Carley Campground

About

Carley State Park Campground is a small, peaceful retreat located about 15 miles northeast of Rochester in southeastern Minnesota's Whitewater River valley. The 20 rustic campsites are situated in an oak forest with old-growth white pines, offering a quiet camping experience with privacy provided by natural tree buffers between sites. Each campsite features a picnic table and fire ring on recently upgraded level camping pads designed for tent camping. The park is renowned for its spring wildflower displays, particularly bluebells that carpet the valley floor in May. Approximately six miles of hiking trails wind through varied terrain from valley floors to rocky ridges. The North Branch of the Whitewater River is a designated trout stream supporting brown trout populations, making the park popular with anglers. Other wildlife includes red-tailed hawks, orioles, song sparrows, and indigo buntings. Three remote group camping areas are also available in separate forested locations, each with multiple picnic tables, a fire ring, and nearby vault toilet. Day-use facilities include a picnic shelter, playground, and open field. The park has no winter facilities and closes seasonally in mid-October.

Directions

From Rochester, travel approximately 15 miles northeast. From Plainview, head 4 miles south on Wabasha County Road 4.