Semi-Modern Campground

- 7GVJ+X7, New Ulm, MN 56073

For those of us in Minnesota who cherish the beauty of our state parks and the joy of a comfortable outdoor experience, finding a campground that offers the perfect balance of natural immersion and convenient amenities is always a win. Nestled in the picturesque bluffs of Southern Minnesota, just minutes from the charming city of New Ulm, lies the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park – a beloved destination that truly delivers on both fronts. It’s a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the rustle of leaves and the calls of nature, all while providing the comforts that make camping truly enjoyable.

The Semi-Modern Campground is an integral part of the expansive Flandrau State Park, a thousand-acre haven that boasts a diverse landscape of grasslands, marshes, and wooded areas along the Big Cottonwood River. This campground is aptly named, offering a step up from rustic sites with access to essential facilities that enhance your camping trip. Imagine having the convenience of electricity for your RV or a comfortable heated cabin, yet still being surrounded by the peaceful embrace of Minnesota's natural environment.

Our state parks are invaluable resources for recreation and connection with nature, and Flandrau stands out for its varied offerings. The Semi-Modern Campground is specifically designed to cater to a wide range of campers, from those with larger RVs needing hookups to individuals or families looking for a cozy cabin experience. It provides a flexible and accessible option for locals seeking an authentic outdoor adventure without having to completely rough it. The thoughtful amenities ensure that your focus can remain on enjoying the park's beauty and the company of your fellow campers.

This overview will guide you through what makes the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park an outstanding choice for Minnesotans. We'll explore its prime location, the comprehensive list of services and accommodations it offers, its distinctive features and highlights, and why it's consistently a top pick for those seeking a convenient yet immersive outdoor experience in the New Ulm area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, a base for exploring historic New Ulm, or an active adventure on trails and by the water, this campground is equipped to provide a memorable stay.

We understand that for many Minnesotans, finding a reliable and enjoyable camping spot close to home is a priority. The Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park delivers on this, offering a sanctuary that feels wonderfully secluded yet remains comfortably within reach for those of us living in the wider Minnesota region. It’s a testament to the fact that you don't need to journey far to find profound natural beauty and a genuine sense of peace.

The Semi-Modern Campground is nestled within Flandrau State Park, with its primary address being 7GVJ+X7, New Ulm, MN 56073, USA. More specifically, the park's main entrance is often cited at 1300 Summit Ave, New Ulm, MN 56073. For Minnesotans, this location is exceptionally convenient, situated just minutes from downtown New Ulm. This proximity allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of the park while still having easy access to the city’s unique Bavarian charm, including its brewery, glockenspiel, and local shops.

Access to Flandrau State Park is straightforward. From downtown New Ulm, you can follow Broadway (State Hwy 15) to 10th Street South, proceed west up the hill to Summit Avenue, and then turn left (south) three blocks to the park entrance. The roads within the park leading to the Semi-Modern Campground are well-maintained, accommodating various vehicle types, including RVs. The campground itself is located within walking distance of the park's popular sand-bottom pond and playground, making it very accessible for families with children.

Being part of a Minnesota State Park means clear signage and consistent maintenance of facilities and access points. Visitors can expect a smooth journey to their campsite, allowing more time to settle in and enjoy the natural surroundings. This blend of easy urban access and immersive natural setting makes the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park an ideal choice for Minnesotans seeking both convenience and an authentic outdoor experience.

• Non-Electric Campsites: The campground offers 18 non-electric campsites for those seeking a more traditional or rustic camping experience without needing power.
• Electric Sites: For RVs and campers desiring more amenities, there are 34 electric sites available, providing both 30 and 50 amp service.
• Historic WPA Stone CCC Seasonal Cabin: A unique lodging option offering a taste of history within the park.
• Two Heated Year-Round Camper Cabins: These provide a comfortable, more sheltered alternative to tent camping, suitable for all seasons.
• Access to Shower Building: Campers in the semi-modern section have convenient access to a modern shower building for personal hygiene.
• Direct Walking Access to Pond and Playground: The campground is situated within easy walking distance of the park's popular chlorinated sand-bottom swimming pond and a children's playground.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each site typically comes with a picnic table and a fire pit for cooking and campfires.
• Dump Station: Although not explicitly stated for this specific campground, state parks with RV sites usually offer dump stations for wastewater disposal.
• Park Office: The park office is conveniently located on the main entrance road for questions, merchandise, and equipment rentals.

