J
Jon E.
Guide
GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Tents or small truck camper only
Small pullout area on state forest land. Can walk trail back to tent.
Best Campgrounds near Crystal, MN
Camping in the Crystal, Minnesota area centers around several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The Minneapolis Northwest KOA in nearby Maple Grove provides tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options with full hookups. Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids offers more secluded sites with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations in a wooded setting. Baker Park Reserve in Medina and Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Centerville round out the developed campground options, each with various accommodation types and amenities.
Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April or May through October, with several closing by mid-October before Minnesota's winter sets in. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when campgrounds fill quickly. Electric hookups are common at most sites, with water and sewer connections available at select locations. Facilities typically include showers, toilets, and dump stations. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this area, with summer temperatures ranging from pleasant to hot and humid. As one camper noted about Bunker Hills, "Heavily wooded with oak trees, lots of privacy, campsites are spaced out well. Nice trails, facilities down the road, many biking trails, and cool on a hot summer day."
The camping experience around Crystal balances suburban convenience with natural surroundings. Campsites at Minneapolis Northwest KOA provide basic amenities but less privacy. "The sites are stacked on top of each other, but there is a pool and a cute little camp store," according to one visitor. In contrast, Bunker Hills and Rice Creek offer more seclusion among trees. Hiking and biking trails connect many campgrounds to surrounding parks and recreation areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, various bird species, and occasional small mammals. Road noise can be a factor at some locations, particularly at sites positioned near major highways. Winter camping is extremely limited, with most facilities completely closed during the snow season, though some parks remain open for day use and winter activities.
Best Camping Sites Near Crystal, Minnesota (112)
1. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
38 ReviewsMaple Plain, MN14 milesWebsite+1 (763) 694-7662$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."
2. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
43 ReviewsApple Valley, MN20 milesWebsite+1 (651) 480-7773$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."
3. Bunker Hills Regional Park
16 ReviewsCoon Rapids, MN13 milesWebsite+1 (763) 862-4970$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"
4. Minneapolis Northwest KOA
11 ReviewsMaple Grove, MN11 milesWebsite+1 (763) 420-2255"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."
5. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
17 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN16 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$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."
6. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
37 ReviewsLake Elmo, MN23 milesWebsite+1 (651) 430-8370$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."
7. Willow River State Park Campground
62 ReviewsHudson, WI33 milesWebsite+1 (715) 386-5931"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."
8. Lake Auburn Campground
10 ReviewsVictoria, MN20 milesWebsite+1 (952) 443-2911$15 - $18 / night
"This campground even has 2 walking/hike-in campsites to give your avid campers a real out-in-the-middle-of-nowhere kind if feel, like you drove hundreds if miles to get away from the hustle and bussle"
"But the Eady walk to the lake, sitting on the dock or the grass and swimming III m the water are a great way to destress."
9. Rice Creek Campgrounds
7 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN17 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$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."
"Beach was closed but we still got some good walks in. Fire ring was a little shallow for my liking so had to get some solid coals going to get dinner on the table."
10. Dakotah Meadows RV Park
12 ReviewsPrior Lake, MN22 milesWebsite+1 (952) 445-8800$40 - $50 / night
"The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained. Campground is right next to the hotel/casino and very much within walking distance."
"Shuttle bus comes through the camp if you want to go to the casino and play- it’s also within walking distance."
Recent Camping Photos near Crystal, MN
222 Photos of 112 Crystal Campgrounds
Zach H.
Minneapolis Northwest KOA
Arielle P.
Bunker Hills Regional Park
ERolf P.
Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
Wade H.
Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground
Krista T.
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
Amy G.
Rice Creek Campgrounds
Jennifer H.
Town & Country Campground & RV Park
Missy B.
Carver Park Reserve - Three Rivers Park District
Erik R.
Lake Auburn Campground
Blair
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Amy K.
Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
Lili R.
Cleary Lake Regional Park
Recent Reviews near Crystal, MN
782 Reviews of 112 Crystal Campgrounds
Jay W.
LegendInterstate Park — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Great park, plenty around the area...BUT THE NOISE!!!
Interstate Park in Wisconsin is just south of HWY 8 on HWY 35. The entrance is located on the west side of HWY 35 in the town of St. Croix Falls. St Croix Falls is a small town with a nice downtown on the river with plenty of restaurants (Dalles House Restaurant and Lounge is a favorite) and places for necessities. There are coffee shops, hotels and even a Wal-Mart nearby. There is also a casino in the town of Turtle Lake about 30 mins away.
