Best Campgrounds near Lake Elmo, MN
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.
