Campgrounds near Coon Rapids, Minnesota range from developed parks with modern amenities to more rustic settings along waterways. Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations from May to mid-October. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Centerville and Baker Park Reserve in Medina, both featuring electric hookups, drinking water, and reservable sites. Most campgrounds in the area maintain shower facilities and restrooms, with many offering both tent and RV camping options.
The camping season in this region typically runs from late April through mid-October, with most facilities closing during Minnesota's harsh winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when campgrounds fill quickly. A camper noted, "Baker Park near Minneapolis was our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation. This is one of the cleanest camps I've ever stayed at." Many campgrounds in the area enforce quiet hours after 10 PM, and some restrict alcohol consumption. Cell service varies by location but remains generally reliable throughout the region, with some exceptions in more remote areas.
Regional parks receive consistently positive reviews for their maintenance and family-friendly amenities. Lebanon Hills Regional Park earns praise for its hiking trails and spacious sites, with one visitor describing it as having "everything for the family" including "professional built mountain bike trails" and "miles of hiking." Lake Elmo County Park Reserve stands out for its filtered swimming pond and sandy beach, making it particularly popular with families. Campers frequently mention the convenience of these developed campgrounds being close to the Twin Cities while still providing a sense of getting away. Most campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and boating, with many sites accommodating both tent and RV camping.
$20 - $32 / night
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
$21 - $29 / night
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
"The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."
$20 - $75 / night
"Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday. The campground is neat and well managed."
"It was very easy to find, close to the twin cities, and clean. There was good access to kindling for a fire in the nice fire pit that has a grill."
"The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."
"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."
$20 - $32 / night
"Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
"When Rice Creek Campground opens up again in April I'd highly recommend going there if all you want is a simple camping experience to get away from the city grind."
$23 - $80 / night
"For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond."
"Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."
$54 - $999 / night
"The map provided was accurate which made locating the cruiser a breeze. There were further instructions inside as well. The RV was immaculate."
$24 - $42 / night
"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. 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."
$25 - $90 / night
"Easy walking trails surround the park which is nice and convenient. Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip. Camp sites were very clean and easy to access."
"We O'Brian has some of the best groomed trails that I have been on."
"Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"
"Located 5 miles outside of Hudson, Willow Creek State Park is large park with hiking, camp sites, fishing, canoeing, and the waterfall."
TravelerWe stayed here with a group of hot tent campers in early January. The site is large and had a couple of fire pits. Includes a few picnic tables, and a pit toilet. It's a beautiful open area not far from the parking lot with a gorgeous view of the St. Croix River.
TravelerWe visited Avatan Nudist Campground last July with our two kids (ages 8 and 11) for what was supposed to be a wholesome, body-positive family getaway. The website and brochures paint a perfect picture: serene woods, a sparkling pool, family activities, and a "welcoming community" vibe. And on the surface? Yeah, the grounds are stunning—pristine trails, a well-maintained pool. The facilities are clean, the staff (mostly) polite, and the natural setting is genuinely relaxing. If you're just looking for a quiet spot to shed your clothes and unwind in nature, it checks those boxes.
But dig a little deeper, and Avatan reveals itself as something else entirely—a place that's quietly optimized for adult fun, with kids as an inconvenient footnote they have to tolerate to keep the "family" label. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the real energy was elsewhere. Evenings around the fire pits and at the "Squirrel's" (code for the bar area) had this unmistakable swinger-party undercurrent. Lots of lingering glances, couples disappearing into the woods or private cabins, and a vibe that felt more like a discreet resort for the lifestyle crowd than a spot for building sandcastles with the little ones. Our kids picked up on it fast—whispers about "grown-up games" and awkward questions we had to deflect. The camp "tolerates" families, sure, but it's obvious the core membership would prefer a child-free zone. Activities for kids are minimal: a basic playground and the occasional nature hike, while the adults get themed nights, "sensual yoga," and late-night mixers that go until dawn.