The park is home to the western terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that covers 1200 miles through Wisconsin. The park also offers a Ice Age Interpretive Center which boasts interactive activities and displays of the last Ice Age. The park is also home to several other trails worth discovering.
There are two campgrounds in the park, a North and South campground as well as two group campsites. The South is a bit more rustic. The showers are located at the North campground.
For amenities there are flush toilets and showers. There is a sandy swimming area available as well as boat launch and other water activities.
This park is beautiful especially being on the cliffs of the St. Croix River offering spectacular views through out the park and the area. You can even take the bridge over to Taylor Falls Park Minnesota for more spectacular views as well as other shopping options. If you take this trip, Taylor Falls Park will be on the South and your shopping options will be to your North.
Even being in such a wonderful location with plenty of activities and amenities, I find the camping hard to enjoy at this park for all the noise that generates from the hwy crossing over the river. The sound especially of the semi trucks and their brakes that go all night long. This is the big reason for the average rating for this campground.
T S.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Loved it!
Nice spot right on the lake. Lots of animal noises! Pretty sunrise/sunset.
Greg M.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Good spot for a night
Got in late on a Sunday night and there was plenty of space. Most sites are right along the gravel road so not super private. Wouldn’t recommend for large trailers/RVs as sites are small. Found a couple sets of deer bones right next to my site, not sure if it’s from hunters dumping their waste or coyotes but keep an eye out either way.
DIANNE T.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Girl on first car camping trip
Kind of confusing for first time. Was not sure where I could camp. But then found out it's the spots right along road. Beautiful. Some good spots. Ended up in a pull thru around w view.
Cindy
TravelerAvatan Family Nudist Campground
"Family-Friendly" in Name Only: A Cautionary Tale from a Disillusioned Par
We 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.
- Erik R.
RangerAfton State Park Campground
A true year-round backpack camping experience
So, 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.
Maria D.GuideNerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground
Site 4
Nerstrand is so lovely in October. We reserved sites 2 and 4. Though they were right next to each other, they felt very secluded. Site 4 felt a bit more private from the main road because the campsite slightly slopes downward. There is also a log bench positioned close to the fire which some may think is nice but was a bit inconveniently placed for our bigger group to gather around the fire. Plenty of trees to set up multiple hammocks at site 4.
The bathrooms were updated and clean. Unfortunately on our last day, the campground lost running water so only the vault toilets were usable. As someone who doesn’t prefer this option, the vault toilet near the ranger station was actually pretty clean and updated too.
David R.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Quick overnight
Nice 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.
Guide to Crystal
Camping options near Crystal, Minnesota range from heavily wooded sites to more open RV parks with modern amenities. Located in Hennepin County at an elevation of about 860 feet, this area experiences summer temperatures that can swing from 65°F to 90°F between June and August with occasional heavy rainfall. Most campgrounds operate seasonally with peak usage in July and August when mosquito activity also reaches its height.
What to do
Explore extensive trail systems: At Bunker Hills Regional Park, miles of paved and unpaved trails connect throughout the park. "There are nice trails to help explorer the regional park," notes Melissa A., while another camper mentions "the temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week. Absolutely loved the experience."
Visit water attractions: The Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers a pool for guests. Though one camper notes "the pool area was clean and without issue. There were no extra walk ways or special features in those regards," it provides a convenient cooling option. At Bunker Hills, a waterpark with wave pool is available within the park boundaries.
Try disc golf courses: Several campgrounds offer disc golf access. At Rice Creek Campgrounds, one visitor mentioned being "close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)." Most courses are open from April through October, with some requiring small usage fees.
Fish in local lakes: Lake Auburn Campground provides fishing access from their dock. "The swim area was cool after a hot day and the beach was gently sloping and smooth," according to Sarah S. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Wooded seclusion: Many campsites offer tree cover for privacy. At Willow River State Park, one camper noted "large campsites, most with thick wooded areas between the sites." While slightly farther from Crystal (about 30 miles east), campers appreciate that "you can't even tell you're in Hudson."
Family-friendly amenities: Baker Park Reserve scores high with families. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," writes Bryan S. Another visitor appreciated that it was "a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids."
