Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers glamping close to Columbia Heights, Minnesota, with sites situated on flat terrain that accommodate both tent and RV camping. The park sits at a modest elevation within the urban boundary, providing a convenient natural setting without extensive travel. Campground reviews note the park's spaciousness despite its proximity to the metro area.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park features extensive walking paths where visitors can connect with nature. "Wonderful site! Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities. Great beach & sunrise. Highly recommend!" notes Max P. about the trail experience.
Disc golf outings: Bunker Hills Regional Park is located near a top-rated disc golf course. According to Lynsey M., "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing." The course provides an excellent recreational option for glampers seeking activities beyond their accommodations.
Horseback riding excursions: Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides equestrian trails and facilities for horse enthusiasts. A reviewer describes it as "an equestrian paradise" where "horse camping is available in two locations in the park." The sandy prairie trails offer a bug-free riding experience compared to wooded areas.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the secluded nature of Baker Park Reserve accommodations. One camper shares, "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great." The park balances natural seclusion with accessibility.
Family-friendly amenities: The campgrounds provide facilities specifically designed for younger visitors. According to a Lake Auburn camper, "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice. Bathrooms are clean." Most sites maintain clean restroom facilities even during peak season.
Beach access: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers water recreation opportunities directly from camping areas. One visitor notes, "Site 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery." Waterfront sites provide immediate lake access for swimming and fishing.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping accommodations operate from May through October, with specific opening and closing dates varying by location. Baker Park Reserve has a season from "Apr 30 - Oct 20," while Bunker Hills operates from "May to October 15."
Reservation requirements: Weekend spots fill quickly, especially during summer months. Advance booking is essential for preferred sites. Some locations like Rice Creek Chain of Lakes require payment of additional daily park fees. "Your reservation fee does NOT include the daily parks fee of 7 dollars just FYI," advises a Bunker Hills camper.
Mosquito conditions: The Minnesota climate supports significant insect populations during warm months. A visitor to Minneapolis Northwest KOA reports, "Lots of mosquitoes but it's MN so that's to be expected." Campers should pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation planning: Schedule time for swimming activities at parks with designated beach areas. A Bunker Hills visitor recommends, "The waterpark is a blast and we were able to find discount passes online." Many sites offer swimming beaches with varying levels of amenities and supervision.
Playground utilization: Lake Auburn Campground provides play equipment suitable for different age groups. A camper notes, "The playground is awesome for all ages as it accommodates something for all age groups from a traditional playground set for the younger ones, volleyball net and concrete bag toss boards."
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess hiking paths before bringing children along. At Afton State Park, one visitor cautions, "The hike to the campground is short and grueling." Trails vary significantly in difficulty, with some better suited for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose RV locations based on specific needs rather than general availability. At Bunker Hills, a camper advises, "The upper loop (sites 45-64) is definitely more geared towards RVs, so not what I would consider an ideal tent site." Many parks separate tent and RV areas for optimal user experience.
Hookup variability: Check electrical and water connections before booking. Baker Park offers various hookup options, with "both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp." Connection quality and availability differ between parks and individual sites.
Proximity considerations: Balance convenience with privacy when selecting a glamping location near Columbia Heights. A Minneapolis Northwest KOA reviewer notes the compromise: "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."
