Oct 8, 2021

With so many places to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start when thinking of going camping in Rochester, MN. There are lots of amazing sites to choose from, whether you prefer to stay in the comfort of an RV or head out into the wilds with just a tent. However you like to camp, there’s the perfect spot for you amongst the campgrounds on this list.

3 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Rochester, MN

1. Whitewater State Park

Whitewater state park is the perfect place to start if you love fishing, as the Whitewater river around which the park is centered is full of trout to try your luck, as well as being a popular destination for kayakers and canoers. Heading inland, there’s miles of wilderness to explore, and lots of hiking trails, including the shorter Chimney Rock Trail, and a longer hike that takes you to Inspiration Point, a large limestone outcrop that overlooks the Whitewater valley, and the miles of wilderness beyond.

Campground spaces here are plentiful, with a selection of modern, electrified campsites, all of which are pull-through capable. There are a full range of amenities here, including access to regularly placed shower houses, all of which have laundry facilities. Aside from the main campsite, there is also a group camp area, and five cabins to rent.

2. Carley State Park

Located just upstream of Whitewater State Park, on the North Fork of the Whitewater River, Carly State Park offers the essence of beauty and quiet. As a smaller state park, you can expect to see fewer visitors here, which means you’ll have plenty of time to yourself amongst the beautiful flowers and trees. With the abundance of natural beauty here, it’s no wonder the park is known for its bird and wildlife-watching opportunities.

The park’s campsite offers 20 secluded drive-in sites that can accommodate tents or trailers and RVs up to 30 feet in length. In addition, two group areas can accommodate either 15 or 20 people. Vault toilets are available all year round and are dotted throughout the park and campground area.

3. Chester Woods Park

Located very close to the eastern side of Rochester, on the headwaters of Bear Creek is Chester Woods Park, a great example of Minnesota’s rugged bluff country. Most of the park is undeveloped, with a wide variety of inviting natural habitats through which wind over 15 miles of primitive trails. Apart from hiking, the park is also a great place to go boating or fishing, with a launch ramp and fishing pier located near the campground area.

The campground offers a great variety of drive-in sites to choose from, both for tents and RVs, but also for equestrian and group campers as well. In addition, there are cabins available to rent, as well as showers and toilets.

This list is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to places to camp near Rochester, so get out there and enjoy the outdoors today. And, if you need a new vehicle to carry all your gear, then visit us at Rochester Ford today!