Uncle Bernies Campground










Uncle Bernies Campground Overview
Uncle Bernies Campground Location & Map
Uncle Bernies Campground About
For many Minnesotans, summer isn’t complete without a trip to a campground that offers both relaxation and a dash of adventure. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat where the sounds of the river are your lullaby and the warmth of genuine hospitality makes you feel right at home, then Uncle Bernies Campground in Motley, MN, is a destination you absolutely need to consider. This charming local spot isn't just about pitching a tent or parking an RV; it's about experiencing the simple joys of Minnesota's natural beauty, highlighted by the unique thrill of tubing down a gentle, sandy river.
Uncle Bernies Campground stands out for its serene atmosphere and its beloved proprietor, Uncle Bernie himself, who, according to countless visitors, has a knack for making everyone feel like well-taken-care-of family. This personal touch, combined with well-kept campsites and the undeniable highlight of river tubing, creates a truly memorable experience. It’s the kind of place where generations return, drawn by the consistent quality of the outdoor experience and the warmth of the welcome.
This article will delve into the various facets that make Uncle Bernies Campground a highly recommended choice for locals seeking a perfect blend of tranquility and recreation. We’ll explore its convenient location in Motley, the array of services tailored to make your stay comfortable, the unique features that set it apart, and why its family-like atmosphere makes it particularly suitable for Minnesotans who value genuine hospitality and peaceful outdoor pursuits. So, if a relaxing riverside escape with a fun tubing adventure sounds like your ideal getaway, keep reading to discover more about Uncle Bernies Campground.
Uncle Bernies Campground is conveniently located in Motley, MN 56466, USA. Motley is a small city situated in Morrison County, in central Minnesota, making it a relatively accessible destination for many residents across the state. It's positioned along U.S. Highway 10, a major thoroughfare that connects the Twin Cities metropolitan area to various popular recreational areas further north, such as Brainerd and Detroit Lakes.
The accessibility of Uncle Bernies Campground is a significant advantage for Minnesotans looking for a straightforward drive to their camping destination. Whether you're coming from the south, east, or west, major routes lead directly or indirectly to Motley, ensuring a smooth journey for both cars and recreational vehicles. Once in Motley, the campground is easily locatable, often situated near the Platte River, which is the star of their tubing adventures. This proximity to a major highway means less time spent navigating complicated backroads and more time enjoying the peaceful surroundings and the highlight activity of river tubing. The location offers a delightful balance: it’s far enough from urban centers to provide a genuine sense of escape and tranquility, yet close enough to be a practical choice for weekend trips or longer summer vacations. Its setting allows for a true immersion in Minnesota's natural landscape while remaining conveniently connected to local amenities in Motley if needed.
Services Offered at Uncle Bernies Campground:
- Campsites: Offers a variety of campsites for both tents and potentially RVs, though the focus from reviews leans towards a more traditional camping experience. Specific hookup details (electric, water, sewer) would need direct inquiry.
- River Tubing Trips: A primary service and highlight, offering organized tubing excursions down a section of the river.
- Shuttle Service for Tubing: A convenient shuttle service is typically provided to transport tubers upstream, allowing for a leisurely float back to the campground.
- Well-Kept Campsites: Campers consistently note that campsites are nicely maintained and peaceful.
- On-Site Management: Uncle Bernie himself or his staff provide excellent, personal service, making campers feel well taken care of.
- Restrooms: While not explicitly detailed in reviews, basic restroom facilities would be expected at a campground of this nature.
- Showers: Similar to restrooms, basic shower facilities are typically available for campers.
- Firewood Sales: Although not explicitly stated, firewood is usually available for purchase at campgrounds.
- Quiet Hours: A focus on a peaceful environment suggests adherence to quiet hours for camper comfort.
Features and Highlights of Uncle Bernies Campground:
- Platte River Tubing: The absolute highlight for many visitors is tubing down the Platte River, known for being "basically rockless" and having "a lot of sand," making for a smooth and enjoyable float.
- Tubing Trip Duration: A typical tubing trip takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and a half if one doesn't stop, offering a perfect length for a relaxing float.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Campers consistently describe the campground as "such a peaceful place to stay," ideal for relaxation and quiet enjoyment of nature.
- Personalized Hospitality: "Uncle Bernie makes you feel like well taken care of family," indicating exceptional, friendly, and welcoming service.
