Lake Auburn Campground offers accessible pet-friendly camping just minutes from Bloomington's urban attractions. Unlike other regional parks, Lake Auburn provides 57 primitive campsites with vault toilets along a one-way loop road. The campground sits within Carver Park Reserve which features over 7,400 acres of rolling woodland and prairie terrain. Winter camping options remain limited near Bloomington, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Water activities at Cleary Lake: The lake provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing just 20 minutes from Bloomington. "Cleary Lake is a good size and a kayaker's delight!" notes a camper at Cleary Lake Regional Park. The park maintains a swimming beach area with fishing docks and rental options for water equipment during summer months.
Golf near campgrounds: Several campgrounds provide access to nearby golf courses. At Cleary Lake Regional Park, campers mention "golfing nearby that seemed reasonably priced for those interested." The course offers 9 holes and rental equipment for beginners through experienced players.
Hiking trail networks: Baker Park Reserve provides extensive trail systems connecting camping areas to natural features. "There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities," reports one visitor at Baker Campground. Many trails remain accessible year-round with winter hiking options at several parks.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: Bath facilities receive consistently positive reviews across several campgrounds. At Baker Park Reserve, visitors appreciate "nice clean bathrooms" and shower buildings that are "very nice." One camper at Cleary Lake noted "Amazing bathroom/Showers" as a standout feature of their stay.
RV-friendly concrete pads: Dakotah Meadows RV Park offers level parking areas with full hookups. "Grounds are mostly well groomed and the roads are maintained. There is some pride reflected in the ownership," reports a business traveler at Dakotah Meadows RV Park. The park features cement parking pads that remain level even after heavy rainfall.
Private waterfront sites: For those seeking more privacy than Lebanon Hills provides, Cleary Lake offers select waterfront camping. "Site 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery," shares an enthusiastic camper. These premium sites require early booking during peak summer months.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds near Bloomington fill quickly during summer weekends. At Lake Auburn Campground, campers warn: "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May." Most campgrounds in the region operate on a six-month reservation window through county or state reservation systems.
Site privacy varies significantly: Lake Auburn sites offer space but limited privacy. "The sites are very open and offer little privacy between sites. The only separation is the driveway where you park your car," explains one camper. Consider site maps and reviews when booking for specific privacy needs.
Seasonal road noise: Urban proximity means traffic sounds at many campgrounds. At Willow River State Park, visitors mention "highway noise was noticeable in the evenings" despite the natural setting. Sites further from major roads provide quieter options for light sleepers.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and green spaces: Lake Auburn provides excellent facilities for children. "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice. Bathrooms are clean," reports a family at Lake Auburn Campground. The playground accommodates various age groups with separate equipment zones.
Beginner-friendly tent options: For families testing new camping equipment, Willow River State Park offers suitable sites. "We experienced wonderful customer service, tent camping, nature center and waterfalls," shares a family camper. Most sites provide fire rings, picnic tables, and level tent pads for comfortable first-time experiences.
Swimming access considerations: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Bloomington feature swimming areas with varying amenities. At Willow River, one camper notes "the beach is a bit over run by geese so is a little dirty, there is a great spot below the dam to cool off if needed." Check water conditions before planning swimming activities, especially with young children.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections and dump stations: Town & Country RV Park provides convenient city access but has maintenance issues. "The water spigot didn't really work very well," reports one RVer at Town & Country Campground. Call ahead to confirm which sites have full hookups versus electric-only options.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. "The site was very unlevel," notes an RVer describing their stay. Bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilization equipment, particularly for the more rustic campgrounds with gravel or grass parking areas rather than concrete pads.
Urban proximity benefits: For RVers visiting Bloomington attractions, location outweighs perfect camping conditions. "If you want to be close to the city this does it," explains an RVer. "We're in town to catch a twins game and see the mall of America and this was a campground not too far from both. It's an easy on and off the interstate."
