The best camping in Myre - Big Island State Park, MN

·
100% (5)

Discover Myre-Big Island State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.  

The best camping in Myre - Big Island State Park, MN

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Waterfall in the adjacent park is a 500 foot walk down the trail.

6. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
49mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 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
Pavillion with electric and picnic seating

8. The Pavilion at Walking Eagle Marsh

83%
(3)
30mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Forest City, IA
Welcome to The Pavillion at Walking Eagle Marsh! This acreage is a quiet, private oasis just outside of Forest City. We offer 30 and 50amp hookups, and tents can be placed almost anywhere within the mowed areas surrounding the water. There is no water or sewer at this location, but potable water may be filled at our home just 1/2 mile down the road, or in Forest City. The Pond also has a cedar pavilion with picnic seating for 16!! Catch and release fishing is allowed, and the fire pit is perfect for campfire stories and roasting marshmallows! Multiple nature trails are available to explore within our 200 acre extended property, with prior notice please. Local attractions include Pilot Knob State park just down the road to the East, and Bear Creek Golf course to the west. We are avid RV’ers, and have enjoyed camping for over 15 years! We can’t wait to host you!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

11. Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

100%
(9)
41mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 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
Campfires
from 
$99
 / night
Primary bedroom.  Sleeping loft.  Queen memory foam, UGG bedding.  6 ft. adult can comfortably stand here.

12. 1854 * 7th Gen Farm * Cowboy Casita

100%
(9)
44mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · West Concord, MN
TINY HOME BARN APARTMENT ON 25 ACRE NATURE PRESERVE with 5 miles of trails on site LOCATED IN MINNESOTA, 30 MINUTES WEST OF ROCHESTER. Delight in the design, beauty, and authenticity of our 171-year-old family farm; now organic, sustainable, solar-powered and chemical free. Stay comfortably in the Cowboy Casita, a small handcrafted tiny home apartment built into the 75-year-old barn we call THE OUTRIDER. Established in 1854, we're one of a handful of Century Farms in Minnesota. This Pioneer Property boasts 25 PRIVATELY OWNED acres for you to freely roam.  Homesteaded since 1854, the Farm has been chemical free since 1985. We didn't just go to Hobby Lobby and buy a bunch of stuff and say "there, it's a cowboy place" ;-) We are closing in on 2 centuries here. Also Certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Enjoy the abundance of animals and birds in the heavily wooded pristine moors at the bottom of the hill.  Bluffs, creek, Medieval Forest; the pastures are used for organic, chemical-free hay farming.   You have access to privately owned portion of the Richard Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest. Authentic experiences on trails, cliffs, creek, meadows, wetlands, moors, prairie all in their natural state. Leave no trace. Be mindful of wildlife and considerate of others. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. We can host horses in our Guest stalls and trailers for endurance equine sports. Learn more about this land: * 1 bed/1 bath rustic. * Using the highest cleaning protocols for 5 star stays.  * The entire unit is yours; not shared whatsoever.  * Your unit is a small apartment bult into a barn. * Access to shared laundry, shared gym. Private patio with firepit/grate/BBQ * 25 acres of the farm has been carved out as a Nature Preserve.    * 5-star Airbnb when not a Hipcamp spot * Good Internet  * Self-Check-In. Enjoy locally sourced snacks - WHEN AVAILABLE -- provided by your Hosts. Whimsically curated decor with a tongue-in-cheek nod to our cowboy roots. Put on your sturdy shoes and take a stroll down to the scenic creek; you've been transported back in time. Nearby Mantorville: coffee shop, saloon, nice dining room, ice cream, antiques. Pine Island is the start of the Douglas Trail for bikes.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$180
 / night
Whispering Winds Retreat

13. Whispering Winds Retreat

86%
(7)
46mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Spring Valley, MN
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$67
 / night
Oakwoods Trails Campground

16. Oakwoods Trails Campground

12mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 1 site · Austin, MN
Welcome to our unique campground, where the beauty of nature meets exceptional hospitality. Owned by Brian and Jan Sorenson, our campground offers a serene escape filled with lush landscapes and a variety of outdoor experiences. We provide a range of accommodations, including 50-amp electric and water hookup sites, as well as tent sites for those who prefer a more traditional camping experience. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for enjoying meals and evening campfires under the stars. Our facilities include clean showers and bathrooms, ensuring your stay is comfortable. Families will appreciate the dedicated kid’s play areas, making it an ideal destination for campers of all ages. Additionally, a convenient dump station is available for your use. Explore the nearby natural features, including scenic hiking trails and refreshing swimming holes, or visit local restaurants and shops to enhance your camping adventure. We invite you to come and stay with us for a memorable outdoor experience!
Pets
Toilets
Pihls Park

18. Pihls Park

21mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 41 sites · Wells, MN
Pihl’s Park stands out as a unique destination due to its rich history as a private retreat transformed into a public haven for nature lovers. Originally established by Joe Pihl, who cherished sharing his stunning 20-acre property, the park was generously donated to Faribault County in the 1960s. This act of kindness ensured that everyone could experience the beauty of the land. Nestled along the shores of the expansive 256-acre Rice Lake, Pihl’s Park offers a fantastic environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is a popular activity here, with anglers often casting lines for pan fish such as crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. Visitors to the park can immerse themselves in its natural beauty, whether they choose to spend a day, a week, or an entire season exploring the scenic landscapes. With a variety of outdoor activities available, Pihl’s Park is the perfect spot for families and friends to create lasting memories while enjoying the great outdoors.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Adventure Bound Beaver Trails

