Best Campgrounds near Lakeland, MN

Lakeland is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Lakeland is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Lakeland, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Lakeland, Minnesota (106)

    1. Willow River State Park Campground

    58 Reviews
    147 Photos
    369 Saves
    Hudson, Wisconsin
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    2. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    37 Reviews
    73 Photos
    161 Saves
    Lake Elmo, Minnesota

    Washington County offers two beautiful campgrounds for a relaxing getaway, one located within Lake Elmo Park Reserve and the other within St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. Find a campsite that suits your needs, from sites with electric and water hook-ups, to group sites, to rustic hike-in sites. Enjoy all the other amenities the parks have to offer, including hiking, fishing, boating, and more.

    Washington County Campgrounds are open for the season. Online, in-person, and phone reservations are now being accepted.

    Group Campground Features Three sites available for groups of up to 50 people Wheeled cart available for check-out at park office Group Site #2 includes a small picnic shelter Picnic table and fire ring/grill provided at each site Vault or portable toilets available One-day reservations allowed Pets are not allowed

    Hike-In Campground Features Five hike-in tent sites - one tent per site Hiking distance from parking lot is approximately 100 to 300 yards Wheeled cart available for check-out at park office with a refundable deposit Modern bathrooms and water available at the Nordic Center Pets are not allowed

    Modern Campground Features Eighty campsites, suited for tents, trailers, or motor homes - most sites are back-in Sites 1-58 have 20/30/50 amp with water. Site 59 is 50 amp only (no water). Sites 60-80 are 20/30 amp Camp Host/Work Camper sites include sewer hookup Picnic table and fire ring/grill provided at each site Modern bathroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers Trailer/RV dump station Play area Handicap accessible One camping unit per site Pets are not allowed

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $23 - $80 / night

    3. Afton State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    93 Photos
    204 Saves
    Denmark, Minnesota

    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

    4. William O'Brien State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    114 Photos
    153 Saves
    Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $16 - $250 / night

    5. Lebanon Hills Regional Park

    41 Reviews
    83 Photos
    276 Saves
    Apple Valley, Minnesota

    Lebanon Hills Regional Park is the largest park in the Dakota County park system. Containing almost 2,000 acres, the park offers miles of trails and many lakes for year-round outdoor sports, recreation and environmental education. The Lebanon Hills Visitor Center, located in the eastern section of the park, offers park information, interactive nature displays, courses and programs, equipment rental and access to all the beauty the park has to offer. Dakota County Parks is actively restoring more than 1,100 acres of prairie and forest within Lebanon Hills Campground and planting more than 3,000 new trees and shrubs.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $42 / night

    6. Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    50 Reviews
    241 Photos
    221 Saves
    Taylors Falls, Minnesota

    There is so much to do at Interstate State Park along the beautiful St. Croix River. Explore unique geology and stunning cliff-top views, hike trails through diverse habitat, canoe or kayak, or relax on an excursion boat. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbers. Visit in spring for trails lined with wildflowers. Come in fall for picturesque valley views. Experience the park's glacial potholes during any season. These impressive holes were carved into the rock by swirling sand and water thousands of years ago.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $34 / night

    7. St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    25 Photos
    92 Saves
    Denmark, Minnesota
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    8. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    13 Photos
    148 Saves
    Lino Lakes, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $75 / night

    9. Wild River State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    133 Photos
    154 Saves
    Taylors Falls, Minnesota

    The park provides opportunities for semi-modern camping, group camping, equestrian camping, backpack camping, and canoe camping. Visitors who want modern amenities can reserve the guest house which provides a living room, dining room, kitchen, and fireplace. The park also has six camping cabins which include bunkbeds, a table, and benches.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 / night

    10. Highland Ridge

    16 Reviews
    60 Photos
    93 Saves
    Spring Valley, Wisconsin

    Overview

    Highland Ridge overlooks the sparkling Eau Galle Reservoir located in Spring Valley, in western Wisconsin. The area boasts 648 acres of scenery with numerous opportunities for recreation, including fishing, canoeing and plenty of hiking. Horseback riders enjoy the trails around the lush region.

    Recreation

    Hikers can enjoy the 7 miles worth of trails, along with overlook seating areas and a swimming beach. Horseback riders have a variety of trails to choose from. Fishermen cast their reels year-round. Kayaking, canoeing, and electric-motor boating are common.

    Natural Features

    The 35-mile Eau Galle River feeds into 150 acre Eau Galle Lake, which is surrounded by steep hills and bluffs. The campground is opposite the dam on the north side of the small reservoir. The area is set in a heavily wooded area that provides a welcoming habitat for native plants and animals.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (715) 778-5562 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    Highland Ridge is minutes from Spring Valley Golf Course, Crystal Cave, Cady Cheese Factory, Red Cedar Bike Trial, Vino in the Valley, Nugget Lake, Wakanda Water Park, Maple Leaf Orchard and Goven's Farm.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $280 / night

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Recent Reviews near Lakeland, MN

716 Reviews of 106 Lakeland Campgrounds



Guide to Lakeland

Camping near Lakeland, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful parks and campgrounds, it’s a perfect getaway for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area."
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing at Interstate State Park. A reviewer shared, "Canoe and kayak rentals for more adventures on the river."
  • Wildlife Watching: Check out Wild River State Park Campground for a chance to see deer and other wildlife. One camper noted, "We spotted three white-tail deer."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Frontenac State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Bathrooms are VERY CLEAN."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve. One happy camper remarked, "Spacious sites that are situated in a staggered way, so you never feel like you’re on top of each other."
  • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of Afton State Park Campground is a big draw. A reviewer expressed, "The eagles soar as you swim in the sandy, shallow warm river stream."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lebanon Hills Regional Park, have limited amenities. A visitor mentioned, "No hook up sites for up to 24ft RVs also available."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially at campgrounds like William O'Brien State Park Campground. One camper noted, "Our neighbors were extremely loud and were pretty rowdy all evening."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Raccoons can be a nuisance at night, especially at Wild River State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Raccoons will visit your site at night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Parks: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Lake Elmo County Park Reserve. One parent said, "Great bike trails, lakes a little way’s from campground."
  • Plan for Hiking: Many parks have trails suitable for all ages. A reviewer at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "Trails are also nice and well kept."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids during hikes. A camper at Afton State Park Campground suggested, "Good pricing, great trails for all different skill levels."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites, especially at Interstate State Park. A reviewer noted, "The electric sites are quite cramped."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Lebanon Hills Regional Park advised, "Must reserve months in advance as usually full."
  • Be Prepared for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in the summer months. A camper at William O'Brien State Park Campground warned, "We went through a lot of bug spray and coils."

Camping around Lakeland, Minnesota, has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat, you’ll find it in these beautiful campgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Lakeland, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Lakeland, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 106 campgrounds and RV parks near Lakeland, MN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Lakeland, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lakeland, MN is Willow River State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 58 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lakeland, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Lakeland, MN.

  • What parks are near Lakeland, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Lakeland, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.