Group Campground 2

For Minnesotans with a deep appreciation for the serene beauty of our state's natural landscapes, finding the perfect camping spot often means balancing accessibility with a desire for tranquility and a sense of escape. While many campgrounds cater to individual families, there's a unique need for dedicated spaces where larger groups – whether it's a scout troop, a family reunion, or a gathering of friends – can truly immerse themselves in the outdoors together. Enter Group Campground 2, a specific offering within the beautiful Carley State Park, located near Plainview, Minnesota.

This particular campground offers a distinctive experience, characterized by its quiet and secluded nature, making it an ideal choice for groups looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy uninterrupted time in nature. Unlike bustling, amenity-rich RV resorts, Group Campground 2 provides a more rustic and peaceful setting, focusing on the essence of outdoor living while still providing essential facilities. This article will guide you through what makes Group Campground 2 a suitable destination for groups in Minnesota, detailing its location and accessibility, the services and features it provides, and why it might be the perfect backdrop for your next group outdoor adventure in our beautiful state.

Group Campground 2 is situated within Carley State Park, near Plainview, MN 55964, USA. Carley State Park is nestled in the scenic Whitewater River Valley in southeastern Minnesota, approximately 15 miles northeast of Rochester and about 4 miles south of Plainview on Wabasha County Road 4. This location offers a compelling blend of secluded natural beauty and relatively easy accessibility.

For Minnesotans, the park is a manageable drive from many population centers. It’s roughly an hour and a half drive from Minneapolis, and significantly closer for residents of Rochester (about 27 minutes). The drive itself takes visitors through charming rural landscapes, hinting at the peaceful retreat awaiting them. Access to the park involves driving in, and then potentially a short walk to the group campsites depending on their exact placement within the park's layout. The park's main entrance is well-marked, ensuring a straightforward journey. While the campground itself is described as "quiet and secluded," its proximity to Plainview means that basic supplies, gas, and any emergency needs are just a short drive away. This balance of natural immersion and practical convenience makes Carley State Park, and specifically its group campgrounds, highly accessible for planning group outings from various parts of Minnesota.

Group Campground 2, as part of Carley State Park, focuses on providing essential services that support a rustic yet comfortable group camping experience. The emphasis here is on connecting with nature, so while you won't find resort-style amenities, the fundamental needs for group camping are well-addressed.

• Dedicated Group Sites: The campground offers specific group sites, such as Group Site 1 (adjacent to the modern campground, accommodating up to 30 people) and Birch Hollow Group Site (including a picnic shelter, electricity, water, and a portable toilet, accommodating up to 20 people). These sites are designed to handle larger numbers of campers, providing ample space for tents and gathering.
• Picnic Shelter (at Birch Hollow Group Site): A significant advantage for group camping, offering protection from the elements during meals or activities.
• Electricity and Water (at Birch Hollow Group Site): The inclusion of electricity and water hookups at specific group sites like Birch Hollow significantly enhances convenience, especially for preparing meals, charging devices, or for those with specific medical needs.
• Portable Toilets (at Birch Hollow Group Site and Rustic areas): Providing basic restroom facilities for campers. While more rustic than flush toilets, they are a necessary amenity for secluded camping areas.
• Fire Ring/Grill and Picnic Table: Each group campsite is typically equipped with a fire ring or grill for cooking and campfires, and picnic tables for dining and gathering, essential for the camping experience.
• Access to Park Facilities: Group campers will have access to the broader park's facilities, which may include modern bathrooms with flush toilets and hot showers at the Nordic Center or the modern campground areas, depending on proximity and accessibility.
• Vehicle Permits Required: All vehicles entering the park require a Washington County Parks vehicle permit (daily or annual), which is a standard procedure for state parks and regional parks in Minnesota.

These services collectively aim to provide a functional and enjoyable outdoor experience for groups, with a focus on natural surroundings and essential provisions.

The true allure of Group Campground 2 within Carley State Park lies in its specific features and the natural environment it offers, especially for groups seeking a quieter, more immersed outdoor experience.

