95% (649) • 41 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cochrane
Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River
1. Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River
99%
(339)
35mi from Cochrane · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
The English Pale Campground (21+)
2. The English Pale Campground (21+)
97%
(101)
42mi from Cochrane · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have 4 additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. Plans include some limited vehicle access on the newly constructed gravel road.
The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In November 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
$32
/ night
Shady Rest Acres
3. Shady Rest Acres
100%
(316)
46mi from Cochrane · 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
Merrick State Park
4. Merrick State Park
State park 6.6mi from Cochrane · 66 sites
Discover Merrick State Park's river access and scenic trails.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
5. Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
100%
(6)
State forest 36mi from Cochrane · 174 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Harbor Bar
6. Harbor Bar
83%
(130)
42mi from Cochrane · 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
28mi from Cochrane · 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.
Whitewater State Park MN
8. Whitewater State Park MN
100%
(7)
State park 16mi from Cochrane · 114 sites
Hike a mountain, hit the beach, or fish for trout at this popular park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Great River Bluffs State Park
9. Great River Bluffs State Park
100%
(6)
State park 29mi from Cochrane · 31 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Great River Bluffs State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Frontenac State Park
10. Frontenac State Park
100%
(10)
State park 32mi from Cochrane · 86 sites
Enjoy superb birdwatching, limestone bluffs, and sandy beaches at Frontenac State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
11. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
100%
(2)
State park 45mi from Cochrane · 135 sites
Discover the allure of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Goose Island Park
12. Goose Island Park
100%
(1)
Park 46mi from Cochrane · 400 sites
Discover Goose Island Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eau Galle Recreation Area
13. Eau Galle Recreation Area
100%
(1)
Park 49mi from Cochrane · 57 sites
Discover Eau Galle Recreation Area's serene trails and year-round fishing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
95% (649) • 41 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cochrane
Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River
1. Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River
99%
(339)
35mi from Cochrane · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
The English Pale Campground (21+)
2. The English Pale Campground (21+)
97%
(101)
42mi from Cochrane · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
IMPORTANT NOTIFICATION: The river edge erosion wall construction is complete. The area is being prepared to have 4 additional river sites added sometime in 2026 depending on vegetation growth. Plans include some limited vehicle access on the newly constructed gravel road.
The English Pale opened in 2021 and is a developing property. In November 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
$32
/ night
Shady Rest Acres
3. Shady Rest Acres
100%
(316)
46mi from Cochrane · 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
Merrick State Park
4. Merrick State Park
State park 6.6mi from Cochrane · 66 sites
Discover Merrick State Park's river access and scenic trails.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
5. Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
100%
(6)
State forest 36mi from Cochrane · 174 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Harbor Bar
6. Harbor Bar
83%
(130)
42mi from Cochrane · 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
28mi from Cochrane · 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.
Whitewater State Park MN
8. Whitewater State Park MN
100%
(7)
State park 16mi from Cochrane · 114 sites
Hike a mountain, hit the beach, or fish for trout at this popular park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Great River Bluffs State Park
9. Great River Bluffs State Park
100%
(6)
State park 29mi from Cochrane · 31 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Great River Bluffs State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Frontenac State Park
10. Frontenac State Park
100%
(10)
State park 32mi from Cochrane · 86 sites
Enjoy superb birdwatching, limestone bluffs, and sandy beaches at Frontenac State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
11. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
100%
(2)
State park 45mi from Cochrane · 135 sites
Discover the allure of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Goose Island Park
12. Goose Island Park
100%
(1)
Park 46mi from Cochrane · 400 sites
Discover Goose Island Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eau Galle Recreation Area
13. Eau Galle Recreation Area
100%
(1)
Park 49mi from Cochrane · 57 sites
Discover Eau Galle Recreation Area's serene trails and year-round fishing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Andrew
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Highly recommend! A beautiful, secluded place! Owner is very responsive too!
See moreJ
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.
See more
B
Brent
October 2025
12 ft travel trailer
With pets
Terrific location, quiet and set away from any neighbors. Gentle slope ensures even recent rains drain off reasonably well. Beautiful fall colors, short hike down to the river & bluffs with great wading for our visit. Even the toilet facilities were clean, well kept, and better than expected (though bring a lantern to keep in there as it gets a bit dark).
See more
Peter
October 2025
Tent
We loved our camping trip at Eric’s Bluff Hollow Camp. The site is a tranquil GEM nestled underneath scenic bluffs at a sharp turn of the Root River. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and Eric is a responsive and affable host. I have been scouting for private campsites near trout streams and this IS the place! We are looking forward to returning next spring!