Easy access and conveniences: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers convenience close to home. "We love to camp here as it's so close to home. Decent amenities, however NOT the feel of a State Park. Think suburbia meets nature," explains one camper. The park provides a mix of developed facilities while maintaining some natural settings.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness receives frequent positive mentions. At Lake Auburn, "the facilities are very nice, but I like my camp sites to be more private than what Auburn Lake has to offer," notes Emily H. Most campgrounds in the area maintain restrooms daily during peak season.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. At Lake Auburn, "this campground, given its proximity to our house, made for an easy weekend getaway to give the gear a trial run," mentions Erik R. Reservations are typically available 3-4 months in advance.
Bug considerations: Mosquitoes and horseflies can be problematic, especially in wooded areas. One camper at Rice Creek Campgrounds described a difficult experience: "When you first pull in to the park there we're an average amount of annoying bugs, especially for an 85 to 90 degree, summer day in a highly vegetative, woodsy park." Come prepared with repellent.
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites than others. At Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, "sites are spacious and spread out, electric hookups at all sites, swim pond is great for kids," according to John H. Minneapolis Northwest KOA, by contrast, has sites "stacked on top of each other like sardines in a can."
Water access considerations: Swimming areas may have limited hours or seasonal closures. "The beach area looks nice but we didn't use it," noted a camper at Lake Auburn. Several parks have recently upgraded their swimming facilities, though some have seasonal limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Auburn Campground offers excellent play facilities. "Great beach, good playground, okay camp sites," reports Emily H. The playground accommodates various age groups and is centrally located within the campground.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas. At Baker Park Reserve, "there are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards," writes Jennifer H. Most beaches are unguarded, so parental supervision is required.
Activity planning: Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers diverse activities for children. "We love Lebanon Hills! Close to home and an oasis in the middle of the Twin Cities," shares Katie C. The nature center provides educational programming throughout summer months, typically between 10am-4pm daily.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise that might disturb light sleepers. At Willow River State Park, campers mention "highway noise was noticeable in the evenings," while still rating the experience highly. Sites farther from main roads tend to be quieter.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at several campgrounds. Dakotah Meadows RV Park offers "cement parking pads with full hookups. The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained," according to Jim M. Electrical service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on location.
Site layout and accessibility: RV sites vary significantly in size and arrangement. "Sites are paved and have well-maintained grass. We were located near the casino road, which has an occasional loud car, even at night," notes Chris F. at Dakotah Meadows. Most campgrounds can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, though some have sites for larger vehicles.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with electric hookups offer full sewer connections. At Rice Creek Chain of Lakes, facilities include sanitary dump stations that may have limited hours. Water fill stations are generally accessible throughout operating hours.
Reservation timing: RV sites often book faster than tent sites. At Lebanon Hills Regional Park, one camper advises: "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May." Some parks offer limited first-come, first-served sites, but these fill early in the day, especially on summer weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Crystal camping areas?
What amenities are available at Crystal camping areas?
Camping areas near Crystal offer varying amenities depending on the campground. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve features impressive facilities including a filtered swimming pond with sandy beaches, built-in umbrellas, concessions, modern campsites with electrical hookups, and activities like hiking, horseback riding, boating and a large playground. For those preferring more developed amenities, Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve offers affordable, clean camping with electrical hookups managed by Three Rivers Parks organization.
Where are the best campgrounds near Crystal?
Where are the best campgrounds near Crystal?
The Minneapolis area offers several excellent campgrounds near Crystal. Lebanon Hills Regional Park provides a perfect family-friendly environment with miles of hiking, mountain biking trails, and a beach at Schultz Lake, all while being conveniently located in the suburbs. For campers seeking a riverside experience, Cannon River Wilderness Area offers free camping in secluded sites right along the water, ideal for hammock camping with just a short 10-minute hike from parking.
When is the best time of year to go camping in Crystal?
When is the best time of year to go camping in Crystal?
The ideal camping season near Crystal runs from late spring through early fall (May through September) when temperatures are most comfortable. Fall brings particularly beautiful conditions at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, making it perfect for leaf peeping amidst its walking trails and diverse forest. William O'Brien State Park Campground is excellent in summer, offering clean, accessible campsites with easy walking trails and proximity to Stillwater for day trips. Winter camping is possible but requires proper cold-weather gear and preparation.
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