Bunker Hills Regional Park offers established camping options near Andover, Minnesota, located in Anoka County's mixed hardwood forest ecosystem. The park sits at approximately 870 feet above sea level in a transition zone between prairie and woodland ecosystems. Campsites typically remain open from May through mid-October, with seasonal temperature ranges from 60°F to 85°F during summer months.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Bunker Hills Regional Park features extensive trail systems through wooded areas. "The park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved," notes Arielle P.
Disc golf course: Located in the northern suburbs, Bunker Hills offers access to competitive disc golf. "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)," mentions Lynsey M., highlighting one of the park's recreational draws.
Wildlife viewing: Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides opportunities for nature observation along the Crow River. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" shares Alison O., highlighting the birding potential in the area.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers camping experiences that feel remote despite proximity to urban areas. "Wonderful site! Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities. Great beach & sunrise. Highly recommend!" reports Max P.
Camping close to water: Wild River State Park provides river-adjacent sites. "Backpack site Buck Hill is right on the river, beautiful view to the east. Circled by flowers (goldenrod in the late summer), brush and trees. End of the path so zero foot traffic / passersby," explains amber N., describing the riverside camping options.
Stargazing opportunities: The area features several dark sky viewing locations. "It's a great place to star gaze. There's a teeny somewhat treacherous path to the river- no beach or anything (water was super low when we went) - Just can get your feet wet," adds amber N. about Wild River State Park's Buck Hill site.
What you should know
Insect conditions: Summer months bring significant insect activity to the region. "The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon. We prepared the kiddos for a quick grab and run and jumped out of the car. First step onto the grassy trail exploded in a cloud of mosquitos," warns Steph H. about Lake Maria State Park during summer months.
Weather fluctuations: Minnesota camping requires preparation for variable conditions. "I stayed in the campground in late March, 2025. This is a big park with a diversity of hiking, equestrian, and canoeing options. It was cold, rainy, and that turned into 5" of snow," reports Erik R. about Wild River State Park.
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary in privacy levels. "The sites are about as private as the typical state park, so not very, but that is offset by all the other positives this campground has to offer," notes Bryan S. about Baker Park Reserve, highlighting typical site spacing considerations.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible glamping close to Andover, Minnesota: Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve offers family-oriented camping near water activities. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be. I highly recommend this campground for a quick weekend stay or a good place to spend an extended holiday weekend," suggests Bryan S.
Recreation facilities: Community spaces enhance family camping experiences. "The kids always have fun, they have a pool, RC track, mini golf, playground, and community room with board games & such," shares Barb M. about Kozy Oaks Kamp, listing family-friendly amenities.
Shorter stays with kids: Regional parks near Andover work well for brief family outings. "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great," mentions Bryan S. about Baker Park Reserve.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Minneapolis Northwest KOA provides various connection options. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot," reports Justin R., noting the amenities relevant to RV campers.
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. "When I asked the owner for another site, he told me they were all taken except for one without a sewer connection. 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," shares Diane A. from Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Site spacing for larger vehicles: Space between sites varies significantly among campgrounds. "The lots were really big and we had no one near us, so it was nice and private. Most of the lots near the front were occupied but the back was almost empty, which is where the more wooded lots are," explains Zach H. about the Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
