Cambridge, Minnesota provides a range of camping options situated between pine forests and lake country. Isanti County Fairgrounds offers year-round camping with full hookups just within city limits, while Country Camping RV Park on the Rum River features riverside sites with tent and RV accommodation options. The area includes several established campgrounds with amenities ranging from basic to full-service, as well as more rustic options in nearby state forests. Camping areas in this region typically feature a mix of wooded sites and open spaces, with several locations offering water access.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with most private campgrounds operating from May through October. Wild River State Park, located approximately 20 miles east of Cambridge, maintains year-round camping but with reduced winter services. Summer weekends typically require advance reservations, especially for electric sites and waterfront locations. Mosquitoes and ticks are common from late spring through early fall, particularly in wooded areas. Cell service varies significantly by provider and location. According to one visitor, "Weak cell service but manageable" is common in more remote camping areas like the nearby Sand Dunes State Forest.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the area. Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest features both drive-in and walk-in tent and RV sites with good water access. A camper noted, "I've been camping here since I was a little kid... 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." Several campgrounds provide showers and modern restrooms, while more remote sites offer vault toilets and pump water. Mixed-use campgrounds are common, with many accommodating both tent campers and RVs, though privacy between sites varies considerably by location. Visitors particularly appreciate campgrounds with hiking trails and swimming areas, which provide additional recreational opportunities beyond the camping experience itself.
$40 - $75 / night
"Nice river nearby canoeing swimming pool fireplaces and little store for treats."
$23 - $90 / night
"Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."
"We stayed in campsite 29 in the drive in campsite over Labor Day weekend."
$35 - $100 / night
"We decided to try out our new tow vehicle by going somewhere close to home. We found Jubilee and we’re we pleasantly surprised! We happened to be the only one there that weekend late in the summer."
"In the morning, we walked around briefly to say hello to the goats and chickens and to pick a few apples."
"We were visiting family nearby and they could come visit us for picnics with no problems and no extra cost. Very friendly grounds keepers. Will be back again when in the area."
$22 - $38 / night
"Nice pool and a lake. Room between campsites and some tree coverage. All in all a nice place to camp."
"Great little family camp non-motorized lake great for kayaks or canoes couple decent spots for group camping, new owners only four years inand working hard to make it better"
"Close to the Twin Cities, right on the Rum River. Great tent sites right on the river.
Tubing! They have a bus that takes you into town float back to the campground, love it."
$24 - $50 / night
"This is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic"
"Now that I live in Minnesota, I find myself frequenting the Taylors Falls side. Here you have the amazing "Pot Holes" from glacial waters and some pretty spectacular rock climbing."
"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"
"Greatpool, golf cart trails back to a hidden lake, sports court, playgrounds, bunk houses allowed."
$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"
TravelerWe stayed here with a group of hot tent campers in early January. The site is large and had a couple of fire pits. Includes a few picnic tables, and a pit toilet. It's a beautiful open area not far from the parking lot with a gorgeous view of the St. Croix River.
ScoutWe 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.
GuideNice 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.
RangerI was looking for a secluded backpack in site where I could have a peaceful 48 hours of prayer and solitude, and this site was perfect! I also wanted one that wasn't too far remote, since I hadn't been on a proper backpacking trip since the pandemic hit. And as a solo female camper, I wanted a reserved site so that there would be a record of my location for safety reasons. I'm so glad I chose the Deer Creek site, and will almost definitely stay here again at some point!
This site is accessible by either hiking or canoe. It took me about 30 minutes to hike in from the visitor center parking lot. There is easy access to river water to boil or filter from the canoe landing.
This site was incredibly spacious. It includes a fire ring and picnic table overlooking the creek and river. It also includes 2 large tent pads (look out for widow makers, one of the tent pads is under a dead tree!). It also has a spot nestled in some pine trees that could fit a smaller tent, canoe storage, or I found it to be the perfect spot to hang my hammock! (This would be a great site for hammock camping.) So if you're camping with a small group of people this would be a great site. It also includes a trail to a fairly private latrine, and a bear box (the park ranger warned me that there are bears in the park although I did not see any.) I also found plenty of dead down and dry wood and birch bark on the ground for building fires.
