Campgrounds

For Minnesotans seeking the quintessential outdoor escape, the Preston area stands as a premier destination, offering a diverse array of campgrounds to suit every style of adventurer. Nestled in the heart of Minnesota's picturesque Bluff Country, these campgrounds provide the perfect gateway to explore the stunning natural beauty, winding rivers, and extensive trail systems that define southeastern Minnesota. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast, a family looking for a comfortable tent site, or someone craving a rustic retreat, Preston’s campgrounds deliver memorable experiences under the vast Minnesota sky.

The Preston region is renowned for its commitment to outdoor recreation, making it a hub for camping, fishing, biking, and exploring. The phrase "Campgrounds" with the address Township Rd 479, Preston, MN 55965, USA, likely refers to the general area's collective camping options, rather than a single specific establishment named "Campgrounds." Preston is home to several well-regarded camping facilities, each offering unique features and amenities. This overview aims to shed light on the rich camping landscape available to locals in this vibrant part of the state, ensuring you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

While specific customer reviews for "Campgrounds" at Township Rd 479 are not available as a single entity, reviews for the individual campgrounds within the Preston area consistently highlight their appeal. Campers frequently praise the "beautiful camping spots," "peaceful" and "quiet" atmosphere, and the abundance of "wildlife." Many appreciate the cleanliness and variety of amenities offered, with numerous visitors expressing their eagerness to return. This collective positive sentiment underlines why Preston remains a top choice for Minnesotans looking to connect with nature and enjoy quality outdoor time.

Preston, Minnesota, is strategically located in Fillmore County, within the scenic Driftless Area of southeastern Minnesota. The address "Township Rd 479, Preston, MN 55965, USA" points to a general area within or near Preston that encompasses various camping opportunities. Preston is easily accessible via major state highways, including US Highway 52 and Minnesota State Highway 16, making it a convenient drive from many parts of Minnesota, including Rochester (approximately 30 miles north) and the Twin Cities metro area (around 100-120 miles north).

The region's topography, characterized by rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and spring-fed rivers, makes for a particularly scenic drive. Once in Preston, visitors will find that the various campgrounds are well-signed and typically offer straightforward access from main roads. The town itself is small but provides essential services like grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, ensuring campers have everything they need close by.

A significant accessibility feature of Preston's campgrounds is their proximity to the Root River State Trail and the South Branch of the Root River. Many campgrounds in the area are either directly on or just a short distance from these popular biking and water trails, allowing for easy access to miles of paved paths and excellent canoeing, kayaking, and tubing opportunities. This integration with local recreational infrastructure makes Preston an exceptionally accessible and appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts from across Minnesota.

The campgrounds in and around Preston, MN, collectively offer a comprehensive range of services designed to accommodate various camping preferences. While specific offerings vary by individual campground, a general overview of what you can expect includes:

• Diverse Campsite Options: From rustic, tent-only sites perfect for traditionalists to fully equipped RV sites with 30 and 50 amp electric, water, and sewer hookups, there are options for every type of camper. Many RV sites are pull-through and feature amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Most established campgrounds provide clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities. Some may be coin-operated, ensuring continuous upkeep and cleanliness for camper comfort.

• Dump Stations: Convenient dump stations are typically available for RV campers, making waste disposal easy before departure.

• General Stores/Concessions: Several campgrounds feature on-site general stores that sell essential camping supplies, firewood, ice, snacks, drinks, and sometimes even bait and tackle. This is particularly true for larger resorts like Old Barn Resort.

• Seasonal Sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer seasonal sites, allowing campers to keep their RVs or trailers set up for the entire camping season, providing a convenient and semi-permanent retreat for locals.

• Activity Fields and Playgrounds: Family-friendly amenities often include spacious activity fields for games, sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and dedicated playgrounds for children.

• Water Access and Rentals: Campgrounds located near the Root River often provide direct access for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Some may offer rentals for watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks, and tubes.

• Wi-Fi Access: While not universal, some larger campgrounds or resort-style facilities offer Wi-Fi hotspots, usually around central areas like the general store or lodge, allowing guests to stay connected if desired.

The campgrounds in the Preston area are distinguished by a variety of features and highlights that enhance the camping experience:

• Proximity to Root River State Trail: A major highlight is the direct access or close proximity to the Root River State Trail, a paved trail network spanning over 60 miles, perfect for biking, walking, and rollerblading through scenic bluff country.

• Excellent Trout Fishing: The Root River and its tributaries are renowned for exceptional trout fishing. Many campgrounds offer direct access to these spring-fed waters, making them a prime destination for anglers.

