Top Cabins near Hay Creek, MN

Cabin camping near Hay Creek is a great way to escape into nature, yet still have all the comforts of home. Cabin camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. Search nearby cabins or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Cabin Sites Near Hay Creek, MN (20)

    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park

    1. Afton State Park

    36 Reviews
    93 Photos
    199 Saves

    Located on the St. Croix River, just 20 miles east of Saint Paul, Afton State Park is great for those looking for camping near Minneapolis and is 1600 acres of rolling prairies, oak woodlands, and limestone river canyons amid an ancient glacial landscape. The land for the park was acquired in 1967, but it took almost 15 years of planning revisions and compromises with local residents before the park finally opened in 1982. Little development has gone into Afton State Park in an effort to maintain its natural characteristics, and former farmland atop the bluffs are continuously being restored to their original state. This makes Afton an ideal destination for campers looking to experience the outdoors in a wilder setting. Load up your backpack with all you’ll need for your stay, as camping at Afton State Park requires a hearty, 0.75-mile hike in from the parking area. The year-round campground offers 27 rustic sites with picnic tables and fire pits, with options for pitching your tent in either open or wooded areas. There is drinking water, a vault toilet and firewood is supplied within the camp area. There is also three boat-in campsites, and two group campsites that can accommodate up to 60 people each. If you’d rather not rough it, the park also offers four camping cabins and two yurts, some of which are wheelchair accessible. There are also several picnic areas and restrooms within the park. Campsite rates range from $15–$23/night; cabins range from $55–$70/night, and yurts $50–$65/night. When you’re ready to explore, start at the park’s Nature Store where you can pick up information about the park’s flora and fauna, or join a nature walk. Then choose from more than 20 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as a short barrier-free path. If you’re visiting in winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Bring your GPS and go on a geocaching treasure hunt, or bring your binoculars and go on safari for a variety of migratory birds, waterfowl, and wildlife, including deer, foxes and badgers. And little ones will love becoming Junior Park Naturalists and learning about bugs, birds, plants and other critters. If you’re looking for a real outdoor adventure, Afton State Park has what you’re looking for.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow River State Park

    2. Willow River State Park

    58 Reviews
    147 Photos
    363 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    3. Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    47 Reviews
    145 Photos
    177 Saves

    Schools of trout happily swim through the lazy Whitewater River and various spring fed creeks of Whitewater State Park. And while it’s known for its fantastic fishing opportunities, the park also boasts year-round interpretive programs, a modern Visitor Center, and an especially appreciated lack of mosquitos, unique for the region. Whitewater is well seasoned, with a number of historical attractions within and nearby. In fact, 2019 marks the 100th anniversary of the park. To commemorate the occasion, local conservationists and naturalists have teamed up to release a special Oral History Project from stories of campers and those native to the region. Explorers and adventurers will love this park’s diverse selection of attractions and oddities. Home of the park office and interpretive services, the Whitewater Valley Visitor Center should be your first stop. The friendly Park staff are ready to help you plan your visit and load you up on information, and even loaner equipment such as GPS units, fishing kits, discovery kits for kids, and birding kits. Don’t skip the Discovery Room, which showcases nature displays, exhibits and a spotting area to observe the local bluebirds, cardinals, hawks and bald eagles flying about. The vast expanse of outdoor wilderness is really what you’ll want to check out. If you only have time for a quick visit, check out the Chimney Rock Trail for an awesome view of the Whitewater River. Those searching for a more accessible hike can take the Meadow Trail, which drops off right into a grassy valley, surrounded by dramatic Minnesota bluffs. During the hot and humid summers, go unwind at the beach for a refreshing dip in the cold, spring-fed water. Those more interested in history lovers should visit the famous Elba Fire Tower. Built in 1933, this sturdy tower offers cozy 360 degree views of the entire wetland region below. You’ll be especially grateful for the chance to unwind, thanks to the arduous 500-step climb required to ascend to the top. Finally, firmly planted atop the land sits Inspiration Point; a beautiful limestone rock outcrop that overlooks the entirety of the Whitewater valley. Known as the most popular attraction within Whitewater State Park, visitors can still discover solace from their troubles. In fact, this is the only overlook in the entire park where there are no signs of civilization anywhere in sight. With just a little imagination, standing atop Inspiration Point on a clear, calm day can make you feel as if you could step down into a deep forested paradise, unspoiled and far from the reach of society. Whitewater campground here is plentiful, with every site having full electric hookups and full-through capabilities. The campground features a full range of amenities including regularly placed shower houses with laundry facilities, and a number of group camping areas as well. Furthermore, there are 5 cabins available with various sleeping capabilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    4. St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    25 Photos
    89 Saves
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground

