G
Glen B.
Ranger
RangerCounty Road O Landing Dispersed River Camp — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Not much to offer
Geared towards fishing and tent camping. Space in the lot for my rig and a few cars.
Camping near Anoka, MN
116 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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The northern suburbs of Anoka, Minnesota feature a variety of camping options within a 30-minute drive, ranging from developed county parks to more rustic state forest sites. Bunker Hills Regional Park in nearby Coon Rapids offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with modern amenities, while Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park provides a similar experience with excellent lake access. For those seeking more seclusion, Sand Dunes State Forest and Ann Lake campground to the northwest offer more primitive experiences. Ham Lake Resort, just northeast of Anoka, maintains 122 campsites with full hookups for RVs. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through October, closing during Minnesota's harsh winter months.
Reservations are essential during summer weekends at most established campgrounds, with many sites booking months in advance. The camping season typically runs from late April through mid-October, though weather can significantly impact early and late season comfort. As one camper noted about Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park: "This is a beautiful park reserve with sites that have quite a bit more privacy than you would expect at a county park." Highway noise can be noticeable at some locations, particularly those near Interstate 35. Cell service varies considerably, with better coverage at developed campgrounds closer to the metro area and spotty reception in the more remote northern sites like Sand Dunes State Forest.
Water recreation dominates the camping experience in this region, with most campgrounds situated near lakes or rivers. Centerville Lake at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park features swimming beaches and boat access, while Baker Park Reserve offers what one visitor called "some of the best beaches in Minnesota." Family-friendly amenities are common, including playgrounds, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. Privacy between campsites varies significantly, with more developed campgrounds offering less seclusion. As one reviewer of Baker Park noted: "It was crowded with RVs and tents alike but never seemed loud or cramped." Summer weekends bring higher occupancy rates, especially at locations with water access, making midweek visits preferable for those seeking quieter experiences.
Best Campgrounds near Anoka (116)
1. Bunker Hills Regional Park
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
from $20 - $32 / night
Check Availability2. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
"The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."
from $21 - $29 / night
Check Availability3. Minneapolis Northwest KOA
"The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."
"Sites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground."
4. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
"We had never heard of this campground prior to seeing a booth for the Anoka Parks system at the Sportsman's Show. This is a beautiful park reserve!"
"Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday. The campground is neat and well managed."
from $20 - $75 / night
Check Availability5. South of Sand Dunes State Forest
"For the proximity to the city and nearby highways, this was a good spot. Didn’t expect to see as many campers as I did, but all seemed to be friendly."
"I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock."
6. Ann Lake Campground — Sand Dunes State Forest
"Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get. There are a few walk-in sites that I absolutely love."
"Just a quick one night trip but a perfect getaway close to home. Very quiet. Camp host was nice . Found a tucked away site that we could park Infront of for more privacy"
from $50 / night
Check Availability7. Ham Lake Resort
"The map provided was accurate which made locating the cruiser a breeze. There were further instructions inside as well. The RV was immaculate."
from $54 - $999 / night
Check Availability8. Rice Creek Campgrounds
"Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
"Beach was closed but we still got some good walks in. Fire ring was a little shallow for my liking so had to get some solid coals going to get dinner on the table."
from $20 - $32 / night
Check Availability9. Elm Creek Horse Camp
"Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody’s aiming at your pup), this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire."
from $16 / night
Check Availability10. Crow Hassan Park Reserve
"Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer."
"I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"
from $15 / night
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Drive Time
- 22 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 44 min from St. Cloud, MN
- 1 hr 24 min from Mankato, MN
- 1 hr 34 min from Rochester, MN
Recent Camping Photos near Anoka, MN
212 Photos of 116 Anoka Campgrounds
Arielle P.
Bunker Hills Regional Park
Zach H.
Minneapolis Northwest KOA
Krista T.
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
Amy G.
Rice Creek Campgrounds
ERolf P.
Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
Carol H.
Country Camping RV Park
Skip H.
South of Sand Dunes State Forest
Wade H.
Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground
Caleb T.
Ann Lake Campground — Sand Dunes State Forest
Missy B.
Carver Park Reserve - Three Rivers Park District
Erik R.
Lake Auburn Campground
Joanna B.
Lake Maria State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Anoka, MN
726 Reviews of 116 Anoka Campgrounds
- Crystal R.
GuideLebanon Hills Regional Park
Close to the cities and reasonably priced
It's definitely not my favorite campground because it doesn't feel like you are in the woods. But I like it because it's close to the cities and I love the regional park for hiking, swimming, boating, etc.
