Fort Ridgely Campground

For those of us who call Minnesota home, the call of the wild often leads us to our incredible state parks, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Fort Ridgely State Park, located in the heart of southern Minnesota, is a destination that truly stands out, not just for its serene camping facilities but also for its profound historical significance. If you're looking for a peaceful getaway that combines comfortable camping with engaging history and beautiful landscapes, Fort Ridgely Campground within this cherished state park is an excellent choice. It’s a place where the sounds of a babbling creek and birdsong replace the everyday hustle, inviting you to relax and reconnect with nature.

Fort Ridgely Campground is the primary camping area within the expansive Fort Ridgely State Park, a site rich in both natural beauty and Minnesota history. The campground is praised by visitors for being "nice and quiet" and "very quiet," offering a peaceful escape where the primary sounds are those of "birds singing and a babbling stream." This tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and a break from the noise of daily life. The campsites are generally "shaded and level," providing comfortable settings for both tents and RVs. What sets Fort Ridgely apart is its unique combination of a serene natural setting with direct access to a significant historical site – the remains of Fort Ridgely, which played a pivotal role in the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. This dual appeal makes it more than just a place to camp; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in both nature and a crucial chapter of Minnesota's past.

Fort Ridgely Campground is situated within Fort Ridgely State Park, with its address being F73F+W6, Fairfax, MN 55332, USA. This places it approximately six miles south of Fairfax on Minnesota State Highway 4. The park's accessibility is generally good, with "easy to access by car or RV," and "no driving restrictions for RVs inside the park." The main campground roads are easy to navigate, though some park roads may close during winter due to snow. For those needing supplies, the town of Fairfax is a few minutes' drive north, while Sleepy Eye, about 10 miles to the south, offers more services. This convenient proximity to small towns means you're never too far from essentials, balancing the quietude of the park with practical access. The park's location in a beautiful wooded river valley amidst farm fields makes it a surprising and pleasant discovery for many visitors.

Fort Ridgely Campground, as part of a Minnesota State Park, offers a range of services and facilities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. The recent improvements have significantly enhanced visitor comfort.

• Campsites: The main campground includes approximately 39 single-family campsites, with a mix of semi-modern sites (22 total) and 15 with electrical hookups (30-amp and potentially 50-amp connections). There are also 3 walk-in sites for a more rustic tent camping experience.

• New Shower and Bath Building: Recent reviews highlight a "BRAND NEW Bathroom/shower building with large ADA showers," which is praised for being "spotlessly clean." This is a significant upgrade, providing modern and accessible facilities.

• Flush Toilets: Flush toilets are available in the main campground (seasonally), along with vault toilets located throughout the park for year-round use.

• Drinking Water: "Drinking water is very good and many fountains and hydrants are located all throughout the park," even on trails, ensuring easy access to potable water.

• RV Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs and trailers, conveniently located near the campground entrance.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for meals and campfires (always check for current fire restrictions).

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for sale at the park office, making it easy to enjoy campfires.

• Rental Cabins/Farmhouse: For those preferring lodging, the park offers rental cabins and a renovated farmhouse that can accommodate overnight stays, providing alternative options for groups or those without camping gear.

• Horse Campground Facilities: The separate equestrian campground also features electric hookups, flush toilets, and showers, catering specifically to horse campers.

Fort Ridgely State Park and its campground boast numerous features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. These attributes combine to create a rich and memorable experience.

• Historic Fort Ridgely Site: The park encompasses the ruins of the original Fort Ridgely, a key site in the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Visitors can explore the stone foundations, interpretive markers, a museum in the restored commissary building, and a private cemetery, offering a "nice walking history lesson."

• Beautiful Natural Setting: The park features "prairie grasslands, glacial hills, interesting rock structures," and a "beautiful wooded river valley," providing diverse landscapes for exploration and appreciation.

• Trails for All: Over 8 miles of hiking trails wind through wooded ravines and open prairie meadows, with some showcasing "stunning with all the wild flowers in full bloom" in July. There are also 12 miles of horse trails and a 7-mile paved bike trail connecting to Fairfax.

• Fort Ridgely Creek: The campground is "right along Fort Ridgely Creek," described as a "babbling stream" whose sounds are "great for sleeping." The creek offers cool water for kids to play in and marked wading areas.

• Wildlife and Birding: The diverse habitats support a "plethora of wildlife and birds," making it a great spot for nature observation.

• 9-Hole Golf Course: A unique feature for a state park, Fort Ridgely offers a "challenging nine-hole golf course" nestled in the valleys, reminiscent of golf played in the past.

• Picnic Areas and Playground: The main day-use area includes a large, shaded picnic grounds with a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built shelter, horseshoe courts, a volleyball court, and playground equipment, ideal for group gatherings.

• Amphitheater: Built in 1927, the park's amphitheater is the oldest structure in the park and hosts various events, from weddings to musical entertainment.

• Winter Activities: In colder months, the park transforms, offering groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling on connector trails.

For reservations, current park conditions, or any specific inquiries regarding Fort Ridgely Campground or Fort Ridgely State Park, the most reliable source of information is the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which oversees all state parks.

Address: Fort Ridgely State Park, F73F+W6, Fairfax, MN 55332, USA

Park Office Phone: (507) 426-7840

General Minnesota State Park Reservations: 866-857-2757 (TTY: 952-936-4008)

Minnesota Historical Society (for Fort Ridgely historic site inquiries): (507) 628-5591

For us Minnesotans, Fort Ridgely Campground within Fort Ridgely State Park offers an incredibly appealing and well-rounded camping experience. Its location, just a short drive from communities like Fairfax and Sleepy Eye, provides convenient access without sacrificing the peaceful, natural setting. We value our state parks for their blend of accessibility and immersion in nature, and Fort Ridgely perfectly embodies this balance.

The recent upgrades, particularly the "BRAND NEW Bathroom/shower building," address a common desire among campers for clean and modern facilities, significantly enhancing the comfort of a stay here. This, combined with ample electric sites, makes it highly suitable for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. But what truly sets Fort Ridgely apart for locals is its unique integration of outdoor recreation with rich state history. We have a deep appreciation for our heritage, and the opportunity to camp near a site of such historical importance, then explore its ruins and museum, adds an invaluable educational and cultural dimension to a camping trip.

Beyond the history, the extensive network of hiking, biking, and horse trails, the calming presence of Fort Ridgely Creek, and even the on-site golf course ensure there's something for every interest. Whether you're seeking a quiet, shaded campsite to relax, an active adventure on the trails, or a chance to delve into Minnesota's past, Fort Ridgely Campground provides it all. It's a testament to the diverse and enriching experiences available right in our backyard, making it an excellent choice for any Minnesotan seeking a memorable and tranquil outdoor getaway.