Camping near Coon Rapids, Minnesota offers outdoor experiences approximately 20 minutes north of Minneapolis, with campsites situated in the suburban-rural transition zone at elevations between 860-950 feet. The camping season typically runs late April through October, with peak mosquito activity occurring from June through August. Most campgrounds maintain trail access regardless of seasonal closures.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park has excellent options for cyclists. "There are great walking paths and clean restrooms. Great for a quick weekend camping trip," notes Courtney C. The park maintains well-marked trails suitable for beginner to intermediate riders.
Disc golf excursions: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers access to a top-rated course. "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)," shares Lynsey M. The 18-hole course requires no reservation and remains open during regular park hours.
Hiking through marshlands: Willow River State Park features diverse ecosystems within an hour's drive. "We did SO many miles hiking! And at certain points in the river, you are able to get in and swim," says Sarah L. The park maintains several trail difficulties with distances ranging from 1-8 miles.
Waterfall viewing: Seasonal waterfall access makes for memorable day trips. "Willow River falls is definitely a beautiful site to see. Definitely a place to camp if you like to be active and explore the trails. Winter, summer or fall!" explains Jessica B.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Rice Creek Campgrounds offers secluded spots within the metro area. "I went camping alone on this campground, I brought my smaller 20ft trailer and had the most peaceful experience," reports Sergio Z. Many sites feature natural separation with mature trees.
Clean facilities: William O'Brien State Park maintains well-kept shower houses. "The shower house needed a cleaning as well. There is no adjusting the shower temperature. Push the button and you get what you get," notes Tim, highlighting the no-frills but functional facilities.
Swimming options: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve offers unique water recreation. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," shares Timothy S. This controlled swimming environment reduces typical lake concerns like algae blooms.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide optimal wildlife sightings. "You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite," writes Laura E. about William O'Brien State Park.
What you should know
Campground access fees: Most parks charge daily vehicle fees beyond camping costs. "Your reservation fee does NOT include the daily parks fee of 7 dollars just FYI," warns Lynsey M. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Insect conditions: Bug populations fluctuate significantly by location and season. "My husband and I officially nicknamed this campground 'Horsefly Hell'. And no we don't recommend this one," cautions Ariel H. about Rice Creek Campgrounds during peak summer heat.
Firewood quality concerns: Baker Campground sells bundles but quality varies. "Many campsites are fantastic with good spacing and shade. Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advises Bruce M.
Booking systems vary: Online reservation platforms differ between county and state systems. "Booking was fairly easy through their website, and you can 'hover' over the sites to see a photo of it," explains Amy G. Most parks require reservations 24-48 hours ahead for weekend camping.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks for cooling off: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers water recreation close to campsites. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," mentions Tiffany W. The water park operates separately from camping with admission fees around $8-12 per person.
Playground access: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve features well-maintained play areas. "Great campground, sites are spacious and spread out, electric hookups at all sites, swim pond is great for kids, and other amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids," explains John H.
First-timer friendly sites: Baker Campground accommodates novice campers. "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!" says Heather V.
Animal attractions: Minneapolis Northwest KOA includes unique features for children. "There is a petting arena with goats, ponies, and a llama who gave my partner the stink eye, but fell in love with me rubbing the fence and giving me all googly eyes!" describes Kristin C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection algorithm: Minneapolis Northwest KOA uses automated systems for assignments. "He told me that there is an algorithm that determines the site selection and if I wanted one with trees I needed to put a note on my reservation," shares Diane A. Always add specific requests to your booking notes.
Parking logistics: Lebanon Hills Regional Park provides adequate space for larger vehicles. "Sites are a little close with little to no privacy in most. Reservation system is weird and the sites are much bigger than they say. All rv sites are the listed length plus 16' for your tow vehicle, which you need to call to find out," explains Davis D.
Extended stays possible: Some parks allow longer-term camping. "I absolutely love this campground. I live right down the road from it so I often camp here for a quick getaway. I actually lived here for about a month when I was waiting for my apartment to be ready," notes Chris S. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Hookup variations: Electric and water services differ between loops. "We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps," clarifies Angela L. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