• Quiet and Secluded Setting: As highlighted by customer reviews, the campground is noted for being "quiet and secluded." This is a significant advantage for groups who desire privacy and a peaceful environment away from the noise and crowds often found in larger, more developed campgrounds. It fosters a genuine connection with nature.
• Spacious Group Areas: Group camp areas are typically designed to be expansive, providing "plenty of room for tents" and communal activities, ensuring that even larger groups have ample space to spread out comfortably.
• Forested Sections: The group camp areas are often located in "remote, forested sections" of the park, offering natural shade, beautiful scenery, and a genuine wilderness feel, perfect for enjoying campfires and outdoor living.
• Access to Hiking Trails: Carley State Park boasts approximately six miles of hiking trails that traverse a variety of scenery, from valley floors to rock ridges. The "Wildflower Trail" is particularly popular in spring, known for its vibrant bluebells. Group Campground 2 (or a nearby parking area) can serve as a direct access point to some of these trails, encouraging exploration and activity.
• Trout Fishing Opportunities: The North Branch of the Whitewater River, a designated trout stream, flows through the park. This offers excellent opportunities for fishing (brown and rainbow trout) for those in the group who enjoy angling, requiring a Minnesota state fishing license and trout stamp.
• Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing: Being away from major city light pollution, the park provides excellent opportunities for stargazing at night. The diverse terrain also supports a variety of wildlife, enhancing the natural experience.
• Picnic Shelter (at Birch Hollow Group Site): This is a key feature for group gatherings, providing a dedicated space for meals and activities regardless of weather conditions.

These features combine to make Group Campground 2 an appealing choice for groups prioritizing natural beauty, privacy, and outdoor recreation in a tranquil setting.

As a component of Carley State Park, Group Campground 2's pricing and any "special offers" are typically managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or Washington County Parks, rather than independent promotions.

• Standardized Pricing: Camping fees for group sites are generally set at a fixed rate per night (e.g., $70 per night for a Standard Group Campsite, $85 for a Group Campsite with shelter, or $93 for Birch Hollow with shelter & electricity, based on Washington County Parks rates, though Carley State Park is a MN DNR park). These rates are standard and publicly available through the DNR's reservation system.
• Vehicle Permit Requirement: Visitors will need a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit for entry ($7 daily or $35 annual), which is a standard fee for all state parks, not a special offer.
• No Direct "Promotions" Common: Unlike private campgrounds, state park group campgrounds typically do not run seasonal discounts or promotional packages. The value comes from the well-maintained natural setting and the specific amenities provided for groups at a set rate.

It is always recommended to check the official Minnesota DNR website for Carley State Park for the most accurate and up-to-date information on group camping rates, availability, and reservation policies. This will ensure you have the most current details directly from the managing authority.

For information regarding Group Campground 2 at Carley State Park, including reservations, specific site details, and park rules, please use the following contact methods:

• Address: Carley State Park, 50187 County Road 4, Plainview, MN 55964, USA
• Phone: (507) 932-3007 (Carley State Park Office)
• Toll-Free Phone: (866) 857-2757 (Minnesota DNR Reservations)
• Email: carley.statepark@state.mn.us
• Website: Visit the official Minnesota DNR website for Carley State Park (dnr.state.mn.us) for online reservations and detailed park information.

Contacting the park directly or using the Minnesota DNR reservation system will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your group camping trip.

For Minnesotans, Group Campground 2 within Carley State Park near Plainview is an exceptionally suitable choice for a variety of reasons, particularly for those organizing group outings. Its primary appeal lies in its "quiet and secluded" nature, offering a much-needed escape from the demands of urban life that many locals seek when venturing outdoors. This tranquility provides an ideal environment for genuine connection and relaxation among group members, free from the distractions of more crowded camping areas.

The dedicated group sites, some equipped with essential amenities like electricity, water, and picnic shelters, make planning and executing a comfortable group trip significantly easier. This is especially valuable for larger families, youth organizations, or friend groups who need more space and basic conveniences than a standard campsite might offer. Furthermore, the park's location in southeastern Minnesota makes it a convenient drive for residents across the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing the duration of the outdoor experience.

Beyond the camping itself, Carley State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities that align perfectly with Minnesota's love for nature. Opportunities for hiking through diverse landscapes, trout fishing in the Whitewater River, wildlife viewing, and stargazing provide ample ways for groups to engage with their surroundings and create lasting memories. For locals who value authentic outdoor experiences that combine natural beauty with functional group amenities, Group Campground 2 at Carley State Park stands out as an excellent option for fostering togetherness and appreciation for Minnesota's pristine wilderness.