The best family-friendly campgrounds near Rochester, Minnesota

Welcome to Hipcamp, the go-to website for camping enthusiasts! If you're looking for a family-friendly campsite near Rochester, Minnesota, we've got you covered. With over 90 options available, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland (239 reviews), Ranch Retreat (226 reviews), and Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff (209 reviews). Our campsites offer popular amenities like toilets, showers, and pet-friendly accommodations. And if you're into biking, horseback riding, or boating, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $25, camping has never been more affordable. Start planning your camping trip today!

99% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Rochester

Welcome to Hipcamp, the go-to website for camping enthusiasts! If you're looking for a family-friendly campsite near Rochester, Minnesota, we've got you covered. With over 90 options available, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland (239 reviews), Ranch Retreat (226 reviews), and Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff (209 reviews). Our campsites offer popular amenities like toilets, showers, and pet-friendly accommodations. And if you're into biking, horseback riding, or boating, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $25, camping has never been more affordable. Start planning your camping trip today!

99% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Rochester

1. The Edge

96%

(308)

7.5mi from Rochester · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This 160 acre farm used to be a sod farm, and then a Christmas tree farm. Camping provided is in the remnants of the uncut Christmas tree forest which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.

2. Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

99%

(339)

8.8mi from Rochester · 1 site · Tent, RV

The property is one of a kind. The Driftless Region starts right here in SE Minnesota. It is secluded with mature trees, beautiful bluffs, fishing, kayaking! It is a nature lovers dream!

3. The Double J

99%

(341)

22mi from Rochester · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

4. Aefintyr

98%

(60)

23mi from Rochester · 19 sites · Lodging

Wilderness inspired campground specializing in hike-in rustic glamping, treehouse cabins and outfitting. Located on Whiskey Hill in the Whitewater River Valley near the town of Elba, MN. The cabins are easy to access with close parking. The hike-in rustic glamping sites offer a rugged backpacking like experience with spacious, secluded sites, creature comforts for a good night's sleep and no equipment required, all designed to immerse guests in the surrounding woodland. The land was used for personal recreation for several years. I've spent countless hours hiking and enjoying observing the seasons, plants, fungus and animals. The vision of a campground was inspired by many camping and backcountry spots throughout the United States, all of the amazing things in the woods, the beautiful blufftop valley views, proximity to a multitude of outdoor activities and adventures.

5. Gossman Goat Ranch

99%

(147)

28mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We have a lovely piece of property to come enjoy a getaway at. We enjoy all of the peace and quiet around here. The night sky is unbeatable in my eyes. We have a small hobby farm with lots of very tame animals. We have 42 acres to roams with lots of trails within the woods that are filled with aged oak trees and many young maple trees. Our property is filled with lots of wild flowers and wildlife. We are locate 3 miles from the root river if you enjoy fishing or going for a float down the river. There are two caves in our area that are a must see while you are visiting. I you like to hike there is a state park 14 minutes from us that have many miles of hiking trails and horse trails. If you are more the small town strolling type of person we have lots of small towns around us that are filled with shops and lots of great food! There is a large system of bike trails in our area that make a very fun way to check out some of the small towns. If you have a family with kids we have a lot of fun activities you can do with your kids, like spending time with the goats, chickens and ducks, playing on our playground, or taking a nice walk through the woods looking for fossils!

6. Belle Creek Bluff

99%

(447)

39mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

Belle Creek Bluff is on 28 acres of prime land in Welch. Belle Creek runs through the middle of the property. Walk, swim, paddle, fish and explore the this beautiful spring fed trout stream. There are a number of hiking trails on the property. Bordering state lands to the east of the property provide endless exploration and hiking adventures. Hike to the top of the bluff for a spectacular view of Welch valley and the ski hill. Hiking NE along Belle Creek can you spot the old model A truck along the banks? There are eagles, falcons, finches, and many colorful birds to see.