19. Adventure Bound Beaver Trails

26mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 304 sites · Austin, MN
Welcome to Adventure Bound Beaver Trails, a unique family-owned campground in Minnesota that combines the tranquility of nature with the convenience of being just a short drive from Rochester. Our campground is the perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an exciting camping experience, whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or an extended vacation. Nestled in the heart of nature, our campground features a variety of campsite options to suit your needs, including tent sites, full hookup sites, premium sites, rental cabins, and travel trailers. With ample acreage and a focus on privacy, you can enjoy the great outdoors while still having access to the amenities of the nearby city. Adventure Bound Beaver Trails is not just about camping; it’s about creating unforgettable memories. Our location offers easy access to a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to swimming holes and nature trails. Plus, you’ll find local restaurants and shops nearby to enhance your stay. We invite you and your family to join us for an unforgettable camping experience. With endless outdoor activities and excellent facilities, Adventure Bound Beaver Trails is the ideal spot for both adventure seekers and those looking for a peaceful retreat. Book your stay today and discover the best of Minnesota camping!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
100% (5)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Myre - Big Island State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Myre - Big Island State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
49mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 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

The Pavilion at Walking Eagle Marsh

83%
(3)
30mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Forest City, IA
Welcome to The Pavillion at Walking Eagle Marsh! This acreage is a quiet, private oasis just outside of Forest City. We offer 30 and 50amp hookups, and tents can be placed almost anywhere within the mowed areas surrounding the water. There is no water or sewer at this location, but potable water may be filled at our home just 1/2 mile down the road, or in Forest City. The Pond also has a cedar pavilion with picnic seating for 16!! Catch and release fishing is allowed, and the fire pit is perfect for campfire stories and roasting marshmallows! Multiple nature trails are available to explore within our 200 acre extended property, with prior notice please. Local attractions include Pilot Knob State park just down the road to the East, and Bear Creek Golf course to the west. We are avid RV’ers, and have enjoyed camping for over 15 years! We can’t wait to host you!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

Hidden Spring Hideaway - Glamping

100%
(9)
41mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 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
Campfires
from 
$99
 / night

1854 * 7th Gen Farm * Cowboy Casita

100%
(9)
44mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · West Concord, MN
TINY HOME BARN APARTMENT ON 25 ACRE NATURE PRESERVE with 5 miles of trails on site LOCATED IN MINNESOTA, 30 MINUTES WEST OF ROCHESTER. Delight in the design, beauty, and authenticity of our 171-year-old family farm; now organic, sustainable, solar-powered and chemical free. Stay comfortably in the Cowboy Casita, a small handcrafted tiny home apartment built into the 75-year-old barn we call THE OUTRIDER. Established in 1854, we're one of a handful of Century Farms in Minnesota. This Pioneer Property boasts 25 PRIVATELY OWNED acres for you to freely roam.  Homesteaded since 1854, the Farm has been chemical free since 1985. We didn't just go to Hobby Lobby and buy a bunch of stuff and say "there, it's a cowboy place" ;-) We are closing in on 2 centuries here. Also Certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Enjoy the abundance of animals and birds in the heavily wooded pristine moors at the bottom of the hill.  Bluffs, creek, Medieval Forest; the pastures are used for organic, chemical-free hay farming.   You have access to privately owned portion of the Richard Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest. Authentic experiences on trails, cliffs, creek, meadows, wetlands, moors, prairie all in their natural state. Leave no trace. Be mindful of wildlife and considerate of others. Mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. We can host horses in our Guest stalls and trailers for endurance equine sports. Learn more about this land: * 1 bed/1 bath rustic. * Using the highest cleaning protocols for 5 star stays.  * The entire unit is yours; not shared whatsoever.  * Your unit is a small apartment bult into a barn. * Access to shared laundry, shared gym. Private patio with firepit/grate/BBQ * 25 acres of the farm has been carved out as a Nature Preserve.    * 5-star Airbnb when not a Hipcamp spot * Good Internet  * Self-Check-In. Enjoy locally sourced snacks - WHEN AVAILABLE -- provided by your Hosts. Whimsically curated decor with a tongue-in-cheek nod to our cowboy roots. Put on your sturdy shoes and take a stroll down to the scenic creek; you've been transported back in time. Nearby Mantorville: coffee shop, saloon, nice dining room, ice cream, antiques. Pine Island is the start of the Douglas Trail for bikes.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$180
 / night

Whispering Winds Retreat

86%
(7)
46mi from Myre - Big Island State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Spring Valley, MN
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$67
 / night

Other options near Myre - Big Island State Park

The best camping in Myre - Big Island State Park, MN guide

Overview

About

Get your binoculars ready for a stay at Myre - Big Island State Park, where American white pelicans regularly fly over the lake, and spring through fall seasons make for crazy migration sightings. The park protects eight miles of shoreline on Albert Lea Lake, an oasis of crazy nature and diverse wildlife on the southern Minnesota/Iowa border.

The lake can get a little too weedy for swimming (or maybe you're all about that!), but it’s a beauty to behold the highly eutrophic surface covered in blooming lillies and moss. Paddle a boat out to the 116-acre Big Island covered in maple forests, or take the causeway connecting it to the mainland. Camping is available on both the Big and Little Islands—explore all of it on the trails that lead you through wet lowlands, priarie grasses, and savanna oak landscapes. Artifacts reveal humans have lived here for over 9000 years, so make history by continuing the tradition!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Myre-Big Island State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be harsh, so check conditions if you're planning a cold-weather adventure.

Know before you go

  • Highway 67 is closed; follow alternative directions provided by the park to avoid confusion.
  • Check the park's official website or contact the office for the latest updates on trail and facility closures.
  • Remember to pack essentials for changing weather conditions, as the park offers diverse outdoor experiences.
  • For a smooth visit, arrive at your campsite directly; park staff will assist with check-in procedures.
  • Stay connected with park events and updates by signing up for their email notifications.
100%
5 ratings · 1 review

Top cities near Myre - Big Island State Park