RV Campgrounds & Parks In Rice, Minnesota -- Find RV Parks
45.7519° N, 94.2203° W
Quick Overview
Rice sits in the heart of central Minnesota's lake country, where rolling farmland meets pristine waters and small-town charm defines the camping experience. This quiet community offers a peaceful retreat from urban chaos, with nearby Sauk River providing excellent fishing and the scenic Glacial Lakes State Trail passing right through the area. The landscape here showcases classic Minnesota beauty – dense woodlands, open prairies, and crystal-clear lakes that reflect endless skies.
The Rice area maintains several RV campground, with some free camping options available for budget-conscious travelers. Most sites here cater to RVers seeking full hookups and modern amenities, though the rural setting provides that authentic Minnesota lake country atmosphere many campers crave. The single park here focuses on providing reliable services rather than flashy resort-style amenities.
From your campsite near Rice, you're positioned perfectly to explore the Sauk River chain of lakes, where walleye and northern pike keep anglers busy from dawn to dusk. The nearby town of Cold Spring offers antique shopping and local dining, while St. Cloud's attractions sit just 20 minutes east when you need more urban amenities. Glacial Lakes State Trail provides 28 miles of paved pathway perfect for biking or morning walks with the dog.
This area works best for RVers who appreciate quiet, no-frills camping with solid hookups and easy lake access. You won't find water parks or organized activities here – instead, expect peaceful mornings by the water and evenings around the campfire. The camping style leans toward relaxation and outdoor activities rather than entertainment complexes.
Summer brings the best weather and fullest campgrounds, though spring and fall offer excellent fishing with fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible but limited, as many facilities close during the coldest months. Check our listings below to find the perfect spot for your Minnesota lake country getaway.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Rice
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All Dump Stations Near Rice
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benton Beach Campgrounds | 2.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Two Rivers Campground & Tubing | 3.0 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Evergreen Village | 9.3 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Fischer's Garden Mobile Park | 10.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Shady Oaks Mobile Parl | 11.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Camping World | 13.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| St Cloud Campground & RV Park | 13.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| St. Cloud Campground And RV Park | 13.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Genola Campground | 15.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Foley Mobile Home Park | 16.2 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Benton Beach Campgrounds
2.6 miTwo Rivers Campground & Tubing
3.0 miEvergreen Village
9.3 miFischer's Garden Mobile Park
10.1 miShady Oaks Mobile Parl
11.5 miCamping World
13.6 miSt Cloud Campground & RV Park
13.6 miSt. Cloud Campground And RV Park
13.7 miGenola Campground
15.1 miFoley Mobile Home Park
16.2 miTraveling to Rice by RV
Rice sits along Highway 23, providing straightforward access from both Minneapolis-St. Paul (about 75 miles southeast) and Fargo (120 miles northwest). The drive from the Twin Cities takes you through classic Minnesota countryside, with the route becoming increasingly scenic as you leave suburban sprawl behind. Highway 23 handles RVs of all sizes without issue, though watch for occasional farm equipment during harvest season.
From Interstate 94, take Exit 156 toward Cold Spring and follow Highway 23 west for about 8 miles to reach Rice. This route avoids most small-town congestion and provides easy navigation for larger rigs. The roads here are well-maintained year-round, though winter driving requires standard Minnesota caution for ice and snow conditions.
Fuel up in Cold Spring or St. Cloud before settling in – Rice itself has limited services. Casey's General Store in nearby Richmond offers RV-friendly fuel lanes and basic supplies. For major grocery runs, Coborn's in Cold Spring provides everything you'll need, including propane exchanges and camping supplies. The drive between these supply stops and Rice campgrounds rarely exceeds 10 minutes, making restocking trips quick and convenient.
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Dump Station Costs in Rice
RV camping costs in the Rice area typically range from $25-35 per night for full hookup sites, with most parks falling into the budget-friendly category rather than premium pricing. The single campground here focuses on value over luxury amenities, keeping rates reasonable for extended stays. Of all camping options in the area, a portion% are free while a portion% charge standard fees.
Seasonal pricing varies minimally here compared to resort destinations, though summer weekends may see slight rate increases during peak fishing season. Many RVers find the consistent pricing refreshing after dealing with tourist area price swings. Weekly and monthly rates often provide significant savings for longer stays.
Passport America membership can reduce costs at participating parks, though coverage in this rural area is limited. Good Sam discounts are more commonly accepted. Focus your savings efforts on fuel and groceries instead – Cold Spring's Coborn's offers competitive prices, and Casey's frequent fuel promotions help offset travel costs.