See more
W
William
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Went tent camping here and it was worth every dollar. Quiet, private, and absolutely beautiful scenery. The property owner is generous, communicative, and maintains the land very well. Cleanest outhouse I've ever seen!! Lots of deadwood for fires and a nice stream for collecting water to filter.
See more
K
Kyle
October 2025
Tent
Patty and Michelle are awesome hosts. Very available and acommodating if you need anything but totally out of your hair otherwise. Heart's Content was a lovely spot where you could hear the soft trickle of water flowing from pond to pond as you slept. Very close to a lot of cool spots including a great bluff hike in Reno, MN, and great boating/island hopping opportunities at Goose Island in LaCrosse, WI. The farm animals were all very chill and friendly and were very respectful of our space at the campsite, like not wandering in and being all up on us while we prepped meals or anything like that. They'd sometimes graze on the underbrush that rings the site. The goats loved being fed food scraps like carrot/potato skins, banana peels, etc. There was a very clean and well maintained outhouse on the premises and a water spigot nearby with very clean water. Great price on a generous amount of firewood that is stored in a dry shelter. Buy it in person, not through the app. ;)
See moreB
Barbara
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great location, great site, great fishing! Lots of space. Toilet was clean and not smelly. Loved our time here!
See moreA
Amy
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
Another wonderful weekend at Bluff Hollow! Great weather, fun fishing in the river, such a peaceful place...just what I needed to recharge. I hope to be back next year!
See more
Kyle
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
I've used Hicamp for a while now and visited my fair share of spots around Wisconsin. This one has been my hands down favorite. The seclusion, the river, the private beach, and the proximity to a small town made this the ideal spot for me and my fellow campers. We most certainly will be renting this location again in the future!
See more
Noelani
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Absolutely gorgeous site. It's huge, you really feel like you have the ENTIRE forest and river to yourself. Me and my dogs had the time of our lives just wandering around. Lots of critters around. I heard coyotes nearby so watch your small dogs!
See more
Wes
September 2025
Tent
This was our second stop across the country. I absolutely loved the place and wish I had an opportunity to stay longer. Even though a crazy storm kept me up, almost toppled the tent, and flooded everything it was an amazing experience. Would absolutely go back. 🥰
See moreC
Caitlin
September 2025
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is our second year camping at this site and absolutely love it! Eric is such a great host and so prompt with communication. We look forward to our next weekend at Bluff Hollow!
See more
Amanda
September 2025
9 ft pop-up camper
Beautiful, extremely private. Trees are just starting to turn and it’s gorgeous. This time I opted not to bring my fishing pole and of course I saw multiple trout in the river.
I realized on day 2 of our stay that we booked during deer opener and worried that nearby hunting could provoke my reactive dog, but any shots heard were far away and it wasn’t a problem!
The most impressively clean port-a-potty I’ve ever used.
Love this site. Eric is great host—clear directions and expectations are appropriately set!
See more
S
Shannon
September 2025
11 ft campervan
With pets
What an amazing and tranquil place. Hicking trails and a river surrounded by bluffs to enjoy. Very clean and well maintained property. Will definitely be coming back hopefully for years to come.
See more
Tynan
September 2025
Tent
Well maintained. Private and peaceful. Easy to find using google maps.
See more
J
Justin
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Amazing piece of land along the river. Quiet with tons of space and camping options.
See moreE
Elizabeth
September 2025
16 ft car
The Bluff Hollow site is extremely peaceful. We were able to camp in the lower area right by the Root river. If there were heavy rains the lower campsite may become somewhat not as pleasant to camp at and impossible with a camper. Eric does mention that in his description of the land. Next time I hope my whole family can join.
See moreT
Tim
September 2025
13 ft pop-up camper
Group trip
Fabulous as always. Unfortunate that on the way down, the skies opened and there was a monsoon. It was muddy and the mosquitos were brutal. The next day everything was back to normal. Bathroom was clean, fire pit was clean, the beach was great and the bugs weren’t too bad. Host is always very responsive.
See more
E
Ethan
August 2025
Tent
Shady Rest Acres was amazing. I had high expectations and they were exceeded. The donkeys and goats were really friendly when they approached you to check things out and the cows were great to watch. The hosts were super friendly and answered any questions right away with helpful information. Secluded area which was very peaceful and where I could check out the milky way at night. 12/10 would book again
See more
A
Alison
August 2025
Tent
What a gorgeous place! Can't wait to come back again!
See more
