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38 campgrounds and RV Parks near North Mankato, MN. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
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Best campgrounds near North Mankato, MN
Minneopa State Park
Mankato, MN (3 miles away)
$$$$$
(61 sites)
+3
Shady Oaks Campground
Minnesota (11 miles away)
$$$$$
(70 sites)
+3
Sakatah Trail Campground
Madison Lake, MN (11 miles away)
$$$$$
(25 sites)
+2
Peaceful Valley Campsites
Le Sueur, MN (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(32 sites)
Watona Park Campground and Park
Madelia, MN (21 miles away)
$$$$$
(32 sites)
+4
Semi-Modern - Flandrau State Park
New Ulm, MN (23 miles away)
$$$$$
(52 sites)
+6
Kuhar Park Campground
Lamberton, MN (24 miles away)
Kamp Dels
Waterville, MN (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(400 sites)
+7
Shirley's Park and Country Retreat - Seasonal Campground and Kayak Rental
New Ulm, MN (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(31 sites)
Sakatah Lake State Park
Waterville, MN (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(62 sites)
+5
Kiesler's Campground and RV Resort
Waseca, MN (28 miles away)
$$$$$
(308 sites)
+8
Camp Maiden Rock West
Morristown, MN (30 miles away)
$$$$$
(50 sites)
+6
Most common amenities
Grills Tables Showers Toilets Dump station Firewood Playground Pet friendly Internet Laundry
Campgrounds near North Mankato
North Mankato sits on the Minnesota River in the state's south-central region, with several campgrounds inside a short drive of downtown. The closest option is Minneopa State Park, a year-round park featuring Minneopa Creek and its double waterfall. The park's Red Fox Campground offers around 61 semi-modern drive-in sites spread across two loops, with six electric sites, one camper cabin and four group camp areas, and can accommodate RVs up to 60 feet.
Beyond Minneopa, RV travellers can reach several private and municipal options in the surrounding counties. Shady Oaks Campground, Sakatah Trail Campground and Peaceful Valley Campsites all sit within roughly an hour of North Mankato and cater to trailers and motorhomes. To the southwest in Madelia, Watona Park Campground and Park offers a mix of full-hookup, water and electric, and electric-only sites along the Watonwan River.
The mix of state park camping, private RV parks and city-run sites gives families flexibility on hookups, budget and proximity to hiking, biking and river access.
Things to do near North Mankato
Minneopa State Park anchors most trip plans. Visitors can walk the trails around the falls, then drive the bison range: the park keeps a herd of American bison within a fenced prairie enclosure, and when open, guests can view the animals from their vehicle along a set drive route. The historic Seppmann Mill, a wind-powered grist mill built from local stone in traditional German style, is another highlight.
Cyclists and hikers have direct access to the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail, a paved 39-mile route between Mankato and Faribault used by hikers, bikers, inline skaters and snowmobilers through Minnesota's hardwoods. Sakatah Lake, a natural widening of the Cannon River, offers fishing for walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass and panfish, with spring, early summer and fall the best windows on the water.
Camping spots and RV parks near North Mankato, MN
Seasonal patterns
- spring
March - May
55° / 34°F 65 mmMild and variable; state park services reopen mid May
- summer
June - August
81° / 61°F 100 mmPeak season; thunderstorms and mosquitoes common
- fall
September - November
57° / 36°F 55 mmCool days, hardwood colour peaks in early October
- winter
December - February
25° / 9°F 22 mmDeep cold and snow; limited water service at parks
Southern Minnesota has a strongly four-season, humid continental climate with cold winters and warm, wet summers. Summer is the peak camping window, with warm days, long evenings and full services at state park campgrounds. June is the wettest month in the Mankato area, so plan for afternoon thunderstorms and mosquitoes near lakes and marshes.
Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and thinner crowds, though shoulder-season campers should expect variable conditions. At Sakatah Lake State Park, drinking water, flush toilets, hot showers and the dump station operate from mid May through mid October, while vault toilets stay open year-round. Sakatah's campground typically opens in early May and runs through mid October. Fall colours in the hardwoods along the Cannon and Minnesota Rivers usually peak in early to mid October.
Winter camping is possible at Minneopa, which is open year-round, but expect deep cold, snow cover and limited water service. Winter recreation in the park includes cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
How to book
Minnesota state parks use a single central reservation system operated by the DNR. Campsites at Minneopa and Sakatah Lake can be booked online at mndnr.gov/reservations or by phone at 866-857-2757, up to 120 days before the arrival date. The call centre runs 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily from April through September, with shorter hours the rest of the year. Popular summer weekends and electric sites often go quickly when the 120-day window opens at 8 a.m. Central, so mark the date. Same-day reservations carry no reservation fee.
