The best camping near Owatonna with campfires

·
93% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Waterfall in the adjacent park is a 500 foot walk down the trail.

6. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
18mi from Owatonna · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
Site #5 - View of river from site

7. The Double J

99%
(341)
32mi from Owatonna · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Zumbrota, MN
Welcome to the Double J! Of the 71 acres we own, about half is tillable and the other half is woods and pastures for our horses. Within that, there is a beautiful secluded 3-acre meadow nestled down along along a beautiful 1,200 foot stretch of the Zumbro River where we have 5 spacious tent/RV campsites. While the campsites are all adjacent to each other along the river, they are each very spacious (the smallest being 100' wide and 75' deep), with some mature trees scattered around. Each sites (except Site #1) is able to accommodate up to 8 people and more than one tent or RV. There is a small meadow above all the sites where campers can play catch or other games. We provide and maintain a centrally located outhouse and keep the entire area mowed throughout the year. All sites offer great shade trees (perfectly spaced for hanging up a hammock) and access to the river - great for those hot summer days! Water activities to be enjoyed include fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and tubing (equipment not included). Some campers will drop in upstream at the Covered Bridge Park and float down to their campsite. The Zumbro River, especially in the fishing hole, offers great fishing including Trout, Small-mouth, Red-horse, and an occasional Northern or Sauger. Campers are welcome to to meander out into our pastures to pet our two horses, Shiloh and Champ. Also, we are just over a mile from town where you can visit Covered Bridge Park which has a Frisbee golf course and a nice play area for younger kids. Reserving adjacent sites, or all of the sites, makes for the ideal setting for a large family or group camp-out. In order to prevent overcrowding, we do reserve the right to limit number of sites, or campers per site based on overall parties/campers in the camping area. We will notify you if there are any limits at the time of your booking. We enjoy being able to share our property with others, and it is our desire to promote a safe, peaceful, family-friendly environment, therefore, be sure to note, we do have a NO ALCOHOL policy. PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to read the "RV Details" on the site information page as the road to the camping area may limit the type or size of RV due to a couple dips, a sharper curve, and it's steeper slope. Also, keep in mind, we reserve the right to cancel any reservations due to heavy rains or floods that may require our sites some additional time to dry out sufficiently. For updates and notice of last minute cancellations be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DoubleJCamping As is customary for most campgrounds, we ask that if you bring in your own firewood that it be kiln dried. Dry firewood can be purchased for $5.00/bundle. TIP - Being we do not reimburse campers in the event of rain (unless campground is flooded or too muddy), we highly recommend campers take advantage of Hipcamp’s Weather Guarantee option when booking. With Minnesota’s unpredictable weather it allows you to get reimbursed for any days it rains over a specified amount, even if you choose to stick out the rain! The cost is very reasonable making it almost a no-brainer! Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! We look forward to being able to serve you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

16. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

100%
(12)
43mi from Owatonna · 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 .
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
Larson's Landing

18. Larson's Landing

94%
(9)
46mi from Owatonna · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · MN
Larson's Landing is a breathtaking 140-acre oasis on Prairie Island, MN, where the Cannon, Mississippi, and Vermillion Rivers meet. Our paradise features stunning lakes and river valley bluffs, setting the stage for a journey of hope, healing, and celebration. With stunning lakes and picturesque river valley bluffs, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking a mix of tranquility, adventure, and personal growth. Adventure Awaits with Primitive Tenting Experience the great outdoors in its purest form with our primitive tenting spaces. Strategically located along the property's roads, you have the convenience of camping next to your vehicle. It's the ideal setting for adventurers and nature lovers craving an authentic escape. Engage in Nature's Best Activities Dive into a variety of outdoor pursuits right at your doorstep: Great Fishing: Cast your line into our lakes and rivers teeming with fish. Boating Bliss: Navigate the serene waters with your boat, kayak, or canoe. Nature Watching: Immerse yourself in the beauty of our diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. Nearby Entertainment: Only a 12-minute walk away, the nearby casino offers a blend of excitement and entertainment for those looking to try their luck. See you soon! Join Our Community of Healing and Celebration, or Just Visit! LarsonsLanding.Org
Trash
from 
$47
 / night
Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

19. Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

100%
(9)
24mi from Owatonna · 1 site · Lodging · Mantorville, MN
Hidden Springs Hideaway is a little oasis, nestled in the woods. Located in southeastern Minnesota's driftless region, where you are surrounded by rolling green hills, the Zumbro River and limestone bluffs. Only a half-mile to the quaint town of Mantorville (some call it the Stars Hollow of Minnesota) where you'll find a cute coffee shop, antique stores, a breakfast spot in an old school house, a park on the river, a restaurant built in the 1850s and a saloon with drinks and live music. The Hidden Spring Hideaway is an off-grid, sustainable glamping experience set on a 25-acre working homestead just 15 miles west of Rochester, MN. Along with forest views and trails, don’t be surprised if a few friendly chickens wander by to say hello. Enjoy a pot of coffee or a bottle of wine, among the trees. The bell-shaped canvas tent provides private sleeping accommodations for two (a real queen bed, not an air mattress), an outdoor kitchen space and a gravel patio to relax with a campfire. The property offers walking trails throughout the 25-acre woods with mature trees, an array of birds, flowers, a food forest, wildcraft medicinal herbs and the Zumbro River for guest enjoyment. If you would like a tour of the woodland property, one of the site hosts - Steve (a tree expert), would gladly show you around the land. Please send a message and we will arrange this for you. Please note, the Hidden Spring Hideaway has no running water or electricity. Everything is run on solar, rechargeable batteries and propane. There is adequate lighting inside and outside, plus lanterns, flashlights and headlamps for your use. For drinking, cooking and washing, there is a three-gallon cooler full of water for you. You're welcome to bring more of your own water as well or there is a convenience store a half-mile down the road (Casey's). There is a new outhouse on the property that includes a bench seat toilet. There is compostable material provided to sprinkle in after you finish your business. Handwashing supplies are provided. Firewood is available for purchase. $5 a bundle. Please message me at least a day before your stay to reserve and it will be delivered to the site. Add-on a sauna + cold plunge experience for $75.
Potable water
Toilets
Trash
from 
$99
 / night
Brookside Meadows

20. Brookside Meadows

100%
(16)
21mi from Owatonna · 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!
Pets
from 
$26
 / night
93% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Waterfall in the adjacent park is a 500 foot walk down the trail.

6. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
18mi from Owatonna · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
Site #5 - View of river from site

7. The Double J

99%
(341)
32mi from Owatonna · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Zumbrota, MN
Welcome to the Double J! Of the 71 acres we own, about half is tillable and the other half is woods and pastures for our horses. Within that, there is a beautiful secluded 3-acre meadow nestled down along along a beautiful 1,200 foot stretch of the Zumbro River where we have 5 spacious tent/RV campsites. While the campsites are all adjacent to each other along the river, they are each very spacious (the smallest being 100' wide and 75' deep), with some mature trees scattered around. Each sites (except Site #1) is able to accommodate up to 8 people and more than one tent or RV. There is a small meadow above all the sites where campers can play catch or other games. We provide and maintain a centrally located outhouse and keep the entire area mowed throughout the year. All sites offer great shade trees (perfectly spaced for hanging up a hammock) and access to the river - great for those hot summer days! Water activities to be enjoyed include fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and tubing (equipment not included). Some campers will drop in upstream at the Covered Bridge Park and float down to their campsite. The Zumbro River, especially in the fishing hole, offers great fishing including Trout, Small-mouth, Red-horse, and an occasional Northern or Sauger. Campers are welcome to to meander out into our pastures to pet our two horses, Shiloh and Champ. Also, we are just over a mile from town where you can visit Covered Bridge Park which has a Frisbee golf course and a nice play area for younger kids. Reserving adjacent sites, or all of the sites, makes for the ideal setting for a large family or group camp-out. In order to prevent overcrowding, we do reserve the right to limit number of sites, or campers per site based on overall parties/campers in the camping area. We will notify you if there are any limits at the time of your booking. We enjoy being able to share our property with others, and it is our desire to promote a safe, peaceful, family-friendly environment, therefore, be sure to note, we do have a NO ALCOHOL policy. PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to read the "RV Details" on the site information page as the road to the camping area may limit the type or size of RV due to a couple dips, a sharper curve, and it's steeper slope. Also, keep in mind, we reserve the right to cancel any reservations due to heavy rains or floods that may require our sites some additional time to dry out sufficiently. For updates and notice of last minute cancellations be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DoubleJCamping As is customary for most campgrounds, we ask that if you bring in your own firewood that it be kiln dried. Dry firewood can be purchased for $5.00/bundle. TIP - Being we do not reimburse campers in the event of rain (unless campground is flooded or too muddy), we highly recommend campers take advantage of Hipcamp’s Weather Guarantee option when booking. With Minnesota’s unpredictable weather it allows you to get reimbursed for any days it rains over a specified amount, even if you choose to stick out the rain! The cost is very reasonable making it almost a no-brainer! Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! We look forward to being able to serve you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

16. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

100%
(12)
43mi from Owatonna · 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 .
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
Larson's Landing

18. Larson's Landing

94%
(9)
46mi from Owatonna · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · MN
Larson's Landing is a breathtaking 140-acre oasis on Prairie Island, MN, where the Cannon, Mississippi, and Vermillion Rivers meet. Our paradise features stunning lakes and river valley bluffs, setting the stage for a journey of hope, healing, and celebration. With stunning lakes and picturesque river valley bluffs, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking a mix of tranquility, adventure, and personal growth. Adventure Awaits with Primitive Tenting Experience the great outdoors in its purest form with our primitive tenting spaces. Strategically located along the property's roads, you have the convenience of camping next to your vehicle. It's the ideal setting for adventurers and nature lovers craving an authentic escape. Engage in Nature's Best Activities Dive into a variety of outdoor pursuits right at your doorstep: Great Fishing: Cast your line into our lakes and rivers teeming with fish. Boating Bliss: Navigate the serene waters with your boat, kayak, or canoe. Nature Watching: Immerse yourself in the beauty of our diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. Nearby Entertainment: Only a 12-minute walk away, the nearby casino offers a blend of excitement and entertainment for those looking to try their luck. See you soon! Join Our Community of Healing and Celebration, or Just Visit! LarsonsLanding.Org
Trash
from 
$47
 / night
Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

19. Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

100%
(9)
24mi from Owatonna · 1 site · Lodging · Mantorville, MN
Hidden Springs Hideaway is a little oasis, nestled in the woods. Located in southeastern Minnesota's driftless region, where you are surrounded by rolling green hills, the Zumbro River and limestone bluffs. Only a half-mile to the quaint town of Mantorville (some call it the Stars Hollow of Minnesota) where you'll find a cute coffee shop, antique stores, a breakfast spot in an old school house, a park on the river, a restaurant built in the 1850s and a saloon with drinks and live music. The Hidden Spring Hideaway is an off-grid, sustainable glamping experience set on a 25-acre working homestead just 15 miles west of Rochester, MN. Along with forest views and trails, don’t be surprised if a few friendly chickens wander by to say hello. Enjoy a pot of coffee or a bottle of wine, among the trees. The bell-shaped canvas tent provides private sleeping accommodations for two (a real queen bed, not an air mattress), an outdoor kitchen space and a gravel patio to relax with a campfire. The property offers walking trails throughout the 25-acre woods with mature trees, an array of birds, flowers, a food forest, wildcraft medicinal herbs and the Zumbro River for guest enjoyment. If you would like a tour of the woodland property, one of the site hosts - Steve (a tree expert), would gladly show you around the land. Please send a message and we will arrange this for you. Please note, the Hidden Spring Hideaway has no running water or electricity. Everything is run on solar, rechargeable batteries and propane. There is adequate lighting inside and outside, plus lanterns, flashlights and headlamps for your use. For drinking, cooking and washing, there is a three-gallon cooler full of water for you. You're welcome to bring more of your own water as well or there is a convenience store a half-mile down the road (Casey's). There is a new outhouse on the property that includes a bench seat toilet. There is compostable material provided to sprinkle in after you finish your business. Handwashing supplies are provided. Firewood is available for purchase. $5 a bundle. Please message me at least a day before your stay to reserve and it will be delivered to the site. Add-on a sauna + cold plunge experience for $75.
Potable water
Toilets
Trash
from 
$99
 / night
Brookside Meadows

20. Brookside Meadows

100%
(16)
21mi from Owatonna · 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!
Pets
from 
$26
 / night

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