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.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Elmo, Minnesota (120)

    1. Willow River State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Hudson, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 386-5931

    "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."

    2. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    37 Reviews
    Lake Elmo, MN
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (651) 430-8370

    $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."

    3. Afton State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Denmark, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 436-5391

    "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."

    4. William O'Brien State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Marine on St. Croix, MN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 539-4980

    $16 - $250 / 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."

    5. Lebanon Hills Regional Park

    43 Reviews
    Apple Valley, MN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 480-7773

    $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."

    6. St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Denmark, MN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 430-8240

    "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."

    7. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park

    17 Reviews
    Lino Lakes, MN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 324-3340

    $20 - $75 / night

    "Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday.   The campground is neat and well managed."

    "It was very easy to find, close to the twin cities, and clean. There was good access to kindling for a fire in the nice fire pit that has a grill."

    8. Rice Creek Campgrounds

    8 Reviews
    Lino Lakes, MN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 324-3340

    $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."

    9. Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    52 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 483-3747

    $24 - $34 / 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."

    10. Apple River Family Campground

    6 Reviews
    Marine on St. Croix, MN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 247-3600

    $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"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 120 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Lake Elmo, MN

780 Reviews of 120 Lake Elmo Campgrounds


  • Sarah D.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Wild River State Park Campground

    Secluded Backpack/Canoe Site with Sunrise Views

    I 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!!!

  • Sarah D.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Secluded Site and Great Views Close to the Twin Cities

    We 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.

  • Lance L.
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Cleary Lake Regional Park

    Large campground with plentyy of activities!

    They have two lots for RV and travel trailer use although the first lot only has two spaces and the second one has a total of five. The five space spot has no water or electric hook up but was a great place for me to test out my new solar set up. Word to the wise, gates ACTUALLY close at 10pm, there's no way to contact anyone and I had to walk about a mile in parked outside the gate 😅. The White Pine lot (5 spaces) has a central bathroom/shower building. The park was jam packed Friday/Saturday but a ghosts town the remains sun/mon/tue I stayed.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Great hiking trails NICE Bathrooms

    The campground is well maintained, all of the sites are clean and laid out nicely. Some sites are kinda close but there is brush growing between sites.

    There are a LOT of NICE TRAILS at this park. Many nice prairie trails and some fun trails in the bluffs along the Mississippi River too. One trail down along the River can be challenging because of MANY STAIRS.

    Large drive in picnic areas away from the campground that many people drive in to us and had a nice overlook on the Mississippi River. There are 2 nice overlooks that are great to walk to in the dark and watch the calmness and peaceful nature of the river and forest.

    The men’s bathroom and showers are GREAT! There is also very nice large full handicap bathrooms. The SHOWER WATER IS VERY HOT so be careful!

    Dump station is sloped so it makes it easy to drive in either direction to help dump waste water easily. Also fresh water at the dumping station.

    Always Plenty of firewood in the shed next to the office.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Lake Byllesby Regional Park

    Very nice campground

    This is a good campground. Very well kept. Fishing from shore and there is a boat launch. Nice playground for kids. Sites are fairly close. Many have no privacy from others, but some do. No water at the sites and pit toilets are the biggest weaknesses. Nice paths for walking and biking.

  • H
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve

    First time camping!

    For 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!

  • Larry K.
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Willow River State Park Campground

    Never again

    Never 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

  • Maria D.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Frontenac State Park Campground

    Cleanest Campground Bathrooms Ever!

    Frontenac State Park had some of the nicest campground bathrooms and showers I’ve ever seen—clean, and modern. The ranger station was small and charming, stocked with board games to rent, and it’s clear the staff cares about creating a positive camping experience. I also loved the little free library outside the bathrooms.

    The downsides are that the campsites run small, usually only fitting two tents at most, and there aren’t many trees for hammocking. It’s also a popular park, so it can get pretty loud at times.

    Favorite sites: 37 – Shady and on the edge with just one neighbor (though the main road is on the other side). Decent privacy and potential for hammocking.

    21 – Nice views, but likely best for just one tent/car.

    22 – Very private, though the ground looked a little uneven.

    Other solid tent sites: 36, 25, 48, 49, 51. Site 57 also looked spacious with no neighbors, but it does border the visitor parking lot.

  • Maria D.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    Lovely River, Too Much Hustle

    Interstate 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.


Guide to Lake Elmo

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.

What to do

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.

What campers like

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.

What you should know

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.

Tips for camping with families

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.

Tips from RVers

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.