Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds

For many Minnesotans, the arrival of late summer signifies one thing above all else: the Minnesota State Fair. The "Great Minnesota Get-Together" is a beloved annual tradition, drawing millions of visitors from across the state and beyond. While attending the fair is an experience in itself, imagine enhancing that by staying just steps away from all the action. This is precisely what the Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds offer – a unique and highly sought-after opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the fair atmosphere without the daily commute. Situated right on the fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, this campground provides unparalleled convenience for fair-goers, transforming a day trip into a multi-day adventure.

Unlike traditional campgrounds designed for serene wilderness retreats, the Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds are tailor-made for the ultimate fair experience. You won't find expansive recreation areas or secluded campfire rings here; instead, you'll find yourself at the epicenter of excitement, just a short walk from food vendors, entertainment stages, livestock barns, and all the diverse exhibits the fair has to offer. This unique positioning makes it an ideal choice for those who want to maximize their time at the fair, whether it's catching every Grandstand show, sampling all the new foods on a stick, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere from dawn till dusk.

The demand for spots at the Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds is exceptionally high, a testament to its prime location and convenience. It's a special kind of camping experience, one where the main attraction is the fair itself. For local Minnesotans, this means avoiding traffic, securing a nearby parking spot (for your pulling vehicle), and having the flexibility to come and go as you please. This article will delve into the specifics of the Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds, covering its strategic location, the services it provides, its unique features, and essential contact information. We'll explore why this campground is not just a place to park your RV, but an integral part of the authentic Minnesota State Fair tradition.

It's important to set expectations for this campground. While it offers essential amenities, its focus is on functionality and proximity to the fair. This isn't the place for a quiet, secluded nature retreat, but rather a bustling, vibrant hub for fair enthusiasts. For many, the lively atmosphere and the sheer convenience of being on-site far outweigh the absence of more traditional campground features. It’s an extension of the fair itself, providing a communal experience for those who share a deep love for Minnesota’s annual celebration. Whether you’re a long-time fair devotee or looking to experience it in a completely new way, securing a spot at these campgrounds can truly elevate your Great Minnesota Get-Together.

Location and Accessibility:

The Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds are perfectly situated at 1490 Cosgrove St, Falcon Heights, MN 55108, USA. This address places it directly on the sprawling Minnesota State Fairgrounds, offering an unbeatable location for fair attendees. For Minnesotans, particularly those residing in the Twin Cities metro area and surrounding communities, the accessibility is a significant draw. The fairgrounds themselves are conveniently located just blocks from Interstate 94, making it relatively straightforward to reach from various directions. This ease of access is crucial during the busy fair season when traffic can be a considerable concern.

Being on the fairgrounds means that once you've arrived and set up your camper, you are literally within walking distance of all the fair's attractions. This eliminates the daily hassle of finding parking, navigating shuttle buses, or dealing with the throngs of people entering and exiting the fairgates. The campground features its own admission gate, allowing campers direct and convenient access to the fair, often on foot. This unparalleled proximity transforms the fair-going experience, allowing visitors the flexibility to return to their camper for a quick break, a meal, or to drop off purchases, without feeling disconnected from the fair's energy. For locals, this convenience truly enhances the ability to enjoy multiple days at the fair without the exhaustion of extensive travel or parking woes. It’s about maximizing your time enjoying the fair, not commuting to it.

Services Offered:

• RV Camping Sites: The campground prioritizes accommodating as many campers as possible, with spots secured via a reservation system. Sites are assigned based on camper width to comply with Health Department regulations, with space for standard units, non-slide units wider than 8 feet, and slide-out campers. All parking is directed by campground personnel to maintain a 7-foot separation between units.
• Electrical Service: All sites are guaranteed to have 20-amp electrical service. Campers must use 12/3 electrical cords between their camper and fair outlet boxes.
• Water Access: Temporary water hookups are available for filling tanks. Private hookups to water are not permitted.
• Dump Stations: There are three shared dump stations located within the campground for wastewater disposal.
• Restrooms and Showers: Restroom and shower facilities are available for camper use.
• Coin-Operated Laundry: For longer stays, coin-operated laundry facilities are provided.
• Vehicle Parking: While pulling vehicles are generally free of charge, pulled and extra vehicles may incur a daily fee and will often be relocated to the North Yellow Lot (formerly Camel Lot) as they won't fit on most sites.
• Fair Entry Access: Campers have direct admission gate access from the campground onto the fairgrounds (fair admission tickets are separate from camping fees).
• No Pets Allowed: It is important to note that pets are not permitted in the campground.
• No Campfires/Generators: Open campfires and generator use are not permitted. Grilling is allowed.
• Cleanliness: All campsites must be kept clean and free of trash, with wastewater and garbage disposed of in provided containers.

