Best Campgrounds near Anoka, MN

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 Camping Sites Near Anoka, Minnesota (109)

    1. Bunker Hills Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    Coon Rapids, MN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 862-4970

    $20 - $32 / night

    "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"

    2. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve

    37 Reviews
    Maple Plain, MN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 694-7662

    $21 - $29 / night

    "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."

    3. Minneapolis Northwest KOA

    11 Reviews
    Maple Grove, MN
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 420-2255

    "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

    16 Reviews
    Lino Lakes, MN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 324-3340

    $20 - $75 / night

    "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."

    5. Ann Lake

    21 Reviews
    Zimmerman, MN
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 878-2325

    $15 - $17 / night

    "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."

    "Lake Ann Campground, located in the Sand Dunes State Forest north of Big Lake, MN is great for a weekend getaway with the family or a solo walk in trip."

    6. Ham Lake Resort

    4 Reviews
    Andover, MN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 434-9492

    $54 - $999 / night

    "The map provided was accurate which made locating the cruiser a breeze. There were further instructions inside as well. The RV was immaculate."

    7. Rice Creek Campgrounds

    8 Reviews
    Lino Lakes, MN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 324-3340

    $20 - $32 / night

    "Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."

    "When Rice Creek Campground opens up again in April I'd highly recommend going there if all you want is a simple camping experience to get away from the city grind."

    8. Lake Maria State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Silver Creek, MN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 878-2325

    "This park is only about 50 minutes away from me, and for hiking/camping I only think it is worth a trip in the fall."

    "I chose Lake Maria for a solo camping excursion because it was close to the Cities, but still offered the level of seclusion I wanted."

    9. South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    11 Reviews
    Zimmerman, MN
    19 miles

    "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."

    10. Elm Creek Horse Camp

    1 Review
    Dayton, MN
    3 miles
    Website

    $16 / night

    ".🌲🐶 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."

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Recent Reviews near Anoka, MN

701 Reviews of 109 Anoka Campgrounds



Guide to Anoka

Camping near Anoka, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent or an RV.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area."
  • Water Activities: At Interstate State Park, you can rent canoes and kayaks. A visitor shared, "Canoe and kayak rentals for more adventures on the river."
  • Wildlife Watching: Wild River State Park Campground is perfect for spotting deer and other wildlife. One reviewer noted, "The woods surrounding were dense enough to obscure others while still feeling open."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. A visitor remarked, "We were very surprised at the privacy of our site."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve often mention the cleanliness. One camper said, "Shower facilities are very nice."
  • Convenient Location: William O'Brien State Park Campground is close to Stillwater, making it a great spot for day trips. A reviewer noted, "Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Allowed: If you’re planning to drink, be aware that some campgrounds, like Interstate State Park, do not allow alcohol. A camper mentioned, "This was a great spot for our first time camping with our kids!"
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Lake Maria State Park have fewer amenities. One visitor noted, "There is no adjusting the shower temperature."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Lake Maria State Park warned, "The mosquitos were awful."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Wild River State Park Campground. A family shared, "The sites are secluded by sumac trees."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out the trails and water activities. One camper at Afton State Park Campground said, "Good pricing, great trails for all different skill levels."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Don’t forget to bring bug spray to keep the mosquitoes at bay. A visitor at Lake Maria State Park reminded, "Be prepared with bug spray/repellant!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers full hookups, which many RVers appreciate.
  • Reserve Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. A camper at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve noted, "Must reserve months in advance as usually full."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Keep noise levels down, especially during quiet hours. A visitor at Interstate State Park mentioned, "People in RVs tend to not recognize their voices penetrate tent walls with incredible ease."

Camping near Anoka, Minnesota, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Anoka, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Anoka, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 109 campgrounds and RV parks near Anoka, MN and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Anoka, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Anoka, MN is Bunker Hills Regional Park with a 4.6-star rating from 16 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Anoka, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Anoka, MN.

What parks are near Anoka, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Anoka, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.