7. Twin Folk Farms

98%

(101)

45mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Previously a 100 acre century farm, this fertile land was tended to by generations of old time farmers. Their dairy cows pastured in areas which we now graze sheep.  The restored quarry provided gravel for the nearby highway restoration and local projects.The property is currently a mix of hay ground, cropland, pasture, forest, and quarry. Twin sisters, Darla and Kayla, and their families live across the road from each other and own the surrounding 140 acres. They keep busy planting/tending trees, making hay, moving fence for grazing animals, operating a farm business called Twin Folk Farms (pastured meat, camps, etc), and raising their families.Learn more about this land:- This site is at the edge of a restored quarry, sheep pasture, and wooded hillside.- The site is tucked down a flat mowed path, so it feels very private and protected. - You can hike up a path to the sheep pasture. Sometimes sheep are there, sometimes elsewhere on the farm. You can hike the other direction and check out the restored quarry. We have paths all around the property, so feel free to respectfully explore.- You can't see the highway from this site, but you can hear it. It's super handy to be able to hop out of your campsite haven and onto the hwy, but be aware that you will hear vehicles.- There's a Mississippi river boat launch a few miles down the road, so feel free to park your boat at the bottom of the quarry driveway.- The Hay Creek riding trails are 25 minutes away, so contact us if you want to set up a place in the quarry to park your horses and trailer for the night. - We are certified to sell meat straight off of the farm (Twin Folk Farms), so contact us if you want to purchase your meat and have it delivered to your campsite. You can also set up a time to come up to the farm and purchase meat. - The beautiful, historic town of Red Wing is 10 minutes from our farm. You'll find a mix of modern amenities and historic shops to suit your fancy.

8. Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland

100%

(496)

46mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome ; Located in southeast Minnesota's Driftless region of hills, valleys, fields and forests, we are a grass based working dairy farm with over 100 acres of woodland, including an extensive trail system and campsites in our wooded acres. What makes this woodland special is it's quiet, secluded setting and over 6 miles of hiking / skiing trails. Our farmstead sits three quarter of a mile off the paved county highway on our well maintained gravel driveway. Each of our campsites are secluded from the others with their own sawdust compost toilets, picnic tables, fireplaces, and firewood. Two of our sites require 4WD with a minimum of 6 inches ground clearance to access, and two are accessible with 2WD. If you do not have 4WD we can help transport your gear while you enjoy the walk in. There are plenty of woodland birds, deer, turkeys, raccoons and squirrels sharing the woods with you. At night it is common for owls to visit the campsite area to say hello, and coyotes talking in the distance. The winding trails through 100 acres of woodland offer a variety of woodland habitats, from Old growth Maple to mixed hardwood, to dense brush, to the edges of open pastureland. Bring your fat bike or mountain bike for an enjoyable ride. For winter users there is a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging winter cross country skiing or snowshoeing / hiking on the property. However the Rock Bottom Cabin is our only heated and insulated site and is available for winter booking. Winter access is walk in only with snow on the ground or in the forecast. We can help transport gear. This property is part of a working pasture-based dairy farm and guided tours of the dairy and cattle are available when scheduling allows. Children 12 and younger are free at our campsites. No need to be counted as guests , but please let us know when requesting to book. We do not allow non-booked visitors to our campsites due to the secluded, remote location, and accessibility.

9. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(406)

48mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our ranch has been in our family for 15 years and, before that, belonged to one family for over 200 years. Jolene (me, - owner) and my two sons, Riley and Logan, put a lot of time and dedication into our ranch. Our ranch is located on 40 acres where anyone can find their little piece of “peace.” We pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our guests and making them feel at home when they step onto our land. We will do our best to accommodate your needs in any way possible. Our WIFI is not always 100% reliable. If you need WIFI during your stay, please bring another option with you, such as a hotspot on your cell phone, in case ours is not dependable. From the crew who loves to share a little piece of our life on Stone Roller Road, – Jolene, Riley, Logan, Scotch (the yellow lab), Hops (the chocolate lab), and Scrappy (the late ranch dog)