    5. Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground

    7 Reviews
    30 Photos
    48 Saves

    Tent only campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $22 - $132 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park

    6. Oxbow County Park

    6 Reviews
    22 Photos
    18 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Nugget Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Nugget Lake County Park

    7. Nugget Lake County Park

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    41 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Shades of Sherwood Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shades of Sherwood Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shades of Sherwood Campground

    8. Shades of Sherwood Campground

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    39 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Resort

    9. Big River Resort

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    9 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins

    10. Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins

    3 Reviews
    13 Photos
    34 Saves
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Cabins
    • Tent Cabin

    $85 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 20 campgrounds

Recent Cabin Reviews In Hay Creek

158 Reviews of 20 Hay Creek Campgrounds


  • Kim R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from River View Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    River View Campground

    Great family campground

    Lots of activities for kids and teens. Teen social on Fridays to help them meet friends. Nice pool. The campground is on a hill if you have mobility issues. Many spots along the river.

  • Nanette M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Sleepy Hollow Campground

    Horrible service

    My husband made a reservation for our 25th wedding anniversary and he was rushed in the hospital for an emergency surgery. We notified you 3 days in advance and you refused to give us even a partial refund! We only had that money to celebrate. You didn't even offer another date for us! We are now not able to enjoy our 25th! That's terrible that you will do nothing in such an emergency situation. I will be making this public in every venue I can. Disgusting that you will probably get paid by another person to stay there. How disappointing that you would offer us nothing! Very bad business.

  • Jordan D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton State Park
    May. 11, 2024

    Afton State Park

    Sites with privacy and great trails near!

    Good pricing, great trails for all different skill levels and nice staff. Our site was mighty large and for the most part secluded from those near and on the path. $22 for the site, $8 for reservation. $8 for wood (all you can chop) and $7 for the overnight and next day parking pass for one car. Beautiful surroundings and clean bathrooms and grills one mile mostly uphill hike from parking lot but not to difficult and some paved parts. Definitely coming back.

  • Brad J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
    Oct. 6, 2023

    St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    Beautiful grounds and very friendly hosts

    Only tricky part is finding a level spot if you don't have leveling rams or jacks. Otherwise it's relatively well spaced apart sites with 20amp service. Clean modern facilities and beautiful grounds. Came in around $24 for our stay.

  • Ames
    Camper-submitted photo from Nugget Lake County Park
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Nugget Lake County Park

    Gem!

    This park had lots of old tree coverage. The site we had was secluded enough from others. But they had sites available that were open to each other good for groups. They say on the description which are linked together. Nice clean facilities. Saw they had an outdoor theater which we didn’t see in action because we weren’t there tell almost 10pm and someone was still in the office. Nice grass trails. Looked like a decent playground.

  • Tiffany B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Aefintyr
    Jun. 15, 2023

    Aefintyr

    Aefintyr is a gem in the Whitewater area!

    Aefintyr has it all!

    A beautiful cabin, hike-in glamping or bring your own gear.

    I was able to stay in the cabin for a couple nights with two friends. The cabin was cozy even during winter. The space was perfect for us. 

    I also brought my own gear and camped up on the bluff. It was so fun to socialize in the shared space around the fire and play games. 

    If you are up in the bluff, be sure to wear good shoes for the hike up. 

    I love that each site has it's own fire pit with fire wood.

    The Whitewater area is so beautiful, I enjoy hiking in the area.

    Looking forward to going back!

  • Ally S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Aefintyr
    Jun. 11, 2023

    Aefintyr

    Amazing Hike-in site!

