Best Campgrounds near Apple Valley, MN
Campgrounds near Apple Valley, Minnesota range from developed sites with full amenities to more rustic options within a short drive. Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers camping within the suburban area, featuring both RV sites with full hookups and more secluded tent sites in wooded areas. Nearby options include Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins for those seeking a glamping experience, and Afton State Park Campground approximately 20 miles east, which provides tent camping, cabins, and yurts. Most campgrounds in the region maintain a natural setting despite their proximity to the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
Reservations are essential during the peak camping season from late spring through early fall, with many parks booking up months in advance, especially for weekend stays. The camping season generally runs from April through October, though some facilities like Afton State Park remain open year-round. Most developed campgrounds provide clean restrooms and shower facilities, with varying levels of hookups for RVs. Lebanon Hills features both a West Loop with full hookup sites and an East Loop for more rustic camping experiences. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area due to the proximity to the metro region. According to one visitor, "Lebanon Hills is a great campsite for families, first time campers, or anyone having a 'staycation' while keeping hotel costs down."
Campers consistently praise the balance of natural settings with convenient access to urban amenities. The region's campgrounds offer a surprising amount of seclusion despite being near a major metropolitan area. Lebanon Hills receives high marks for its spacious sites and proximity to hiking and biking trails, with one camper noting it has "everything for the family" including professional mountain bike trails and miles of hiking paths. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, located about 30 minutes northeast of Apple Valley, stands out for its filtered swimming pond and extensive trail system. Many campgrounds in the area serve as convenient basecamps for exploring both natural attractions and nearby urban destinations, including the Mall of America, Minnesota Zoo, and various lakes for water recreation.
