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Lake Maria State Park Campground's backcountry campsites welcome pets throughout its network of secluded, hike-in sites. Located near Monticello, this pet-friendly destination features 14 backpacking sites scattered among towering oaks and maples, each situated about a mile from parking areas. Pets must be leashed and under control at all times while exploring the park's extensive trail system. Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground provides another pet-friendly option with both tent and RV sites as well as cabins that accommodate dogs. The campground's modern facilities include clean bathrooms and showers for campers returning from trail excursions with their four-legged companions. Baker Park Reserve maintains several pet-friendly camping options with water and electric hookups for RVs and a selection of cabin accommodations that permit dogs. Many campsites are positioned to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities, with numerous visitors reporting deer sightings throughout their stay.
Hiking trails throughout these campgrounds offer excellent pet exercise opportunities, with Lake Maria State Park featuring well-marked paths through thick forest and around scenic ponds. The park's woodland setting creates ideal habitat for wildlife, including the endangered Blanding's turtles, so keeping dogs leashed is essential for protecting native species. Winter camping at Lake Maria provides a unique experience for cold-weather enthusiasts and their pets, with snowshoeing under full moon conditions creating memorable adventures. Mosquitos can be particularly intense during summer months, making spring and fall potentially more comfortable seasons for camping with pets. Ann Lake Campground in Sand Dunes State Forest provides additional water access for dogs who enjoy swimming, though standard leash rules apply. The secluded nature of many sites makes these campgrounds particularly suitable for pet owners concerned about barking disturbing neighbors, with several sites positioned far enough apart to minimize interaction between campers and their animals.
"This park is only about 50 minutes away from me, and for hiking/camping I only think it is worth a trip in the fall."
"I chose Lake Maria for a solo camping excursion because it was close to the Cities, but still offered the level of seclusion I wanted."
from $22 - $80 / night
Check Availability"One of our kids & her husband live in Minneapolis, a sister & several nieces & nephews live close by."
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
from $21 - $29 / night
Check Availability"Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get. There are a few walk-in sites that I absolutely love."
"We picked this spot as we had dogs with and liked that there was a row of trees where we could tie them away from the fire . Would be a GREAT lot for multiple hammocks. "
from $50 / night
Check Availability"For the proximity to the city and nearby highways, this was a good spot. Didn’t expect to see as many campers as I did, but all seemed to be friendly."
"I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock."
"There was some suggestion that there was some drive in sites that were not reservable, that is. They were first come first serve. But I was unaware or unable to find those."
"Meadow setting where the campsites are, but then TONS of hiking trails with significant trees& shade. Really beautiful. Nice people staying in adjacent sites. We would return."
"Lots of walking trails , well groomed. Camping spots were large and specious."
"There is also a fishing pier and boat launch available, great lake for water ski and other water sports. Fishing is mostly pan but you can catch large bass and northern on this lake."
"Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home😁"
"When I first pulled in I checked out the single track trail area first and the parking lot was full of mountain bikers. "
"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."
"The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."
"I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"
"Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer."
from $15 / night
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TravelerLebanon hills has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation
GuideI never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!
GuideThis is a nice city campground with lovely views of the Rum River. There is a nice playground with a small climbing wall, benches to sit looking over the river. Picnic tables and a shelter are great for eating at. There is a dog park just across the river, within easy walking distance.
LegendSmall little campground next to large casino. We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations….only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th…large concert event happening across the street. You will need to call early in the day to talk to office staff…who are very friendly. If after hours and there are no spots, you can dry dock in large lot in front of office. There is fuel on site as well as RV wash station. Bath house and laundry and card controlled ($5 card deposit on check in)…well maintained facilities. Dog park available, watch a few spots in fence near bottom where fencing has risen up…little dogs could easily climb under. Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis…25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America (Aquarium) and Security patrols regularly and there is shuttle if you want to visit casino. Pool at hotel is not included. Golf attraction is being completed next door so there was some construction traffic during day as expected.
GuideSites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground.
LegendThis was such a great spot! The campground is so nice and quiet!
Located 50 Miles NW of Minneapolis, and only 15 Miles from St. Cloud, MN.
