Camping Near Mankato, MN, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

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.

94% (722)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

94% (722)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

98%

(107)

35mi from Mankato · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

2. Prairie Creek Campground

99%

(855)

42mi from Mankato · 7 sites · Tents · Nerstrand, MN

Thank you for a great 2025 Camping Season! This was our best year yet! We hosted more Hipcamers 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.

3. Private entrance Apple Orchard

100%

(16)

45mi from Mankato · 2 sites · RVs · Shakopee, MN

Learn more about this land:Private entrance and parking for campers on the back sections of our 3.5 acre property. Grassy area near woods and amongst our apple trees. Fire pit for your use. Great location, just a mile off the freeway. Within walking distance to Bar & Grill and bowling alley. Within 10 minutes to all the local attractions, including: Valley Fair, Renaissance Festival, Mystic Lake Casino, Wilds Golf course, Stonebrooke Golf course, Canterbury Park, Lake O'dowd, Prior Lake, downtown Shakopee, downtown Chaska, downtown Jordan, as well as many shops, bars and restaurants.

4. Stadings Farm & Ranch

97%

(43)

18mi from Mankato · 3 sites · RVs · 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.

5. Mn River Valley Sanctuary

97%

(75)

47mi from Mankato · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

6. field view campsite

94%

(62)

42mi from Mankato · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.if you have a tent or small vehicle park down next to fire ring. If you have an RV park on the field drive next to the site

7. Champion Valley

90%

(70)

43mi from Mankato · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

8. Walker's Ranch

100%

(21)

45mi from Mankato · 1 site · Tent · Lakeville, MN

Learn more about this land: Come stay and make memories on the Walker ranch, you can't beat the scenery and location. Explore the Walker trail that leads to the creek and lounge in the woods in the hammock. Possibilities are endless!

9. Tiger lake Ranch

92%

(6)

42mi from Mankato · 1 site · Tent, RV · Norwood Young America, MN

### Welcome to Tiger Lake Ranch Campsite Discover the ultimate escape at Tiger Lake Ranch, located just 30 minutes from Minneapolis. Nestled near the serene Tiger Lake, our remote campsite is surrounded by majestic generational oak trees, offering a peaceful retreat far from any buildings or other campsites. Enjoy evenings around the fire pit, with natural logs providing cozy seating under a canopy of stars. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a nature-filled adventure, Tiger Lake Ranch is the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with nature. 40 acres of our own and surrounded by hundreds of preserve acres and hunting. Book your stay and experience tranquility like never before!

10. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

100%

(12)

43mi from Mankato · 1 site · Lodging · Prior Lake, MN

Spend some cozy downtime enjoying a fire and the peacefulness of 4 acre lake property. Take a hot shower and sleep in a comfortable bed- all for less than a hotel room! It’s like glamping. **We do require a photo of a valid government ID from all members of your party, immediately after booking. The host will tell you how to send this. If not received within the specified time frame, your booking will be cancelled and you will not receive check in information. This property: Cozy lakeside cottage that sleeps two, with level lawn space nearby that will fit two additional tents in your group. Dedicated private space is in lower level backyard with access to dock* (*May -September), lake and wildlife wetlands with boardwalk. You'll see the setting sun from the end of the dock and have access to a paver patio firepit. Private 3/4 bath and comfortable TV room is 60 steps away in the house. Mostly private spaces with some shared spaces such as driveway, hallways, sometimes we cross paths in the yard. Mystic Lake Casino, Canterbury Downs, renaissance fest, Valleyfair, & many other area lakes besides the 600 acre all sports lake that the property is located on are in the immediate area. For location purposes, we are located 3.7 miles of the Prior Lake, MN McDonald's. The basic price of $80 per night includes up to two campers inside or outside of the cottage, but up to two additional campers and tents can be added to the reservation for $20 per person/ per night. A limit of two persons inside of the cottage and four persons total are allowed per reservation. All persons must be declared ahead of reserving the space and ID’d for insurance purposes. Please note that all persons on the reservation must submit a copy of their valid picture government ID to the host (via platform) prior to arrival (but after booking), and sign a property liability waiver upon check in. The host will discuss the procedure with you as HC supports pictures only after booking. Please ask prior to booking if you have any questions about this- this is a requirement of our short term rental insurance, and part of our self check in procedure. We are a non smoking, non vape, no party/unregistered guest owner occupied property. Quiet private guests only please .