• Variety of Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the area offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, including canoeing, kayaking, tubing, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Winter months can also feature cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on designated trails.

• On-site Golf Courses: Notably, the Old Barn Resort features an award-winning 18-hole golf course (River's Bend Golf Course) directly accessible from the campground, appealing to golf enthusiasts.

• Swimming Pools: Larger campgrounds, like Old Barn Resort, boast amenities such as a three-season swimming pool, providing a refreshing way to cool off during warmer months.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds prioritize a family-friendly environment, often with planned activities, open spaces for play, and a welcoming ambiance for all ages.

• Unique Local Attractions: The Preston area is rich with attractions like Mystery Cave, Forestville State Park (including Historic Forestville), and nearby Amish communities offering tours and goods, providing diverse day-trip options for campers.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: The campgrounds are nestled within the stunning landscapes of Minnesota's Driftless Area, offering picturesque views of bluffs, valleys, and lush greenery, along with ample opportunities to observe local wildlife.

While promotions for "Campgrounds" as a collective entity are not available, individual campgrounds in the Preston area frequently offer various specials and discounts to attract campers. To find the most current promotions, it is highly recommended to visit the specific websites of campgrounds like Old Barn Resort, Valleyview Campground, or the Fillmore County Fairgrounds Campground, or to contact them directly.

Common types of promotions and offers you might encounter include:

• Seasonal Discounts: Reduced rates during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to peak summer rates.

• Extended Stay Deals: Discounts for booking multiple nights, such as "stay three nights, get the fourth free," or weekly/monthly rates for longer visits.

• Membership Discounts: Many campgrounds offer discounts for members of camping affiliations like Good Sam Club, AAA, or military personnel (active and retired with valid ID). For example, Old Barn Resort offers a 10% discount for military personnel and Good Sam members.

• Early Bird Booking Incentives: Occasionally, discounts are offered for reservations made far in advance.

• Themed Weekend Specials: Some campgrounds organize themed weekends with special activities, which might include bundled pricing for certain amenities or events.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends) and for popular sites. Many campgrounds allow reservations up to a year in advance. Be sure to inquire about cancellation policies and any minimum stay requirements for weekends or holidays when booking.

Since "Campgrounds" refers to a general location rather than a single entity, contacting specific campgrounds in Preston is the best approach. Here are contact details for some prominent options:

Fillmore County Fair Campground:

• Address: Fillmore St E, Preston, MN (located on the Fairgrounds)

• Phone: (507) 765-2370

• Website: Check the Fillmore County Fair website for camping information (e.g., fillmorecountyfair.com/camping/)

Old Barn Resort (includes Rivers' Bend Golf Course):

• Address: 24461 Heron Rd, Preston, MN 55965

• Phone: (507) 467-2512

• Website: barnresort.com

Valleyview Campground:

• Address: 23750 US Hwy 52, Preston, MN 55965

• Phone: (507) 272-3471

• Website: valleyviewmn.net

Maple Springs Campground:

• Address: 21606 County 118, Preston, MN 55965

• Phone: (507) 352-2056

• Website: maplespringscampground.com or check Explore Minnesota's listing

For general tourism information about Preston and its outdoor recreation opportunities, you can also contact the Preston Area Chamber of Commerce or visit their website.

For Minnesotans, the campgrounds in Preston offer an unparalleled blend of accessibility, diverse amenities, and natural beauty, making them an ideal choice for local outdoor enthusiasts. The convenience of driving to Preston from major population centers like Rochester and the Twin Cities means less time traveling and more time enjoying the great outdoors. This ease of access makes it perfect for weekend getaways, family vacations, or even extended seasonal stays.

The variety of camping options ensures that every local can find their perfect fit, whether they prefer the simplicity of a tent site, the comfort of a full hook-up RV spot, or even a seasonal site that becomes a second home. The consistent positive feedback regarding cleanliness, peacefulness, and abundant activities underscores the high quality of the camping experience here.

What truly makes Preston's campgrounds suitable for locals is their integration into the rich recreational fabric of southeastern Minnesota. Direct access to the Root River State Trail and excellent trout fishing opportunities mean that adventure is literally at your doorstep. Families can enjoy biking, swimming, golf, and various on-site activities, ensuring there's never a dull moment. The proximity to unique local attractions like Mystery Cave and Amish communities also adds an extra layer of appeal, allowing for well-rounded trips. In essence, Preston's campgrounds are more than just places to stay; they are gateways to the heart of Minnesota's Bluff Country, offering a refreshing and enriching escape for residents looking to connect with nature and create lasting memories close to home.