Admin Building

For Minnesotans looking for a fantastic outdoor escape right in their backyard, "Admin Building" with the address WHXH+42, Rochester, MN 55904, USA, specifically points to the facilities managed by Olmsted County Parks. While the provided name "Admin Building" isn't a campground itself, this address is associated with the administrative hub for the Olmsted County Parks system, which notably includes premier camping destinations like Chester Woods County Park and Oxbow Park. These parks are highly regarded for their well-maintained campgrounds, diverse recreational opportunities, and proximity to the vibrant city of Rochester.

This article will focus on the offerings and highlights of Chester Woods County Park, as it is a prominent camping destination within the Olmsted County Parks system. Chester Woods County Park, located just east of Rochester, is a gem for campers, offering a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. It’s an ideal spot for families, couples, and individuals seeking a relaxing yet engaging outdoor experience. Managed by Olmsted County, these parks are committed to providing clean, safe, and enjoyable spaces for public recreation, making them a consistent favorite for local residents.

Chester Woods County Park is conveniently located approximately 7 miles east of Rochester, MN, on Highway 14. Its official address (though not the "Admin Building" address provided) would typically be found in Eyota, MN, for direct access. The park is easily accessible from Rochester, making it a perfect quick getaway for city residents and those in surrounding communities in Southeastern Minnesota. The drive is short and straightforward, transitioning quickly from urban areas to the scenic bluff country characteristic of this region.

For visitors coming from other parts of Minnesota, Rochester is well-connected by major highways, including US-52 and I-90, ensuring a smooth journey to the park. Once within the park, clear signage guides visitors to the campground area. The internal roads are well-maintained, accommodating various vehicle sizes, including RVs and trailers. The close proximity to Rochester means that campers have easy access to any forgotten supplies, dining options, or even the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, if needed, providing a comforting blend of nature and urban convenience. This accessibility is a key factor in why Chester Woods is a popular choice for local Minnesota campers.

Chester Woods County Park offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience:

• Campsite Variety with Electric Hookups

  The campground at Chester Woods features 50 campground units, with 41 of these sites offering electrical hookups (including 50-amp service), catering primarily to RVs and trailers. There are also 9 non-electric campsites suitable for tent campers. Additionally, the park offers two camper cabins for those seeking a more glamping-style experience, and even two remote, non-electric canoe-in campsites for adventurous paddlers.

• Modern Restrooms and Hot Showers

  Chester Woods provides clean and well-maintained restroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers, available within the campground. These amenities significantly enhance comfort, especially after a day of outdoor activities on the lake or trails.

• Sanitary Dump Station

  A convenient sanitary dump station is available within the park, making waste disposal straightforward for RV and trailer campers.

• Potable Water Access

  Access to potable drinking water is available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have a reliable source of fresh water.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings

  Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking, gathering around a campfire, and enjoying meals in the open air.

• Swimming Beach and Beach House

  A designated swimming beach on the 110-acre lake is a major highlight, complete with its own beach house and showers. The beach is open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

• Watercraft Rentals

  Visitors can rent canoes, paddleboards, kayaks, and paddleboats at the beach house, offering a convenient way to explore the lake without bringing your own equipment.

• Playground Equipment

  The park features two sets of playground equipment, providing engaging and safe areas for children to play, making it a highly family-friendly destination.

• Firewood Sales

  Certified clean firewood can be purchased at the woodshed during the camping season, adhering to regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species.

• Accessibility Accommodations

  Chester Woods is committed to accessibility, with two handicapped accessible campsites and two accessible camper cabins. They even offer a trac-chair for check-out at no cost for visitors with mobility issues, allowing them to enjoy the park's trails.

Chester Woods County Park is brimming with features and highlights that make it a standout camping destination in Southeastern Minnesota:

• 110-Acre Lake for Water Recreation

  The centerpiece of Chester Woods is its beautiful 110-acre lake, which is perfect for a variety of water activities. Anglers can enjoy fishing for bass, panfish, and northern pike. The lake is also ideal for non-motorized boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming at the designated beach.