This site is great for a one nigjt stay on a longer backpacking or canoeing trip, but also great for camping out at for a couple of nights. I stayed for two, and it connects to all the major trails in the park, so I was able to use it as a great base for hiking and seeing the beautiful changing leaves. In the morning I hiked North to do the Riverside trail and looped back through the woods. Then in the afternoon I did the Deer Creek loop, which is a shared horse and hiking trail. It was so nice to he able to hike out to some of the best trails in the park directly from my site.
This site felt remarkably remote for being only an hour from the twin cities and a mile from the parking lot! I stayed there Thursday -Saturday, and after leaving the parking lot on Thursday did not see another human being for the rest of the day, and Friday not until I hit the main trails! There was no one else staying within at least a mile of me. I was even able to see fantastic stars Friday night. There was amazing wildlife - a blue heron frequented the site, and I heard all types of owls. Two bald eagles had a nest across the river so I got to see and hear them the whole trip, too- it was absolutely magical!
This site has a great view of both sunrise and sunset. Thursday night there was a gorgeous sunset over the woods reflected in deer Creek. Both mornings I woke up to watch the sunrise while drinking my coffee next to the fire (it was freezing!!!). Watching the sun rise over the river and fog roll over th water and evaporate while eagles soared was truly magical. Having an easy backpack in site surrounded by water on two sides and with views of the sunrise and sunset like this was so incredible!!!
ScoutFor our first time camping, this was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids. We will be back!
TravelerNever again, $81 for an electric only site. Come on Wisconsin let's jab the out of .staters. Entry fee to parks, extra for out of staters. The site was secluded but not close to level. Not close to the facilities. I am going back to SD. They don't add fees because you are from out of town, they actually encourage out of state tourists. Last trip to a Wisconsin state park . And the showers were closed for the season, this is 10/9/25. But still full price and just an electric only site. No thanks Wisconsin
GuideInterstate State Park has some nice features, but overall it wasn’t my favorite. Many of the exterior loop sites have river access, which was a highlight, and we didn’t have to deal with mosquitoes thanks to being right on the water. The nearby towns are also very charming and worth exploring.
That said, the campground is small and very crowded, likely because it’s so close to the Cities and popular with canoe rentals. Expect a lot of traffic noise, and in the fall, migrating geese can be very loud (which didn’t bother me, but might for some). The ranger office had limited hours, and since firewood is locked up, there’s no self-serve option. Another downside: a riverboat cruises by frequently, blasting music in the evenings and giving tours during the day.
The sites are close together, with RVs and tents mixed on one loop, so generator noise is common. It wasn’t a terrible stay, but just too small and busy for my preference—I don’t think I’d return.
Best sites seemed to be 21 (great river views, less private), 23 (fun detached tent pad), and 18 (most private). Sites 4–5 were also lovely but close to the bathrooms and camp host, so expect more foot traffic.
ScoutJust 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
RangerNo potable water, grey dump, nor trash cans, but it's rugged wilderness along a gravel road with plenty of space to park.
Cambridge, Minnesota provides convenient camping options between the Twin Cities and central Minnesota lake country. Located at approximately 950 feet elevation in east-central Minnesota, the area features a mix of sandy soil and wetlands influenced by the last glacial period. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, though several offer reduced services during colder months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
Tubing on the Rum River: Country Camping Tent & RV Park offers river tubing with transportation service. "The campground is nice and clean. Good size spaces. The tubing is a plus... Key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," explains David G. from Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Fruit picking and farm activities: Jubilee Homestead provides unique agricultural experiences. "In the morning we were able to go and pick some berries, grapes, apples and an egg that was hatched and went down to the market they gathered and cut up some fresh tomatoes and had a great breakfast off the land itself," shares Joe Eli G. from The Jubilee Homestead.
Trails for all abilities: Wild River State Park offers extensive trail networks for seasonal activities. "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails," reports Joanna B. from Wild River State Park.
