The best river, stream, or creek camping near Winona

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Looking to camp near Winona, Minnesota and enjoy the scenic beauty of a river? Look no further than Ranch Retreat, the website that offers over 380 camping options in this location. Whether you prefer pitching your tent by the riverside or parking your RV with a view, Hipcamp has got you covered. With options starting as low as $5 per night, you can find the perfect spot to relax and unwind. And if you need some help deciding, check out the top campsites with rave reviews like Ranch Retreat (226 reviews), Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff (209 reviews), and 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and showers. If you're up for some adventure, indulge in activities like whitewater paddling, snow sports, and boating. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Winona

3. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(316)
31mi from Winona · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

8. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%
(406)
11mi from Winona · 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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night

9. The English Pale Campground (21+)

97%
(101)
33mi from Winona · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. The entire Beach (R3 & R4) will be closed to Campers starting October 1. This is due to hunting season starting. Campsites in the main campground will be still available, but guests are not allowed on the lower 40. Contact Cal or check our Facebook page and web site for more information. The campground and rental house will open about May 15, each year. The English Pale Campground is located along the Black River in Jackson County, 1 mile west of the Village of Melrose. The entire property only allows guests and occupants who are 21 or older. Sites/house can be booked 6 months in advance. The main campground is 70 feet above the river. We have 5 rustic (no hook-ups) RV/Travel Trailer/Tent sites, a fully furnished “Manor” House, a travel trailer as well as 2 rustic beach sites that are located along the river. The property is a total of 70 acres, which includes the 4+ acre beach, a mile of river front and trails through the woods that connect them all. The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In late summer of 2025 an erosion wall was built along the Black River. This included clearing of a section of the forest, building a gravel access road and an riprap river wall to prevent further erosion. Since 2016 over 60 feet of the riverbank has washed away. Our property offers a reasonable expectation of privacy and we do not offer day passes as our target guests are campers. We are an adult only property, but not a nudist campground, as that is not our central theme. We do not prohibit our guests from nudity for the purpose of sunbathing on the beach, campsites or sundeck, but nudity is not allowed in general common areas. Part of our nature is allowing discreet nudity for tanning purposes. While we target couples for time together, singles and groups are welcome. This is NOT a party campground, our goal is to let you connect with nature. More campground information can be found on our main web page or on Facebook at The English Pale Campground and Resort. The entire property can be rented by contacting us directly by phone or email.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

14. Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

100%
(512)
19mi from Winona · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a very private location. In its former life this property was a limestone quarry. Evidence of it's history remain with high rock walls on both ends of the property. In the center of the property is about 5 acres that is flat and covered with wildflowers and small trees. There are several good options for camping in this area. Surrounding this area is another 15 acres of hills and trees. We have a scenic overlook open to all guests where you can relax and sit on a wooden swing while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mississippi River below. There is a boat ramp just a mile down the hill for boating or fishing on the Mississippi and the city of La Crosse, WI and La Crescent, MN are each only about a five minute drive. Great River Bluffs State Park and countless other recreational opportunities are just minutes away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

17. Gossman Goat Ranch

99%
(147)
34mi from Winona · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

19. Lost and Found Private Retreat

100%
(2)
18mi from Winona · 3 sites · Tents
Hills and gulleys covered in trees , and trails that vary in difficulty and length. Benches to rest and Tent camping sites dot the ridge-top, surrounded by black raspberry bushes and young forest. Grilling, campfires, and yard games can be enjoyed in the central yard. The rustic bar and outdoor entertainment area may be used on request, though parties of any sort have a fee separate from the standard camping fee. Lots of wildlife to see, as well as the resident chickens, goats, and dogs. Responsible foraging and exploring off-trail is also allowed, have fun and find some cool mushrooms if that’s what you’re into! Bring a friend or dog, enjoy the secluded feel and the kind of quiet that is only found in the forest. The property is a work in progress, therefore some amenities may not be available, e.g. porta potty, water, device charging station. Campsite, trail, or general property projects may be ongoing, some noise maybe be associated with that, as well as temporarily unattended tools. Natural terrain and the usual things found outdoors can be hazardous, e.g. stinging nettles, bugs, uneven ground, etc. Adult supervision is required for children. Non-recyclable trash must be pack-in, pack-out. Bins will be provided for recycling.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$12
 / night

