Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins offers heated glamping accommodations set within Dakota County's 456-acre regional park. The architect-designed cabins sit 14 feet above ground level, creating an elevated forest experience regardless of seasonal conditions. Each standalone structure includes electricity, built-in storage solutions, and ample counter space with large windows positioned specifically to maximize natural light. The campground's central shower facility provides hot water for approximately two minutes per use during colder months, with the bathroom building maintained at 58 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. Located approximately 25 minutes from Eagan, Minnesota, these reservation-required cabins book quickly, especially during peak seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: The 456-acre park surrounding Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins features walking paths suitable for all seasons. "We enjoy hiking around the trails, but we primarily go to decompress, lounge around, and play games, read, etc," explains one visitor who found the natural setting perfect for relaxation activities.
Beach swimming: Just 30 minutes from Eagan, Cleary Lake Regional Park offers water recreation alongside camping options. A camper notes, "Amazing bathroom/Showers. Quiet, lots of flies, good spot overall. The golfing nearby that seemed reasonably priced for those interested." The swim area provides a refreshing option after hot summer days.
Waterpark access: For families seeking more structured water activities, Bunker Hills Regional Park combines camping with access to a large waterpark facility. One visitor reports, "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," making this an excellent option for active families looking for glamping near Eagan with additional recreation options.
What campers like
Private tent sites: At Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, campers appreciate the secluded feeling despite proximity to urban areas. "Wonderful site! Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities. Great beach & sunrise. Highly recommend!" shares one visitor who enjoyed the balance between accessibility and natural setting.
Prairie camping: Afton State Park offers a different landscape experience with sites set in open prairie areas. A camper explains, "The prairie sites are in the southern half of the park. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out at Lake Byllesby Regional Park where visitors consistently mention the well-maintained shower buildings. "Very nice water front sites, clean, clean restrooms and showers, dump station," notes one review, highlighting the park's commitment to maintenance standards.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: The glamping cabins at Whitetail Woods require planning ahead. "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by," advises one camper, noting the 120-day advance booking window often fills quickly, particularly for weekend stays.
WiFi and cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping sites near Eagan. A visitor to Whitetail Woods comments, "There's WiFi available, but depending on which cabin you reserve signal will be too weak for real usage. Same for mobile data -- don't plan on cell service here."
Water access seasonality: Water availability changes throughout the year at Lake Auburn Campground. "Outside water is shut off during some parts of the year, so bring your own drinking water if you are camping close to/during winter," warns a visitor, emphasizing the need to check conditions before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds near Eagan feature play structures for younger visitors. At Lake Auburn, "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice. Bathrooms are clean," reports a family camper who appreciated the multiple recreation options.
Short hiking distances: For families with young children, Baker Campground offers appropriately scaled trails. A parent shares, "We went with a group of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax."
Recreation variety: Bunker Hills Regional Park provides multiple activity options beyond standard camping. "Something for everyone here! 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," describes a visitor who found the diverse offerings ideal for family groups with varying interests.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, RVers should request specific site types. "So my suggestion to anyone staying at this campground, be sure to call the office ahead and let them know that you want a site with trees and not one backing up to the road," advises an experienced camper who found the automated site assignment system less than ideal.
Hookup availability: Lake Byllesby Regional Park offers full-service sites for RVers needing connections. "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view," notes a reviewer who appreciated the balance between proximity to water and necessary utilities.
Leveling considerations: Some Minneapolis Southwest KOA sites require additional equipment for comfortable parking. A visitor warns, "The site was very unlevel and the water spigot didn't really work very well," suggesting bringing leveling blocks and checking hookups immediately upon arrival.
