Tiell Park Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesota residents seeking a highly convenient and well-equipped camping experience, Tiell Park Campground in St. James, MN, presents an excellent option. Nestled between the serene St. James Lake and a refreshing outdoor pool, this city-operated campground is designed with modern camper comfort in mind. It stands out for its comprehensive full hookup sites, making it a particularly attractive choice for RV enthusiasts, though it also offers a dedicated tent site for those who prefer a more traditional setup. Tiell Park Campground blends the beauty of a lakeside setting with the practical advantages of being close to town amenities, offering a unique balance that many travelers appreciate. While the campground generally garners positive feedback for its facilities and location, it's important for prospective visitors to be aware of all aspects of the experience, including potential noise from nearby roads during peak seasons like harvest. Overall, the campground is clearly cared for by the city, providing a clean, accessible, and feature-rich environment for a relaxing stay. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy Minnesota's outdoors with the comforts of home, offering easy access to both natural recreation and local attractions, making it a valuable asset for the community of St. James and visitors alike.

Location and Accessibility

Tiell Park Campground is strategically located at 301 Tiell Dr, St. James, MN 56081, USA. This address places it conveniently within the city limits of St. James, in Watonwan County, Minnesota. For locals, its position makes it incredibly accessible, often just a short drive from various communities within Southern Minnesota. The campground's setting is a significant draw, as it's beautifully situated directly on the shore of St. James Lake, providing scenic views and easy access to water-based activities. Furthermore, its proximity to a 30 mph road means that while there might be some expected traffic noise, particularly during busy times like harvest season, the convenience of being close to town, restaurants, and local attractions far outweighs this for many campers. The campground's layout allows for excellent maneuverability for larger RVs, with pull-through sites that can accommodate vehicles up to 43 feet or more. This ease of access, combined with its lakeside location and direct connection to city amenities, makes Tiell Park Campground a practical and appealing choice for Minnesota residents looking for a hassle-free camping trip. You can enjoy the tranquility of the lake while still being just minutes away from everything you might need.

Services Offered

• 21 RV camper sites, each providing excellent full hookup service (50 amp electric, city sanitary sewer, city water service).
• One dedicated tenting site available, conveniently located near the water's edge.
• Free Wi-Fi access throughout the campground.
• Private concrete pads at each RV site, ensuring a level and stable setup.
• Fire rings at each campsite for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Picnic tables at each campsite for outdoor dining.
• Clean public showers available in a comfort station.
• Restroom facilities (comfort station).
• Dump station for RV waste disposal.
• Enclosed shelter available for campers on a first-come, first-serve basis, equipped with a sink with cold running water, countertops, and electrical outlets.
• Adjacent to the St. James Outdoor Pool (seasonal operation), offering water sports rentals (kayaks, paddle boards, canoe) for use on St. James Lake during pool hours.
• Boat landing adjacent to the campground for easy lake access.
• Fishing dock and a fish cleaning station located by the boat landing.
• Playground area for children.
• Connected to 9 miles of paved bike trails (St. James Area Bike Trail and WatLine Trail).
• Seasonal operation, typically from May to Mid-October (exact dates vary annually).
• Non-seasonal campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Features / Highlights

• Full Hookup Convenience: A standout feature, particularly for RV campers, is the availability of full hookups (50-amp electric, city sewer, city water) at each of the 21 RV sites. This provides maximum comfort and convenience, reducing the need for frequent trips for services.
• Lakeside Location: The campground is beautifully nestled directly on St. James Lake, offering picturesque views and immediate access to a variety of water activities, including fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.
• Free and Fast Wi-Fi: The provision of free and fast Wi-Fi is a significant advantage, allowing campers to stay connected, plan activities, or even work remotely while enjoying the outdoors.
• Paved Pads and Fire Rings: Each RV site boasts a private concrete pad, ensuring a level and clean area for parking, complemented by individual fire rings for classic campfire experiences.
• Proximity to City Amenities: Being located within St. James, campers are just a short distance from local restaurants, shops, and other essential services, offering the best of both worlds – nature and urban convenience.
• Direct Access to Recreational Trails: The campground is connected to an impressive 9 miles of paved bike trails (St. James Area Bike Trail and WatLine Trail), perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
• Adjacent to Outdoor Pool and Water Rentals: During its operating season, the St. James Outdoor Pool is right next door, offering a refreshing swim and rentals for various water sports on St. James Lake, adding a fun dimension to your stay.
• Fish Cleaning Station and Boat Landing: For anglers, the convenience of a fish cleaning station and a boat landing directly adjacent to the campground is a major highlight, making fishing trips incredibly efficient.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground on-site and access to various recreational activities, the campground is well-suited for families looking for an engaging outdoor getaway.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations (where applicable, as many sites are first-come, first-served), or more detailed information about Tiell Park Campground in St. James, MN, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 301 Tiell Dr, St James, MN 56081, USA

Phone: (507) 375-3241

Mobile Phone: +1 507-375-3241

It is always recommended for Minnesota locals to contact the campground directly or check the official City of St. James website for the most current information regarding operating seasons, rates, site availability, and any specific rules or updates. Given that non-seasonal campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis, calling ahead, especially during peak times, is advisable to ensure a smooth arrival.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Tiell Park Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Minnesota locals, offering a blend of convenience, comprehensive amenities, and recreational opportunities that cater perfectly to the desires of state residents. For those living in Minnesota, its location in St. James provides an easily accessible escape, meaning less time spent traveling and more time enjoying their camping experience. The full hookup sites are a significant draw for RV owners, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay with all the necessary utilities. This allows for longer, more relaxed visits without concerns about managing waste or power. Beyond the practicalities, the campground's setting on St. James Lake provides a beautiful backdrop for a variety of activities, from fishing and boating to simply enjoying the serene lakeside views. The added benefits of being adjacent to the city pool, connected to extensive bike trails, and within walking distance of local attractions mean there's always something to do for all ages. While acknowledging the occasional traffic noise that can come with being close to town, the overall value and convenience make Tiell Park Campground a highly appealing option. It allows Minnesotans to enjoy the best of both worlds: genuine outdoor recreation combined with the comfort and accessibility of a well-maintained city park. It truly represents a local gem, providing a reliable and enjoyable camping destination right in the heart of Minnesota.

Tiell Park Campground

301 Tiell Dr, St James, MN 56081, USA