dels, a unique family campground that has been creating unforgettable memories since 1955. Nestled in the heart of Waterville, MN, just one hour south of the Twin Cities, our campground stands out as Southern Minnesota's premier destination for family fun and adventure. At Kamp Dels, we offer a diverse range of activities suitable for all ages, ensuring that every family member can find something to enjoy. Our facilities include cozy cabin rentals, a spacious RV park, and a thrilling water park, making it easy for guests to relax and have fun. We pride ourselves on providing a safe and clean environment, where families can bond, grow, and create lasting traditions. Our mission is to deliver an exceptional experience through outstanding customer care and a variety of engaging activities. Whether you're exploring nearby natural features, enjoying swimming holes, or participating in outdoor adventures, Kamp Dels is the perfect place to unwind. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you can easily enjoy the best of both nature and community. Come and discover why Kamp Dels is more than just a campground—it's a destination for cherished family memories.

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Sakatah Trail Campground

1 siteMadison Lake, MN

Welcome to Sakatah Trail Campground, a unique haven designed specifically for construction workers seeking a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Located at 501 Cherry Avenue in Madison Lake, MN, our campground offers a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home away from home. Our facilities include essential amenities such as laundry services, ensuring that you can keep your work clothes fresh and clean during your stay. Open year-round, Sakatah Trail Campground provides a reliable option for workers in any season. In addition to our worker-friendly environment, the campground is surrounded by beautiful natural features, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and recreational activities that allow you to unwind after a long day on the job. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Come experience the perfect blend of work and relaxation at Sakatah Trail Campground!

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Courthouse Park

1 siteWaseca, MN

Courthouse Park stands out as a unique destination, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Nestled alongside the picturesque LeSueur River, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained trails perfect for walking, horseback riding, and skiing, ensuring year-round access to the stunning scenery. For those looking to engage in friendly competition, the park features horseshoe pits and cornhole boards, as well as an 18-hole disc golf course. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the basketball court, providing a space for active play. In addition to its recreational amenities, Courthouse Park offers camping facilities and shelter reservations, making it an ideal spot for gatherings and outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed day, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

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Madelia Campground at Watona Park

1 siteMadelia, MN

Discover the charm of Madelia Campground at Watona Park, a unique destination that offers a perfect blend of nature and modern amenities. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campground features a variety of sites to accommodate all types of campers, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike. Madelia Campground boasts 47 sites equipped with electric, water, and sewer hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay for those who prefer a more connected camping experience. For those who enjoy a simpler setup, there are 4 sites with just water and electric hookups, as well as 23 additional sites offering electric hookups. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, the campground also includes 3 tent-only sites, perfect for a more rustic experience. In addition to its well-equipped sites, Madelia Campground is conveniently located near a variety of attractions. Guests can explore nearby natural features, enjoy refreshing swimming holes, and partake in numerous outdoor activities. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops, making your stay both enjoyable and convenient. Experience the beauty and amenities of Madelia Campground at Watona Park, where unforgettable memories await.

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Lakeview Resort

55 sitesWaterville, MN

Lakeview Resort stands out as a unique destination on the Northwest shore of Upper Lake Sakatah, just a stone's throw from the charming city of Waterville, Minnesota. Nestled amidst nature, our resort offers access to an impressive 2,500 acres of water across three lakes, with an additional 50 lakes within a 20-mile radius, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. Our updated cabins are designed for your comfort, each featuring a private deck that overlooks the serene lake. For those who prefer camping, our campground is situated in a peaceful wooded area nearby. Don’t let a rainy day dampen your spirits; our newly remodeled Lodge is equipped with a pool table, a big-screen TV, and a variety of games to keep you entertained. Venture into Waterville for delightful dining options and unique shopping experiences. The area is rich in attractions, including major malls, Cabela’s, and local casinos. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Sakatah Hills Bike Trail, located just across the lake. This paved trail meanders through the picturesque countryside and along the lakes, connecting Mankato and Faribault. Bike rentals are available in town for those who prefer cycling over walking. Summer in Waterville is vibrant, featuring events like Bullhead Days in early June,

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Winjum's Shady Acres Resort

1 siteLe Center, MN

Discover the unique charm of Winjum's Shady Acres Resort, where relaxation and adventure seamlessly blend. Nestled in a serene setting, our campground offers a perfect getaway for families and friends looking to unwind and explore the great outdoors. Conveniently situated just 40 minutes south of the Twin Cities and 40 minutes north of the Iowa border, Winjum's Campground Resort is an ideal vacation destination. We provide a variety of accommodations, including vacation rentals and seasonal RV sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. For those seeking a little more excitement, we also offer pontoon rentals, allowing you to explore nearby lakes and waterways. Our resort is surrounded by natural beauty, with swimming holes and outdoor activities just a stone's throw away. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, and local attractions that showcase the best of the area. After a day of adventure, unwind at nearby restaurants and shops that offer a taste of local flavor. At Winjum's Shady Acres Resort, your perfect vacation awaits, combining relaxation with the thrill of outdoor exploration. Come and experience the tranquility and excitement that make our campground truly special!

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Allansons Park

1 siteHenderson, MN

Henderson's campground stands out as a historic gem, established by founder Joseph R. Brown in 1855, who dedicated land for public enjoyment. This picturesque park features 18 developed campsites, each equipped with electrical hookups and water access, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Guests can take advantage of the picnic shelter, which includes restrooms and shower facilities, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings or a relaxing day outdoors. Children will delight in the playground equipment, while nature enthusiasts can explore the scenic walking trail that winds through the park. One of the park's highlights is the breathtaking view it offers of the city and the Minnesota River Valley, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable moments. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or engage in outdoor activities, this campground is a fantastic destination for both relaxation and adventure.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Mankato guide

Overview

Roughly 1.5 hours from the hustle and bustle of Minneapolis, Mankato lets campers get a change of pace from city life. RV and tent sites are numerous at local Mankato campgrounds, which also typically feature restrooms, non-potable drinking water, individual fire rings, and picnic tables. Many Mankato campers spend their time exploring the sights at Minneopa State Park, just 10 minutes from town. Take a bike ride on the Red Jacket Trail, visit the historical Seppman Mill, and watch in awe as Minneopa Falls tumbles into a 40-foot gorge. The winter season brings tons of snow for cross-country ski trails, which circle the wild bison range—keep an eye out! Then stay the night at the park’s pet-friendly campground for tents and RVs. It has amenities like electric hookups, drinking water taps, water-fill stations for motorhomes, and a seasonal dump station. A rustic cabin rental is also on-site and available year-round—it shares the campground’s amenities.