The Mankato Staycation Checklist
Your free guide to camping like a local in Southern Minnesota — courtesy of Shady Oaks Campground
Camping Essentials
- Tent, RV, or camper (plus stakes & mallet)
- Sleeping bags & pillows
- Camp chairs & folding table
- Flashlights & lanterns (plus extra batteries)
- Bug spray & sunscreen
- Rain jacket (Minnesota weather changes fast)
- Toiletries & shower shoes
- Cash for local stops like Red Iron Mercantile
Kitchen & Food
- Propane stove or campfire grate
- Cooler with ice
- Reusable water bottles
- Marshmallows, chocolate & graham crackers
- Coffee & camp mug
- Fishing snacks for the Watonwan River
Top 10 Things to Do Near Shady Oaks
- Walk up to Minneopa State Park's double waterfall
- Drive through the bison range at Minneopa
- Photograph the Red Jacket Trestle Bridge at sunset
- Mountain bike or ski at Mount Kato
- Fish the Watonwan River for walleye and panfish
- Take the scenic backroads to Good Thunder for soft serve
- Snap a selfie with the 55-foot Jolly Green Giant
- Tour Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery in Kasota
- Treasure hunt in Old Town Mankato's vintage shops
- Grab classic drive-in burgers at Cedar Inn in Blue Earth
Local Insider Tip: The backroads from Shady Oaks to Good Thunder are quiet, scenic, and peaceful. You might see two cars along the way—or none at all. It's the perfect slow ride through the Minnesota countryside.
On-Site Amenities at Shady Oaks
- Clean bathrooms & hot showers
- RV sites with power & water
- On-site dump station
- Free guest Wi-Fi (great for basics, can be spotty)
- Watonwan River access for fishing & kayaking
- Family playground & picnic areas
- On-site caretaker for a safe, quiet stay