Stoney Point Recreation and Campground

For Minnesotans seeking a convenient and unique spot to pitch their tent or park their RV, Stoney Point Recreation and Campground in Plato, MN, offers a distinct option. Located at 44°17'45.96°12'02., 6 9, Plato, MN 55370, USA, this campground presents itself as a "hidden gem" for some, praised for its accommodating owner and practical amenities like concrete pads. It caters to those who value a straightforward camping experience, perhaps as an overnight stop or a base for exploring the quieter, rural parts of Minnesota.

However, it is crucial for prospective campers to be aware of the varied experiences reported by past visitors. While some have found it to be a "Great spot to camp" with an "awesome" owner, other reviews highlight significant concerns, particularly regarding public conduct and facility cleanliness, especially during peak times like the 4th of July. These contrasting perspectives underscore the importance of understanding the park's atmosphere and ensuring it aligns with individual expectations for a camping trip. This overview aims to provide a factual depiction based on available public data, enabling Minnesotans to make an informed decision about whether Stoney Point Recreation and Campground is the right fit for their next outdoor adventure.

Stoney Point Recreation and Campground is located at a somewhat unique address: 44°17'45.96°12'02., 6 9, Plato, MN 55370, USA. While the coordinates might seem unusual for a street address, they accurately pinpoint its geographical position, suggesting a location that might be slightly off the main thoroughfare, contributing to its "hidden gem" appeal for some. Plato, Minnesota, is a small city situated in McLeod County, in the south-central region of the state. This places the campground within a rural setting, away from the hustle and bustle of larger urban centers, offering a quieter escape for campers.

Accessibility to Stoney Point Recreation and Campground is generally by vehicle, and its location within a rural area means that travelers will likely use county roads or state highways to reach it. While it's noted for having a "nice concrete pad to set up next to," indicating ease of parking for RVs, the approach to the campground might involve less-trafficked routes, which can be part of the charm for those seeking a more secluded experience.

For Minnesotans, its location in McLeod County means it's within a reasonable driving distance from the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area (approximately an hour to an hour and a half drive), making it a plausible weekend getaway. The rural surroundings offer opportunities for enjoying the quiet countryside, and nearby smaller towns may provide basic amenities like gas stations or convenience stores. It is advisable for campers to ensure they have precise navigation to the coordinates provided to facilitate a smooth arrival at this unique, and for some, pleasantly secluded, campground.

• Campsites with Concrete Pads: A distinct service highlighted by a customer review is the presence of "nice concrete pad to set up next to." This is a significant convenience for RVers, providing a level, stable surface for parking and setting up their rig.

• Owner-Operated with Accommodating Management: Reviews praise the "awesome owner" who was "friendly" and "allowed us to stay an extra day." This indicates personalized service and flexibility, which can greatly enhance a camper's experience.

• Public Bathrooms: The campground provides access to public bathrooms. However, it's important to note that a customer review described them as "the most disgusting I've EVER seen," indicating a potential issue with cleanliness or maintenance, particularly during busy periods.

• Full Hookups (Implied/Expected): While not explicitly detailed in the brief review, most RV parks with concrete pads typically offer essential hookups like water and electricity (and often sewer). Given the nature of a park designed for RV setup, it's a reasonable expectation, though confirmation upon booking is advised.

• Lake/Recreational Access (Implied by name): The "Recreation" in the name and potential proximity to water (not directly specified but common for "point" locations) suggests opportunities for outdoor activities, though no organized recreational areas were detailed.

• Overnight and Potentially Extended Stays: The ability to "stay an extra day" implies flexibility for both short-term and possibly longer stays, accommodating various travel plans.

• Accommodating and Friendly Ownership: A standout feature of Stoney Point Recreation and Campground is the positive interaction reported with the owner. Campers have described the owner as "awesome" and "friendly," highlighting a willingness to go the extra mile, such as allowing an extra day of stay. This personalized customer service can significantly enhance a camper's experience and foster a welcoming atmosphere.

• Convenient Concrete Pads for RVs: For RVers, the presence of "nice concrete pad to set up next to" is a highly valued feature. These pads provide a level, stable, and clean surface for parking and setting up an RV, making the process much smoother and more comfortable compared to gravel or dirt sites.

