- Beach Camping
The best beach camping near Mendota Heights
88% (279) • 31 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mendota Heights
Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
1. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
100%
(12)
22mi from Mendota Heights · 1 site
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
Stone Creek Farm
2. Stone Creek Farm
99%
(244)
42mi from Mendota Heights · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Situated on 36 acres, this working farm is 2 miles
West of Taylors Falls. Dan bought this property with the intention of growing stone fruits (plums, peaches, apricots and
cherries) using sustainable and organic practices because health and wellness matter to them! They are still in the process of improving their property. Many of the building on the property were in poor condition, including the old barn foundation which is now one of Dan and Danielle favorite places to keep cool in the summer. After they had excavated all the debris (which took years) they were able to transform it with gardens and fire pit for all to enjoy. They love sharing what they have been blessed with! They hope you enjoy their place as much as they do! Feel free to ask them to show you around or even get your hands dirty with them as they plant or harvest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Camp Crimson Turtle
3. Camp Crimson Turtle
72%
(34)
23mi from Mendota Heights · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Established by naturalists in the 1920's this parcel features a waterfront cabin (currently being restored), a two acre spring fed pond that is stocked with fish, a small stream and great privacy. We have had this as our family paradise and now we are sharing it with you!
We now offer a bohemian wagon if you would prefer to get up off the ground! Available at site 1.
Learn more about this land:
8 acres of wooded privacy. Spring fed 2 acre pond, fishing, swimming, boating. Clothing optional if total site is rented. Extremely private. Electric available upon request for site number 2, other sites are quite far from electric hook up. New toilet facilities available!! We now have a flush toilet and exterior shower available for use onsite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$60
/ night
Afton State Park
4. Afton State Park
100%
(18)
State park 18mi from Mendota Heights · 31 sites
Give Afton State Park's four-stage geocache a run with free GPS units you can checkout at the park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Willow River State Park
5. Willow River State Park
93%
(14)
State park 24mi from Mendota Heights · 154 sites
Wooded gorges and cascading waterfalls provide a scenic backdrop.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Harbor Bar
6. Harbor Bar
83%
(130)
36mi from Mendota Heights · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at Harbor Bar across from Red Wing MN. said to be on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river. Fish from shore in one of the best fisheries in the country. Full restaurant & bar with live music on weekends.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent along the banks of the mighty Mississippi river. bar, restaurant, outdoor music festivals, fishing. View pretty Red Wing from across the river. Located on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Hok-Si-La Municipal Park
7. Hok-Si-La Municipal Park
50mi from Mendota Heights · 4 sites
Hok-Si-La Park stands out as a remarkable 252-acre municipally owned park on the scenic Minnesota side of Lake Pepin, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the joys of tent camping, launch their boats from the public ramp, or unwind on the sandy beach. A mile-long stretch of Mississippi River shoreline invites exploration, while the interpretive center offers educational insights into the local ecosystem. Families can enjoy the playground, engage in volleyball or basketball games, and savor picnics in picturesque settings, including a charming chapel.
Open from mid-April to mid-October, the park features various facilities, including a dining hall and screened shelters, making it an ideal venue for gatherings such as family reunions, birthday celebrations, and corporate picnics. Throughout the year, Hok-Si-La Park remains accessible for hiking, bird watching, and leisurely beach strolls. In winter, visitors can take advantage of groomed cross-country ski trails, ensuring that this park is a year-round destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.
William O'Brien State Park
8. William O'Brien State Park
94%
(9)
State park 29mi from Mendota Heights · 120 sites
Discover the natural splendor of William O'Brien State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
9. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
State park 32mi from Mendota Heights · 6 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Interstate State Park
10. Interstate State Park
100%
(4)
State park 42mi from Mendota Heights · 84 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Interstate State Park and its outdoor adventures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Eau Galle Recreation Area
11. Eau Galle Recreation Area
100%
(1)
Park 44mi from Mendota Heights · 57 sites
Discover Eau Galle Recreation Area's serene trails and year-round fishing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Frontenac State Park
12. Frontenac State Park
100%
(10)
State park 46mi from Mendota Heights · 86 sites
Enjoy superb birdwatching, limestone bluffs, and sandy beaches at Frontenac State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sand Dunes State Forest
13. Sand Dunes State Forest
100%
(3)
State forest 45mi from Mendota Heights · 70 sites
Discover Sand Dunes State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Maria State Park
14. Lake Maria State Park
90%
(10)
State park 49mi from Mendota Heights · 19 sites
Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
88% (279) • 31 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mendota Heights
Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
1. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom
100%
(12)
22mi from Mendota Heights · 1 site
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
Stone Creek Farm
2. Stone Creek Farm
99%
(244)
42mi from Mendota Heights · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Situated on 36 acres, this working farm is 2 miles
West of Taylors Falls. Dan bought this property with the intention of growing stone fruits (plums, peaches, apricots and
cherries) using sustainable and organic practices because health and wellness matter to them! They are still in the process of improving their property. Many of the building on the property were in poor condition, including the old barn foundation which is now one of Dan and Danielle favorite places to keep cool in the summer. After they had excavated all the debris (which took years) they were able to transform it with gardens and fire pit for all to enjoy. They love sharing what they have been blessed with! They hope you enjoy their place as much as they do! Feel free to ask them to show you around or even get your hands dirty with them as they plant or harvest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Camp Crimson Turtle
3. Camp Crimson Turtle
72%
(34)
23mi from Mendota Heights · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Established by naturalists in the 1920's this parcel features a waterfront cabin (currently being restored), a two acre spring fed pond that is stocked with fish, a small stream and great privacy. We have had this as our family paradise and now we are sharing it with you!