20. Whispering Winds Retreat

86%
(7)
44mi from Winona · 2 sites · Lodging
Immerse yourself in nature and experience the magic of the lush gardens, free-roaming bunnies, fairy walkway, stargazing area w/ telescope, meditating in the Soul Garden, fishing in the fully stocked trout stream and more. 5 minute walk to City Park w/ frisbee golf, less than 0.5 miles to local restaurants & shops. Come relax, rejuvenate, and live out your best life at Whispering Winds Micro Retreat! (420 & pet friendly) Whispering Winds is a holistic healing micro retreat specializing in nature-based self-care. We believe in caring for the land and ensuring it’s just as magical for future generations as it is for the current ones. And that is incredibly important — this place really does have a certain magic to it. Guests are constantly commenting on the healing energy that seems to blanket the farm. The Fairy Walk sparkles with solar lights in the evening. Hammocks for afternoon naps, a nature trail you can walk barefoot, and an outdoor meditation/yoga area. The Soul Garden includes sound healing with outdoor gongs, wind chimes, bird song, crickets, frogs, and the evening dance of the fireflies, in season. Whispering Winds is also home to many animals and features a horse pasture, ducks, bunnies, cats, chickens, and a fully stocked trout stream. The centrally located Community Kitchen is a shared space with lots of options for cooking: Gas & charcoal grills, wood powered pizza oven, dutch oven, solar cooker, fire pit w/ grill grates, chiminea & a rocket stove. The Kitchen is equipped with a sink, Berkey for filtered water, and has prep & dining areas.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$67
 / night

Looking to camp near Winona, Minnesota and enjoy the scenic beauty of a river? Look no further than Ranch Retreat, the website that offers over 380 camping options in this location. Whether you prefer pitching your tent by the riverside or parking your RV with a view, Hipcamp has got you covered. With options starting as low as $5 per night, you can find the perfect spot to relax and unwind. And if you need some help deciding, check out the top campsites with rave reviews like Ranch Retreat (226 reviews), Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff (209 reviews), and 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and showers. If you're up for some adventure, indulge in activities like whitewater paddling, snow sports, and boating. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Winona

3. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(316)
31mi from Winona · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

8. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%
(406)
11mi from Winona · 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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night

9. The English Pale Campground (21+)

97%
(101)
33mi from Winona · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. The entire Beach (R3 & R4) will be closed to Campers starting October 1. This is due to hunting season starting. Campsites in the main campground will be still available, but guests are not allowed on the lower 40. Contact Cal or check our Facebook page and web site for more information. The campground and rental house will open about May 15, each year. The English Pale Campground is located along the Black River in Jackson County, 1 mile west of the Village of Melrose. The entire property only allows guests and occupants who are 21 or older. Sites/house can be booked 6 months in advance. The main campground is 70 feet above the river. We have 5 rustic (no hook-ups) RV/Travel Trailer/Tent sites, a fully furnished “Manor” House, a travel trailer as well as 2 rustic beach sites that are located along the river. The property is a total of 70 acres, which includes the 4+ acre beach, a mile of river front and trails through the woods that connect them all. The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In late summer of 2025 an erosion wall was built along the Black River. This included clearing of a section of the forest, building a gravel access road and an riprap river wall to prevent further erosion. Since 2016 over 60 feet of the riverbank has washed away. Our property offers a reasonable expectation of privacy and we do not offer day passes as our target guests are campers. We are an adult only property, but not a nudist campground, as that is not our central theme. We do not prohibit our guests from nudity for the purpose of sunbathing on the beach, campsites or sundeck, but nudity is not allowed in general common areas. Part of our nature is allowing discreet nudity for tanning purposes. While we target couples for time together, singles and groups are welcome. This is NOT a party campground, our goal is to let you connect with nature. More campground information can be found on our main web page or on Facebook at The English Pale Campground and Resort. The entire property can be rented by contacting us directly by phone or email.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

14. Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff MN

100%
(512)
19mi from Winona · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a very private location. In its former life this property was a limestone quarry. Evidence of it's history remain with high rock walls on both ends of the property. In the center of the property is about 5 acres that is flat and covered with wildflowers and small trees. There are several good options for camping in this area. Surrounding this area is another 15 acres of hills and trees. We have a scenic overlook open to all guests where you can relax and sit on a wooden swing while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mississippi River below. There is a boat ramp just a mile down the hill for boating or fishing on the Mississippi and the city of La Crosse, WI and La Crescent, MN are each only about a five minute drive. Great River Bluffs State Park and countless other recreational opportunities are just minutes away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

17. Gossman Goat Ranch

99%
(147)
34mi from Winona · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

19. Lost and Found Private Retreat

100%
(2)
18mi from Winona · 3 sites · Tents
Hills and gulleys covered in trees , and trails that vary in difficulty and length. Benches to rest and Tent camping sites dot the ridge-top, surrounded by black raspberry bushes and young forest. Grilling, campfires, and yard games can be enjoyed in the central yard. The rustic bar and outdoor entertainment area may be used on request, though parties of any sort have a fee separate from the standard camping fee. Lots of wildlife to see, as well as the resident chickens, goats, and dogs. Responsible foraging and exploring off-trail is also allowed, have fun and find some cool mushrooms if that’s what you’re into! Bring a friend or dog, enjoy the secluded feel and the kind of quiet that is only found in the forest. The property is a work in progress, therefore some amenities may not be available, e.g. porta potty, water, device charging station. Campsite, trail, or general property projects may be ongoing, some noise maybe be associated with that, as well as temporarily unattended tools. Natural terrain and the usual things found outdoors can be hazardous, e.g. stinging nettles, bugs, uneven ground, etc. Adult supervision is required for children. Non-recyclable trash must be pack-in, pack-out. Bins will be provided for recycling.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$12
 / night

20. Whispering Winds Retreat

86%
(7)
44mi from Winona · 2 sites · Lodging
Immerse yourself in nature and experience the magic of the lush gardens, free-roaming bunnies, fairy walkway, stargazing area w/ telescope, meditating in the Soul Garden, fishing in the fully stocked trout stream and more. 5 minute walk to City Park w/ frisbee golf, less than 0.5 miles to local restaurants & shops. Come relax, rejuvenate, and live out your best life at Whispering Winds Micro Retreat! (420 & pet friendly) Whispering Winds is a holistic healing micro retreat specializing in nature-based self-care. We believe in caring for the land and ensuring it’s just as magical for future generations as it is for the current ones. And that is incredibly important — this place really does have a certain magic to it. Guests are constantly commenting on the healing energy that seems to blanket the farm. The Fairy Walk sparkles with solar lights in the evening. Hammocks for afternoon naps, a nature trail you can walk barefoot, and an outdoor meditation/yoga area. The Soul Garden includes sound healing with outdoor gongs, wind chimes, bird song, crickets, frogs, and the evening dance of the fireflies, in season. Whispering Winds is also home to many animals and features a horse pasture, ducks, bunnies, cats, chickens, and a fully stocked trout stream. The centrally located Community Kitchen is a shared space with lots of options for cooking: Gas & charcoal grills, wood powered pizza oven, dutch oven, solar cooker, fire pit w/ grill grates, chiminea & a rocket stove. The Kitchen is equipped with a sink, Berkey for filtered water, and has prep & dining areas.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$67
 / night

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