- Sandy River Bottom: The river's sandy bottom is a significant advantage for tubers, as it's comfortable for wading and stopping.
- Well-Maintained Grounds: Campsites are noted for being "nicely kept," contributing to a pleasant camping experience.
- Ideal for River Enthusiasts: Perfectly suited for those who love river activities, particularly tubing.
- Natural Surroundings: Enjoy the tranquility of the river and surrounding natural environment, perfect for unwinding.
- Family-Friendly: The welcoming atmosphere and enjoyable activities like tubing make it a great spot for families.
Promotions or Special Offers:
While specific, publicly advertised "promotions" in the traditional sense are not typically a feature of smaller, family-run campgrounds like Uncle Bernies, their value often comes in the form of competitive pricing and the highly personalized, family-like service that sets them apart. The excellent customer reviews frequently highlight this exceptional care as a key benefit, which arguably serves as its own form of "special offer" – the promise of a truly enjoyable and hassle-free stay.
It is always recommended for interested Minnesotans to directly contact Uncle Bernies Campground for the most current information on rates, availability, and any package deals that might be offered, especially for tubing trips combined with camping. Sometimes, direct bookings or inquiries can reveal seasonal pricing or group rates that aren't widely publicized online. Given the strong emphasis on making visitors feel like family, any inquiries about potential offers are likely to be met with helpful and friendly assistance, ensuring you get the best experience for your planned visit.
Contact Information:
To book your peaceful escape and fun tubing adventure at Uncle Bernies Campground, or for any inquiries regarding their services and availability, please use the following contact details:
Address: Motley, MN 56466, USA
Phone: (218) 352-6512
Mobile Phone: +1 218-352-6512
As a smaller, personally run establishment, direct phone contact is often the most effective way to reach them and discuss your specific camping and tubing needs. They will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on reservations, rates, and any specific questions you may have about their facilities or tubing experiences.
Uncle Bernies Campground is an ideal destination for Minnesotans seeking a distinctive and deeply satisfying outdoor experience, primarily due to its harmonious blend of serene camping and exciting river tubing. For locals, it offers the perfect escape from the daily grind without requiring an arduous journey, nestled conveniently in central Minnesota. The highlight of tubing down the "basically rockless" and sandy Platte River is a unique and refreshing activity that appeals to all ages, providing a memorable adventure that sets this campground apart. The duration of the tubing trip – a manageable 1 to 1.5 hours – makes it accessible and enjoyable for families and groups, allowing plenty of time for other campground activities or simply relaxing.
Beyond the excellent recreational opportunities, what truly makes Uncle Bernies Campground suitable for locals is the unparalleled hospitality. Customer reviews consistently highlight how "Uncle Bernie makes you feel like well taken care of family," creating a warm, welcoming, and personal atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging. This authentic, community-oriented approach resonates deeply with Minnesotans who value genuine connections and friendly service. The peaceful and well-kept campsites ensure a restful stay, while the focus on tubing provides an unforgettable highlight for any trip. It’s a place where simple pleasures are amplified by genuine care, making it a cherished spot for repeat visits and a true gem for anyone looking to embrace Minnesota’s natural beauty with open arms and a welcoming smile.
Customer Reviews
Such a peaceful place to stay. Our campsite was nicely kept. Tubing down the river was the highlight of our trip. Uncle Bernie makes you feel like well taken care of family.
Uncle Bernie is awesome. The river is basically rockless. A lot of sand. If you dont stop the trip takes about 1 hour to an hour and a half. Highly recommended as a river tuber.
We were just looking for a place to roast hotdogs and marshmallows over a fire and called Bernie. He allowed us to use one of his sites for a few hours. Very friendly. Went out of his way to bring us some skewers for the food. Quiet and peaceful sites. Rustic but clean. The outhouses needed some work though.lots of wild turkey just a hundred yards from our spot towards sundown.
Was a very good time. Wish he had more selection of tubes. Cost the same to bring your own as it does to rent from him. 2.00$ a tube. Nice sandy bottom the whole way.
Great location for large parties who would like to rent out the entire grounds for say, a family reunion. A large pole shed with a kitchen to centralize activities, a large wooded lot with ample electrical outlets, onsite toilets with showers (you're camping, they're camp toilets so don't get too excited but they do work), a large area for a wiffle ball game, a river for tubing, and a very polite, not to mention gracious host in Uncle Bern. Respect the area, respect the few rules, and have a great time.
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