Madelia Campground

The Great Outdoors

You can spend some time at Minneopa State Park with your RV rental near Watona Park. This state park lies entirely within the banks of a glacial river warren. The northern portion of the park is marked by prairie land and the Minnesota River; the southern section is wooded and hilly with waterfalls and creeks. Bird and animal species in the park include sparrows, meadowlarks, blackbirds, bluebirds, white-tailed deer, coyote, squirrels, and beavers, as well as a reestablished bison herd. The park features historic Seppmann Mill and a historic district with an interpretive exhibit in the Falls area. Recreational activities include hiking, biking, volleyball, horseshoes, and nature and wildlife viewing. Snowshoes are available for rent in the park office.The Wood Lake State Wildlife Management Area is also easily accessible when you camp in an RV near Madelia. It is managed by the state's department of natural resources for conservation, preservation, and recreation. The area covers just over five acres, and game species here include waterfowl, pheasants, small game, and deer. Upland birds and other small mammals also make their homes here. Recreational opportunities include hunting and trapping, hiking, nature and wildlife viewing, photography, and winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You’ll appreciate the unspoiled natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreation on offer here.The Lake Hanska County Park is also a great way to experience the great outdoors when you're camping at the Madelia Campground. This quiet, rural park is on grounds that were occupied by prehistoric hunting people from about 500 BCE to 1000 CE, and then by agricultural tribes. It also contains the first log cabin built by Norwegian settlers in the area. Historical highlights are marked by interpretive signage and kiosks throughout the park. Lake Hanska offers a fishing pier, waterfowl habitat, and boat access. Other recreational opportunities here include a sandy swimming beach, multi-use trails, hiking, picnic areas with charcoal grills, and cross-country skiing. Enjoy green space, local history, and the local community.

Exploring the Area

The town of Madelia itself has plenty to entertain and educate you while you are RV camping at the Madelia Campground. The annual Younger Brothers History Fest commemorates the capture of the last of the (Jesse) James-Younger Gang. It includes reenactments as well as other activities. There are also two properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other special events include the holiday Razzle Dazzle Celebration and Park Days Celebration. The Watonwan County Historical Center consists of a restored log cabin home and replica covered wagon, a library and genealogy center, artifacts, antiques, and other displays. Visit Madelia/Pride of the Prairie and the Madelia Chamber of Commerce for the latest news on local happenings.You can also take your Madelia camper rental over to Mankato to experience more of what this state has to offer. Some of the highlights here include the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, the CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour, the Sibley Park Zoo, and the Betsy & Tacy’s House Tours and Gift Shop. There are also over 60 parks and 50 miles of paved trails in the area, including the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail and Minneopa Falls. Special events that take place here every year include the Mankato Pow Wow, Kiwanis Holiday Lights, the History Bike Ride, the Riverfront Park outdoor concert series, Solstice, the Speechless Film Festival, and the Mankato Craft Beer Expo. Be sure to check out Explore Minnesota and Greater Mankato Growth for up-to-date information on area attractions, events, and visitor guides.When you choose to leave the RV park to explore the area, you’ll find fine food at locally owned establishments such as pizza parlors, a general store with hot and cold food to go, bars and grills, ethnic eateries, bakeries and coffee shops, and fast-casual family fare. If you need to refill your tank, there are service stations, truck stops, and convenience stores with both diesel fuel and gasoline.