Cabin accommodations near Brooklyn Park, Minnesota range from rustic to deluxe with varying amenities and accessibility. Located in the northern suburbs at approximately 860 feet elevation, this area experiences cold winters with snow cover from December through March and humid summers that typically reach 80°F. Most cabin facilities remain open May through October, with select year-round options available for winter enthusiasts.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: At Lake Maria State Park, trails wind through hardwood forests with diverse ecosystems. "I really enjoy sites 1, 2, and 3 as they are a little more secluded from other sites," notes a visitor who appreciated the park's backpacking focus. The hiking network accommodates various skill levels and connects to several lake viewing areas.
Water recreation: Baker Park Reserve offers multiple water activities on Lake Independence including canoe, paddleboat and SUP board rentals. A visitor mentioned, "There is a nice 6+mile biking trail that connects to others, so bring the bikes. It's a great place to spend a weekend close to home, but feel like you are getting away!"
Winter activities: William O'Brien State Park Campground maintains year-round cabin access for winter recreation. "I visited William O'Brien in the middle of February with two college roommates. As you can imagine, this meant snow was everywhere in the heart of winter in Minnesota. We decided to take a night trek through the park. The moon was very bright that night so visibility was excellent," shared one winter visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: Cabins at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offer a convenient wilderness experience while remaining close to city services. "We love to camp here as it's so close to home. Decent amenities, however NOT the feel of a State Park. Think suburbia meets nature," explains one frequent visitor who appreciates the balance of natural setting with urban convenience.
Family-friendly facilities: Minneapolis Northwest KOA provides cabin rentals with clean facilities and amenities geared toward families. "The hosts at this campground were very nice. We had a tent site with no hook ups. The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue," notes one visitor describing the overall atmosphere.
Quiet seclusion: Several state park cabins offer more isolated experiences. "Site B6 at Lake Maria State Park is about a half-mile walk from the parking area, and the journey in is half the magic: winding wooded trails, wildflowers, and glimpses of the lake through the trees," shares a camper who valued the privacy and natural setting.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Bunker Hills Regional Park cabin sites book quickly, especially during summer months. "Bunker Hills is a nice, quiet campground with activities nearby. The sites are decently private and there is nice bathrooms/showers," explains a visitor who planned ahead for their stay.
Variable amenities: Cabin facilities differ significantly between locations—from primitive structures with just beds to fully equipped units with kitchenettes. Always verify what's provided before arrival, particularly regarding bedding and cooking facilities.
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin facilities operate May through October with limited winter availability. Winter cabin stays require additional preparation for cold weather and potentially difficult access conditions.
Bug preparation: Minnesota's summer months bring mosquitoes and other insects. "The horseflies were making it known that we were 'trespassing on their turf'. We entered the shower and restrooms to bugs, bugs, BUGS!!" warns one Rice Creek Campgrounds visitor, highlighting the importance of proper insect repellent during warm weather months.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Baker Campground offers direct lake access with swimming areas designed for children. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," shares a visitor about their family experience at Baker Park Reserve.
Activity planning: Bunker Hills provides a waterpark adjacent to camping areas. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," notes a visitor, referencing additional activities beyond standard camping that engage children.
Pack-in considerations: For cabins requiring walks from parking areas, minimize heavy items. "If you're new to hiking, I suggest doing some research if you're going to attempt stuff like this. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart," cautions a Lake Maria visitor about their hike-in cabin experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabin accommodations as an alternative to RV camping, request specific amenities. "There is an algorithm that determines the site selection and if I wanted one with trees I needed to put a note on my reservation," explains a Minneapolis Northwest KOA visitor, emphasizing the importance of making specific requests when booking.
Utility access: Many cabin facilities provide basic electricity but require visitors to supply their own cooking equipment and bedding. Check individual location requirements before arrival to ensure necessary supplies are packed.
