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Forestville-Mystery Cave
Overview
Forestville-Mystery Cave State Park offers a unique blend of natural wonder and pioneer history within the scenic Driftless Area of southeastern Minnesota. This destination is renowned for its extensive cave system and a preserved 1890s village, making it a multifaceted stop for RVers exploring the region. Whether you are looking to dive into geological mysteries or step back in time, the park provides a tranquil setting for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near the charming town of Preston, MN, the park sits atop a fascinating karst landscape characterized by dramatic sinkholes and disappearing streams. The South Branch Root River winds through the property, carved deeply into limestone bluffs that define the area. The surrounding hardwood forests provide a vibrant canopy that offers shade in the summer and a brilliant display of color during the autumn months, creating a peaceful backdrop for your stay.
Amenities & Park Features
The park provides a variety of camping options, including 73 drive-in sites with several offering electrical hookups specifically designed for RVs. During the peak season, travelers have access to modern restrooms, hot showers, and a convenient dump station located near the park entrance. For those traveling with animals, the park is notably horse-friendly, featuring a dedicated equestrian campground and miles of well-maintained trails that accommodate riders and hikers alike.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is Mystery Cave, where guided tours lead visitors through underground passages to see stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools. History enthusiasts should not miss Historic Forestville, a living history site operated by the Minnesota Historical Society where costumed interpreters bring a 19th-century town to life. Additionally, the river is a premier destination for fly-fishing, known for its healthy population of brown trout.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for nature enthusiasts and families who prioritize educational experiences and outdoor recreation over commercial resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for anglers and hikers seeking a quiet, rustic atmosphere with direct access to the water. RVers who appreciate a deep connection to local history and unique geological features will find the park's slower pace and natural beauty truly rewarding.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
User Reviews
Tom Davison
Beautiful park, secluded spots. No cell service no Wi-Fi, which was awesome.
Kyle Miller
Really liked this place with all the history of the town! Loved the mine there but no cell service there which I wasn’t used to. Staff was very friendly and helpful.
Amanda Voeltz
Our reservation got messed up and they put us in non electric. The staff in the campground were not friendly. The parking self is beautiful and the cave tour was great.
Shanae Al-Kordi
The Ranger and front desk personnel were very kind. We got a flat tire and although they were not able to directly assist with that issue, they were willing to drive us to the nearby campground to try to solve the problem. Everything ended up fine and the park is gorgeous!! We will be back
Suzanna Annis
Mystery cave is a must see, but the rest of the park has little to offer guests except some hiking. The one event that had been scheduled was cancelled, which was disappointing. The bridge was out as well so it is a 20 minute drive to Historic forestville and it was closed and buildings border up. You can self tour if you want, you just can't go in the buildings. Hopefully things go back to normal next year for them. Camp grounds were clean and well maintained.