• Quiet, "Hidden Gem" Potential: For some campers, the park’s less obvious location (implied by the unique address format) and rural setting contribute to its perception as a "hidden gem." This can translate to a quieter, more peaceful camping experience, appealing to those seeking an escape from crowded campgrounds and a more secluded retreat.

• Flexible Stay Options: The willingness to allow campers to "stay an extra day" suggests flexibility in accommodating various travel itineraries, making it a convenient stop for those passing through or looking for a short, adaptable getaway.

• Return Visit Potential: The sentiment "We will be sure to stay here on our way back home" indicates that for some visitors, the park provides a satisfying and memorable enough experience to warrant a return, speaking to its consistent appeal for certain types of travelers.

It is crucial to acknowledge the stark contrast presented by another review, which describes significant negative features including:

• Severely Unclean Bathrooms: A major concern highlighted is the public bathrooms being "the most disgusting I've EVER seen," indicating a critical issue with sanitation and maintenance of communal facilities.

• Concerns Over Guest Conduct and Safety: The review details instances of "drunks riding around in golf carts with infants all day, every day," "lighting fireworks at other campers," and "no respect for a wake zone," suggesting potential issues with park rule enforcement, safety, and responsible behavior among guests, particularly during busy periods like the 4th of July.

Prospective campers should carefully weigh both the positive highlights and the negative concerns to determine if the park's features align with their expectations for a camping experience.

As a privately owned and managed campground that receives highly varied reviews, Stoney Point Recreation and Campground does not publicly advertise specific promotions or special offers in the information provided. The primary "offer" mentioned is the owner's flexibility in allowing a camper to "stay an extra day," which suggests a personalized approach to guest services rather than formalized discount programs.

Given the diverse feedback, particularly regarding certain times of the year (e.g., 4th of July), it's unlikely that the park relies heavily on promotions to attract guests, but rather on its basic amenities and individual customer service.

Any potential for special rates or deals would likely be at the discretion of the owner, possibly offered on a case-by-case basis or for extended stays. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on pricing, availability, and any informal flexibility regarding stays, prospective campers are strongly advised to contact Stoney Point Recreation and Campground directly. They can reach the owner/management using the provided phone numbers to discuss their specific needs and confirm current rates.

For inquiries, reservations, or any questions regarding your stay at Stoney Point Recreation and Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 44°17'45.96°12'02., 6 9, Plato, MN 55370, USA

Phone: (507) 530-0866

Mobile Phone: +1 507-530-0866

Given the specific mention of an "awesome owner" who is accommodating, direct communication by phone is likely the most effective way to reach the management. It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially to confirm site availability, understand the precise location given the unusual address format, and discuss any specific concerns you might have based on the varied public reviews. This direct contact will allow you to get the most current information and ensure a smooth arrival and pleasant stay.

For Minnesotans considering Stoney Point Recreation and Campground, its suitability as a local camping spot largely depends on individual priorities and expectations, particularly regarding the kind of experience one seeks. For certain local campers, it offers distinct advantages.

Firstly, its location in Plato, a rural part of McLeod County, makes it an accessible option for those in south-central Minnesota, including the broader Twin Cities metro area, who are seeking a relatively close-to-home escape without venturing too far. This convenience allows for quick weekend trips or last-minute getaways, maximizing leisure time.

Secondly, for RV owners, the explicit mention of a "nice concrete pad to set up next to" is a significant draw. This provides a stable and clean foundation for parking an RV, a feature often highly valued for ease of setup and stability. For those who appreciate functional amenities and a straightforward approach to camping, this can be very appealing. The positive interactions with the "awesome owner" also suggest a level of personalized service and flexibility that can make a local's stay more comfortable and accommodating, such as allowing for an extra day.

However, it is crucial for Minnesotans to be fully aware of the contrasting reviews, especially concerning bathroom cleanliness and public conduct during peak periods. For locals who prioritize pristine communal facilities or a strictly quiet, family-oriented environment without late-night disturbances, a direct inquiry about these aspects or careful planning to avoid peak times might be necessary.

Ultimately, Stoney Point Recreation and Campground is suitable for Minnesotans who are looking for a straightforward, functional RV spot with the convenience of concrete pads, appreciate direct and flexible owner interaction, and are perhaps less concerned with extensive amenities or are comfortable managing their expectations regarding shared facilities and potential for lively fellow campers, especially around holidays. For those seeking a quiet, "hidden gem" for a short stop, it could indeed live up to its positive reviews.