Spacious sites with river access: Campers consistently mention the generous site sizes at campgrounds near Cambridge. "This campground is great for everyone! It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, 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," notes Spencer C. from Country Camping RV Park.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping spots. "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," shares Stephanie H. from Wild River State Park Campground.
Animal interactions: Several campgrounds feature farm animals or wildlife viewing opportunities. "I stayed for a few days in my campervan and had a lovely experience. Esther and Joel are awesome and I'm looking forward to diving into their books! Spending time with the goats was a therapeutic experience," writes Meesh M. about The Jubilee Homestead.
Campground policies vary widely: Some campgrounds have specific rules about quiet hours and alcohol. "Twice I ran into the same group of people that thought it was ok to open up their vehicle doors and blast music well into the night. Owner warned them the first time but quiet time isn't until 11 pm," notes Barbara B. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park.
Seasonal availability and reservations: Many sites fill quickly during peak season. "Took my son on his first overnight camp outside of backyard. During the week so not as many people and not busy at all. Plenty of sites to choose from," explains Chris B. about Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest.
Poison ivy presence: Several campgrounds have significant poison ivy in wooded areas. "Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy. Sites are large so they are clear. If you're susceptible, not for you," warns Kari P. about Ann Lake.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and water features. "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 definitely go again! A ton for the kids to do!" shares Beasty B. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds offer better security measures. "The facilities are well kept, the park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids, 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," notes Arielle P. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Year-round options: For camping outside peak summer months, consider the weather-appropriate activities. "2/8/20-2/9/20. #91... The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent. The sites were far enough apart and it looked like it would be more private when the leaves come in," reports Joanna B. about winter camping at Wild River State Park.
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific RV needs and utility requirements. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking. Sites range from open and flat to secluded and a little hilly," advises Andy L. about Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. "Very nice clean well kept grounds. Always things going at the fairgrounds, we missed the flea market by 1 day. Great places to eat in the area. We were visiting family nearby and they could come visit us for picnics with no problems and no extra cost," shares Gary W. about Isanti County Fairgrounds.
Generator noise concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with generator noise affecting tent campers. "Went on a busy summer weekend. Beautiful rustic campsites but even sites that you can't drive directly up to were still too close to all of the RVers with loud generators," notes Chris D. about Ann Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available near Cambridge, Minnesota?
Cambridge, Minnesota offers several nearby camping options. Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River provides drive-in and walk-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets, making it ideal for RVs and tent campers. The Isanti County Fairgrounds offers a convenient option right near Cambridge with reservable sites, water hookups, toilet facilities, and big-rig-friendly spaces. Additional options include Springvale Campground and The Jubilee Homestead for a more rustic experience. Many campers also use Cambridge as a base to explore the excellent camping opportunities within a 30-45 minute drive in all directions.
What camping options exist in and around Cambridge, MN?
The Cambridge area offers diverse camping experiences for all preferences. South Isle Family Campground features an in-ground heated pool, great showers, plenty of shade trees, and convenient access to Mille Lacs Lake for fishing enthusiasts. For those seeking natural surroundings, South of Sand Dunes State Forest provides a rustic, immersive wilderness experience just an hour from the Twin Cities. Nearby options also include Kozy Oaks Kamp in North Branch and various RV parks. The region offers everything from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent camping, with both private and public campgrounds available year-round, though many amenities may be limited during winter months.
What county is Cambridge, Minnesota in and what camping regulations apply?
Cambridge is located in Isanti County, Minnesota. Camping regulations in this county generally follow Minnesota state guidelines with some local variations. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, while in neighboring Washington County, exemplifies the typical regional park regulations with designated campsites, reservation requirements, and amenities like filtered swimming areas and playgrounds. At Father Hennepin State Park Campground, standard state park rules apply, including quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM, maximum stay limits (typically 14 days), and fire restrictions. Most Isanti County campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak season (May-September), and enforce pet leashing, alcohol restrictions, and proper waste disposal.
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