Features / Highlights:

• Unbeatable Proximity to the Fair: The most significant highlight is being directly on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, offering immediate access to all fair attractions, entertainment, food, and exhibits.
• Convenient Fair Access: Campers have a dedicated admission gate from the campground, allowing for easy entry and re-entry throughout the day.
• Reduced Commute Stress: Eliminates the daily commute, traffic, and parking challenges associated with attending the extremely popular State Fair.
• Immersive Fair Experience: Allows fair-goers to fully immerse themselves in the "Great Minnesota Get-Together," from early mornings to late evenings, without leaving the fair environment.
• Essential Amenities for RVs: Provides crucial services like electrical hookups, dump stations, restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, making extended stays comfortable.
• Lively Atmosphere: Experience the bustling energy of the fair even from your campsite, creating a unique and memorable camping environment.
• Community for Fair Enthusiasts: A gathering point for fellow fair lovers, fostering a sense of camaraderie among campers.
• Access to Urban Amenities: While focused on the fair, the Falcon Heights location means essential urban services, stores, and attractions outside the fairgrounds are still easily accessible if needed.

Promotions or Special Offers:

Information regarding specific promotions or special offers for camping at the Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds is generally limited and tied directly to the annual Minnesota State Fair event. The primary "offer" is the convenience and unique experience of staying on the fairgrounds. Camping rates are determined by the width of the campsite required: $30 for standard, $35 for non-slide units wider than 8 feet, and $45 for slide-out campers. These fees do not include admission to the fair itself, which must be purchased separately.

Due to the extremely high demand for campground spots during the fair, reservations are highly competitive and typically open well in advance of the fair dates. There isn't usually a public "promotion" in the traditional sense, but rather a specific reservation process that campers must follow to secure a spot. It's advisable for interested individuals to monitor the official Minnesota State Fair website well before the fair dates (typically late August to early September) for announcements regarding the opening of the reservation system for the upcoming year. Any specific discounts, if available, would likely be communicated through official fair channels. For instance, the fair itself has special discount days for admission, such as Opening Day, Seniors Days, Kids Days, and Military Appreciation Day, which could indirectly benefit campers by offering reduced fair entry. Additionally, the "Blue Ribbon Bargain Book," a coupon book with discounts on food, merchandise, and attractions, is available for $5 and can provide savings during your visit to the fair. While the campground itself may not offer traditional promotions, the overall fair experience provides various ways to save money.

Contact Information:

Address: 1490 Cosgrove St, Falcon Heights, MN 55108, USA

Phone: (651) 642-2379

Mobile Phone: +1 651-642-2379

For specific inquiries regarding campground updates, particularly for general public (non-vendor/entertainer/employee/livestock exhibitor) information, you can also send your name and email address to campgrounds@mnstatefair.org with the subject line “Campground Information.” It is always best to refer to the official Minnesota State Fair website for the most current and detailed information regarding reservations, rules, and any updates.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds are an unparalleled choice for locals, particularly those living in and around the Twin Cities metro area, looking to fully embrace the spirit of the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Its most compelling advantage is its location directly on the fairgrounds in Falcon Heights. For Minnesotans, this eliminates the daily frustrations of navigating traffic, searching for parking, and enduring long walks or shuttle rides to and from the fair. This convenience transforms the entire fair experience, allowing families and individuals to maximize their time enjoying the myriad attractions, entertainment, and food without the typical logistical headaches.

Imagine waking up, stepping out of your RV, and being just a short stroll from your favorite fair foods, the Grandstand shows, or the bustling Midway. This level of immersion is something no off-site accommodation can truly replicate. It means you can easily pop back to your camper for a quick break from the crowds, store purchases, or simply relax before heading back into the excitement. This flexibility is invaluable, especially for families with children who might need a quiet moment or an afternoon nap. The communal atmosphere of the campground, filled with fellow fair enthusiasts, also adds to the unique local charm, creating a shared experience among those who cherish this annual tradition.

While the campground is distinct from traditional wilderness camping, offering essential amenities like electrical hookups, dump stations, restrooms, and showers, its primary value for locals lies in its strategic proximity to the fair. It's not about escaping into nature; it's about diving headfirst into Minnesota's most iconic annual event. For Minnesotans who consider the State Fair a must-do tradition, securing a spot at the Minnesota State Fair Campgrounds is arguably the most convenient and immersive way to experience all that the Great Minnesota Get-Together has to offer, making it an ideal choice for a truly unforgettable local adventure.