Campsites near Bloomington, Minnesota offer year-round access with options ranging from rustic tent sites to more developed facilities. The area features primarily flat terrain with occasional rolling hills and lakes carved by glacial activity. Most camping locations sit at elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level, with hot summers where temperatures regularly reach 80°F and cold winters often dropping below 20°F.
What to do
Biking trails for all levels: Lake Auburn Campground provides access to multiple paved trails. "Nice, well-maintained campground good for drive-in camping and RVs. Close to several towns in case you forgot something," notes a visitor to Lake Auburn Campground.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Baker Park Reserve offers swimming beaches and boat rentals. "We spent two nights in the campground. It was fairly busy, but we still felt secluded despite a full campground. There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities (which were very nice)," according to one camper at Baker Campground.
Winter camping opportunities: The regional parks maintain winter accessibility with heated facilities. "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," explains a visitor to Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins.
What campers like
Secluded hike-in sites: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers sites that balance accessibility with privacy. "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy," mentions a camper at Cleary Lake Regional Park.
Clean, modern facilities: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park maintains high-standard restrooms and showers. A reviewer notes, "This campground was very accommodating! We came in late due to the Adventure and they had no issue with it. The site was large and flat with a nice fire pit. Thank you!"
Proximity to Twin Cities attractions: Lake Byllesby Regional Park provides convenient access while maintaining a natural setting. "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view. The facilities are very clean and well-kept. Cannon Falls is a nice town to explore, and it's close to home and work," says a visitor to Lake Byllesby Regional Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Some parks shut off water during colder months. At Afton State Park, a visitor warned: "NO WATER ON TRAIL 4TH JULY WEEKEND 2019 (FILL UP AT VISITOR CENTER)," indicating the need to check water availability before hiking.
Variable site privacy: Minneapolis Southwest KOA sites offer less seclusion than state parks. "This place has a lot of stuff to keep the kids busy but not much for adults to do. Doesn't really have the feel of camping. It's right off a highway so you hear cars flying by 24/7. Campsites are all cramped together with zero privacy," noted one reviewer at Minneapolis Southwest KOA.
Reservation timing strategy: High demand for glamping close to Bloomington, Minnesota means booking well in advance. "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by," advises a camper about the cabins at Whitetail Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Well-maintained playgrounds: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers multiple play areas for children. "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," reports a visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Swimming options for all ages: Many parks feature dedicated swimming areas. "The lake is nice. There are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards, and many people bring their own boats," explains a Baker Park camper.
Educational opportunities: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes offers nature programming for children. "The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," notes a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have varied terrain. "Watch out for stinging nettles! Campsite 100!" warns a visitor to Lake Auburn, highlighting the importance of careful site selection.
Hookup availability: The Minneapolis Northwest KOA provides multiple services for RVs. "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," notes a camper at Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Dump station access: Some parks offer dump stations with seasonal limitations. "Very nice water front sites, clean, clean restrooms and showers, dump station. Plan on coming back. They're adding a bunch new sites. Should be ready for next season," mentions a Lake Byllesby visitor.
