Deparcq Woods Campground

Deparcq Woods Campground, nestled within the expansive Camp Ripley near Little Falls, Minnesota, offers a unique and serene camping experience, particularly for those affiliated with the military or Minnesota State Government. As a distinguished location within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category, it provides a well-maintained and tranquil environment that stands out for its natural beauty and dedicated services.

The campground's environment is one of its most compelling attributes. Situated on the picturesque banks of the majestic Mississippi River, Deparcq Woods is enveloped by mature, towering trees, offering ample shade and a sense of seclusion. The landscape features a harmonious blend of wooded areas and open spaces, creating a visually appealing and comfortable setting. The proximity to the Mississippi River not only enhances the scenic beauty but also provides opportunities for river-based activities, though direct river access may be across the street from the main camping area in some spots. This natural backdrop contributes to a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Reviews consistently highlight the quietness of the location, emphasizing its suitability for a truly relaxing outdoor experience. The area around Camp Ripley experiences a range of temperatures, from lows of 10°F in winter to highs of 80°F in summer, offering varied seasonal experiences.

Deparcq Woods Campground provides a range of services and facilities designed to ensure a comfortable stay. For RV enthusiasts, there are 15 concrete pad RV sites, each equipped with power (30/50 amp) and water hookups. While these sites do not typically include sewer hookups, a convenient dump station is located near the campground entrance. Each RV site also comes with a fire ring, and firewood is often available, sometimes even provided for free by the camp host, a detail frequently praised in user reviews. For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, the campground also offers tent sites. The restroom and shower facilities are new and consistently reported as very clean and well-maintained, a significant comfort for campers. Additionally, a laundry room is available, providing a practical amenity for longer stays. A picnic pavilion and a playground are also on-site, enhancing the family-friendly appeal of the campground. For connectivity, Verizon cellular service is generally good, and Wi-Fi is provided, though some users have noted that the installation-wide GopherNet Wi-Fi may experience variations in availability and strength due to ongoing changes. Beyond the immediate campground, guests have access to certain services available on Camp Ripley, such as an Army and Air Force Exchange Systems (AAFES) retail store, which includes a barber shop and military clothing sales, and a snack bar. The Viking Club, an MWR bar, also serves both civilian and military customers on post, offering amenities like Direct TV, pool tables, foosball, and video arcade games.

The features of Deparcq Woods Campground cater to a specific audience and offer a distinct camping experience. Primarily, eligibility for staying at Deparcq Woods Campground is limited to military ID card holders and Minnesota State Employees, along with their guests. This controlled access contributes to the feeling of security and community within the campground. The sites, particularly the RV sites, are described as large and well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy. The presence of attentive and informative camp hosts is a recurring positive mention in reviews, with hosts often greeting campers upon arrival and providing helpful information about the campground and surrounding area. Beyond the immediate camping facilities, the location within Camp Ripley offers additional recreational opportunities. These include disk golf, a boat launch for river access, and hiking trails that allow campers to explore the surrounding natural environment. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby fishing opportunities exist at various lakes like Lake Alexander and Amik Lake. Moreover, Camp Ripley is known for hosting an annual public archery deer hunt in October, providing a unique opportunity for hunters who meet the requirements to participate in a storied tradition on the base.

While specific, ongoing promotional information for Deparcq Woods Campground is not extensively advertised publicly given its specific eligibility requirements, the pricing structure itself can be seen as a promotional draw for eligible individuals. Camper sites are offered at a very competitive rate of approximately $17.00 per day, and tent sites are even more affordable at around $7.00 per day. These rates offer excellent value for the quality of the facilities and the peaceful environment provided. Reservations are made through Camp Ripley Housing, emphasizing the structured and organized nature of the campground's operation. While general public access is restricted, the focus on military and state employees means that promotional efforts are likely targeted through internal channels and military/state employee benefits programs. The consistent positive feedback from past visitors regarding the cleanliness, quietness, and value further serves as an indirect form of promotion, attracting eligible campers through word-of-mouth and positive online reviews on platforms dedicated to military campgrounds. The availability of free firewood and laundry facilities adds to the overall value proposition, making a stay at Deparcq Woods even more appealing for its intended audience.

In summary, Deparcq Woods Campground on Camp Ripley is a well-regarded destination under the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, offering a beautiful, quiet, and well-equipped outdoor experience. Its riverside location, mature tree cover, and well-maintained facilities, including spacious RV sites with power and water, clean restrooms, and amenities like a playground and picnic pavilion, make it a comfortable and enjoyable retreat. The campground's primary feature of serving military ID card holders and Minnesota State Employees, coupled with its affordable rates and the dedication of its camp hosts, contributes to its unique appeal and high satisfaction among its eligible visitors.