Glamping options close to Chanhassen, Minnesota provide convenient access to outdoor recreation within a 30-mile radius of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 900-1,100 feet and averages 32 inches of rainfall annually. Summer temperatures typically reach 83°F while winter lows drop to 7°F, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season.
What to Do
Biking trails network: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park connects to miles of paved pathways ideal for family cycling. "There are great walking paths and clean restrooms. Great for a quick weekend camping trip," notes a visitor at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park.
Water activities beyond swimming: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers fishing opportunities with catfish and bass reported by campers. "The camp is great though, 4 or 5 hookups and a private dock and the whole site is private and on a little point so the lake is surrounding you," shares one reviewer who frequently stays at the group camp area.
Winter exploration: Afton State Park Campground maintains year-round access with heated yurts available during colder months. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," explains a camper who appreciates the extended season options.
What Campers Like
Private tent sites: Minneapolis Northwest KOA surprises tent campers with secluded spots. "The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue," reports a tent camper at Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Short hike-in camping experiences: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers beginner-friendly walk-in sites with minimal effort. "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy," shares a camper who appreciates the balance of convenience and seclusion.
Urban wilderness contrast: Bunker Hills Regional Park maintains natural settings despite proximity to developed areas. "If you simply look at the list of amenities this park has, nature lovers would be quick to turn their nose up at it as an overly-commercialized playground... Despite many of these things not being anything that I have a slight interest in, this somehow works for the park and it feels like a hidden paradise," explains a visitor surprised by the park's natural feel.
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures and timing: Plan ahead for limited availability at many glamping spots near Chanhassen between October and April. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird) - Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" notes a winter visitor to Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Bug seasons vary by location: Insect activity peaks in June-July in woodland areas. "We prepared the kiddos for a quick grab and run and jumped out of the car. First step onto the grassy trail exploded in a cloud of mosquitos. Walking along the kids all looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts," warns a summer visitor to Lake Maria about intense bug pressure.
Water access limitations: Some parks restrict vehicle access to swimming areas. "Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk. Campgrounds are nearby beach and require further walk," explains a visitor to Afton State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water park access: Lake Auburn Campground provides family-friendly swimming options with shade features. "The beach area looks nice but we didn't use it," mentions one visitor, while another notes the "playground is nice, the vault toilets have automatic lights at night, which is pretty nice, and the beach has couple large shade umbrellas and a fishing dock."
Kid-friendly playgrounds: Multiple facilities cater to different age groups at several parks. "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice. Bathrooms are clean," reports a family visitor to Lake Auburn Campground.
Secure sites for children: Some campgrounds offer enclosed, safe play areas. "The campground management is helpful and friendly, and even has little fire starting bundles if you're having a rough time getting that fire going. The swim area was cool after a hot day and the beach was gently sloping and smooth," shares a camper appreciative of the family-friendly atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness concerns: Minneapolis Southwest KOA has reported issues with uneven sites. "The site was very unlevel and the water Spicket didn't really work very well," reports one RV camper who encountered difficulties during setup.
Dump station reliability: Check ahead about working facilities at Minneapolis Southwest KOA. "About the only nice thing about this place is the lady who answered the phone, Valerie. The place was packed like sardines... Very difficult to negotiate at night," warns an RVer who faced challenges during their stay.
Electric hookup variations: Bunker Hills Regional Park provides both primitive and electric options. "The sites are decently private and there is nice bathrooms/showers. We camped here while our friends used a camper cabin and they loved it too," explains a camper about the range of options available.