What really soured the experience was the toxic underbelly of the community itself. This place is a powder keg of power struggles, with a small cadre of long-time board members and "elders" locked in a perpetual cold war. Gossip flows like the creek itself—endless whispers about who's sleeping with whom, who's "stealing" prime cabin spots, or who's cozying up to the President for favors. We overheard more drama in one week than in a season of reality TV. Cliques form fast: the "party crew" vs. the "purists," the swingers vs. the swingers-who-pretend-they're-not. As newcomers (and parents, no less), we felt like outsiders crashing a private club. Smiles were surface-level; the second you stepped away, the backstabbing started.
And then there's the elephant in the (clothing-optional) room: the camp's ugly history with sexual predators. We didn't know it going in, but after a few days, the stories trickled out from sympathetic members—multiple incidents over the years involving members who turned out to be registered offenders or worse, preying on the vulnerable in this "trust-based" environment. The rules around anonymity are ironclad: no photos, no last names, "what happens at Avatan stays at Avatan." It's sold as protecting privacy in a nudist space, which sounds noble until you realize it shields the creeps. Anyone who dares speak up—whether it's a parent noticing a sketchy guy lingering too long near the kids' area or a survivor sharing a red flag—is immediately branded a "troublemaker," "paranoid," or "anti-community." We've heard of families getting shamed in group meetings, then quietly asked to leave for "disrupting the harmony." Evictions happen fast if you rock the boat, all in the name of keeping the peace and the paying members happy.
Look, we're no prudes. Nudism can be liberating, and we've been to other resorts where it felt truly inclusive and safe. But Avatan? It's a divided house built on denial. The adult-party atmosphere thrives because the kids are an afterthought, and the predator problem festers because calling it out gets you exiled. If you're a child-free couple into the full swinger scene, this might be your paradise—plenty of like-minded folks and zero judgment. But if you're a family hoping for that advertised "safe, empowering space"? Steer clear. Your kids deserve better than being tolerated in a place where silence is golden and the wrong questions get you blacklisted. We won't be back, and I hope this review saves someone else the regret.
RangerSo, I think you know what you are signing up for here when you stay camp at the backpacking site at Afton, but let me fill in some of the blanks. #1 yes, the hill climb is as big of an effort as other people have said. You will feel like you earned your dinner. I may have found a hack for this, but more in that later. #2 the site are mostly private. I stayed on site #12. I could see (and they could have seen me) site #9, but thankfully no one was there. That would have been a bummer to have other looking into my site. There is even a semi-worn path between 12 and 9. They would make a good combo if you have a group. Other than that, totally secluded. As far space at #12, you could build as big of a tent structure there as you would need, easily room for a massive 16’x24’ palace (if you would dare to carry it) or anything smaller. An Eagle Scout project built hammock posts at this site, so it is ideal for that set up. #3 the campground amenities are very nice. The solar powered water works great year round, the two pits toilets (if you can even call them that) are very new and nice. And the coolest campground feature is the cut your own firewood station. I went a little overboard since it was so nice and had a way bigger fire than I needed. Bring your own saw and you will love it too. #4 After walking around the park, I discovered a possible hack. There is an unmarked entrance to the park on the north side. Instead of walking all my gear back to the parking lot, I walked the .5 miles to the service entrance, dropped my pack, and then walked the 1.8 miles back to the parking lot. I tend to carry too much. The flat short walk to drop my gear was worth it. Then I drop around the park and picked up my stuff. Probably not MN DNR endorsed way to do it, but I was proud of my discovery. All in, this is a unique and wonderful camping experience. Highly recommend.
GuideNice spot with plenty of space between sites, which gives you some privacy. It’s right off a busy road, so you’ll hear some traffic noise. The hunters were out during my stay, so there were gunshots throughout the day, but that’s to be expected this time of year. Overall, a good spot for a quick overnight stay and it’s conveniently close to the cities.
