Lake Elmo County Park Reserve serves as the primary camping destination in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, located approximately 20 miles east of Minneapolis-St. Paul. The 2,000-acre park offers both modern and rustic camping options with electric hookups available at designated sites. Nearby alternatives include William O'Brien State Park Campground, 25 miles north near Scandia, and Afton State Park Campground, 15 miles southeast. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate tents and RVs, while some facilities like Afton State Park also provide cabin and yurt accommodations. The area represents a blend of county and state-managed lands with varying amenities and site configurations.
Seasonal operation affects most camping options in the area, with Lake Elmo County Park Reserve typically open from April through October. Electric hookups are available at modern campsites, though water hookups are limited at some locations. Several visitors mentioned the spaciousness and privacy of sites as notable features. One camper shared, "The sites are spacious and far enough away from others to feel like there was enough privacy." Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when the swimming pond and other recreational amenities draw larger crowds. The region experiences typical Midwestern seasonal patterns with humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall particularly pleasant for camping.
Many campers highlight the extensive recreational options available at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve as a primary attraction. The park features a chlorinated swimming pond with a sand bottom and beach area that receives consistently positive reviews. Extensive hiking and biking trails wind through varied terrain including woods, prairie, and lakefront areas. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "There is a lot to do in this country park reserve: hiking, walking, horseback riding, playgrounds, swimming, fishing, etc! There is a HUGE area for hiking, it's so large that you rarely come across another person during your hike." Family-friendly amenities include multiple playgrounds, fishing opportunities, and boat access. While alcohol is prohibited in some campgrounds and pet policies vary by location, the proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting makes these campgrounds particularly appealing for weekend getaways.
"Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"
"Located 5 miles outside of Hudson, Willow Creek State Park is large park with hiking, camp sites, fishing, canoeing, and the waterfall."
$23 - $80 / night
"Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."
"We’ve stayed at Lake Elmo a couple of times. My son now lives in the Cities, so I expect we’ll be back more often. Super-friendly staff and Camp hosts."
$22 - $85 / night
"Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks."
"It is also next to Afton Ski resort. This park has a lot of beautiful prairie landscape with some temperate forest features. Wildflowers, shrubs, fungi, evergreens, and deciduous trees."
$25 - $90 / night
"Easy walking trails surround the park which is nice and convenient. Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip. Camp sites were very clean and easy to access."
"We O'Brian has some of the best groomed trails that I have been on."
$24 - $42 / night
"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
"Washington County, which manages campgrounds at both the Lake Elmo Park Reserve and St Croix Bluffs Regional Park, does a great job of maintaining campgrounds, trails, and bathroom facilities at both parks"
"Minnesota is beautiful and there is so much to do here. The bathrooms are spotless and everything is new here."
$20 - $75 / night
"Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday. The campground is neat and well managed."
"We have lived in the Twin Cities for two decades and have never visited Rice Creek Chain of Lakes before. We will again!"
$20 - $32 / night
"Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
"When Rice Creek Campground opens up again in April I'd highly recommend going there if all you want is a simple camping experience to get away from the city grind."
$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"
"Interstate State Park is situated along the St Croix River just outside the small town of Taylor Falls, MN."
$30 - $150 / night
"This this is an amazing Campground with two heated pools one up top and one down below they're also campsites located right alongside the river the campground offers tubing disc golf and many other activities"
TravelerKind of confusing for first time. Was not sure where I could camp. But then found out it's the spots right along road. Beautiful. Some good spots. Ended up in a pull thru around w view.
ScoutYou have clear views of the River and Valley from the campgrounds.
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.
TravelerWe 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.