We now offer a bohemian wagon if you would prefer to get up off the ground! Available at site 1.
Learn more about this land:
8 acres of wooded privacy. Spring fed 2 acre pond, fishing, swimming, boating. Clothing optional if total site is rented. Extremely private. Electric available upon request for site number 2, other sites are quite far from electric hook up. New toilet facilities available!! We now have a flush toilet and exterior shower available for use onsite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$60
/ night
Afton State Park
4. Afton State Park
100%
(18)
State park 18mi from Mendota Heights · 31 sites
Give Afton State Park's four-stage geocache a run with free GPS units you can checkout at the park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Willow River State Park
5. Willow River State Park
93%
(14)
State park 24mi from Mendota Heights · 154 sites
Wooded gorges and cascading waterfalls provide a scenic backdrop.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Harbor Bar
6. Harbor Bar
83%
(130)
36mi from Mendota Heights · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Located at Harbor Bar across from Red Wing MN. said to be on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river. Fish from shore in one of the best fisheries in the country. Full restaurant & bar with live music on weekends.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent along the banks of the mighty Mississippi river. bar, restaurant, outdoor music festivals, fishing. View pretty Red Wing from across the river. Located on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Hok-Si-La Municipal Park
7. Hok-Si-La Municipal Park
50mi from Mendota Heights · 4 sites
Hok-Si-La Park stands out as a remarkable 252-acre municipally owned park on the scenic Minnesota side of Lake Pepin, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the joys of tent camping, launch their boats from the public ramp, or unwind on the sandy beach. A mile-long stretch of Mississippi River shoreline invites exploration, while the interpretive center offers educational insights into the local ecosystem. Families can enjoy the playground, engage in volleyball or basketball games, and savor picnics in picturesque settings, including a charming chapel.
Open from mid-April to mid-October, the park features various facilities, including a dining hall and screened shelters, making it an ideal venue for gatherings such as family reunions, birthday celebrations, and corporate picnics. Throughout the year, Hok-Si-La Park remains accessible for hiking, bird watching, and leisurely beach strolls. In winter, visitors can take advantage of groomed cross-country ski trails, ensuring that this park is a year-round destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.
William O'Brien State Park
8. William O'Brien State Park
94%
(9)
State park 29mi from Mendota Heights · 120 sites
Discover the natural splendor of William O'Brien State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
9. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
State park 32mi from Mendota Heights · 6 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Interstate State Park
10. Interstate State Park
100%
(4)
State park 42mi from Mendota Heights · 84 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Interstate State Park and its outdoor adventures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Eau Galle Recreation Area
11. Eau Galle Recreation Area
100%
(1)
Park 44mi from Mendota Heights · 57 sites
Discover Eau Galle Recreation Area's serene trails and year-round fishing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Frontenac State Park
12. Frontenac State Park
100%
(10)
State park 46mi from Mendota Heights · 86 sites
Enjoy superb birdwatching, limestone bluffs, and sandy beaches at Frontenac State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sand Dunes State Forest
13. Sand Dunes State Forest
100%
(3)
State forest 45mi from Mendota Heights · 70 sites
Discover Sand Dunes State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Maria State Park
14. Lake Maria State Park
90%
(10)
State park 49mi from Mendota Heights · 19 sites
Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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
J
J
October 2025
With kids
I loved camping in Dan's yurt campsite! The walk from the car is perfect, just long enough to feel like you are really out there camping! The views walking to the bathroom in the fall were just gorgeous! Speaking of the bathroom don't be scared off by the composting toilet. Dan provides plenty of woodchips/sawdust to cover everything up and there is no odor! The bbq grill and bonfire ring are great to have options. The picnic table seats plenty of people.
It rained a bit while we were there and everything in the tent stayed dry thanks to the extra plastic Dan has placed over the top of the yurt.
Dan is so kind and generous and feels like going over to a friend's house to camp. Can't wait to return next year!
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P
Patricia
September 2025
Tent
Dan's farm is a refuge. I'd recommend his camp sites to anyone looking to slow down and tap into the ease that's accessible on this land. Dan was a generous and kind host. We're looking forward to returning.
