Mankato, Minnesota is a large Midwestern city that stretches over the boundaries of Blue Earth, Nicollet, and Le Sueur counties. It’s not far from the hustle and bustle of downtown Minneapolis, yet many Mankato campsites still offer an unspoiled glimpse of Minnesotan wildlife. The area boasts a humid continental climate that is consistent with most central and eastern areas of the United States. Area attractions include Sibley Park, Minneopa Falls, and the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota. What’s more, Mankato is an ideal pit stop between many of the best RV trips in Minnesota. Read on to learn more about the best campgrounds and RV parks in Mankato.
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Land of Memories Campground is one of the most satisfying RV campgrounds Mankato, Minnesota has to offer. The campground offers an exciting schedule of events, including a Solstice celebration, an annual Mankato Powwow, and weekly cookouts. What’s more, it is a popular starting point for many local bike tours.
You won’t find a Mankato campground closer to downtown, and this immaculate park features pavilions, playgrounds, picnic tables, and fire pits for nonstop camping fun. What’s more, it’s located just off of Highway 169 not far from area shops and entertainment. The grounds consist of over 100 acres that are home to many wild animals and native plant species.
“There is plenty of open space, the grounds are well-maintained, and my kids have enjoyed the playground for many years. If you are planning a trip from out of town, be sure to check the river/flooding levels however as it is occasionally underwater and/or quite buggy and swampy from having flooded.” – John, Google Review
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If you’re looking for an impressive selection of Mankato camping sites, you won’t find better options than those at Sawmill Campground. This RV park boasts a central location not far from popular area attractions. The park features an abundance of on-site amenities, including ice, firewood, and laundry facilities
Sawmill Campground is located close to downtown Mankato, and although it offers an uncensored view of Minnesota wildlife, guests can also experience the convenience of nearby shopping. The sites are wide, treeless, grassy, and they feature full hookups for low rates. The park is located next to a well-groomed golf course that is popular among local residents
“Nice spot - quiet, full hookups, and decent rates. The campground is growing, it will soon have around 38 sites. Has campfire wood, ice, and laundry. Pretty clean also.” – Steven, Google Review
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Minneopa State Park is a scenic natural park with an impressive limestone waterfall. Campers can enjoy the short walking trail that leads to the crest of the free-flowing falls or travel to the local wind-driven gristmill. Not only does this Mankato, Minnesota campground provide inexpensive overnight accommodations for road travelers, but it also offers one of the most picturesque views of the Minnesota River Valley.
Guests can enjoy an abundance of water-based activities at Minneopa State Park because it boasts both river and lake access. This park is also a popular spot for cross-country skiing during the winter. Minnemishino Falls is a stunning scenic overlook that is just a short walk from the campground, and Blue Earth’s very own Seppman Mill, an antiquated windmill with a rich German-infused history, is a great afternoon adventure waiting nearby.
“I’ve had my eye on this place for a while now; it’s one of the few bigger waterfalls in the state I hadn’t yet seen. The kids loved this park even though the weather was not cooperating; it was raining on and off. We came for the waterfall but were pleasantly surprised at the opportunity to take the bison drive. All five of us enjoyed it! The waterfall area was beautiful!” – Lindsay, Google Review
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The Sakatah Trail Campground is a charming RV park located in Madison, which is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Mankato. The park is located along the Sakatah State Trail. It boasts shady tree-lined spots with grassy lawns.
Sakatah Trail Campground is a great park for campers who are looking for natural vibes and rich hiking opportunities. It is not far from many area lakes and water recreation options, such as fishing, boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and more. However, the best part may be the adjoined restaurant, The Trail Blazer, which has extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus as well as a full bar that includes beers, wines, and mixed drinks.
“Campground has a nice feel, right on the Sakatak Trail, nice breeze, very few bugs. The host is very friendly and easy to deal with. Right beside a nice small town and lake. We had no problems. It had clean restrooms and was reasonable. I really wish we could have stayed longer.” – Folk, Google Review
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Point Pleasant Campgrounds is another fabulous campground located in Madison Lake, Minnesota. Campsites are located directly on Madison Lake. Campers can enjoy many water-based activities or simply sit back and relax by the water.
Madison Lake's Point Pleasant Campgrounds is home to a sandy beach and swimming area. Guests can enjoy water sports, boating, fishing, and so much more. There are even dock spaces for visitors' boats. The park has a total of 60 RV sites as well as several condo rentals. Point Pleasant is one of the best camping sites in terms of natural beauty and entertainment.
“Had an absolutely great time. The staff was friendly, the places are neat. It's worth the stop to put down the video games and get out and enjoy yourselves. Get dirty, play around, have fun.” – Luke Waelder, Google Review
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Shady Oaks Campground is a wonderful family-owned campground located in Garden City, Minnesota. The park is home to many entertaining events. They include bingo games, hayrides, basketball, volleyball, and free-throw shooting contests.