There are three sections... First is the main rv section. The sites are very close together, like a lot of rv parks. Then there is the primitive camping loop which is where I stay. The sites are further apart and separated by trees and bushes. I don't love that recently they added a ton of mulch to each site, basically like a playground. It just doesn't fit the camping vibe.
There's another loop that's for both tents and rvs that also has a little more space and a playground in the center.
The staff is generally very friendly but they do have a lot of rules so beware.
- AAshley C.
ScoutVeterans Campground On Big Marine Lake
Veterans Campground
The Veterans Campground is by far the best campground we have ever been to! The people are amazing The grounds are well kept, very clean. This is our home away from home. It's the perfect place for your kids to be kids like we did in the 90's home by the time the street lights come on. Us parents can finally relax!
Jeremiah B.ScoutSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Great Spot
Got a nice spot by the water, big parking spot, little below the spot is an opening towards water with a fire pit. 2-3 bars of service but never had an issue. Worked well. Very private. Bugs weren’t bad either
Larisa M.ScoutSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Peaceful
I was able to find a campsite not on the road. There was a trail from the parking spot so keep an eye out. Lots of animals saw a turkey and coyote so just be aware. Very pretty and calm. Had to pick up some trash from other campers just a reminder to leave no trace.
Nika S.
TravelerSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Very popular but good
We stayed here from about 10pm to 6am. There were a ton of people there so it was hard finding somewhere to sleep. Once we did, it was very quiet and we got a good nights rest. There were a couple of cars that passed us in the morning when we left but nothing too crazy. The scenery was very beautiful. This is definitely a great free option if you’re looking for a peaceful spot in the woods to sleep!
Jennifer N.TravelerSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Pretty place, ugly locals
I stayed there with my RV. Most all of the campsites were too small to park it, but I found one at the very end of the park to stay. Although the land itself is beautiful, the locals were reporting me to the DNR officer, who were clearly his friends, and accusing me of things I was not doing. Also, there’s a lot of traffic in and out of there and they fly through there day and night, as well as a lot of gunfire going off a lot of the time. I use T-Mobile service and I was on SOS most of the time. Not very impressed.
- JJon E.Guide
South of Sand Dunes State Forest
Tents or small truck camper only
Small pullout area on state forest land. Can walk trail back to tent.
Jay W.
LegendInterstate State Park — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Great park, plenty around the area...BUT THE NOISE!!!
Interstate Park in Wisconsin is just south of HWY 8 on HWY 35. The entrance is located on the west side of HWY 35 in the town of St. Croix Falls. St Croix Falls is a small town with a nice downtown on the river with plenty of restaurants (Dalles House Restaurant and Lounge is a favorite) and places for necessities. There are coffee shops, hotels and even a Wal-Mart nearby. There is also a casino in the town of Turtle Lake about 30 mins away.
The park is home to the western terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that covers 1200 miles through Wisconsin. The park also offers a Ice Age Interpretive Center which boasts interactive activities and displays of the last Ice Age. The park is also home to several other trails worth discovering.
There are two campgrounds in the park, a North and South campground as well as two group campsites. The South is a bit more rustic. The showers are located at the North campground.
For amenities there are flush toilets and showers. There is a sandy swimming area available as well as boat launch and other water activities.
This park is beautiful especially being on the cliffs of the St. Croix River offering spectacular views through out the park and the area. You can even take the bridge over to Taylor Falls Park Minnesota for more spectacular views as well as other shopping options. If you take this trip, Taylor Falls Park will be on the South and your shopping options will be to your North.
Even being in such a wonderful location with plenty of activities and amenities, I find the camping hard to enjoy at this park for all the noise that generates from the hwy crossing over the river. The sound especially of the semi trucks and their brakes that go all night long. This is the big reason for the average rating for this campground.
Guide to Anoka
Camping options around Anoka offer diverse recreational experiences on both forested uplands and wetland habitats characteristic of the Mississippi River basin's transition zone. The area sits at approximately 860 feet above sea level, featuring a mix of sandy glacial deposits and river sediments that create unique camping environments. Winter camping remains limited with temperatures regularly dropping below 0°F, though a few campgrounds maintain select sites year-round.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Bunker Hills Regional Park features a top-rated course, making it a popular destination for camping disc golf enthusiasts. "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)," notes Lynsey M. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Trail riding options: Several campgrounds accommodate equestrians with dedicated facilities. At Elm Creek Horse Camp, riders find specialized amenities. "Tucked away near the archery range, this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire," writes Alison O., highlighting the dual-use nature of the trails.