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L
Leslie
September 2025
Group trip
Dan is a wonderful host and owns some absolutely gorgeous land. I will be back! Be prepared for a small but beautiful hike out to your camp site. Bathrooms are as good as it gets, tents are huge and the bonus of not needing to setup is amazing, and the access to one of the most beautiful state parks is uncanny. If you have the legs for it I would absolutely recommend touring this area on bike. The descent into Taylor’s falls is one of the best in the state, the climb out of the city will have your legs woken up, and the nearby Swedish Immigrant Trail is beautiful especially in the Fall.
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Tara
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful, quiet campsite was a great place to relax for the weekend! We heard and saw lots of wildlife, migrating sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans, and tons of coyotes. Close to lots of fun activities like the state park and sculpture garden. Dan was super kind and welcoming. He’s an amazing steward of the land.
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Amy
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Stone Creek Farm
This is our second summer having a camping adventure at Stone Creek. Dan’s hospitality is incredible and the site is perfect. It made a fun and relaxing long weekend!
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David
August 2025
Tent
Great little hidden gem. Not a lot of amenities but the rustic privacy was just what we were looking for. Enjoy!
See moreW
Wendy
August 2025
With kids
This is more than just camping! Dan is a wonderful host and my 10 year old loved talking with him and learning about the orchard. This was a mother/son trip and I loved having the yurt already set up. It is a little walk to the site, but I appreciated God's beauty in the early morning and at dusk to fetch our food that we left in the car. Being at Stone Creek Farm was so much more than we expected. Looking forward to visiting again! Highly recommended!
See moreA
Andrew
August 2025
Group trip
I really like this campsite. Very close to Taylor's Falls, state parks, lakes etc. Site are nice and kept up. Owner is there to help. Will be there again next year.
See moreE
Emily
July 2025
Tent
We spent two nights at Dan's secluded yurt tent. It was really nice to come to a spot that already had the tent set up! It is a really long walk to this site, I would guess at least 1/2 a mile. There are carts available to use, but pack light so you only need to do one trip! Dan was very welcoming and greeted us on arrival and gave us some home-made apricot strudel from his apricot trees. It was a great stay!
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J
Jason
July 2025
16 ft pop-up camper
There were some truly magical moments here—the sunset over the pond was stunning, and the nighttime sounds of nature were beautifully undisturbed. I found two perfect trees for my hammock in the shade, and the outdoor shower was a refreshing touch.
Communication with the host was fantastic—super responsive both before and during my stay, which made things much easier.
I appreciated being able to order firewood ahead of time. Most of the wood by the fire pit was damp, but the dry bundle that was included burned hot enough to get the rest going.
A few things did take away from the natural vibe: the pond was too algae-filled to swim comfortably, and the plastic jugs, random porch clutter, and a rusted table and chair disrupted the wild aesthetic. Highway noise was noticeable at times, and it took a minute to figure out which gate to use.
Still, if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with some real beauty and don’t mind a little rustic imperfection, this spot delivers.
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A
Amber
July 2025
Tent
With pets
It is very much a party campground, but it has some nice secluded sites that I would love to use again. The staff inside the bar were super friendly and it was very easy to get checked in. Highly recommend!!
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G
Greg
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Camp Crimson Turtle
It was an awesome overnight! Everything went great! Hopefully going to get back soon!
Theresa was responsive and very accommodating! I couldn't ask for anymore!
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Emma
June 2025
With pets
Camping on this property was an excellent experience (despite the rain). Dan was very helpful both before and when we arrived. The campsite is lovely, and he's made sure the yurt does not let in a drop. Loved seeing his chickens, and an easy walk to the site. Would absolutely recommend.
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Andy
June 2025
Group trip
Dan was SO welcoming and kind! The entire farm was gorgeous and filled with love, from the orchards to the campsites and beyond. Dan is eager to make you feel at home and does everything he can to make sure you have whatever you need. He even let me use his WiFi when I needed to take a business call. The campsite was easy to find with an mostly flat, mowed path. The site was quiet and personal, with everything one could think of: our own compostable toilet, a grill, fire pit, garbage & recycling cans, a picnic basket, and a sturdy box to keep your foodstuffs safe. I can't wait to go back, I feel like I found a little slice of paradise just an hour away ❤️ thank you Dan!!!!!!!
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J
Joy
May 2025
Tent
Group trip
Beautiful spot. Very private and I appreciate the trailer with the toilet 😄. Quiet atmosphere and host was great at answering all of my questions. I would definitely stay again!
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Carolyn
May 2025
Weekend Trip to Stone Creek Farm
My friend and I had a wonderful time! Dan was so kind and helpful, but not overbearing. We stayed in the Yurt Style Camp and was very comfortable, beautiful and pretty private. I do think there could be better signage as far as where to go from parking and for each site - we had a couple instances of people showing up to our site thinking it was theirs. The outhouse was surprisingly nice, but having a lantern or lighting would be a nice touch. I had a headlamp, but it was still a lil hard to see at night. Overall, a wonderful experience! I’d love to come back.
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