A Minnesota state park vehicle permit is required in addition to the campsite fee, available online, in person, at self-service kiosks or by phone. Municipal and private campgrounds such as Watona Park in Madelia, Shady Oaks Campground, Sakatah Trail Campground and Peaceful Valley Campsites take direct reservations through their own websites or phone lines.
What to expect
State park campgrounds in the area are wooded, moderately developed and family-friendly, but not resort-style. At Minneopa, amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, hot-water showers, a seasonal dump station, and a table, fire ring and grill at each site. Electric sites are limited to six loops in the B Loop, so larger rigs and anyone wanting power should reserve early.
Sakatah Lake caters well to RVs, with 62 campsites for tents, trailers and rigs up to 55 feet, including 14 electric sites, 5 bike-in sites, 2 group sites and a rentable camper cabin. Water and sewer are not run to individual sites; a central dump station handles tanks. Cell service is usable in most loops but not strong everywhere. Expect biting insects near lakes in early summer and muddy trails after heavy rain.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near North Mankato, MN
How much does an RV rental in North Mankato cost?
An RV rental in North Mankato is one of the most affordable ways to explore southern Minnesota, with travel trailers often starting around $80 to $130 per night and Class C motorhomes typically running $175 to $275 per night. To find a cheap RV rental in North Mankato, book mid-week stays, target shoulder months like late May or September, and use the price filter on RVezy to sort by budget. Many hosts offer multi-night discounts, so a 5 to 7 day Minnesota River Valley trip can drop your nightly rate noticeably. Message a host directly to confirm seasonal pricing or weekly deals before booking.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=North%20Mankato%2C%20MinnesotaWhat kind of driver's license do I need to rent an RV in North Mankato, MN?
Good news: a regular Class D driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in North Mankato for the vast majority of rigs on RVezy. Under Minnesota Statute 171.02, recreational vehicles operated for personal use are exempt from commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements, and a standard Class D license covers any vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds or less, which includes nearly every Class B campervan, Class C motorhome, and towable on the platform. You'll need to be 25 or older, and RVezy verifies your ID during booking. That's it, no special endorsement, no test, no trip to the Driver and Vehicle Services office required.
dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/Pages/default.aspxIs my RV rental in Minnesota protected if something goes wrong?
Yes, every RV rental in Minnesota booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can hit the road feeling secure. The protection plan covers physical damage to the vehicle during your trip, and you choose your level of coverage during checkout, not the host. It gives you real financial peace of mind whether you are parked at Minneopa State Park or driving back roads near the Minnesota River. With around-the-clock roadside help for flat tires, lockouts, or jump-starts, your North Mankato RV trip is backed from pickup to drop-off.
rvezy.com/insurance-and-protectionWhat happens if I need to cancel my North Mankato RV booking?
Booking is low-risk because RVezy, not the host, sets the cancellation policy, and it includes a money-back grace period right after you book. If your plans shift, severe weather rolls into the Minnesota River Valley, or a family emergency comes up, you have a clear path to a refund within the policy terms. Cancellation outcomes depend on how far out from your trip you cancel and circumstances like natural disasters, so review the details on the RVezy Help Center before you confirm. Book earlier rather than later so you lock in the best rigs and still keep flexibility.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in North Mankato?
Absolutely, a pet-friendly RV rental in North Mankato is easy to find. Just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter on RVezy and you'll see listings where your dog is welcome on board. Once you arrive, Minnesota is wonderfully dog-friendly: Minneopa State Park (10 minutes from downtown Mankato) allows leashed pets on trails near the waterfall, and Land of Memories Campground permits dogs on leashes up to 10 feet long with current vaccinations. Sakatah Lake State Park, about 25 miles east on the Sakatah Singing Hills Trail, is another tail-wagger favorite. Message the host before booking to confirm any pet fee and you're set for the trip.
mankatomn.gov/about-mankato/parks-trails-and-recreation/campgroundCan the RV be delivered to my campground in North Mankato?
Yes, RV delivery in North Mankato is offered by many hosts, and it's the easiest way to skip the learning curve on your first trip. Use the Delivery filter on RVezy and your host can drop the RV at Land of Memories Campground, Red Fox Campground in Minneopa State Park, Sawmill Campground just south of town, or even your driveway. They'll level the rig, hook up power and water, and walk you through every system before they leave. Delivery fees vary by distance, so message your host with the campground address for an exact quote. It's the ultimate stress-free start to a Minnesota River Valley adventure.
mankatomn.gov/about-mankato/parks-trails-and-recreation/campgroundHow far can I drive on a North Mankato RV trip, and is unlimited mileage available?