Paddling and watercraft: Lake access at multiple locations provides paddling opportunities with rental equipment available. "You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards, and many people bring their own boats (although they do charge to park your boat trailer unless you bring it back to the campground)," explains Jennifer H. about the water recreation at Baker Campground.
What campers like
Site privacy and spacing: Many campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at certain campgrounds near Anoka. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating," notes Justin R. about Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Natural amenities: The region's mix of lakes, woods, and wildlife creates distinctive camping experiences. "The campground is great, and in a beautiful area. However there is a ton of trash throughout the forest. Also a large amount of poison ivy, which I don't mind as much as I did the trash," shares Tyler N. about Ann Lake.
Off-grid options: Dispersed camping opportunities exist for those seeking solitude. "I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock," reports Joslyn H. about South of Sand Dunes State Forest, highlighting the accessibility of backcountry experiences near Anoka.
What you should know
Bug preparedness: Insect activity varies dramatically by season, location, and weather conditions. "We tent camped here for a night while passing through. The lots were really big and we had no one near us, so it was nice and private... The bugs are aggressive here, especially near the tent sites which are located near a swampy area," warns Zach H. about Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Site selection strategies: Research specific sites before booking when possible. "Our site was on a short private trail off the main loop and opened up to a decent space. We had a picnic table and fire pit and plenty of space for our two tents and an area to play," describes kristin C. about Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park.
Seasonal flexibility: Weekday visits can provide significantly different experiences than weekends. "I visited in August and needed gallons of bug spray," adds kristin C. about her experience at Ham Lake Resort, emphasizing the importance of seasonal preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated recreation facilities for children. "Something for everyone here! The facilities are well kept, 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," recommends Arielle P. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Beach access: Multiple lakes with swimming areas provide welcome relief during summer months. "There is a gorgeous beach area with tables, a pavilion, changing rooms and a well equipped playground," notes kristin C. about Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park.
Introductory backpacking: For families wanting to try backpacking, certain parks offer beginner-friendly options. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites," explains Tori K. about Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water service varies widely between campgrounds. "Sites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground," reports David E. about Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Parking considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations on rig size or trailer parking. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," describes Andy L. at Ann Lake, highlighting the access challenges for larger vehicles.
Self-service options: Some facilities have automated systems for late arrivals. "Staff was not present due to the COVID-19 but we submitted our cash payment and grabbed the site map and park guide and drove to the left to find our camp site," explains Ariel H. about her experience at Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are offered at Anoka area campgrounds?
What amenities are offered at Anoka area campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Anoka offer diverse amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve provides impressive facilities including a filtered swimming pond with sandy beaches, built-in umbrellas for shade, concessions, and an extensive playground. The park also features hiking trails, horseback riding opportunities, and modern campsites. At William O'Brien State Park Campground, you'll find well-groomed hiking trails, clean campsites, toilets, and camper cabins, making it ideal for families with new campers. Many campgrounds in the area offer standard amenities like potable water, restrooms, and fire rings, while some provide additional features such as swimming areas, playgrounds, and nature trails.
What campgrounds are available near Anoka, MN?
What campgrounds are available near Anoka, MN?
Several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive of Anoka. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers beautiful park reserve camping with sites that provide more privacy than typical county parks, plus well-maintained shower facilities. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve provides inexpensive camping options near Minneapolis with clean facilities managed by Three Rivers Parks. Other nearby options include Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids with drive-in sites and modern amenities, and for those seeking a more rustic experience, South of Sand Dunes State Forest offers dispersed camping about an hour from the Twin Cities.
How do I make camping reservations in Anoka County parks?
How do I make camping reservations in Anoka County parks?
To make camping reservations in Anoka County parks, visit the official Anoka County Parks website or call their reservation line. For parks like Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which is perfect for family weekend getaways, reservations can be made online through the county's reservation system. Most Anoka area parks allow reservations up to 120 days in advance, with some prime weekend dates filling quickly during summer months. If you're interested in camping at parks managed by Three Rivers Park District, such as Minneapolis Northwest KOA, you can make reservations through their dedicated website at ThreeRiversParks.org. Always check specific park requirements, as some may have minimum stay requirements for weekends during peak season.
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