Camper favorites near Rochester

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Aefintyr

98%

(60)

23mi from Rochester · 19 sites · Lodging

Wilderness inspired campground specializing in hike-in rustic glamping, treehouse cabins and outfitting. Located on Whiskey Hill in the Whitewater River Valley near the town of Elba, MN. The cabins are easy to access with close parking. The hike-in rustic glamping sites offer a rugged backpacking like experience with spacious, secluded sites, creature comforts for a good night's sleep and no equipment required, all designed to immerse guests in the surrounding woodland. The land was used for personal recreation for several years. I've spent countless hours hiking and enjoying observing the seasons, plants, fungus and animals. The vision of a campground was inspired by many camping and backcountry spots throughout the United States, all of the amazing things in the woods, the beautiful blufftop valley views, proximity to a multitude of outdoor activities and adventures.

Gossman Goat Ranch

99%

(147)

28mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We have a lovely piece of property to come enjoy a getaway at. We enjoy all of the peace and quiet around here. The night sky is unbeatable in my eyes. We have a small hobby farm with lots of very tame animals. We have 42 acres to roams with lots of trails within the woods that are filled with aged oak trees and many young maple trees. Our property is filled with lots of wild flowers and wildlife. We are locate 3 miles from the root river if you enjoy fishing or going for a float down the river. There are two caves in our area that are a must see while you are visiting. I you like to hike there is a state park 14 minutes from us that have many miles of hiking trails and horse trails. If you are more the small town strolling type of person we have lots of small towns around us that are filled with shops and lots of great food! There is a large system of bike trails in our area that make a very fun way to check out some of the small towns. If you have a family with kids we have a lot of fun activities you can do with your kids, like spending time with the goats, chickens and ducks, playing on our playground, or taking a nice walk through the woods looking for fossils!

Belle Creek Bluff

99%

(447)

39mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

Belle Creek Bluff is on 28 acres of prime land in Welch. Belle Creek runs through the middle of the property. Walk, swim, paddle, fish and explore the this beautiful spring fed trout stream. There are a number of hiking trails on the property. Bordering state lands to the east of the property provide endless exploration and hiking adventures. Hike to the top of the bluff for a spectacular view of Welch valley and the ski hill. Hiking NE along Belle Creek can you spot the old model A truck along the banks? There are eagles, falcons, finches, and many colorful birds to see.

Twin Folk Farms

98%

(101)

45mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Previously a 100 acre century farm, this fertile land was tended to by generations of old time farmers. Their dairy cows pastured in areas which we now graze sheep.  The restored quarry provided gravel for the nearby highway restoration and local projects.The property is currently a mix of hay ground, cropland, pasture, forest, and quarry. Twin sisters, Darla and Kayla, and their families live across the road from each other and own the surrounding 140 acres. They keep busy planting/tending trees, making hay, moving fence for grazing animals, operating a farm business called Twin Folk Farms (pastured meat, camps, etc), and raising their families.Learn more about this land:- This site is at the edge of a restored quarry, sheep pasture, and wooded hillside.- The site is tucked down a flat mowed path, so it feels very private and protected. - You can hike up a path to the sheep pasture. Sometimes sheep are there, sometimes elsewhere on the farm. You can hike the other direction and check out the restored quarry. We have paths all around the property, so feel free to respectfully explore.- You can't see the highway from this site, but you can hear it. It's super handy to be able to hop out of your campsite haven and onto the hwy, but be aware that you will hear vehicles.- There's a Mississippi river boat launch a few miles down the road, so feel free to park your boat at the bottom of the quarry driveway.- The Hay Creek riding trails are 25 minutes away, so contact us if you want to set up a place in the quarry to park your horses and trailer for the night. - We are certified to sell meat straight off of the farm (Twin Folk Farms), so contact us if you want to purchase your meat and have it delivered to your campsite. You can also set up a time to come up to the farm and purchase meat. - The beautiful, historic town of Red Wing is 10 minutes from our farm. You'll find a mix of modern amenities and historic shops to suit your fancy.

Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland

100%

(496)

46mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome ; Located in southeast Minnesota's Driftless region of hills, valleys, fields and forests, we are a grass based working dairy farm with over 100 acres of woodland, including an extensive trail system and campsites in our wooded acres. What makes this woodland special is it's quiet, secluded setting and over 6 miles of hiking / skiing trails. Our farmstead sits three quarter of a mile off the paved county highway on our well maintained gravel driveway. Each of our campsites are secluded from the others with their own sawdust compost toilets, picnic tables, fireplaces, and firewood. Two of our sites require 4WD with a minimum of 6 inches ground clearance to access, and two are accessible with 2WD. If you do not have 4WD we can help transport your gear while you enjoy the walk in. There are plenty of woodland birds, deer, turkeys, raccoons and squirrels sharing the woods with you. At night it is common for owls to visit the campsite area to say hello, and coyotes talking in the distance. The winding trails through 100 acres of woodland offer a variety of woodland habitats, from Old growth Maple to mixed hardwood, to dense brush, to the edges of open pastureland. Bring your fat bike or mountain bike for an enjoyable ride. For winter users there is a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging winter cross country skiing or snowshoeing / hiking on the property. However the Rock Bottom Cabin is our only heated and insulated site and is available for winter booking. Winter access is walk in only with snow on the ground or in the forecast. We can help transport gear. This property is part of a working pasture-based dairy farm and guided tours of the dairy and cattle are available when scheduling allows. Children 12 and younger are free at our campsites. No need to be counted as guests , but please let us know when requesting to book. We do not allow non-booked visitors to our campsites due to the secluded, remote location, and accessibility.

Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(406)

48mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our ranch has been in our family for 15 years and, before that, belonged to one family for over 200 years. Jolene (me, - owner) and my two sons, Riley and Logan, put a lot of time and dedication into our ranch. Our ranch is located on 40 acres where anyone can find their little piece of “peace.” We pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our guests and making them feel at home when they step onto our land. We will do our best to accommodate your needs in any way possible. Our WIFI is not always 100% reliable. If you need WIFI during your stay, please bring another option with you, such as a hotspot on your cell phone, in case ours is not dependable. From the crew who loves to share a little piece of our life on Stone Roller Road, – Jolene, Riley, Logan, Scotch (the yellow lab), Hops (the chocolate lab), and Scrappy (the late ranch dog)

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jasmine

November 2025

1 night at Aefintyr

These cabins are perfect for a winter get away! Watching the first snow of the year come down while comfy on the porch was incredible! It is close to the road, but the traffic generally sounds far off and ambient in the background. The cabins are warm, the bunk beds are fun even if you’re grown ups, and the windows on the ceiling are incredible for watching snowfall. The hiking around this area is incredible! We really appreciated the quick response and availability of a cabin short notice. Another place had double booked and cancelled our booking a few days before our intended night away and Chelsi really came through and saved our Thanksgiving week!

S

Sabrina

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Very nice spot! Pastoral sounds of the creek and cows nearby. Would definitely camp here again.

Kathy

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Edge

This was my 4th time at the Edge and no less lovely than the other 3 times. I ended up back at the cabin, but would happily stay at any of the tent sites on Edward's property. Can hardly wait to return next spring!

W

William

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Edge

The Edge is a great spot to camp. This land is close to any stores you would need to get supplies from and could be a great spot for a quick camp.

K

Keith

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Double J

Very private and peaceful. Jeff was super friendly. It was great to have the whole place to myself! Will be recommending!

N

Nikolas

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Double J

Beautiful scenery right on a river with great trees for hammocks, a pretty field for games, well kept outhouse, and very friendly and responsive owners.

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

Highly recommend! A beautiful, secluded place! Owner is very responsive too!

Cindy

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Edge

Great camper cabin. We loved our weekend getaway with the dogs. We would definitely stay here again!