RangerI was looking for a secluded backpack in site where I could have a peaceful 48 hours of prayer and solitude, and this site was perfect! I also wanted one that wasn't too far remote, since I hadn't been on a proper backpacking trip since the pandemic hit. And as a solo female camper, I wanted a reserved site so that there would be a record of my location for safety reasons. I'm so glad I chose the Deer Creek site, and will almost definitely stay here again at some point!
This site is accessible by either hiking or canoe. It took me about 30 minutes to hike in from the visitor center parking lot. There is easy access to river water to boil or filter from the canoe landing.
This site was incredibly spacious. It includes a fire ring and picnic table overlooking the creek and river. It also includes 2 large tent pads (look out for widow makers, one of the tent pads is under a dead tree!). It also has a spot nestled in some pine trees that could fit a smaller tent, canoe storage, or I found it to be the perfect spot to hang my hammock! (This would be a great site for hammock camping.) So if you're camping with a small group of people this would be a great site. It also includes a trail to a fairly private latrine, and a bear box (the park ranger warned me that there are bears in the park although I did not see any.) I also found plenty of dead down and dry wood and birch bark on the ground for building fires.
This site is great for a one nigjt stay on a longer backpacking or canoeing trip, but also great for camping out at for a couple of nights. I stayed for two, and it connects to all the major trails in the park, so I was able to use it as a great base for hiking and seeing the beautiful changing leaves. In the morning I hiked North to do the Riverside trail and looped back through the woods. Then in the afternoon I did the Deer Creek loop, which is a shared horse and hiking trail. It was so nice to he able to hike out to some of the best trails in the park directly from my site.
This site felt remarkably remote for being only an hour from the twin cities and a mile from the parking lot! I stayed there Thursday -Saturday, and after leaving the parking lot on Thursday did not see another human being for the rest of the day, and Friday not until I hit the main trails! There was no one else staying within at least a mile of me. I was even able to see fantastic stars Friday night. There was amazing wildlife - a blue heron frequented the site, and I heard all types of owls. Two bald eagles had a nest across the river so I got to see and hear them the whole trip, too- it was absolutely magical!
This site has a great view of both sunrise and sunset. Thursday night there was a gorgeous sunset over the woods reflected in deer Creek. Both mornings I woke up to watch the sunrise while drinking my coffee next to the fire (it was freezing!!!). Watching the sun rise over the river and fog roll over th water and evaporate while eagles soared was truly magical. Having an easy backpack in site surrounded by water on two sides and with views of the sunrise and sunset like this was so incredible!!!
GuideThey have two lots for RV and travel trailer use although the first lot only has two spaces and the second one has a total of five. The five space spot has no water or electric hook up but was a great place for me to test out my new solar set up. Word to the wise, gates ACTUALLY close at 10pm, there's no way to contact anyone and I had to walk about a mile in parked outside the gate 😅. The White Pine lot (5 spaces) has a central bathroom/shower building. The park was jam packed Friday/Saturday but a ghosts town the remains sun/mon/tue I stayed.
GuideThis is a good campground. Very well kept. Fishing from shore and there is a boat launch. Nice playground for kids. Sites are fairly close. Many have no privacy from others, but some do. No water at the sites and pit toilets are the biggest weaknesses. Nice paths for walking and biking.
ScoutFor 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!
TravelerNever again, $81 for an electric only site. Come on Wisconsin let's jab the out of .staters. Entry fee to parks, extra for out of staters. The site was secluded but not close to level. Not close to the facilities. I am going back to SD. They don't add fees because you are from out of town, they actually encourage out of state tourists. Last trip to a Wisconsin state park . And the showers were closed for the season, this is 10/9/25. But still full price and just an electric only site. No thanks Wisconsin
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Coon Rapids, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Coon Rapids, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 112 campgrounds and RV parks near Coon Rapids, MN and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Coon Rapids, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Coon Rapids, MN is Bunker Hills Regional Park with a 4.6-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Coon Rapids, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Coon Rapids, MN.
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