The Elk River area lies at an elevation of about 900 feet above sea level, with the Mississippi River forming its eastern boundary. Summer camping temperatures typically range between 55-85°F, with occasional thunderstorms from June through August. Most campgrounds near Elk River remain open from early May through mid-October, offering various recreational options beyond standard RV accommodations.
What to do
River recreation: Country Camping RV Park provides tubing opportunities on the Rum River, a local favorite for summer visitors. "Great tubing and canoeing," notes camper Rory T., highlighting the clean, sandy river bottom that enhances water activities. The park operates a bus service that transports tubers upstream. "They have a bus that takes you into town float back to the campground, love it," explains Tom D.
Mini golf and games: St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park offers a 9-hole mini golf course, shuffleboard courts, and indoor games. "It has a 9 hole mini golf, shuffleboard, salt water pool, and a lobby/gift shop. They also offer a nice seating area for those hot or raining days with free arcade," writes S L., detailing the recreational options available.
Biking trails: Baker Campground features paved trails around multiple lakes, perfect for family cycling adventures. "There is a nice 6+mile biking trail that connects to others, so bring the bikes," advises Jennifer H. The interconnected trail system provides extended riding options for campers seeking longer routes.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Country Camping Tent & RV Park receives consistent praise for its generously sized campsites. "Large sites. Great tubing and canoeing," shares Rory T. Another camper, Spencer C., elaborates: "HUGE sites! You can either relax in the pool or even take a ride down the rum river in a rented canoe, tube, or kayak."
Water features: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond swimming. "Key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," notes David G. about Country Camping. The heated pools are particularly appreciated during cooler periods, with Beasty B. mentioning the "heated pool and splash pad area" that keeps younger campers entertained.
Natural settings: RiversEdge RV Park provides wooded sites with views of either the river or a wildlife pond. "Large wooded lots, most facing the river or wildlife pond," describes Tori K., noting the "lush lawns and nice walking paths with colorful gardens" that enhance the natural environment.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most rv sites near Elk River, Minnesota close during winter months. Country Camping RV Park operates from May 1 to October 1, while St. Cloud Campground runs from May 1 to October 10. Some parks like Baker Campground extend slightly longer, operating from April 30 to October 20.
Site variations: Campground layouts differ significantly across the region. At St. Cloud Campground & RV Park, "the site itself was nice and had decent spacing between sites, but I noticed some of the other sites were quite close," reports Tina, highlighting the variability within a single facility.
WiFi challenges: Connectivity issues affect multiple campgrounds. "It was the worst wifi of about 15 campgrounds we've been to on our trip this year. They warned us it was slow, but we couldn't even connect to it from our site," notes Tina about St. Cloud Campground. Dave P. confirms this: "Host stated that the wifi was weak but since there were not a lot of campers we should be alright. We were unable to even get a signal!"
Limited overnight options: For those seeking quick overnight camping spots near Elk River, options exist but with tradeoffs. "Stayed here kind of last minute on my way home and wanted electric hook ups," shares Tori K. about Love's RV Hookup, noting its winter availability when other campgrounds close for the season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Baker Campground offers numerous family activities within walking distance. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," explains Bryan S. The campground includes two swimming beaches - one dedicated to campers and another for day visitors.
Entertainment options: Several camping areas near Elk River provide structured activities for children. "I stayed here 3 weeks ago with my wife and 2 young children and it was fantastic great playground and heated pool the spaces were well kept and spaced apart 10-10 would most defiantly go again! A ton for the kids to do!" shares Beasty B. about Country Camping.
Off-site deliveries: Some campgrounds allow food deliveries, a convenient option for families. Barbara B. notes, "You can even get pizza delivered by the local Chanticlear Pizza!" at Country Camping, providing a meal alternative when cooking becomes tiresome.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: During peak summer heat, electrical systems at some rv sites near Elk River, Minnesota may become strained. "Had one issue with power dropping so we had to pull the surge protector off. It was fine. Also very hot and humid so everyone was running AC to the max," reports David G., suggesting surge protectors might be helpful equipment.
Site selection priorities: Boulder Woods RV Park offers mature trees in a park-like setting. "The park is well maintained with power and water at all sites," notes Laura P., though she cautions the park "is not on the banks of the lake and does not have access to the lake" despite having lake views.
Seasonal site options: For extended stays, Mississippi Riverwood RV Park operates on a different model than traditional campgrounds. "This hidden gem is a PRIVATE RV Park where each lot is individually owned and most owners live South in the winter. Individual owners can rent their lot with restrictions," explains Dan O., detailing the ownership-based structure that differs from standard campgrounds.