RangerSo, I think you know what you are signing up for here when you stay camp at the backpacking site at Afton, but let me fill in some of the blanks. #1 yes, the hill climb is as big of an effort as other people have said. You will feel like you earned your dinner. I may have found a hack for this, but more in that later. #2 the site are mostly private. I stayed on site #12. I could see (and they could have seen me) site #9, but thankfully no one was there. That would have been a bummer to have other looking into my site. There is even a semi-worn path between 12 and 9. They would make a good combo if you have a group. Other than that, totally secluded. As far space at #12, you could build as big of a tent structure there as you would need, easily room for a massive 16’x24’ palace (if you would dare to carry it) or anything smaller. An Eagle Scout project built hammock posts at this site, so it is ideal for that set up. #3 the campground amenities are very nice. The solar powered water works great year round, the two pits toilets (if you can even call them that) are very new and nice. And the coolest campground feature is the cut your own firewood station. I went a little overboard since it was so nice and had a way bigger fire than I needed. Bring your own saw and you will love it too. #4 After walking around the park, I discovered a possible hack. There is an unmarked entrance to the park on the north side. Instead of walking all my gear back to the parking lot, I walked the .5 miles to the service entrance, dropped my pack, and then walked the 1.8 miles back to the parking lot. I tend to carry too much. The flat short walk to drop my gear was worth it. Then I drop around the park and picked up my stuff. Probably not MN DNR endorsed way to do it, but I was proud of my discovery. All in, this is a unique and wonderful camping experience. Highly recommend.
GuideNerstrand is so lovely in October. We reserved sites 2 and 4. Though they were right next to each other, they felt very secluded. Site 4 felt a bit more private from the main road because the campsite slightly slopes downward. There is also a log bench positioned close to the fire which some may think is nice but was a bit inconveniently placed for our bigger group to gather around the fire. Plenty of trees to set up multiple hammocks at site 4.
The bathrooms were updated and clean. Unfortunately on our last day, the campground lost running water so only the vault toilets were usable. As someone who doesn’t prefer this option, the vault toilet near the ranger station was actually pretty clean and updated too.
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!!!
RangerWe did a one night camping trip for my birthday at Cart-In Site 1 the second to last weekend of September.
We loved the hiking at Frontenac State Park - walking along the lake and then walking along the bluffs at sunset was magical! Fantastic views. I imagine if we had gone two weeks later, we would have had a fantastic display of fall color. We went a little too early to catch the changing leaves.
We loved how easy Frontenac was for a casual weekend getaway. It was an easy, scenic one hour drive from St. Paul that was very enjoyable. The park was also nice with great bathrooms at the main campsite, nice trails, and they even had board games to check out at the front office for a rainy day- a great idea!
We stayed at Cart-In Site 1. I would rate the site itself a 3. It was very secluded and spacious, which was fantastic! We could not see any other campsites from our site, which was fantastic. We only occasionally saw some hikers on a nearby trail. We could hear some other noisy campers, but it wasn't too much of a disturbance. Very wooded, nice, spacious site. There is not water at the Cart-In parking lot, so be aware that you will have to fill up prior to parking and heading to your site (easiest place to do so is the main office/ visitor center).
I also slept poorly because of a nearby train that kept going past and honking at least until midnight. So if you're a light sleeper, be aware of persistent train noise at these sites!
Overall good site and an easy, fun, and relaxing weekend getaway from the twin cities.
Lake Elmo's camping options extend beyond the county park reserve, with several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius offering varied terrain and amenities. Located in Minnesota's eastern metropolitan region, the area features a mix of prairie, woodland, and riverfront camping environments. Seasonal operation varies by location, with most campgrounds fully operational from April through October when temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F.
Hike extensive trail systems: At William O'Brien State Park Campground, visitors can explore varied landscapes. "We love this park!! very friendly and well kept! Two campgrounds to chose from. Tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river!" reports Michelle S. The park provides access to multiple ecosystems within a single location.
Kayak on calm waters: Multiple lakes across the region offer paddling opportunities during summer months. The Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park provides water access points. "There is a HUGE area for hiking, it's so large that you rarely come across another person during your hike," notes one visitor. Rental equipment is available seasonally at several locations.
Explore geological formations: Unique rock formations provide educational opportunities within a short drive from Lake Elmo. "The draw here is the world's largest glacial potholes. When the river ran 200' higher than it does today, tornados of water eroded smooth round, massive holes in the rock. Some are so big that they still to this day have no idea how deep they go," explains Erik R. about the formations accessible from nearby campsites.
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel of certain sites near Lake Elmo. At Lebanon Hills Regional Park, "sites with full hookups or more remote sites with electric that are more tucked away in the pines" are available according to Katie C. The park's layout maximizes privacy between camping units.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and shower facilities rank high in camper satisfaction. "The bathroom facility has seen better days. The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," notes Krista T. about one location, showing how facility quality varies across the region.