11. Marks the Spot

100%

(13)

24mi from Mankato · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Amboy, MN

We live on a 10 acre property with many mature trees and a walking path cut through the middle. We do not have any farm animals but there are some in area so the normal farm smells blow through on occasion. We have a 7 hole disc golf course on the property. We have six 30 amp/110 electric hook ups and 2 water hook ups. There is plenty of room to play yard games. The historic Dodd Ford bridge just 3 miles away. The small town of Amboy is just 4 miles away. There is a Casey's gas station in town and a couple different dining options. The stars are amazing at night out here.

12. Brookside Meadows

100%

(16)

48mi from Mankato · 3 sites · Tents · 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!

Camper favorites near Mankato

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Champion Valley

90%

(70)

43mi from Mankato · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Walker's Ranch

100%

(21)

45mi from Mankato · 1 site · Tent · Lakeville, MN

Learn more about this land: Come stay and make memories on the Walker ranch, you can't beat the scenery and location. Explore the Walker trail that leads to the creek and lounge in the woods in the hammock. Possibilities are endless!

Tiger lake Ranch

92%

(6)

42mi from Mankato · 1 site · Tent, RV · Norwood Young America, MN

### Welcome to Tiger Lake Ranch Campsite Discover the ultimate escape at Tiger Lake Ranch, located just 30 minutes from Minneapolis. Nestled near the serene Tiger Lake, our remote campsite is surrounded by majestic generational oak trees, offering a peaceful retreat far from any buildings or other campsites. Enjoy evenings around the fire pit, with natural logs providing cozy seating under a canopy of stars. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a nature-filled adventure, Tiger Lake Ranch is the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with nature. 40 acres of our own and surrounded by hundreds of preserve acres and hunting. Book your stay and experience tranquility like never before!

Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

100%

(12)

43mi from Mankato · 1 site · Lodging · Prior Lake, MN

Spend some cozy downtime enjoying a fire and the peacefulness of 4 acre lake property. Take a hot shower and sleep in a comfortable bed- all for less than a hotel room! It’s like glamping. **We do require a photo of a valid government ID from all members of your party, immediately after booking. The host will tell you how to send this. If not received within the specified time frame, your booking will be cancelled and you will not receive check in information. This property: Cozy lakeside cottage that sleeps two, with level lawn space nearby that will fit two additional tents in your group. Dedicated private space is in lower level backyard with access to dock* (*May -September), lake and wildlife wetlands with boardwalk. You'll see the setting sun from the end of the dock and have access to a paver patio firepit. Private 3/4 bath and comfortable TV room is 60 steps away in the house. Mostly private spaces with some shared spaces such as driveway, hallways, sometimes we cross paths in the yard. Mystic Lake Casino, Canterbury Downs, renaissance fest, Valleyfair, & many other area lakes besides the 600 acre all sports lake that the property is located on are in the immediate area. For location purposes, we are located 3.7 miles of the Prior Lake, MN McDonald's. The basic price of $80 per night includes up to two campers inside or outside of the cottage, but up to two additional campers and tents can be added to the reservation for $20 per person/ per night. A limit of two persons inside of the cottage and four persons total are allowed per reservation. All persons must be declared ahead of reserving the space and ID’d for insurance purposes. Please note that all persons on the reservation must submit a copy of their valid picture government ID to the host (via platform) prior to arrival (but after booking), and sign a property liability waiver upon check in. The host will discuss the procedure with you as HC supports pictures only after booking. Please ask prior to booking if you have any questions about this- this is a requirement of our short term rental insurance, and part of our self check in procedure. We are a non smoking, non vape, no party/unregistered guest owner occupied property. Quiet private guests only please .

Marks the Spot

100%

(13)

24mi from Mankato · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Amboy, MN

We live on a 10 acre property with many mature trees and a walking path cut through the middle. We do not have any farm animals but there are some in area so the normal farm smells blow through on occasion. We have a 7 hole disc golf course on the property. We have six 30 amp/110 electric hook ups and 2 water hook ups. There is plenty of room to play yard games. The historic Dodd Ford bridge just 3 miles away. The small town of Amboy is just 4 miles away. There is a Casey's gas station in town and a couple different dining options. The stars are amazing at night out here.

Brookside Meadows

100%

(16)

48mi from Mankato · 3 sites · Tents · 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!

