Afton's cabin and yurt camping options sit along the St. Croix River valley at elevations between 675 and 950 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 83°F and winter lows regularly dipping below 10°F. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round with heated accommodations available during the coldest months, though some water access points close between November and April.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: At Wild River State Park, trails wind through oak savannas with river views. "The hike to the former Dam site is the neatest thing about the park. I recommend reading the historical information at the site of the dam," notes Erik R. The park runs along the St. Croix with riverside walks accessible from most campsites.
Astronomy activities: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers designated star-gazing areas away from city light pollution. "The star gazing area was great!" reports Katherine T. after visiting Wild River State Park. For best viewing, visit between 10 PM and midnight during new moon phases when skies are darkest.
Water recreation: Lake Byllesby Regional Park provides boating and fishing access with rentals available. "The lake is right next to the campground with RV sites right on the water," explains Kayla O. Water activities run May through September, with rental costs starting at $15 for canoes and paddleboards.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Wild River's backpack-in sites offer privacy not found at standard campgrounds. "The Buck Hill site is right on the river, beautiful view to the east. Circled by flowers, brush and trees. End of the path so zero foot traffic," reports amber N. These sites require reservation and 1-3 mile hikes from parking areas.
Year-round access: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins stay open during winter months with heating systems. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees. The wooded cabins have what seems like full-sized mattress bunk beds built into the wall," writes Krista T. Wintertime reservations should be made 3-4 months in advance.
Family facilities: Baker Campground provides dedicated areas for children. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," says Bryan S. The playground area connects to camping loops via paved walkways suitable for strollers and bikes.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most yurt and cabin sites near Afton require advance booking, with many filling 3-4 months ahead for peak season. At Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins, "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by," advises Scott M. Winter weekends typically book earliest, especially for heated facilities.
Bathroom access: Facilities vary widely between parks. "The bathroom is heated and open year round. There are two year round showers as well, but don't plan on a long shower to unwind unless you like cold water," Krista T. notes about Whitetail Woods. Many yurt locations have central bathroom buildings rather than individual facilities.
Cooking restrictions: Most cabin and yurt options prohibit indoor cooking. At Whitetail Woods, "No cooking is allowed inside the cabins, which can make things rough if the weather isn't cooperating," warns Blair. Alternative cooking methods include fire rings, camp stoves, and slow cookers at sites with electricity.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes offers family-friendly sites with more amenities than primitive camping. "We love to camp here as it's so close to home. Decent amenities, however NOT the feel of a State Park. Think suburbia meets nature," explains Natalia J. Cabins sleep 4-8 people depending on configuration.
Water play options: Bunker Hills Regional Park features an adjacent water park. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," reports Tiffany W. Water park admission costs $8-12 per person with reduced rates for campers staying overnight.
Wildlife viewing: Afton State Park trails frequently feature animal sightings. "A Snake gave us great memories...Lots of trails, sites to see, and wildlife to find. We will definitely be back for trail running!" shares Emily G. Morning and evening hours provide best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers both tent and RV sites near Afton with full hookups. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver," notes Justin R. Some sites offer 30-amp service while others provide 50-amp connections.
Site selection: When booking yurt camping near Afton, Minnesota, specify location preferences. "I asked why I was given such an undesirable site when I booked so far in advance and he told me that there is an algorithm that determines the site selection and if I wanted one with trees I needed to put a note on my reservation," warns Diane A. about KOA sites. Call ahead to request specific amenities or locations.
Water access seasonality: Many camping areas restrict water availability during winter. "Outside water is shut off during some parts of the year, so bring your own drinking water if you are camping close to/during winter," advises Blair about Whitetail Woods. Water systems typically shut down when overnight temperatures consistently fall below freezing.
