Cabins and glamping options near Apple Valley, Minnesota provide year-round retreats within 30 miles of the Twin Cities metro area. Several county and regional parks maintain modern cabins and glamping facilities that combine the immersive woodland experience with practical amenities. Winter temperatures in the area can drop below zero, making heated cabin accommodations particularly valuable from November through March, while summer glamping season sees high demand with temperatures averaging 70-85°F.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Cleary Lake Regional Park, campers enjoy direct lake access during summer months. "Lots of good trees and space between campgrounds which isn't always the case at the regional parks. The access to water is really nice and a couple sites were perfect," notes Scott M. The hike-in sites are particularly convenient with minimal walking distance from parking.
Hiking trail systems: The region offers extensive multi-use trails with varying terrain. Afton State Park Campground provides diverse hiking experiences through different ecosystems. "First, terrific park. Lots of trails with a wide variety of landscapes. Prairie, forest, river, it's got it all," explains Adam P., highlighting the mixed terrain available. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites," adds Andrew C.
Seasonal activities: Winter visitors can enjoy snow-covered trails while summer offers water recreation. "We camped here last minute when the rain held off and we could only find this campground with availability... Cleary Lake is a good size and a kayakers delight!" exclaims Lili R. at Cleary Lake Regional Park. Most glamping cabins in the area maintain year-round accessibility, making them ideal for both summer and winter visits.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Many regional parks offer clean, well-maintained facilities. At Lake Byllesby Regional Park, Truly W. reports "Amazing bathroom/Showers. Quiet, lots of flies, good spot overall." Most glamping locations near Apple Valley maintain more substantial bathroom facilities than typical campgrounds, with showers and flush toilets available year-round.
Lakefront views: Several sites offer direct waterfront placement for enhanced glamping experiences. "I can't really speak for any of the other sites here, but 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery," explains Clare L. about Cleary Lake Regional Park. Lake Byllesby campers note similar advantages: "All spots have a lake view and the beach is within walking distance."
Privacy between sites: Many glamping options and cabins maintain reasonable separation for privacy. At Baker Campground, campers appreciate the spacious design: "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great." The balance between community and privacy varies by location, with wooded sites typically offering more seclusion than prairie units.
What you should know
Reservation windows and competition: Most glamping cabins book quickly due to their popularity and limited quantity. A visitor to Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins advises, "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by." Many sites open reservation windows 120 days in advance, with weekend dates filling almost immediately upon availability.
Seasonal comfort considerations: Cabin types have different seasonal advantages. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees. I would probably prefer the prairie cabins in the summer, especially with mosquitoes. The prairie cabins have significantly less privacy though," explains Krista T. about Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins. Summer glamping in Apple Valley, Minnesota benefits from moderate temperatures but may require bug protection.
Bathroom proximity planning: At some glamping sites, bathroom facilities may require a short walk. "The biggest downside is the middle-of-the-night trek to the bathroom. The bathroom is heated and open year round," notes a Whitetail Woods visitor. For winter stays, consider this factor when selecting specific sites or cabins to minimize walking distance in cold conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Lake Auburn Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "The playground is awesome for all ages as it accommodates something for all age groups from a traditional playground set for the younger ones, volleyball net and concrete bag toss boards," according to UnnamedAdventures. Several glamping locations near Apple Valley include recreational facilities within walking distance of cabin sites.
Beach options for kids: Water access points vary in quality and amenities. "Great beach, good playground, okay camp sites," notes Emily H. about Lake Auburn, adding that "the beach has couple large shade umbrellas and a fishing dock." Families should consider glamping locations with swimming access during summer months for additional recreation options.
Site selection for family needs: Choose locations based on your specific family requirements. "For our first time camping, this was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids," shares Heather V. about Baker Campground. Glamping cabins with nearby facilities typically work best for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling expectations: Even at developed glamping locations, some sites present challenges. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, campers note the variable terrain. "The lower loops are definitely better for tent campers, even though quite a few spots could support an RV. The campground map does a good job of providing visual indicators of what a site provides." RVers should check individual site specifications before booking.
Electrical hookups: Most glamping cabin options have basic electrical service, but amperage varies. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious. There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp," notes Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park. This allows for device charging and limited appliance use while maintaining a rustic atmosphere.