Public campgrounds near Mankato

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

5.4mi from Mankato · 68 sites · Tents, RVs · in Minneopa State Park

100%

(2)

Minneopa State Park Group Campground

5.5mi from Mankato · 4 sites · in Minneopa State Park

100%

(1)

Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

22mi from Mankato · 69 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sakatah Lake State Park

Flandrau Campground

26mi from Mankato · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flandrau State Park

Equestrian Campground

36mi from Mankato · 6 sites · in Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

Fort Ridgely Campground

42mi from Mankato · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Fort Ridgely State Park

83%

(3)

Nerstrand Big Woods Campground

45mi from Mankato · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

100%

(2)

Rice Lake Campground

46mi from Mankato · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rice Lake State Park

Stories from the community

Leo

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Charming host and quiet area. Great place to stop along your jorney and get a snapshot of the Green Giant.

J

Jenna

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Chelsey has a great set up and is conveniently located right near the highway and local restaurants. She was very helpful upon our arrival and ensured we had what we needed. If ever in the area again, I would definitely stay at Chelsey's farm if available.

B

Ben

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Great place beautiful if you like camping you will like this area.

G

Gloria

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

The site was beautiful and easy access. We loved our weekend here!

A

Anthony

October 2025

5 nights at Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

This was exactly what I was looking for. The property (and expected experience) is accurately described. The property, including the cottage/camping area is bordered by trees and brush on two sides and the lake (with a dense growth of cattails) on the third. Even though cottage/camping area is technically a spacious "backyard" I did feel like I was camping. The "cottage" is pretty much the size of an Expedition tent. I stayed for five nights. I precooked my meals and home intending to heat them over the fire but ended using the microwave instead. For this time year (late October) this is good option. If the weather gets nasty (too cold or even snow) the "cottage" is a wonderful backup.

D

Donnay

October 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Marks the Spot

Nice place with great view. Wonderful host. Space for the dogs to run and play.

D

Deb

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Stadings Farm & Ranch

Great location- awesome land- fantastic host - great way to enjoy the fall colors peacefully- close to winery too!

J

Joni

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Stephen was a great host. We made a scheduling error and he worked hard to accommodate us. Peaceful beautiful property, nearby amazing nature parks and quaint town of Northfield. It was just the solitude and time away we needed.

A

Abby

October 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Private entrance Apple Orchard

A beautiful, private location with plenty of firewood and friendly, helpful hosts!

R

Rachel

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

Place was beautiful. Site was private and the stars were beautiful. Stephen is as friendly and accommodating. Weather didn't cooperate, so I look forward to coming back and exploring the area more

K

Kay

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Stephen’s place is beautiful! Trails right from the campsites into Caron park which has a lovely little waterfall. I hope to go back and see it in the spring. Historic towns, biking trails, and state parks close by. Campsites were great, outhouse was clean and convenient. We stayed in site 2. Loved it!

Jonathan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Great campsite! Site 3 was beautiful right by the creek. Easy walk from parking lot with large cart to help. Definitely recommend!

R

Rachel

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stadings Farm & Ranch

Extremely charming place in the country with very responsive host!

K

Kassi

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

What can I say that hasn't been said already in all their glowing reviews? It's wonderful and you should definitely camp here.

T

Tony

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Beautiful spot with large shade trees. Amazing sunrise view from property. Whimsical outhouse facility gave it a homey vibe. We were greeted by the owner’s two very friendly and sweet dogs. One sat with us while we had our coffee and just wanted some head scratching. It made us feel good since we were missing our dogs that couldn’t come with us on this trip.

C

Cori

October 2025

23 ft Class B

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Chelsey’s hospitality was awesome! Loved the quaint wooded area and was able to take a run in the morning. A great start to our RV adventure- thanks again Chelsey⭐️⭐️

J

Joe

October 2025

45 ft Class A

With kids

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

A great place to stay. Close to the highway and a very nice farm and the host was great.

R

Ricky

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Very peaceful and quaint. My daughter and I had our first camping trip together and it was a great time. Instructions were perfect, I didn’t have any questions.

Split Rock. Much larger in person. A short hike in Caron Park near the camp sites.

J

Joanna

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

I spent 2 beautiful nights here. Stephen is very helpful in making sure any questions are answered and making sure you’re settled in. The sites are private feeling and next to Caron Park. I got a couple hikes in and just enjoyed the peaceful nature sounds. It was my first time camping by myself and I really found out how wonderful it is to disconnect from social media. I will definitely be back.

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

This was our second time at this site. The privacy is great. Being right on the creek is something you don't get at most places. The trails connecting to the campground are fun to walk and explore. You have waterfalls, the split rock and many other things to see. Our dog loves it here as well. We'll definitely be back next year.