The area surrounding Farmington, Minnesota offers a mix of county and state park camping options within 30 miles of town. Most campgrounds in this region maintain elevation between 750-950 feet and experience typical Minnesota seasonal variations with summer highs reaching 85°F and winter lows often below freezing. Water features are common at campgrounds near Farmington, with several parks situated near lakes or rivers that aren't suitable for swimming during mid-to-late summer due to algae growth.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 10 miles of dedicated trails at Lebanon Hills Regional Park provide varying skill levels for bikers. "Great biking and hiking trails. Great amenities. Close to the zoo as well as the city," notes Rico R. about Lebanon Hills, which offers both technical sections and beginner-friendly routes.
Waterfall hiking: 1.5 mile trail leads to Hidden Falls at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. "The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," writes Halie B. The falls are most impressive during spring runoff.
Water recreation: Rentals available at multiple parks including kayaks and paddleboards. "Nice little lake to kayak on," reports Chris S. about Lebanon Hills. The best paddling conditions occur mornings before 10am when winds are typically calmer.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Wooded areas provide seclusion at many parks. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," says Matt C. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. Sites numbered in the 60s and 80s ranges at Lebanon Hills East loop are particularly secluded.
Clean facilities: Recently updated bathrooms receive consistent praise. "The bathroom facility near the ranger station was very well maintained and cleaned several times a day," reports Blair about Lebanon Hills Regional Park. Many campgrounds have upgraded their shower buildings within the last 5 years.
Lake views: Waterfront sites available at several parks. "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view," notes Deb M. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park. The most desirable lakefront sites (numbers 1-17) book quickly, often 6+ months in advance.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality concerns: Several lakes experience algae blooms in summer months. "We didn't get to swim at the lake because it was shut down due to a chemical spill at the time," shares Angela L. about Lake Byllesby. Water conditions typically deteriorate after July 4th as temperatures increase.
Reservation timing: Book 6+ months ahead for summer weekends. "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May," advises Blair about Lebanon Hills. Holiday weekends often fill within 24 hours of reservation windows opening.
Site dimensions can be deceptive: Actual usable space may differ from listed dimensions. "Reservation system is weird and the sites are much bigger than they say. All RV sites are the listed length plus 16' for your tow vehicle, which you need to call to find out," explains Davis D. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Sites 88-90 at Lebanon Hills offer convenient access to play equipment. "Our spot was spacious, and close to the bathrooms and play area. The play area was really nice and looked brand new. Our girls loved making new friends to play with," shares Angela L.
Short hiking opportunities: Multiple parks offer child-friendly trail segments under 1 mile. "I like this campground because there are some fun hiking trails and there is a lot to do!" says Owen H. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park. Trails connecting camping loops to small ponds work well for younger children.
Ice cream availability: Camp stores at several parks sell frozen treats. "The girls loved going inside for ice cream treats when the weather was a little too hot to handle," notes Angela L. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park office, which maintains summer hours until 7pm.
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup options: East and West loops offer different experiences for RVers seeking dog friendly campgrounds near Farmington. "Sites with full hookups or more remote sites with electric that are more tucked away in the pines," mentions Katie C. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Level sites: Concrete pads at some parks eliminate need for extensive leveling. "This is a really nice campground with cement parking pads with full hookups. The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained," describes Jim M. about Dakotah Meadows RV Park, which is pet-friendly and allows dogs throughout the property.
Dump station access: Multiple parks provide this essential service. "Great place to stop and rest when traveling through the twin cities. Great price for full hookup," says Jon C. about Dakotah Meadows. Most dump stations remain open through October 15th, weather permitting.