You have plenty of road ahead, and RV rental with unlimited mileage is available from some North Mankato hosts (look for it in the listing details). Most hosts include a daily mileage allowance, typically 100 to 150 miles, with a small per-mile fee beyond that. From North Mankato, the Twin Cities are about 80 miles north, the Mississippi River bluffs at Winona sit roughly 130 miles east, and Duluth is around 230 miles northeast. Message your host with your planned route before booking so they can confirm mileage and recommend the best policy for your itinerary.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=North%20Mankato%2C%20MinnesotaWhere are the best campgrounds near North Mankato to park my RV?
You're spoiled for choice with great campgrounds near North Mankato. Red Fox Campground inside Minneopa State Park is just 10 minutes away and offers electric sites, a dump station, a water-fill, and access to the park's bison range and 40-foot waterfall. Land of Memories Campground, run by the City of Mankato along the river, opens May 1 through October 15 with online reservations. Sawmill Campground south of town has full hookups at friendly rates, while Sakatah Lake State Park (25 miles east) sits on the paved Sakatah Singing Hills Trail. Bray County Park on Madison Lake adds a swim beach and kayak rentals. Book early for summer weekends.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00177When is the best time of year for RV camping in North Mankato?
The sweet spot for RV camping in North Mankato runs from mid-May through late September, when average highs climb from the upper 60s into the low 80s°F and Minneopa Falls is at its scenic best. July is the warmest month (about 80°F days, 63°F nights) and ideal for swimming at Lake Washington Regional Park, while late September delivers crisp 70°F afternoons, fewer mosquitoes, and beautiful Minnesota River Valley foliage. May and early June can be lush and green but also the rainiest stretch. Insider tip: target the second week of September for great weather, low crowds, and easier campsite reservations across the region.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00177I am a first time renter. Will I get help learning how to use the RV?
You are not on your own. Every RVezy host provides a hands-on orientation at pickup (or at delivery, if they are bringing the rig to you). They will walk you through driving, leveling, hookups, propane and water systems, slide-outs, the generator, and waste disposal, then answer any questions before you leave. Most first-time renters in North Mankato choose a Class C motorhome or travel trailer because they handle like an oversized truck and suit the gentle terrain of southern Minnesota. You can also message your host during the trip, and RVezy support is available to help. By night one at Red Fox Campground, you will feel like a pro.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat happens if I have a breakdown during my Minnesota RV trip?
Help is built into every booking. Your RV rental in Minnesota includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the renter protection plan, covering things like flat tires, dead batteries, lockouts, and towing. If something goes wrong on Highway 169 between North Mankato and Mankato, or while you are winding through the Minnesota River Valley near St. Peter, one phone call gets a technician dispatched. You can also message your host directly through the RVezy app for quick troubleshooting on smaller issues like a finicky water pump or generator. Save the roadside number in your phone before pickup for total peace of mind.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat are the best RV road trips from North Mankato?
An RV road trip from North Mankato puts some of the Midwest's best scenery in easy reach. Head 80 miles north to Minneapolis-St. Paul for city life and the Mississippi riverfront, or drive 130 miles east to Great River Bluffs State Park near Winona for Mississippi River overlooks. Itasca State Park (Mississippi headwaters) is about 220 miles north, and the Black Hills of South Dakota sit roughly 580 miles west via I-90. Cross-border travel into other US states is generally allowed; message your host first to confirm Canada travel, and note that Mexico travel is not permitted on RVezy rentals. Local tip: take Highway 169 through the Minnesota River Valley for a scenic route.
dot.state.mn.us/maps/How much will fuel cost on a North Mankato RV trip?
Budgeting is easy once you know what to expect. Gas prices in southern Minnesota typically run a bit below the national average, and most Class C motorhomes get 8 to 12 miles per gallon (MPG), Class B campervans 15 to 20 MPG, and travel trailers depend on your tow vehicle (usually 10 to 14 MPG combined). For a typical 300-mile loop from North Mankato to Minneopa State Park, Sakatah Lake, and back, plan on roughly $80 to $120 in fuel for a Class C. Fill up at the Kwik Trip or Casey's on Highway 169 before leaving town, they're reliably among the cheapest in the area.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book campgrounds near North Mankato?
For summer weekends, book your campground as early as possible. Minnesota state parks open reservations up to 120 days in advance through the Minnesota DNR reservation system. Red Fox Campground at Minneopa State Park fills fastest for July and August Saturdays, so set a calendar reminder for the 120-day window. Land of Memories Campground in Mankato runs roughly May 1 to October 15, with reservations opening earlier in the year. Weeknights and September stays are typically wide open even days ahead. A Minnesota state park vehicle permit (annual or daily) is required at every park entrance.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/stay_overnight/index.htmlWhat are driving conditions like around North Mankato for an RV?
