113 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds around Dayton, Minnesota provide diverse accommodations for outdoor enthusiasts within a short drive of the Twin Cities. Baker Park Reserve in nearby Medina offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with modern amenities including electric hookups, showers, and water access. The area also includes popular spots like Bunker Hills Regional Park and Minneapolis Northwest KOA with a range of sites suitable for different camping styles. Crow Hassan Park Reserve caters to equestrians with dedicated horse camping facilities, while dispersed camping opportunities exist in more remote locations such as the areas south of Sand Dunes State Forest.
Seasonal planning significantly affects the camping experience in this region, as most established campgrounds operate from April or May through October. "We went early in the season in the afternoon and had no problems getting a good spot with electric hookups," shared one visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park. Winter conditions generally close developed facilities, though a few locations like Lake Maria State Park maintain year-round access. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Many campsites throughout the area provide amenities like drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables, though specific features vary by location. Access roads are generally well-maintained, making most campgrounds accessible for standard vehicles.
Campers consistently note the wooded settings that characterize many of the region's camping areas. The mixed hardwood forests provide welcome shade during summer months and spectacular foliage in autumn. Multiple reviewers mention the spaciousness of sites at locations like Bunker Hills, with one noting it's "heavily wooded with oak trees, lots of privacy, campsites are spaced out well." By contrast, some visitors to the Minneapolis Northwest KOA describe sites as "stacked on top of each other." Proximity to hiking and biking trails represents another highlight for many campers in the area, with several parks featuring extensive trail networks. Families appreciate locations with additional recreational amenities such as swimming areas, playgrounds, and fishing opportunities, making these sites particularly popular for weekend getaways from the metropolitan area.
"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."
from $21 - $29 / night
Check Availability"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"
from $20 - $32 / night
Check Availability"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."
"For the proximity to the city and nearby highways, this was a good spot. Didn’t expect to see as many campers as I did, but all seemed to be friendly."
"I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock."
"Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get. There are a few walk-in sites that I absolutely love."
"Just a quick one night trip but a perfect getaway close to home. Very quiet. Camp host was nice . Found a tucked away site that we could park Infront of for more privacy"
from $50 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $20 - $75 / night
Check Availability"This park is only about 50 minutes away from me, and for hiking/camping I only think it is worth a trip in the fall."
"I chose Lake Maria for a solo camping excursion because it was close to the Cities, but still offered the level of seclusion I wanted."
from $22 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer."
"I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody’s aiming at your pup), this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire."
from $16 / night
Check Availability
ScoutMe and my nephew came to camp at Bertram Park in Monticello and the boss came up to him and was being an ass telling him that he can’t ride his dirtbike that has the battery in it and he said it in a mean way and he said if he catches him again, he will kick us out of the park. I don’t recommend coming here. The bus could’ve been a lot nicer about it.
ScoutGreat place if you have tents but no rv or pull behind parking
GuideVery small, very few sites. There’s a water park but you have to pay extra as it’s not part of the campground. It’s ok. I won’t stay there again.
GuideNo hookups. No privacy at sites. Nice and clean, beautiful beach area. Nice pier for fishing. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards. Many miles of bike paths on site. Great family campground. FYI, 10 sites are dedicated for generator usage, however you cannot use them overnight.
GuideStayed for two nights when I worked at concerts in Somerset. Was very impressed with how private the sites are. There is Good tree cover in between each site. There is nothing to do for kids, if that’s important for you….I didn’t look around too much, just a walk around the loops. But I want to go back again. Beautiful and clean is how I’d describe in 2 words.
ScoutLarge sites. NO sewer hookups but there is a dump station.
ScoutThere are NO sewer hookups and they charge you$40 per dump fee. Should be included when you pay$600 a month to stay here. Theres no laundry on site. You have to drive 20 mins one way to do laundry. There is only ONE restroom and shower house there are porta potties placed all around to use instead. They also CLOSED the only shower house on a FRIDAY for remodeling the counter tops. If they charged less to stay here I’d say it’s ok but for what they charge and saying they are non-profit makes it suspiciously convenient to slap a veteran camp on their sign to make you feel special. Meanwhile everything is a fee. Extra charge. Won’t be staying again.