    Amazing time spent at Aefintyr! We stayed at the bring your own gear site and it was amazing! We explored the land and other sites! Staff are amazing and helpful! Totally on my list to go back!

  • Mike L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Aefintyr
    May. 22, 2023

    Aefintyr

    Beautiful campsite with a lot of amenities.

    Its nice to have a place this nice only 35 minutes from Rochester. Beautiful campground with great amenities available. The hike to the site is steep but worth it once you get up there. I stayed at the Talia bell tent site so I didn't have to bring much so it made the hike a lot easier. Short drive to White Water State Park. A lot of great trout fishing spots along the river. Very peaceful campground, great view of the stars on clear nights! Will definitely be back.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oxbow County Park
    May. 15, 2023

    Oxbow County Park

    Beautiful Campground & Park & Zoo!

    The campground Host Sherry and John are great!

    The campground is well maintained and right by the river. Nice RV spots and nice tent spots along the river. #10 is nice tent spot we like. #20 is good RV spot we use. There is Firewood in a shed for sale.

    No cell service but able to text.

    Nice clean bathrooms! Great shower heads in men’s bathroom.

    Trails are super nice and well maintained, many different levels of hikes going along the River to hikes up on the prairie tops. Some nice overlooks.

    Zoo and nature center are great. Animals are all rescued and given a home. Bison herd and elk and deer too.

    We will be camping there again!

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aefintyr
    Jan. 18, 2023

    Aefintyr

    Peace, Quiet & Quality

    Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're so excited to have this unique property on our platform. Offering hike in sites with Bell Tents or pitch your own, this is a great place to view the stars. Each site has a bundle of firewood so you can roast your s'mores and cook your food. Book your site today and come here to leave them some love.

  • Scott M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
    Dec. 22, 2022

    Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins

    Great Cold Weather Option

    Super simple camping cabins. They each have 4 spots and have contactless entry as you get sent a code to use. There is no cooking inside the cabin so you have to use the fire ring outside. Shower facilities are really nice and match the cabins. Plan ahead as these are hard to come by.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Sep. 6, 2022

    Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    Cedar Hill

    We camped at Whitewater State Park August 14-17, 2022, in drive-in campsite #53 of the Cedar Hill campground. The campsite was great! We were surrounded by mature trees, shrubs, and wildflowers on three sides. We could hear the flow of the river as it tumbled along its course behind the campsite. It was very peaceful.

    Lots of birds, butterflies, and squirrels visited our campsite daily. We heard raccoons at night but never saw them. There were no mosquitos and very few other flying insects.

    It was a long walk from our site to the new restroom/shower building. There was water and a vault toilet closer, about four campsites away.

    The park has many hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty. We hiked to Chimney Rock and Inspiration Point and found the trails more challenging than we expected from their descriptions.

    We greatly enjoyed our time at Whitewater and plan to return.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from River View Campground
    Aug. 17, 2022

    River View Campground

    Our LGBT family wouldn't stay here again

    First of all, the good - we appreciated the campground being able to accommodate our last-minute reservation. The bathrooms and showers were small but nice, and my kids liked the playground. Full hookups. They also have a camp store that seemed well-stocked, and an activity room for weekly Bingo, etc.

    The bad - while the long term sites were pretty, level, and relatively private, our site was definitely none of those. Very unlevel gravel and mud and very close to our neighbors. We were excited for the laundry room but they had to shut it down because of a leak, and the clothes we did wash didn't seem to come out clean. Finally, our LGBTQ family didn't feel very comfortable because of the amount of conservative paraphernalia displayed by both the owners/staff and some of the other visitors.

    Overall, our family wouldn't stay here again.

  • Brady J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Aug. 2, 2022

    Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    Perfect weekend

    We are new to tent camping and are fortunate to live a short drive away from Whitewater State Park. We have heard from our friends who go camping that this is a highly sought after destination and I can see why. Beautiful lookouts on trails, quiet camp sites (non electric sites are much more peaceful), and very nice amenities. The main shower/restroom area looks brand new and is very nice.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Jul. 25, 2022

    Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    Family friendly

    Not overly crowded, clean showers and family friendly. Swimming beach about half a mile from campground. Didn’t get to hike, due to heavy rain. TMobile has no service while AT&T has average to poor service. Probably one of the nicest state park camping I’ve done.

