Deparcq Woods Campground

Minnesota, the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with countless opportunities for camping, hiking, and enjoying nature. For those seeking a peaceful and well-maintained spot to set up camp, Deparcq Woods Campground in Little Falls offers a unique experience. While primarily located within the Minnesota National Guard's Camp Ripley, and thus having specific eligibility requirements for entry, it provides a highly regarded camping environment for those who qualify. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Deparcq Woods Campground, helping local Minnesotans learn more about this place from their perspective as potential users.

Deparcq Woods Campground is consistently praised by visitors for its cleanliness, affordability, and the friendly nature of its surroundings. Reviewers often highlight the "super clean bathroom area" and the "great price," indicating a strong value proposition for campers. While it's noted that "no sewer hookups" are available at individual sites, the presence of a convenient dump station helps mitigate this. Importantly, a previous misconception that it was "only for service members" has been clarified, indicating that while it's on a military base, it's accessible to a broader range of guests. This blend of excellent facilities and a welcoming atmosphere makes Deparcq Woods a standout choice for those eligible to stay.

Deparcq Woods Campground is located in Little Falls, MN 56345, USA, specifically on the grounds of Camp Ripley, a Minnesota National Guard base. This unique location offers a blend of natural beauty and a secure environment. The campground is situated on the banks of the majestic Mississippi River, providing scenic views and opportunities for riverside activities.

Accessibility to Deparcq Woods involves entering Camp Ripley, which requires adherence to base access procedures. Visitors have noted that the camp host is "very informative and let you know everything about the camp" upon arrival, ensuring a smooth check-in process. While driving onto a military installation might seem daunting to some, the process is typically straightforward for eligible guests. Once inside, the campground itself is nestled in a quiet, wooded area, offering a sense of seclusion despite being part of a larger facility. The address, while general, is sufficient for navigation to the Camp Ripley main gate, and from there, internal signs or directions from the camp host will guide you to the campground. The drive to Little Falls for supplies or to explore local attractions like the Charles A. Lindbergh home and museum is also conveniently short.

Deparcq Woods Campground provides a comprehensive set of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its guests.

• RV Sites with Power and Water: There are 15 dedicated RV sites, each equipped with 30 and 50-amp electrical service and fresh water connections.
• Tent Sites: In addition to RV sites, the campground also offers designated tent camping areas.
• Clean Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Consistently praised in reviews for being "super clean" and "immaculate," these facilities are a major highlight for campers.
• Dump Point/Sani Dump: While individual RV sites lack sewer hookups, a conveniently located dump station is available near the campground entrance for waste disposal.
• Laundry Facilities: Free washers and dryers are available for camper use, a significant convenience for longer stays.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite, both RV and tent, includes a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor cooking and relaxation.
• Free Firewood: A notable perk, "Free firewood at camp" is available for guests, enhancing the campfire experience.
• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is provided, though some reviews indicate it can be "patchy, at best" due to installation-wide changes, suggesting a personal hotspot might be a good backup.
• Access to Base Amenities: Eligible campers may have access to Camp Ripley's facilities, such as the PX (retail store), snack bar, and Viking Club (an MWR bar).

These services collectively contribute to a well-equipped and functional campground environment.

Deparcq Woods Campground offers several features and highlights that make it a desirable camping destination in Minnesota:

• Riverside Location: Situated on the banks of the majestic Mississippi River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and peaceful contemplation.
• Paved RV Sites: RV sites feature "concrete pad RV sites," providing a level and stable surface, though one reviewer noted a preference for asphalt to avoid mud, especially during wet weather.
• Quiet and Safe Environment: Being located on a military base, the campground offers a very secure and quiet setting, as affirmed by a reviewer who stated, "Very nice camp and very safe."
• Friendly and Accommodating Camp Host: Reviews frequently mention the camp host being "very informative" and "easy to do business with, and accommodating," contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
• Playground and Picnic Pavilion: On-site amenities include a playground for children and a picnic pavilion for group gatherings.
• Access to Outdoor Activities: The base grounds offer hiking trails, disc golf, a boat launch, and various opportunities for nature lovers, including bird and plant species viewing.
• Proximity to Military Museum: Camp Ripley hosts a wonderful military museum with armored vehicles, offering an educational and engaging activity for visitors.
• Clear Rules: The campground has clear rules, and adhering to them ensures a smooth and enjoyable stay for everyone.

These features combine to create a comprehensive and enjoyable camping experience for eligible guests.

Deparcq Woods Campground offers transparent and affordable pricing, which can be considered a consistent promotion for its eligible clientele. The standard rates are:

• RV Sites: $17.00 per day
• Tent Sites: $7.00 per day

These prices are very competitive, especially considering the quality of facilities like the clean bathrooms and free laundry. While a review mentioned that "Pricing is about the same as a KOA, but definitely not up to the same standards" in terms of overall amenities, the value for money, especially for eligible guests, is clearly a strong point.

Reservations are typically handled through Camp Ripley Housing, and it's advisable to contact them directly for current availability and any specific booking procedures. While not explicitly stated as "promotions," the consistent low pricing and included amenities like free firewood and laundry facilities act as an ongoing value offer.

For reservations and further inquiries about Deparcq Woods Campground, you can use the following contact information:

Phone: (320) 616-3140

Mobile Phone: +1 320-616-3140

Address: Little Falls, MN 56345, USA (It is important to remember that this is located within Camp Ripley, and specific directions for entering the base and reaching the campground will be provided upon reservation or inquiry.)

It is highly recommended to call ahead to confirm eligibility requirements for staying at the campground, check availability, and receive detailed instructions for accessing the base. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free arrival.

For locals in Minnesota, Deparcq Woods Campground stands out as a highly suitable option, especially for those with military affiliation or state employee status who can gain access to Camp Ripley. Its suitability is rooted in several key factors: the affordable pricing for both RV and tent sites, the consistently praised cleanliness of its facilities (particularly the bathrooms and free laundry), and the friendly, accommodating nature of the owners and fellow campers. Despite the lack of individual sewer hookups and potentially patchy Wi-Fi, the presence of a convenient dump station and the overall serene, safe environment within the wooded confines of a military installation make it an attractive choice. It’s ideal for those seeking a quiet, clean, and budget-friendly camping experience near the Mississippi River, with added benefits of access to base amenities and a military museum. If you're a Minnesotan looking for a peaceful retreat where the focus is on a good, clean camp at a great price, Deparcq Woods Campground in Little Falls is an excellent place to consider for your next outdoor adventure.