K

Kris

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Belle Creek Bluff

Such a beautiful location, we felt so secluded! We saw deer, an eagle and a little downy woodpecker gave us a show on a tree just outside the screened in porch which was a favorite spot for our morning coffee and to listen to the rain. So peaceful . The water crossing was indeed a challenge with glacier cold water I decided to take a wrong step on a slippery rock and do a face plant in the cold water! With pretty much only my pride hurt (and a video my hubby happened to be taking of me at the time) it definitely made a memorable trip! We would definitely come back! And I were not to step now! ;)

Rock Bottom Cabin located in a secluded hardwood forest

D

David

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland

My wife and I had such a great stay at the Rock Bottom Cabin. It is a very cozy and secluded place. We particularly enjoyed hiking the great network of trails on their beautiful land. We hope to be back!

Evan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Aefintyr

Most luxurious hike-in site I’ve stayed at for sure! I stayed at Celtis on top of the bluff at the very end. Was happy I did because in late fall, there didn’t look to be much privacy at the other sites. Celtis was awesome and the bed was super comfortable too. The structure with the screen and tarps worked great for letting in some airflow if unzipped or none if zipped up. A table with 4 chairs, firepit, and the perfectly-spaced trees for a hammock made this site really great. Be prepared for a very steep (but short) hike up. Bathrooms with toilets, running water, and showers at the bottom near the cabins were a nice touch too.

The cabin overlooks the hillside you walk up while entering.

L

Lindsey

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Twin Folk Farms

We loved "glamping" here! The cabin was adorable and had everything we needed. The location was perfect...secluded, yet so close to several gorgeous hiking spots. The stargazing was incredible. Our pups (one of whom is scared of other dogs and people) were so happy to have the seclusion. It was the perfect spot to spend our days hiking, and our nights being cozy in the cabin!

D

Dave

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland

A great private site in a very scenic area. Mike is great!

Austin

October 2025

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Ranch Retreat Camping

Creekside Sounds campsite was a perfect retreat for us! The campsite was tidy and located right next to the creek, but also surrounded by a large open grass field. The space felt secluded while also not feeling any sort of confinement. Plenty of area for our dog to play and explore without bothering any one... or cows! Jolene was a great host and provided us with everything we needed to have a wonderful time on the farm! Although it was tucked off the main road and back in its own little area, it was not as far from town or other amenities as it typically would be for that type of seclusion. Would highly recommend Jolene and her campsites to anyone.... we even hope to return!

B

Becky

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Gossman Goat Ranch

I would definitely recommend Gossman Goat Farm! It has beautiful views and it was fun to see the goats and chickens. The directions were clear and the sites are clean and well organized. Cathy was very helpful and friendly and her boys ran and gathered eggs.. A great family run business, and the handmade soap was a wonderful souvenir!:)

J

Jeannie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River

5 STARS! Will stay again. Drove down the hill and camped at the river. It was perfect.

Bobby is taking his afternoon nap in the fresh air and sunshine🤓

G

Gloria

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Double J

It was clean, private, flat enough for two tents. It sits next to a flowing river and has a picnic table and nice fire pit. Jeff was responsive and cordial …I had plenty of wood. It was a very nice getaway and I have it listed as one of my favorites. The Peninsula has electric that Jeff runs down the hill for you.

S

Scott

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Folk Farms

Really great little spot. We brought our new lab puppy and she loved the freedom and space to run. Made a few easy runs to Red Wing for hiking and shopping. This place is close to everything and yet has the feel of being a million miles from the rat race.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Double J

Lovely spot, well marked and host very organized. Would absolutely stay there again.

N

Nicole

October 2025

23 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Ranch Retreat Camping

Big Trout Creek site did not disappoint! We had everything needed for a perfect stay and buying firewood right there was very convenient. Jolene checked in with us a couple times which was nice as well. Our pup wasn't sure about the cows the first day but by the end of our stay made peace with them!