Cambridge, Minnesota provides convenient camping options between the Twin Cities and central Minnesota lake country. Located at approximately 950 feet elevation in east-central Minnesota, the area features a mix of sandy soil and wetlands influenced by the last glacial period. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, though several offer reduced services during colder months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Tubing on the Rum River: Country Camping Tent & RV Park offers river tubing with transportation service. "The campground is nice and clean. Good size spaces. The tubing is a plus... Key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," explains David G. from Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Fruit picking and farm activities: Jubilee Homestead provides unique agricultural experiences. "In the morning we were able to go and pick some berries, grapes, apples and an egg that was hatched and went down to the market they gathered and cut up some fresh tomatoes and had a great breakfast off the land itself," shares Joe Eli G. from The Jubilee Homestead.
Trails for all abilities: Wild River State Park offers extensive trail networks for seasonal activities. "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails," reports Joanna B. from Wild River State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites with river access: Campers consistently mention the generous site sizes at campgrounds near Cambridge. "This campground is great for everyone! It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites! You can either relax in the pool or even take a ride down the rum river in a rented canoe, tube, or kayak," notes Spencer C. from Country Camping RV Park.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping spots. "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," shares Stephanie H. from Wild River State Park Campground.
Animal interactions: Several campgrounds feature farm animals or wildlife viewing opportunities. "I stayed for a few days in my campervan and had a lovely experience. Esther and Joel are awesome and I'm looking forward to diving into their books! Spending time with the goats was a therapeutic experience," writes Meesh M. about The Jubilee Homestead.
What you should know
Campground policies vary widely: Some campgrounds have specific rules about quiet hours and alcohol. "Twice I ran into the same group of people that thought it was ok to open up their vehicle doors and blast music well into the night. Owner warned them the first time but quiet time isn't until 11 pm," notes Barbara B. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park.
Seasonal availability and reservations: Many sites fill quickly during peak season. "Took my son on his first overnight camp outside of backyard. During the week so not as many people and not busy at all. Plenty of sites to choose from," explains Chris B. about Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest.
Poison ivy presence: Several campgrounds have significant poison ivy in wooded 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," warns Kari P. about Ann Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and water features. "I stayed here 3 weeks ago with my wife and 2 young children and it was fantastic great playground and heated pool the spaces were well kept and spaced apart 10-10 would most definitely go again! A ton for the kids to do!" shares Beasty B. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds offer better security measures. "The facilities are well kept, the park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved," notes Arielle P. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Year-round options: For camping outside peak summer months, consider the weather-appropriate activities. "2/8/20-2/9/20. #91... The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent. The sites were far enough apart and it looked like it would be more private when the leaves come in," reports Joanna B. about winter camping at Wild River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific RV needs and utility requirements. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking. Sites range from open and flat to secluded and a little hilly," advises Andy L. about Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. "Very nice clean well kept grounds. Always things going at the fairgrounds, we missed the flea market by 1 day. Great places to eat in the area. We were visiting family nearby and they could come visit us for picnics with no problems and no extra cost," shares Gary W. about Isanti County Fairgrounds.
Generator noise concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with generator noise affecting tent campers. "Went on a busy summer weekend. Beautiful rustic campsites but even sites that you can't drive directly up to were still too close to all of the RVers with loud generators," notes Chris D. about Ann Lake.