RangerVisiting family in the area and got a spot here. Spaces are snug, not big rig friendly, but overall a nice park. Power and water hookups, and dump station. Little pricey at $80/night but it’s in a great area.
ScoutGreat spot close to attractions in the twin cities. The family friendly activities are perfect for families with younger kids, playground, swimming, crafts and games. Park & bathrooms well kept and clean.
Camping options around Dayton, Minnesota provide diverse accommodation styles within the oak savanna and prairie landscape of north-central Hennepin County. Located at approximately 950 feet above sea level, the region features a mix of wetlands, upland forest, and riverfront terrain. Winter camping requires special preparation, with daytime temperatures averaging 20-30°F from December through February and occasional snowfall making access challenging without proper equipment.
Archery practice: Visit Elm Creek Park Reserve, which maintains a dedicated archery range near the horse camp area. "Tucked away near the archery range, this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire," notes one visitor to Elm Creek Horse Camp.
Birding trails: Explore the diverse trails at Crow Hassan Park Reserve for excellent birdwatching opportunities. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails," shares one regular visitor to Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Water activities: Rent canoes, paddle boats, and stand-up paddleboards at Baker Park Reserve on Lake Independence. "You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards, and many people bring their own boats (although they do charge to park your boat trailer unless you bring it back to the campground and they limit the number of boats on the lake at a time)," explains one camper.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise the quality of amenities at regional parks near Dayton. "The bathroom/showers are nice and clean, some of the best I've seen at a campground!" reports one visitor to Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve.
Private walk-in sites: Lake Maria State Park offers secluded backpacking sites for those seeking solitude. "This hike-in site is about a half-mile walk from the parking area, and the journey in is half the magic: winding wooded trails, wildflowers, and glimpses of the lake through the trees," describes a camper at Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Year-round options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, some parks maintain winter access. "I recently had the pleasure of staying at Campsite C1 in Baker Park Reserve, and it was a truly delightful experience. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campsite offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and essential amenities," notes a visitor who camped outside peak season.
Poison ivy prevalence: Many campsites in the area, particularly in dispersed camping zones, have significant poison ivy growth. At South of Sand Dunes State Forest, one camper warns: "Lots of poison ivy. Weak cell service but manageable."
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes and ticks are common, especially in wooded areas during spring and summer. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," reports one Lake Maria visitor.
Cell service limitations: Many campsites have limited connectivity. "Bring a journal and some good company—your phone's chances are slim," advises one camper about Sand Dunes State Forest.
Water parks and playgrounds: Select campgrounds with built-in entertainment options for children. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," explains one visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park, while another notes it's "great for the active family, not those wanting privacy."
Spacious sites: Families appreciate roomier campsites. "We had a tent site with no hook ups. The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees," shares one Minneapolis Northwest KOA camper.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature centers within parks. "The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," explains one Rice Creek Chain of Lakes visitor.
Hookup availability: Electric service varies significantly between parks. "Sites that I loved: 3, 8, 10," recommends a reviewer at Ann Lake, noting which spots work well for specific setups.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have tight entrances or low-hanging branches. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides," warns an Ann Lake camper, while another notes: "Best for straight vehicles or very small trailers" at South of Sand Dunes State Forest.
Site privacy variation: RV sites range from secluded to densely packed. "The sites are stacked on top of each other," reports one Minneapolis Northwest KOA camper, contrasting with Bunker Hills where sites are "wooded with privacy between the camp spots."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Dayton, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Dayton, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 113 campgrounds and RV parks near Dayton, MN and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Dayton, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dayton, MN is Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve with a 4.5-star rating from 39 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dayton, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Dayton, MN.
Keep Exploring
