Best Campgrounds near Burnsville, MN
The southern suburbs of Burnsville, Minnesota feature a diverse range of camping options within a 30-minute drive. Lebanon Hills Regional Park in nearby Eagan stands out with highly-rated sites operating from April through October, offering both tent and RV camping with modern amenities. Dakotah Meadows RV Park in Prior Lake caters primarily to recreational vehicles with full hookups, while Cleary Lake Regional Park provides a mix of accommodation types including glamping options. Town & Country Campground in Savage remains open year-round, making it one of the few winter camping destinations in the area. Several campgrounds balance suburban convenience with natural settings, as one camper noted about Lebanon Hills: "Camping in Minnesota suburbs with miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails, perfect for a weekend stay-cation."
Most campgrounds in the Burnsville area operate seasonally from late April through mid-October, with reservations strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods. The region experiences typical Minnesota seasonal variations with humid summers that bring mosquitoes and occasional thunderstorms, while spring can bring muddy conditions to trails and campsites. Winter camping options are limited but available at select locations. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though some more remote sites may have spotty coverage. Many campers appreciate the balance of seclusion and accessibility, as one Lebanon Hills visitor explained: "We liked that we weren't super close to any campers unlike most RV spots are nowadays. Our spot was spacious and close to the bathrooms and play area."
Family-friendly amenities distinguish many campgrounds near Burnsville. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, though slightly farther northeast, exemplifies this trend with its "filtered swimming pond" and "giant playground" that visitors consistently praise. Campsites throughout the region vary in privacy levels, with Lebanon Hills offering more tree coverage between sites than open-layout parks like Baker Park Reserve. Recreational opportunities abound with hiking and biking trails connecting many campgrounds to larger trail systems. Proximity to urban amenities remains a key advantage, with most sites within 15-20 minutes of shopping and restaurants. Noise levels vary by location, with some campgrounds experiencing highway sounds or, as one reviewer noted about Sakatah Lake State Park, "residents that live on the lake that can be noisy."