Grocery costs here run about 10% below Twin Cities pricing, making it economical to stock up during longer stays. Local farmers' markets in summer provide fresh produce at excellent prices, and many vendors accept cash only, so come prepared.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Rice
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Best Time to Visit Rice by RV
Winter
December-February
5°F to 25°F
Crowds: Low
Limited campground availability, excellent ice fishing, roads require winter driving skills.
Spring
March-May
35°F to 65°F
Crowds: Medium
Mud season affects some sites, fishing picks up, campgrounds begin full operations.
Summer
June-August
60°F to 80°F
Crowds: High
Peak season for fishing and camping, book ahead for weekends, perfect weather.
Fall
September-November
40°F to 65°F
Crowds: Medium
Excellent fishing continues, beautiful foliage, fewer crowds than summer months.
Explore the Rice Area
The single RV park here focuses on providing reliable hookups and clean facilities rather than resort amenities, making it ideal for RVers who want dependable service without paying premium prices. Book ahead during summer fishing season when Twin Cities residents flock to the area's lakes for weekend getaways.
Boondockers should explore the Sauk River Wildlife Management Area, where primitive camping is allowed in designated spots. These sites require self-sufficiency but offer direct access to excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Always check current regulations before setting up camp.
Cold Spring's Palmer House Restaurant serves excellent walleye dinners and homemade pie that locals rave about. It's worth the short drive for a meal you won't forget. For morning coffee and baked goods, stop by the local bakery in Richmond – their cinnamon rolls are legendary among area residents.
Bring your fishing gear and Minnesota license. The Sauk River and connected lakes produce consistent catches of walleye, northern pike, and bass. Early morning and evening hours typically yield the best results, especially during the summer months when fish seek cooler waters.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Rice
What are the best RV campgrounds in Rice?
Rice has one primary RV campground that focuses on providing reliable full hookups and clean facilities at reasonable rates. The park caters to anglers and families seeking quiet lake country camping rather than resort-style amenities, making it perfect for peaceful getaways.
Is there free RV camping near Rice?
Free camping options exist at the Sauk River Wildlife Management Area, where primitive camping is allowed in designated areas. These spots require complete self-sufficiency but provide direct access to excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities along the river system.
What is the best time of year to camp in Rice?
Summer months offer the best weather and full campground services, though spring and fall provide excellent fishing with fewer crowds. Peak fishing season runs from late May through September, when walleye and northern pike are most active in area lakes.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Rice?
Yes, the main RV park in Rice provides full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections for all site types. The facility focuses on reliable utility service rather than luxury amenities, keeping costs reasonable while ensuring camper comfort and convenience.
Can I fish from Rice area campgrounds?
Absolutely – the Sauk River system and connected lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities within minutes of local campgrounds. Walleye, northern pike, and bass are common catches, with early morning and evening hours typically producing the best results throughout the camping season.
What supplies are available near Rice campgrounds?
Cold Spring and Richmond provide basic supplies including groceries, fuel, and propane exchanges within 10 minutes of Rice camping areas. For major shopping trips, St. Cloud offers full services about 20 minutes away, including RV supply stores and larger grocery chains.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Rice?
Rice has one primary RV campground that focuses on providing reliable full hookups and clean facilities at reasonable rates. The park caters to anglers and families seeking quiet lake country camping rather than resort-style amenities, making it perfect for peaceful getaways.
Is there free RV camping near Rice?
Free camping options exist at the Sauk River Wildlife Management Area, where primitive camping is allowed in designated areas. These spots require complete self-sufficiency but provide direct access to excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities along the river system.
What is the best time of year to camp in Rice?
Summer months offer the best weather and full campground services, though spring and fall provide excellent fishing with fewer crowds. Peak fishing season runs from late May through September, when walleye and northern pike are most active in area lakes.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Rice?
Yes, the main RV park in Rice provides full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections for all site types. The facility focuses on reliable utility service rather than luxury amenities, keeping costs reasonable while ensuring camper comfort and convenience.
Can I fish from Rice area campgrounds?
Absolutely – the Sauk River system and connected lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities within minutes of local campgrounds. Walleye, northern pike, and bass are common catches, with early morning and evening hours typically producing the best results throughout the camping season.
What supplies are available near Rice campgrounds?
Cold Spring and Richmond provide basic supplies including groceries, fuel, and propane exchanges within 10 minutes of Rice camping areas. For major shopping trips, St. Cloud offers full services about 20 minutes away, including RV supply stores and larger grocery chains.
Are there free dump stations in Rice?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Rice.
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