Driving an RV around North Mankato is wonderfully manageable, the terrain is gently rolling, the Minnesota River Valley roads are well-maintained, and traffic is light compared to bigger metros. Highway 169 and US-14 are the main arteries and easily handle larger rigs. Watch for spring road restrictions in March and April (Minnesota Department of Transportation posts seasonal weight limits on some county roads), and be aware that winter can bring snow, ice, and reduced visibility from November through March. Local insider tip: avoid downtown Mankato's Riverfront Drive during Vikings training camp traffic in late July and instead take the Highway 14 bypass to reach Minneopa State Park.
dot.state.mn.us/roadwork/What amenities will I find at campgrounds near North Mankato?
Local campgrounds make RV camping in North Mankato simple. Red Fox Campground at Minneopa State Park offers 30-amp electric hookups, a seasonal dump station, potable water fill, modern restrooms with showers, and a rustic cabin option year-round. Land of Memories Campground provides riverside sites, electric, and shared water; Sawmill Campground has full hookups (water, sewer, electric); and Crystal Springs RV Resort offers 50-amp full hookup pull-throughs. Most state parks have a centralized dump station, and you can top off potable water at the same spot. Pack a 25-foot fresh water hose, a sewer hose with elbow, and a 30-amp to 15-amp adapter just in case, and you're ready for anything.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00177What's actually included in the RV I rent in North Mankato?
Your North Mankato motorhome rental comes ready to camp. Expect real beds (often sleeping 4 to 8), a working kitchen with fridge, stove, microwave and sink, a bathroom with toilet and shower, dinette seating, climate control with both furnace and air conditioning, and seatbelted seating for travel. Many Class C motorhomes and travel trailers also include a TV, outdoor awning, and onboard generator; some hosts add Wi-Fi hotspots, outdoor speakers, or solar packages. Each listing on RVezy spells out exactly what's onboard, and pots, pans, bedding, and towels are often available as paid add-ons. Message your host before booking if a specific feature (like a generator for boondocking) is a must-have.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/camping/index.htmlWhat add-ons and pickup options are available for my rental?
Hosts in North Mankato make it easy to customize your trip. Common add-ons include bedding and linen packages ($25 to $75), kitchen kits, outdoor chairs and grills, bike racks, generators, and propane refills. Many hosts also offer pet add-ons and extra mileage packages if you're planning a longer Minnesota River Valley loop. Pickup is usually at the host's home in or near North Mankato, but delivery to Land of Memories Campground, Minneopa State Park, or even a local Airbnb is widely offered for a fee. Each listing displays mileage policy, add-on pricing, and pickup or delivery options upfront, so there are no surprises before you click Book.
mankatomn.gov/about-mankato/parks-trails-and-recreation/campgroundHow does payment and the security deposit work on RVezy?
Payment is straightforward and fully handled through the RVezy platform, no cash, no checks, no awkward hand-offs with the host. You will pay for the rental, protection plan, taxes, and any add-ons by credit card at booking. A refundable security deposit is placed on hold (not charged) shortly before your trip starts; the amount is shown on the listing and varies by rig and the protection level you choose. As long as you return the RV in the same condition, the hold is released after your trip wraps up. Take date-stamped photos of the interior and exterior at pickup and drop-off in North Mankato to keep everything smooth.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksCan I rent an RV in North Mankato during winter, and how do I stay warm?
Winter RV rental in Minnesota is a real adventure, and some North Mankato hosts list four-season rigs through the colder months. Look for RVs described as having heated and enclosed underbellies, a propane furnace, dual-pane windows, and shore power compatibility. Land of Memories closes for the season in mid-October, but ice fishing on nearby Madison Lake or Lake Washington is a quintessential Minnesota experience. With January highs near 23 degrees F and lows around 5 degrees F, plan for shore power hookups, RV antifreeze in the tanks, and a heated water hose. Message your host before booking to confirm cold-weather readiness for your dates.
weather.gov/mpx/Nearby cities with campgrounds
Minneapolis, MNCedar Rapids, IASioux Falls, SDApple Valley, MNHopkins, MNPrior Lake, MNRice, MNLong Lake, MNHiawatha, IAHudson, WIChamplin, MNRockland, WIDurand, WIMaplewood, MNSaint Anthony, MNCoon Rapids, MNSandstone, MNBecker, MNSaint Francis, MNSavage, MNBelle Plaine, MNFairfax, IAOtsego, MNLake Wissota, WI