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.