Proximity to urban amenities: The convenient location allows for quick access to services when needed. "We camped here due to its proximity to Minneapolis airport...had an early flight the next morning. Really convenient location," mentions Robert B. about his stay at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, highlighting the practical advantages of camping near the metropolitan area.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during summer weekends. "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May," advises one Lebanon Hills visitor. Booking windows typically open 90-120 days in advance.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities operate with limited services in shoulder seasons. At Afton State Park Campground, "none of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!" warns Warren H., highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Varied alcohol policies: Rules regarding alcohol consumption differ between locations. "This may be a dry park," notes a visitor about one location, while others permit alcohol with certain restrictions. Checking site-specific regulations before arrival prevents confusion and potential citations.
Chlorinated swimming options: The manufactured swimming areas provide safer alternatives to natural lakes. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," explains Timothy S. about Lake Elmo's swimming pond, a feature particularly appreciated by parents of young children.
Playground accessibility: Multiple play areas throughout regional parks accommodate different age groups. At St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, visitors find "such a beautiful park with large sites. Nice playground for the kids. Fantastic bathrooms zoned showers," according to Lisa D., indicating the family-friendly orientation of the facilities.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide programming specifically designed for younger visitors. "Facilities are great no complains, the beach is a bit over run my goose so is a little dirty, there is a great spot below the dam to cool off if needed," reports Ludwig H., pointing out alternative options when primary facilities are less than ideal.
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. "Sites are a little close with little to no privacy in most. Fun little trails nearby for an afternoon walk. Reservation system is weird and the sites are much bigger than they say," advises Davis D., noting the importance of understanding the actual dimensions available.
Hookup availability: Electric access is common, but water and sewer connections vary by location. Most campgrounds in the Lake Elmo area offer 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp connections for larger units. Dump stations are typically centrally located rather than at individual sites.
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly across campgrounds in the region. "Very nice campground with lots of trails, a beach, and many playgrounds. Only recommendation is to get the firewood from down the road and not at the campground," suggests Lenora H., highlighting practical considerations beyond just the camping spot itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Lake Elmo campground?
Lake Elmo County Park Reserve offers an impressive array of amenities. The campground features both modern and rustic campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. Recreation options include a filtered swimming pond with a sandy beach, built-in umbrellas for shade, and a concession stand. The park boasts extensive hiking and horseback riding trails, a playground for children, and boating opportunities. Bathroom facilities are well-maintained, making this a comfortable camping experience for families. The park also includes unique features like an archery range set within the rolling prairie landscape.
Where can I find a map of Lake Elmo campground?
Maps of Lake Elmo campground are available at the park entrance station during check-in, though they occasionally run out during busy periods. For advance planning, the Washington County Parks website offers downloadable PDF maps showing campsite layouts, trails, and facilities. The maps distinguish between modern and rustic camping areas, helping you select the ideal location. If you prefer physical maps, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, another excellent Twin Cities camping option, follows a similar system with maps available online and at their entrance station. For the most current trail conditions and temporary closures, check the park's official website before your visit.
How do I make reservations for camping at Lake Elmo Park Reserve?
Reservations for camping at Lake Elmo Park Reserve can be made through Washington County's online reservation system. The county manages both Lake Elmo Park Reserve and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park with the same reservation platform. To book, visit the Washington County Parks website and select your desired dates and campsite type (modern or rustic). Reservations typically open several months in advance, and it's recommended to book early, especially for summer weekends. If you encounter issues with the online system, you can call the park office directly for assistance with your reservation.
Is there RV camping available at Lake Elmo?
Yes, Lake Elmo Park Reserve offers RV camping in its modern campground section, which is specifically designed for non-tent campers. The modern sites provide electric hookups and accommodate RVs of various sizes, though some sites may have length restrictions. The campground features clean, well-maintained facilities to support RV campers. For those seeking alternative RV options in the region, Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground offers wooded sites just 1.5 hours from the Twin Cities with lovely views of Lake Pepin. When making reservations, be sure to specify your RV length and hookup requirements to ensure you're assigned an appropriate site.
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