97% (565) • 27 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mankato
Prairie Creek Campground
1. Prairie Creek Campground
99%
(855)
42mi from Mankato · 7 sites · Tents
Thank you for a great 2025 Camping Season! This was our best year yet! 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. Booking for 2026 is open.
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
Walker's Ranch
2. Walker's Ranch
100%
(21)
45mi from Mankato · 1 site · Tent
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!
Pets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
3. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
100%
(12)
43mi from Mankato · 1 site · Lodging
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
.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Minneopa State Park
4. Minneopa State Park
80%
(5)
72 sites · North Mankato, Minnesota
Discover Minneopa State Park's scenic vistas and diverse activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sakatah Lake State Park
5. Sakatah Lake State Park
100%
(1)
69 sites · Waterville, Minnesota
Discover Sakatah Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mn River Valley Sanctuary
6. Mn River Valley Sanctuary
97%
(75)
47mi from Mankato · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$13
/ night
Champion Valley
7. Champion Valley
90%
(70)
43mi from Mankato · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$26
/ night
Stadings Farm & Ranch
8. Stadings Farm & Ranch
97%
(43)
18mi from Mankato · 3 sites · RVs
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Brookside Meadows
9. Brookside Meadows
100%
(16)
48mi from Mankato · 3 sites · Tents
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!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$26
/ night
Flandrau State Park
10. Flandrau State Park
92 sites · New Ulm, Minnesota
Discover Flandrau State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
11. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
6 sites · Jordan, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Fort Ridgely State Park
12. Fort Ridgely State Park
100%
(2)
22 sites · Fairfax, Minnesota
Discover Fort Ridgely State Park's rich history and scenic landscapes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
13. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
83%
(3)
54 sites · Nerstrand, Minnesota
Discover the serene beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Dakotah Meadows RV Park
14. Dakotah Meadows RV Park
46mi from Mankato · 52 sites
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.
Rice Lake State Park
15. Rice Lake State Park
100%
(2)
50 sites · Claremont, Minnesota
Discover Rice Lake State Park's scenic trails and diverse wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
97% (565) • 27 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mankato
Prairie Creek Campground
1. Prairie Creek Campground
99%
(855)
42mi from Mankato · 7 sites · Tents
Thank you for a great 2025 Camping Season! This was our best year yet! 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. Booking for 2026 is open.
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
Walker's Ranch
2. Walker's Ranch
100%
(21)
45mi from Mankato · 1 site · Tent
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!
Pets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
3. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
100%
(12)
43mi from Mankato · 1 site · Lodging
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
.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Minneopa State Park
4. Minneopa State Park
80%
(5)
72 sites · North Mankato, Minnesota
Discover Minneopa State Park's scenic vistas and diverse activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sakatah Lake State Park
5. Sakatah Lake State Park
100%
(1)
69 sites · Waterville, Minnesota
Discover Sakatah Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mn River Valley Sanctuary
6. Mn River Valley Sanctuary
97%
(75)
47mi from Mankato · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$13
/ night
Champion Valley
7. Champion Valley
90%
(70)
43mi from Mankato · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$26
/ night
Stadings Farm & Ranch
8. Stadings Farm & Ranch
97%
(43)
18mi from Mankato · 3 sites · RVs
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Brookside Meadows
9. Brookside Meadows
100%
(16)
48mi from Mankato · 3 sites · Tents
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!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$26
/ night
Flandrau State Park
10. Flandrau State Park
92 sites · New Ulm, Minnesota
Discover Flandrau State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
11. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
6 sites · Jordan, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Fort Ridgely State Park
12. Fort Ridgely State Park
100%
(2)
22 sites · Fairfax, Minnesota
Discover Fort Ridgely State Park's rich history and scenic landscapes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
13. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
83%
(3)
54 sites · Nerstrand, Minnesota
Discover the serene beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Dakotah Meadows RV Park
14. Dakotah Meadows RV Park
46mi from Mankato · 52 sites
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.
Rice Lake State Park
15. Rice Lake State Park
100%
(2)
50 sites · Claremont, Minnesota
Discover Rice Lake State Park's scenic trails and diverse wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Ben
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Great place beautiful if you like camping you will like this area.
See more
G
Gloria
October 2025
Tent
With pets
The site was beautiful and easy access. We loved our weekend here!
See more
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.
See more
D
Deb
October 2025
25 ft travel trailer
Great location- awesome land- fantastic host - great way to enjoy the fall colors peacefully- close to winery too!
See moreJ
Joni
October 2025
Tent
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.
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R
Rachel
October 2025
Tent
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
See more
K
Kay
October 2025
Tent
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!
See more
Jonathan
October 2025
Tent
With kids
Great campsite! Site 3 was beautiful right by the creek. Easy walk from parking lot with large cart to help. Definitely recommend!
See more
R
Rachel
October 2025
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
Extremely charming place in the country with very responsive host!
See moreK
Kassi
October 2025
Tent
With pets
What can I say that hasn't been said already in all their glowing reviews? It's wonderful and you should definitely camp here.
See more
R
Ricky
October 2025
Tent
With kids
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.
See more
J
Joanna
October 2025
Tent
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.
See moreC
Chris
October 2025
Tent
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.
See more
E
Emily
October 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
With kids
My littles loved it here! Plenty of room to roam, their animals were friendly but not too friendly, and lots to explore. We’ll definitely be back.
See more
Charles
October 2025
21 ft campervan
Nice quiet experience and enjoyed all the animals.
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P
Phuong
September 2025
Tent
The place was amazing! Site 4 was very secluded and was very nice during the fall. Plenty of space to tent. Will definitely be back soon! Thank you for the amazing location.
See moreT
Ted
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Site 3 was wonderful and immersed in nature. Caretakers were wonderful and accommodating! Everything was accessible and larger towns were 15 minutes away or less. Highly would recommend!!
See moreB
Brent
September 2025
Tent
We chose this spot for our first time camping together, and it was a great pick. We really enjoyed the short hiking area right next to the campsite, with a very cool little waterfall!
See more
C
Caitlin
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful, private property with access to trail to waterfall. The hosts were so nice and welcoming. I loved hearing all the animals at night.
See moreN
Nicole
September 2025
Tent
I stayed at campsite #3 and absolutely loved it! The creek provided such relaxing white noise and was so peaceful. The site is pretty decently sized and felt very private. The grounds were kept really nicely and loved that we were able to cut through the owners yard to get to the waterfall and split rock. Definitely make sure to take a picture of the trails on the shed before going though! I checked out all the sites when I was there and I think they are all pretty great, but #3 was the best in my opinion, because of the creek.
It’s not far from town if you want to go out and explore or get supplies. I’d definitely recommend booking here!
See more
