Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland

For Minnesotans seeking a truly distinctive and immersive outdoor experience, Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland in Houston, MN, offers much more than a typical campground. This unique destination combines the tranquility of secluded campsites and woodland trails with the authentic charm of a working dairy farm, providing a memorable escape for families, nature lovers, and those looking for a truly one-of-a-kind getaway. It stands apart from conventional campgrounds by blending rustic charm with thoughtful amenities and a personal touch from the hosts.

Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland is designed for those who appreciate privacy, natural beauty, and the opportunity to interact with a farm environment. From its diverse lodging options, including traditional RV and tent sites, to more unique offerings like a "Hilltop Queen" boat, it caters to various preferences while maintaining a serene atmosphere. The presence of friendly hosts who go above and beyond, along with miles of private hiking trails and opportunities to see farm animals, creates an enriching experience that goes beyond simply camping. Our aim in this article is to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland for local Minnesotans, detailing its unique location, the services it provides, its distinctive features, and why it's such a suitable and appealing choice for your next adventure in Minnesota's beautiful Driftless Region.

Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland is located at 29246 Hass Rd, Houston, MN 55943, USA. This address places it in the scenic Driftless Region of Southeast Minnesota, an area characterized by its rolling hills, valleys, forests, and fields, untouched by ancient glaciers. The property itself is described as a "grass based working dairy farm with over 100 acres of woodland," indicating a vast natural setting for guests to explore.

The accessibility of Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland is generally good for Minnesotans, particularly those from the southern and eastern parts of the state. Houston, MN, is a small town in Houston County, known for its natural beauty and as a hub for outdoor activities. While the farmstead sits "three quarter of a mile off the paved county highway on our well maintained gravel driveway," it remains easily reachable. The location in the Driftless Region means it's accessible from major routes like Interstate 90, making it a viable destination for weekend trips from larger cities like Rochester or even the Twin Cities, though it offers a distinct sense of remoteness once on site. This blend of accessible rural charm and proximity to natural attractions like the Root River State Trail (which passes through Houston) and other local points of interest makes Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland a convenient and desirable choice for a nature-filled escape for Minnesota residents.

Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland offers a distinctive set of services and amenities tailored to its unique camping and lodging experience:

• Diverse Lodging Options: The property features multiple lodging sites, including RV/tent sites, a small wooden cabin (tent-sized), and even a "Hilltop Queen" boat for a unique glamping experience.
• Individual, Secluded Campsites: Each campsite is designed to be secluded from others, offering privacy for campers. They typically include their own sawdust compost toilets (outhouses), picnic tables, fire pits, and a generous supply of firewood.
• Electric Hookups: RV sites are equipped with electricity, providing essential power for campers.
• Water Provision: Water is provided at campsites, sometimes delivered by the hosts, ensuring campers have access to this vital resource.
• Gear Transport Assistance: For sites that require 4WD access, or for walk-in campers, the hosts are noted for helping transport gear to the campsite, making arrival easier for guests.
• Farm Tours (by arrangement): As a working dairy farm, guided tours of the dairy and cattle are available when scheduling allows, offering an educational and engaging experience, particularly for families.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes pets, with one reviewer noting their dog was "allowed off leash to roam safely around the site," indicating a flexible and accommodating pet policy, likely with reasonable expectations for owner responsibility.
• Provided Supplies: Reviews suggest hosts provide "plenty of supplies" in unique lodgings like the Hilltop Queen boat, and basic camping necessities like water and firewood at sites.

Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland is highlighted by several unique features that make it stand out as a premier camping and nature retreat in Minnesota:

• Working Dairy Farm Experience: Guests have the unique opportunity to stay on a working, pasture-based dairy farm. This provides an authentic rural experience, with opportunities to see animals and potentially learn about farm operations.
• Extensive Private Hiking Trails: The property boasts "over 6 miles of hiking / skiing trails" across 100 acres of woodland. These trails are mowed and well-maintained, with maps provided, allowing campers to explore diverse woodland habitats, including old-growth maple and mixed hardwoods.
• Secluded and Quiet Sites: A consistent highlight from reviews is the seclusion and quietness of the campsites. This offers a true nature getaway, allowing for relaxation and immersion in the sounds of the forest.
• Unique Lodging Options: Beyond traditional RV and tent sites, the availability of a "Wooden Tent in the Woods" cabin and the "Hilltop Queen" boat provides distinctive glamping experiences, adding an element of adventure and novelty to a stay.
• Warm and Attentive Hosts: Mike and Joan, the hosts, receive consistent praise for being "very nice," "super communicative," "attentive," and going "above and beyond." They are noted for providing maps, explaining features, and even offering upgrades or extra services (like laying down mats or providing firewood) to enhance the guest experience.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Kids love seeing the animals on the farm and enjoying the "self built swings in trees." The combination of farm interaction and outdoor play makes it excellent for families.
• Abundant Wildlife: The woodland is home to "plenty of woodland birds, deer, turkeys, raccoons and squirrels," with owls and coyotes commonly heard at night, enhancing the wild nature experience.
• Winter Activities: For winter users, the trails are suitable for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, and the Rock Bottom Cabin is heated for colder weather stays.

For inquiries, reservations, or any other information regarding Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland, please use the following contact details:

Address: 29246 Hass Rd, Houston, MN 55943, USA

Phone: (507) 453-9114

While the provided reviews mention booking through platforms like Hipcamp, direct contact via phone is also an excellent way to get personalized information regarding availability, specific lodging options, farm tour scheduling, pet policies, and any particular needs for your visit. The hosts, Mike and Joan, are highly responsive and helpful, making direct communication beneficial for planning your stay.

Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals throughout Minnesota, offering a truly distinctive and enriching outdoor experience. Its location in the beautiful Driftless Region, combined with the unique appeal of a working dairy farm, provides a serene and engaging retreat that stands apart from typical campgrounds. For families, the opportunity to see farm animals, explore miles of private hiking trails, and play on rustic swings creates lasting memories in a safe and welcoming environment.

The emphasis on seclusion and quietness at each campsite, coupled with the attentive and generous nature of the hosts, Mike and Joan, ensures a relaxing and personalized stay. Whether you're seeking a simple tent site, an RV spot with essential hookups, or an adventurous night in the "Hilltop Queen" boat, this campground caters to diverse preferences. For Minnesotans yearning for a true nature getaway, rich with wildlife, private trails, and the charm of farm life, Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland offers a compelling and highly recommended choice right in their own backyard, fostering a deeper connection with the state's natural and agricultural heritage.

Gilles Family Dairy and Woodland

29246 Hass Rd, Houston, MN 55943, USA