By:
Submission
Off State Highway 4, 6 miles south of Fairfax or 12 miles north of Sleepy Eye, then follow the signs to the park.
We stayed at walk-in campsite W1 and it was amazing! The campsite was very secluded from the campground, we never heard a single screaming child or barking dog. If you are parking in the main campground area the walk-in campsites are at the top of a substantial hill which is good because it acts as a deterrent for most people and makes the site feel even more private.
We camped there on a Thursday night/Friday morning we saw very few people on the trails, in the campground, and the entire park in general.
There are several extensive prairie restorations, wooded floodplain areas, and beautiful overlooks. Plenty of interesting botany and birding to be had here.
A simple, yet rich park. While most of the old fort is simply foundations, the signage is very informative. My only suggestion is to read up a bit on the history of that area before going. I think it'll help understand & appreciate everything on a deeper level. I only regret not visiting the cemetery.
The fort is just a short drive up from the campground. We stayed in a site closer to the creek, but the whole place is beautiful & well kept. The new restoom/shower building hadn't yet opened, but the vault toilet & porta potty were cleaned & always stocked with toilet paper.
We loved Fort Ridgely State Park! Very nice, large sites. We love the shaded sites and the quiet surroundings. The fort is rich with history and it’s beautiful listening to the prairie grass as you look around. One of our favorite state parks!