• Extensive Trail System for All Seasons

  The park boasts approximately 15 miles of primitive trails that wind through diverse habitats, including native grasslands, oak woods, and bluff prairies. A mile-long hard-surfaced trail connects the campground, boat launch, fishing pier, and picnic areas. In winter, 5 miles of groomed trails are available for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking, offering year-round outdoor opportunities.

• Rich Biodiversity and Wildlife Viewing

  Chester Woods is located in the rugged bluff country, home to a variety of native plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, spotting grasshopper sparrows, bobolinks, and observing local wildlife like fox snakes and painted turtles. The diverse ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for nature photography.

• Family-Friendly Environment

  With playgrounds, a swimming beach, and safe, spacious campsites, Chester Woods is perfectly geared towards families. The park's emphasis on accessibility further ensures that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the natural surroundings.

• Proximity to Rochester and Zollman Zoo

  While offering a natural escape, the park is just minutes from Rochester, providing easy access to city amenities, including dining, shopping, and the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. Additionally, Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo, another Olmsted County Park facility, is just a short drive away, offering rescued local animals like bears, eagles, and otters for an educational and engaging experience.

• Scenic Bluff Country Setting

  Nestled in the picturesque bluff country of Southeastern Minnesota, Chester Woods provides stunning natural vistas. The varied terrain and natural habitats create a beautiful backdrop for camping and outdoor activities, truly immersing visitors in the Minnesota landscape.

As a county park, Chester Woods County Park operates on a fee-based system for camping and certain rentals, rather than offering traditional commercial promotions. However, visitors can consider the following:

• Standardized Rates

  Camping rates are standardized: $30 per night for electric sites, $25 per night for non-electric sites, and $75 per night for camper cabins. While not a "promotion," these consistent rates offer clear planning for local campers.

• Vehicle Permit Included with Camping

  A daily vehicle permit is included with a camping reservation, covering the duration of your stay. This saves on separate entry fees that day visitors might incur.

• No Entrance Fee to the Park

  There is generally no entrance fee to Chester Woods County Park itself, allowing day visitors to enjoy its trails and common areas without charge (though specific activities or areas might have fees).

• Accessibility Programs

  The availability of the free trac-chair for those with mobility issues, and accessible campsites/cabins, can be seen as a valuable "offer" that makes the park suitable for a wider range of visitors.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any specific seasonal programs, it is best to visit the official Olmsted County Parks website or use their online reservation system. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as the park is very popular.

For information regarding Chester Woods County Park, including camping reservations, park amenities, or general inquiries about Olmsted County Parks, you can use the following contact details:

Address: While the given address (WHXH+42, Rochester, MN 55904) is associated with the Olmsted County Parks administration, the direct address for Chester Woods County Park is typically given as:

8378 Hwy 14 E, Eyota, MN 55934-2818 (This is the specific park location.)

Phone: (507) 328-7350 (This is the direct phone number for Chester Woods Park)

For general inquiries about Olmsted County Parks or online reservations:

Olmsted County Parks Phone: (507) 328-7783

Website for Reservations and Information: https://www.olmstedcounty.gov/residents/parks-recreation/recreation/camping (or search for "Olmsted County Parks camping")

It is always recommended to call the park directly for specific questions or to confirm details, especially regarding availability during busy seasons.

Chester Woods County Park is an outstanding choice for Minnesota locals seeking a convenient, high-quality, and diverse camping experience. Its prime location just outside Rochester makes it an easily accessible escape for a weekend or a longer vacation, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment for residents across Southeastern Minnesota.

The park's comprehensive amenities, including electric campsites, clean modern restrooms and showers, and even camper cabins, cater to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring comfort for everyone from seasoned RVers to first-time tent campers. Beyond the excellent facilities, the abundant recreational opportunities—from swimming and watercraft rentals on the beautiful lake to miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and even winter activities—provide endless entertainment and ways to connect with nature. The family-friendly environment, complete with playgrounds and accessible features, makes it an ideal spot for creating cherished memories with loved ones. For Minnesotans, Chester Woods County Park truly represents the best of local outdoor recreation, offering a refreshing and engaging retreat right in their own backyard.