J.F. Jacobson Campground

Introduction / Overview: Your Essential Stop in Western Minnesota

For Minnesotans and cross-state travelers seeking a convenient, no-frills place to rest their RV or travel trailer in the western part of the state, J.F. Jacobson Campground in Madison, MN, offers a practical solution. Operated by the City of Madison, this small, public campground is situated within the pleasant confines of J.F. Jacobson Park, serving as an accessible and affordable option for overnight stays. It is particularly noted for its ease of access and proximity to several key local landmarks and the main thoroughfare.

The campground offers a limited number of sites, which contributes to a more intimate and manageable atmosphere. While it may not boast the extensive amenities of a large-scale resort, it excels in providing the necessities for a short-term stay. Its dual purpose—serving both regular campers and those attending events at the adjacent Lac qui Parle County Fairgrounds—makes it a hub of local activity during the fair season. Travelers should be aware of this proximity and plan their visits accordingly if they seek absolute quiet. It is an unstaffed facility, operating largely on a self-pay or reservation basis through the City of Madison, appealing to independent campers who prefer autonomy. For those familiar with the area, it’s a quick and efficient place to set up camp while exploring the local prairie waters and attractions.

Location and Accessibility: Right Off U.S. Highway 75

The location of J.F. Jacobson Campground is one of its biggest advantages for those traveling through the region. The address is 226 8th Ave, Madison, MN 56256, USA. Crucially, the park is situated directly along U.S. Highway 75, also known as the historic King of Trails Scenic Byway, making it extremely easy to locate and access without significant detours. This makes it an ideal stop for travelers heading north or south along Minnesota’s western edge.

Despite some older GPS systems having trouble pinpointing the exact spot, local users can simply look for the highly visible landmarks that surround the park. The campground is nestled next to a large grain storage facility, which is characteristic of the rural, agricultural landscape of Western Minnesota. More famously, it is located right next to Madison’s quirky and beloved roadside attraction: Lou T. Fisk, a 30-foot fiberglass cod fish statue. This landmark ensures visitors know they have arrived. Additionally, the park shares grounds with the Lac qui Parle County Historical Center and the Lac qui Parle County Fairgrounds, providing easy walking access to local history and events. The close proximity to Highway 75 means some road noise should be expected, but the convenience for travelers is significant.

Services Offered

J.F. Jacobson Campground provides essential services aimed primarily at accommodating RVs and travel trailers for short-term stays. The city has recently worked to update and maintain these core facilities.

• Limited Number of Sites: A total of only 9 camping sites are available, ensuring a small, manageable number of fellow campers.
• Water Hookups: All 9 available sites are equipped with water connections.
• Electrical Hookups: All 9 available sites also provide electricity, with varying amp services to accommodate different RV needs:
  • Sites 1-2: 15-30 Amps
  • Sites 3-6: 15-50 Amps
  • Sites 7-9: 30-50 Amps
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available on-site for the convenient disposal of waste.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground offers restroom facilities, which have reportedly undergone recent updates to include showers and a baby changing station (though cleanliness maintenance may vary, especially during high-use periods like the fair).
• Reservation System: Reservations can be made by calling City Hall, with rates for Camper/RV use being $30 per night or $150 per week with amenities.

Features / Highlights of the J.F. Jacobson Experience

What makes the J.F. Jacobson Campground a unique stop is its integration into a multi-use city park complex, offering several distinct features beyond simple camping:

• The Lou T. Fisk Attraction: The campground’s immediate neighbor is the famous, giant fiberglass cod fish statue, providing a fun, uniquely Minnesotan photo opportunity and a landmark that travelers will certainly remember.
• Historical Immersion: Campers have immediate access to the Lac qui Parle County Historical Center, featuring a log cabin, pioneer exhibits, and the studio of Madison native author Robert Bly, offering a rich historical and cultural experience right next to your campsite.
• Proximity to the Fairgrounds: Being adjacent to the Lac qui Parle County Fairgrounds is a major benefit for those attending the annual county fair, providing the most convenient accommodation possible during the event.
• Pet Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes pets, making it an excellent choice for Minnesotans traveling with their four-legged companions.
• Community Activity: The park also hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday during the summer months, allowing campers to easily access fresh, local Minnesota produce and goods.
• City Park Amenities: The surrounding park area may offer additional recreational facilities, such as playground equipment or picnic shelters (users should verify current availability and condition with City Hall).

Contact Information

For reservations, questions about site availability, or details on current conditions and facilities, contact the City of Madison Hall, which oversees the campground operations.

Address: 226 8th Ave, Madison, MN 56256, USA

Phone (City Hall/Reservations): (320) 598-7373

Mobile Phone: +1 320-598-7373

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially during the summer and near fair dates, due to the limited number of sites and potential heavy use.

What is Worth Choosing J.F. Jacobson Campground

J.F. Jacobson Campground is worth choosing for Minnesotans seeking convenience, connectivity, and a taste of local culture in Western Minnesota. Firstly, its location directly off U.S. Highway 75 makes it an exceptionally easy and fast overnight stop—a perfect place to pull off the road without wasting travel time on long detours. For RVers, the availability of full water and electric hookups across all 9 sites, plus an on-site dump station, provides essential comfort at a competitive city-run rate.

Beyond the practicality, the real draw is the unique cultural context. Where else can you park your camper next to a 30-foot codfish statue and a historical museum? This fusion of local Americana and pioneer history offers a much more interesting backdrop than a typical rest stop. While the facilities, particularly the restrooms, may require ongoing attention (as noted in past user reviews), the proximity to the Lac qui Parle County Fair during its run is unmatched. For a quick, affordable, and culturally interesting stop in Madison, this small city campground is an essential part of the Western Minnesota travel experience.