The cabin camping options near Coon Rapids extend beyond basic accommodations, with several locations offering year-round availability. Most cabins in this region sit at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, with the St. Croix River valley creating natural temperature variations that affect cabin camping experiences. Winter cabin temperatures can drop below -10°F while summer brings humid 80-90°F days, making seasonal preparedness essential.
What to do
Waterpark access: Bunker Hills Regional Park features a large waterpark with wave pool adjacent to cabin sites. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," notes visitor Tiffany W. The waterpark operates seasonally from June through August.
Wildlife observation: Lake Maria State Park cabins provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way," writes Alison O. The park maintains three lakeside cabins open year-round.
Trail exploration: Multiple trail systems connect cabin sites to broader park amenities. "The park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved," explains Arielle P.
What campers like
Site privacy: Site selection significantly impacts the cabin camping experience near Coon Rapids. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, campers appreciate the natural setting despite suburban proximity. "I spent the entire time just saying 'wow'. I had never been here before, despite it only being 20 minutes away, because I always prioritize going to state parks," shares Krista T.
Year-round accessibility: Winter cabin camping remains popular with heated options. "I visited William O'Brien in the middle of February with two college roommates. As you can imagine, this meant snow was everywhere in the heart of winter in Minnesota. The cabin we stayed in felt very welcoming," reports David K.
Spacious layouts: Cabins vary in size and capacity across locations. Baker Campground offers larger sites. "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," writes Bryan S.
What you should know
Bug protection requirements: Insects can be overwhelming during summer months. "My husband and I paid for one night at a non electric drive in tent site...As we slowly whined down a gravel road the trees became more dense, our site seemed perfect for the two of us! Picnic table and fire pit centered and to our left a designated tent landing area...that is when we started noticing the horseflies were making it known that we were 'trespassing on their turf'," cautions Ariel H. about Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Varying site quality: Not all cabin sites offer equal amenities or privacy. "Campsites were nice, good tent pads too! Very clean. Respectful neighbors," reports Carter N., while others note exposure to noise and traffic at some locations.
Reservation challenges: Many cabins require booking 3-4 months in advance for summer weekends. "This was a great park and close to everything. This campground was big with privacy between the camp spots. There were nice trails to help explorer the regional park," observes Melissa A.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin selection for kids: Choose sites with playground access and water features. "We went with a ground of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax. The sites are fairly large, but very open (which was ok with a group of us, not our style when it's just us though)," explains Jennifer H. about Baker Park Reserve.
Indoor backup activities: Bring games and activities that work inside cabins for rainy days. "I camped here back in 2020 of November. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart. Buddy and I parked at the southeast parking lot so the hike was about a mile and also hilly," shares cheeming Y. about Lake Maria State Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer educational programming for families. "Level private sites, lots of trees, Showers were clean. Would definitely camp again," notes Corey P., highlighting the comfortable environment for family activities.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers both cabin and RV options. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot," writes Justin R., making this location popular among those seeking more amenities.
Site selection strategy: Carefully review cabin and RV site maps before booking. "The KOA was nice and clean but your packed in on top of each other like sardines in a can," warns Sarah C., highlighting the importance of choosing sites along the edges of campground loops when possible.