• Variety of Site Types: Offers a flexible choice between non-electric sites, electric sites (30 & 50 amp), and comfortable heated camper cabins, catering to different camping styles and preferences.
• Unique Sand-Bottom Swimming Pond: A popular and distinct feature of Flandrau State Park, offering a refreshing and clean swimming experience on hot summer days, often described as a chlorinated sand-bottom pool.
• Proximity to Park Amenities: Campers are within walking distance of the pond, playground, and other day-use facilities within the park.
• Extensive Trail System: Flandrau State Park boasts eight miles of hiking trails, with some groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, offering diverse recreational opportunities year-round.
• Historic Buildings: The park features historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Veterans Conservation Corps, and Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s, offering educational and exploratory opportunities.
• Natural Diversity: The park's landscape includes wooded river bottoms, oxbow marshes, open grasslands, and goat prairies, providing rich opportunities for birding (over 60 species documented) and wildlife viewing (e.g., deer, beaver, wild turkeys).
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground, swimming pond, and various activities, it's an excellent destination for families with children.
• Winter Sports Rentals: In the winter, cross-country ski and snowshoe equipment can be rented from the park office, making winter outdoor activities more accessible.

As a component of Flandrau State Park, the Semi-Modern Campground's pricing and any special offers are typically managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reservation system. While state parks generally do not run frequent, independent "promotions" in the way a private business might, there are standard ways for Minnesotans to find value or specific pricing information:

• Minnesota DNR Website: The official Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/reservations) is the primary source for all reservation information, current rates, and any statewide park passes or programs that might offer discounts (e.g., annual park passes).
• Off-Peak Season Rates: Camping fees are often lower during the off-peak seasons (spring, fall, winter) or on weekdays compared to prime summer weekends. This is a common way to enjoy a more affordable stay.
• Annual Park Passes: Purchasing an annual Minnesota State Parks and Trails vehicle permit ($35 for a year) can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors, covering the daily $7 entry fee.
• Check for Local New Ulm Events: While not a campground promotion, if your visit coincides with a local event like New Ulm's Oktoberfest, demand for campsites may be high, so booking well in advance is crucial, even if standard rates apply.
• "Extend the Fun" or "Buy 2 Get 1 Free" type specials (as seen at other MN campgrounds): While not specific to Flandrau, it's always worth checking the DNR reservation site for any statewide or park-specific promotions that might be offered during certain times.

The value at the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park largely comes from its well-maintained facilities, diverse recreational opportunities, and convenient location within a beautiful state park, offering a consistent and reliable experience for local campers.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, specific site availability, or any other inquiries about the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park, you can contact the park directly or use the statewide reservation system:

Address: 1300 Summit Ave, New Ulm, MN 56073-3664 (main park address, campground is within)

Park Office Phone: (507) 233-1260

Minnesota DNR Reservations: 1-866-857-2757 or visit mndnr.gov/reservations

Email: flandrau.statepark@state.mn.us

The park office is open year-round from 8 AM to 10 PM, with specific office hours varying. It's always best to check their webpage for current office hours if you plan to visit in person.

For Minnesotans, the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park in New Ulm is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a variety of outdoor adventures. Its convenient location, just minutes from downtown New Ulm, strikes a perfect balance between immersing oneself in nature and having easy access to urban amenities. This means locals can enjoy a peaceful retreat without extensive travel, making it ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways or longer family vacations.

The campground’s "semi-modern" designation is a key draw for many Minnesotans. Offering a choice between non-electric sites for a more traditional experience and electric sites with 30 or 50 amp service for RVs, it caters to diverse camping styles. The inclusion of heated year-round camper cabins and a historic seasonal cabin provides comfortable alternatives for those who prefer more shelter, ensuring that the park is accessible for outdoor enjoyment across all four distinct Minnesota seasons. The presence of clean shower buildings and direct walking access to a sand-bottom swimming pond and playground further enhances the comfort and family-friendliness of the site.

Beyond the campsite itself, the extensive features of Flandrau State Park make it a truly comprehensive recreational hub for locals. With eight miles of diverse trails, opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are abundant. The park’s rich history, reflected in its CCC and WPA-built structures, adds an educational and cultural dimension to the outdoor experience. The diverse ecosystems support over 60 species of birds and various wildlife, providing endless opportunities for nature observation and photography.

Whether it’s cooling off in the unique sand-bottom pond on a hot summer day, exploring groomed trails in the winter, or simply enjoying a campfire under the vast Minnesota sky, the Semi-Modern Campground at Flandrau State Park offers a versatile and high-quality outdoor experience. It's a cherished local gem that allows Minnesotans to fully embrace their love for nature, history, and community, all within a welcoming and well-maintained state park setting.

Semi-Modern Campground

7GVJ+X7, New Ulm, MN 56073, USA