Once you’ve finally settled on your Mankato, MN RV rental, you may want to check out Shady Oaks, one of Blue Earth’s most relaxing camping spots Mankato has to offer. The park boasts playground equipment and horseshoes for children. There are also several on-site hiking trails, biking trails, and fishing spots.
“Plenty of space, lots of electric hookups. Bathrooms have showers! Well priced camping!” – Billyd Dougherty, Google Review
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This wonderful campground located in Waseca, Minnesota is over 43 years old and still going strong. It is located near Lake Waseca and is a well-favored family destination. The park boasts mini golf, bike trails, and much more.
Kiesler’s Campground & RV Resort is located just over 30 minutes from downtown Mankato. The drive is well worth it considering the entertainment and convenience of the park. Kids will love the on-site mini-golf and other recreational activities, and the whole family can enjoy the picnic areas and fire rings.
“Lots of activities to do. Clean. The swimming pool is not over-chlorinated. Nice small shop. And there are two playgrounds, shuffleboard, and mini-golf. But you have to pay for the mini-golf.” – Tarin, Google Review
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Blue Earth’s Bray Park & Campground is an RV and tent campground located a short distance from Mankato. The campground features an abundance of amenities, including a fishing area and watercraft rentals. The modest hiking trails make this a great place to relax and unwind from the hectic pace of life.
Guests at Bray Park & Campground can enjoy plenty of fun in the sun. In fact, they can even rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to enjoy themselves on the lake. The residential caretakers take pride in keeping this campground exceptionally clean, and the swimming areas and beaches are well-maintained and great for children and adults alike.
“This park is a popular beach on Madison Lake that offers many things to do for various age groups. For kids, it has a large playground set and a roped-off swimming area. Changing rooms and restrooms are near the multiple shelters and picnic tables. Campgrounds are an easy walk from the beach.” – Aaron, Google Review
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The Reinbold Sportsmen Campground offers campers direct access to the pristine waters of Lake Elysian. In the case of rain or storm, they can also play video games located in the camp game room. What’s more, campers can enjoy a swim in the heated pool.
The Reinbold Sportsmen Campground is located a short distance from Mankato, but it feels like a world away. The campground boasts well-maintained showers and restrooms, and it is a popular location for traveling families to stretch their legs and enjoy the great outdoors before exploring any of the local Midwestern cities. Popular activities include golfing at the Prairie Ridge Golf Course and enjoying the camaraderie of themed weekends at Reinbold.
“Great little family-run campground! When our original reservation at Land of Memories was cancelled due to flooding, this little campground fit us into their group site with just two of us. The swimming pool was very nice and had a lifeguard during the day. The bathrooms and showers were clean anytime that we entered them. The front desk staff was very helpful and kind. I would definitely recommend this campground if you are in the area.” – D Chill, Google Review
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Kamp Dels is located in Le Sueur County, Minnesota. It is home to a massive water park that includes a ginormous pool, several water slides, a water walk, an aquatic climbing wall, and more. The on-site Lake Sakatah offers an abundance of aquatic activities as well.
Guests at this RV park near Mankato and Lake Sakatah can rent boats or take their turn fishing from the docks. The park also has its own petting zoo that is loaded with farmyard animals, and there is an amazing fitness center and multiple playgrounds to ensure the whole family stays active while enjoying their trip. This campground is such a gem, you’ll probably want to start looking at the top RV dealers in Minnesota so that you can visit in your very own RV.
“My family had a perfect experience at Kamp Dels! We had a full hookup site, that seemed to be the way to go if you want a decent size and location. Other sites seemed very cramped but we didn’t have that problem at all.” – Jessie, Google Review
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Crystal Springs RV Resort is a 50+ park located in Ellendale, Minnesota. They are family-owned and -operated with one of the owners always on-site 24/7 for the guest's convenience. They provide a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere while offering lots of amenities.
You'll love that Crystal Springs RV Resort is a quiet adult RV park conveniently located off of I-35. The hospitality is friendly and the grounds are kept clean. They offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates for guests. Enjoy a relaxing stroll around the pond after a long day of driving behind the wheel.
“Great RV Park. Has very easy access on and off I-35. All the people, owners, and RVers very friendly and laid-back. There are two very nice sized shower/bathroom facilities that were absolutely spotless. Two nice sized pull-throughs for large rigs. I would suggest calling ahead for them. They also have nice size back-in sites available with wide gravel pads. Nice landscaping. Owners are developing more sites. Would recommend staying here.” – KDY, Google Review
After combing through all of the RV campgrounds that Mankato, Minnesota has to offer, you’re likely happy with what you found. You can see more by checking out other top RV parks of Mankato. Not only is Mankato a stunning city in the heart of the United States, it’s nestled in the heart of Minnesota’s stunning River Valley, which is home to many lakes, rivers, and mountains waiting to be explored.
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.