  • Busy C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rochester-Marion KOA
    Jul. 24, 2022

    Rochester-Marion KOA

    Nice campground

    This campground has lots of shade and grassy sites. The grounds are very well maintained. The bathrooms and showers were very clean. It was extremely quiet. The kids enjoyed the pool. It was perfect for our one nights stay. We would return.

  • Victor S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    Jul. 14, 2022

    Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    Absolutely wonderful campground tucked inside a state park.

    Whitewater State Park Campground is amazing. It's very clean, well kept and the sites are all mostly private with trees which is so much nicer than being in a giant field of tents and RVs like most campgrounds. There's toilets all over the place and water available in many spots. There's beautiful hiking trails right next to the campground and a lovely beach for kids. I'll definitely be back.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from River View Campground
    Jul. 3, 2022

    River View Campground

    Great Inexpensive place to go

    Sites are nice and pretty level. “River” was nice to look at and ok to dip your feet in but very shallow. Neighbors decided movie night was important with surround sound but over all I would stay here again.

    Lots of seasonal golf cart traffic and kids on bikes.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Woods Park
    Jun. 13, 2022

    Chester Woods Park

    Large sites

    Nice place but it is a campground not an rv park, 30 & 50 amp service but no water hookup (fill when you come in) and dump tanks when leaving,

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Rochester-Marion KOA
    Jun. 8, 2022

    Rochester-Marion KOA

    beautiful sites and friendly staff

    Just stopping for the night but very happy Nice clean campground with beautiful trees Laundry and showers are very nice

  • Dan P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground
    May. 5, 2022

    Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

    Cart-in #2

    Enjoyed the cart-in experience. Made it feel like you were out a bit more and not totally dependent on your car. Also further away from the road. Couldn’t hear any traffic at night or day. The creek helped with that too. Enjoyed putting up our REI kingdom 6. Grilled hot dogs and s’mores. Read star Bible and Brian Jacques’ Redwall to our little boys. In the morning we did a little hike before taking off. Just 1 night stay.



Guide to Hay Creek

Camping near Hay Creek, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful parks and campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy nature while making lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area." The trails lead to stunning waterfalls, making it a perfect spot for a day hike.
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Byllesby Regional Park for some fishing. A visitor shared, "The campgrounds were beautiful and well kept. The bathrooms were immaculate." It’s a great place to relax by the water and cast a line.
  • Biking: Check out the trails at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. One reviewer said, "Great stay friendly workers," highlighting the park's well-maintained paths for biking enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Sites are wooded so you don’t have neighbor issues." This makes it a peaceful retreat.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Frontenac State Park Campground, one camper remarked, "Great showers with DRY AREAS to dress after taking a shower. Bathrooms are VERY CLEAN."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Afton State Park Campground, a reviewer said, "Good pricing, great trails for all different skill levels and nice staff."

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Lebanon Hills Regional Park advised, "Must reserve months in advance as usually full."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Carley State Park Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper mentioned, "Not much privacy but I am used to hike-in sites."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared to encounter wildlife. One camper at Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground shared, "We heard bullfrogs, owls, woodpeckers and more."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that offer space for kids to play. A family at Highland Ridge noted, "This is a beautiful, densely wooded campground with fairly well spaced sites."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One camper at Afton State Park Campground mentioned, "Great trails for all different skill levels," perfect for family hikes.
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outdoor activities. A visitor at Lake Byllesby Regional Park said, "Very clean and well kept campground," making it a great place to relax after a day of fun.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "Carts are provided and parking is very close by."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. At Frontenac State Park Campground, a camper noted, "Limited electric sites, most on the inside of the first two loops."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A visitor at Highland Ridge mentioned, "Dump Station: Yes," which is helpful for RVers.

Camping near Hay Creek, Minnesota, offers a variety of experiences, from hiking and fishing to family-friendly activities. With well-maintained campgrounds and friendly staff, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Hay Creek, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Hay Creek, MN is Afton State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find cabin camping near Hay Creek, MN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 20 cabin camping locations near Hay Creek, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.