The best camping near Whitewater State Park MN

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Whitewater State Park MN adventure.

100% (7 reviews)

Hike a mountain, hit the beach, or fish for trout at this popular park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Whitewater State Park MN

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Whitewater State Park MN

Top-rated campgrounds near Whitewater State Park MN

96%

(281)

The Edge

7 sites · Lodging, Tents160 acres · Rochester, MN

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.

100%

(297)

Shady Rest Acres

4 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Brownsville, MN

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.

99%

(34)

Frickson Family Farms, LLC.

4 sites · Lodging, RVs180 acres · Dakota, MN

The farming lifestyle, and knowing that this is how we intended to raise our family, led us to transition into the farm-to-table business, selling our products to our family, friends and the public. Together Andy & Darienne, along with their 3 children, work as a team to raise all of the animals and crops. Our land and animals are all handled with proper care. There is no other way we could envision our life than right here on the farm with our children, raising wholesome food for ourselves and others. Come enjoy the beauty overlooking our crop land, shop our farm store, and look at all the livestock. Including cattle, pigs, chickens & goats. We are conveniently located off of Interstate 90 along the Mississippi between MN & WI. Our Farm store is stocked with our home raised fresh & frozen meat - beef, pork, chicken and many other locally sourced food items including honey, Maple syrup, dried goods, dairy, eggs, and more. Seasonal produce as available (Sweet corn & pumpkins in fall) •Electric available for 4 RV’s •Water for 4 RV's not available winter months - hiking trails through our forest new for 2023 (Fire wood provided, donations appreciated.) We Accept all major cards (credit/debit), cash, check or Venmo. Things to do: •Enjoy our state park located 3 miles from our farm if you enjoy hiking or biking. 30 acres of hiking trails through our woods new for 2023 •Feel free to bring your utv and cruise our county roads. •Enjoy an amazing burger (provided by our farm) & drinks at THE SHED Bar and Grill located 4 miles from our farm. •Schedule a tour of the historic Pickwick Mill located about 5 miles from our farm. *Please keep in mind this is a working family farm, there are kids, tractors and equipment running daily, and the smell of farm fresh air. Campsites are located in a private area to allow our campers privacy. Thanks, Andy & Darienne Frickson Frickson Family Farms

100%

(430)

Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Houston, MN

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.

100%

(30)

Aefintyr

17 sites · Lodging14 acres · Altura, MN

Aefintyr is a campground located on Whiskey Hill in the Whitewater River Valley near the town of Elba, MN. 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. Camps are spacious, secluded and designed to immerse guests in the surrounding woodland.

99%

(366)

Ranch Retreat Camping

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Winona, MN

Our ranch has been in our family for 14 years and prior to 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, making them feel at home the instant 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 absolutely need WIFI at all times 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)

100%

(114)

Gossman Goat Grazing Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Preston, MN

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!

93%

(43)

Lionheart

3 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Millville, MN

Our land is a unique find with a little bit of everything. With river access, you can enjoy swimming/water activities and wind down with the wildlife sounds and campfire crackle. We have a few standup paddle boards, and river tubes available to rent and farm fresh eggs to purchase and enjoy with your morning campfire breakfast. The best on the Zumbro! Come experience life outdoors on the river :). *Please Note: there is an active shooting range to the north of the sites which you may hear 9:00am - 6:30pm. The shots are loud and echo in the valley. **While our property and our campsites are private, the river is not. Please expect tubers, kayakers and water lovers of all ages to be on the river at anytime.

88%

(8)

Pine River Campsites

10 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Cresco, IA

This secluded property is just off Hwy 9 five miles west of Cresco, Iowa. It has 50/30/20 amp service with water, sewer, garbage and internet. The property has a view of the north branch of the Turkey River, walking tails, fire ring, picnic table and firewood available for purchase. Open all year, winter rates apply Oct. 31st to March 31st. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates. Pet friendly.

83%

(129)

Harbor Bar

12 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Hager City, WI

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.

100%

(441)

Quarry in the Mississippi Bluff

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dakota, WI

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.

100%

(9)

Spring Valley Ponds

7 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Spring Valley, MN

Plenty of outdoor spaces to hike, bike, fish, canoe, and paddleboard! Property adjoins to a bike trail that will take you into town and varies other places including a newly installed 18 hole Frisbee Golf Course. From Turtles, to Eagles, chances are you will see both during your stay, along with a deer or 2. A nature lover's paradise, you'll have the opportunity to fish or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings. Guests are welcome to fish the ponds, but it is limited to catch and release only. We trust that all guest will be respectful of this policy and of the land. Spring Valley creek Runs along the property and guests are welcome to fish that as well. There are seven camping sites to choose from - one of which is even located on its own island! Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves as you take in the breathtaking views. Located in Spring Valley just a half a mile outside of town, and just a 30 minute drive to the charming, quaint town of Lanesboro. Plenty of shopping and places to eat! This is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But If you want more of the city experience, Rochester is an easy 35-minute drive away and offers all the amenities and experiences of a bigger city.

The best camping near Whitewater State Park MN guide

Overview

About

Rocky bluffs and forested ravines flank the Whitewater River in this 2,700-acre park, where outdoor activities abound. Climb the craggy peak of Inspiration Peak, fish for brown and rainbow trout along the river, or head down to the sandy beach to cool off with a swim in the natural lake. More than 10 miles of hiking trails are ready for exploration, and when the seasons turn, you can bring your skis and snowshoes instead. Campers can choose from three campgrounds or check into a cozy cabin, all of them—bonus!—mosquito-free.

Notable campgrounds

Best for tent campers: Gooseberry Glen Campground has six cart-in sites with minimal facilities.
Best for hikers: Cedar Hill Campground has 69 sites, some with electric hookups, and easy access to the Coyote Point Trail.
Best for winter campers: Minneiska Campground has 39 RV sites with electric hookups, plus walk-in tent sites, group sites, and camper cabins.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of the park’s campsites or cabins in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website.
Campsite reservations open 120 days in advance, and same-day bookings are possible.
Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book your spot as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

When to go

Whitewater State Park has something to offer through all four seasons. Come in summer to swim and fish; in spring to admire the wildflowers; or in winter to cross-country ski or snowshoe (rentals are available from the Visitor Centre). April through October is the main season, and many amenities close in winter. Minneiska Campground and cabins stay open year-round; all other campsites are open from March 25 through December 1.

Know before you go

Whitewater State Park is 26 miles east of Rochester or about a 35-minute drive away.
Vehicle permits are required for all Minnesota state parks, in addition to camping reservation fees. Permits can be purchased in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website.
Facilities at Whitewater State Park include a visitor center, gift shop, vault toilets, a fishing pier, and picnic areas. Flush toilets, showers, and a dump station are available in season only. Restaurants and grocery stores can be found in the towns of Elba and St. Charles, just a 15-minute drive from the park.
There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Whitewater State Park. The fishing pier is also wheelchair accessible.