Cabin rentals near Champlin, Minnesota operate seasonally, with most sites available from April through October when temperatures range from 45-85°F. Winter cabin accommodations are limited to William O'Brien State Park and specialized sites. Most cabins require a one or two-night minimum stay with reservations available 3-6 months in advance, depending on location.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Maria: The cabins at Lake Maria State Park Campground provide convenient access to lake recreation. "The site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous," notes one visitor about their lake-adjacent experience.
Biking on paved trails: Baker Campground offers extensive paved biking trails connecting to regional routes. According to a visitor, "There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities." The trails range from 6+ miles and connect to longer routes.
Seasonal recreation programs: Three Rivers Park District runs guided nature programs at their cabins. "Fun, clean and fairly priced! Most activities are free!" reports a regular visitor to Baker Campground, where summer programs often include stargazing and guided hikes.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The cabin layouts at William O'Brien State Park Campground create a secluded feel despite proximity to others. One camper mentions, "You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite," highlighting the natural setting that creates separation between cabins.
Spacious grounds: Baker Park Reserve cabins sit on generous grounds. A guest reports, "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
Well-maintained facilities: Cabin areas receive regular maintenance across most parks. At Rice Creek Campgrounds, a visitor noted "Level private sites, lots of trees, Showers were clean. Would definitely camp again," reflecting the standard of upkeep at cabins throughout the area.
What you should know
Mosquito and bug prevalence: Cabin campers should prepare for insects, especially in wooded areas. One visitor to Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park advises, "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."
Firewood considerations: Quality and availability of firewood varies by location. "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," warns a visitor to Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Weather adaptability: Cabins provide better shelter from temperature fluctuations than tents. A Lake Maria visitor explains, "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families should prioritize cabin locations near play areas. At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, a visitor observed, "The playground could use some revamping and the pool area was closed and looked sketchy. The location was perfect for us, but I doubt we will ever go back."
First-timer friendly sites: For families new to cabin camping, select easier access locations. "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. We will be back!" reports a family at Baker Park Reserve.
Animals and wildlife viewing: Cabins offer better wildlife observation opportunities. "We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," notes a Lake Maria State Park visitor about their cabin experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV-based visitors recommend requesting specific sites when booking cabins. "Not especially welcoming and a little run down. Our site was nice because we had an end site, otherwise sites are on the small side," mentioned a Minneapolis Northwest KOA visitor, highlighting the importance of location within a campground.
Full-hookup alternatives: For those transitioning between RV and cabin camping, some sites offer both options. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot," notes a visitor who appreciated the services at Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