GuideWe stayed here for a weekend in May. The campsites are a little bit on top of each other. There aren't many campsites that you're able to reserve. The majority of the campsites are seasonal campsites. There are a lot of mature trees that help with the shade! The beach area is nice, but the only problem is that boaters and kayaks are in the same general area so you have to be careful so you don't get hit. There is a dock for fishing as well. You can also rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards for a small fee. If you want to walk the whole campground having a golf cart would be nice. Also there is NO petting zoo as stated on the website or on the campground maps. There hasn't been one for a few years but they have yet to edit the website or the campground maps. We went there partly because there was a petting zoo for the little kids. Seems lazy to me that they can't update the website or the campground maps.
TravelerWe just found this campground in September and this year we've been there 3 times and we live in Montana, there's no place I'd rather stay. It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups
The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very helpful.
lots of things in the area to do, and the "city" isn't that far to drive to.
ScoutNew owner as of 2022- huge jump in prices! Extra fees added everywhere-more than two children fee, guest fees, pet fees, river view fees, holiday fees. One year difference our bill went from $235 up to $347 for a 3 night stay. Not worth it! Not family budget friendly for the average family. I could stay in a hotel for cheaper.
Dispersed camping sites near Buffalo, Minnesota offer accessibility to both primitive wilderness and developed facilities. The area sits at the transition zone between hardwood forests and prairie, creating diverse ecological zones for campers to explore. Winter temperatures often drop below zero while summer highs can reach 90°F, making seasonal preparation essential for camping comfort.
Wildlife observation trails: Lake Maria State Park features extensive trails through mature hardwoods where campers can spot native wildlife. "I visit here often, great walking trails and wildlife," shares Kelli D., highlighting the natural attractions that draw repeat visitors.
Birding opportunities: Crow Hassan Park Reserve offers exceptional bird watching along its river paths. "Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" notes Alison O., who recommends the dog park circle along the Crow River for optimal viewing.
Sandy hiking terrain: The dispersed camping area south of Sand Dunes State Forest features unique sandy soil conditions. "I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock," reports Joslyn H., emphasizing the accessibility and comfort of the natural setting.
Secluded backcountry sites: Lake Maria State Park Campground features tent pads positioned for maximum privacy and natural immersion. "Site B6 feels like a secret woodland sanctuary — set up on a slight rise, tucked beneath a cathedral of towering oaks and maples," describes Alison O., detailing the natural surroundings.
Clean facilities: Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms and showers are nice and clean, some of the best I've seen at a campground!" notes Jennifer H., who appreciates the amenities during family camping trips.
Weather-dependent comfort: Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable camping conditions with fewer insects. "We went in the middle of Summer. High bug season. Take a look at other reviews as they come in and see what time of year they visited," advises Steph H., suggesting seasonal considerations for optimal experiences.
Insect considerations: Campers should prepare for seasonal insect populations, particularly in wooded areas. "We were covered in welts in no time flat. That's when the jogging began," recounts Steph H. about a summer visit to Lake Maria, emphasizing the importance of proper bug protection.
Site spacing: Ann Lake campground offers varied site privacy levels. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth," explains Kari P., noting the campground layout characteristics.
Vegetation hazards: Be aware of poison ivy prevalence in some camping areas. "Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy. Sites are large so they are clear. If you're susceptible, not for you," cautions Kari P., providing important safety information for sensitive individuals.
Playground access: Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground offers excellent facilities for children. "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to," reports Daniel R., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
First-time camping location: Beginners should consider campgrounds with accessible amenities and activities. "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 her experience at Baker Campground.
Group camping options: Sites accommodate different group sizes with varying levels of privacy. "We went with a group of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax. The sites are fairly large," explains Jennifer H., describing the social camping experience.
Site selection considerations: Schroeder County Park accommodates recreational vehicles with specific amenities. "The sites are not large and not wooded. It does not have a rustic feel, more like a vacation neighborhood... with friendly neighbors!" explains Danny K., describing the community atmosphere.
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality across camping areas. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides," cautions Andy L. about Ann Lake campground, advising RV owners to be mindful of clearance issues.
Hookup options: Electric and water connections are available at select campgrounds. "This campground is great, and in a beautiful area. However there is a ton of trash throughout the forest," notes Tyler N., highlighting both amenities and potential drawbacks for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Buffalo, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Buffalo, MN is Lake Maria State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Buffalo, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 73 dog-friendly camping locations near Buffalo, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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