Glamping options near Lakeland, Minnesota offer elevated camping experiences within the St. Croix Valley. This region sits at approximately 700-900 feet above sea level with seasonal temperature variations from below-freezing winters to humid 80°F summer days. Most luxury camping accommodations require reservations months in advance, with peak booking periods from March through May for summer stays.
What to do
River exploration: Wild River State Park Campground offers extensive river access for paddling and fishing. "I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails," notes Joanna B., highlighting the year-round accessibility.
Winter recreation: The region transforms in colder months, offering unique glamping experiences. "We planned on attending their candlelight ski and decided to camp. The campground was fully reserved but was empty, the low was 10 so people must have bowed out," shares another visitor about Wild River State Park's winter programming.
Wildlife observation: The area's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife viewing. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," reports Kate H., describing the evening soundscape at Wild River.
What campers like
Tree-elevated cabins: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins provide a distinctive glamping experience. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees. The storage in this place is amazing. Storage under the bed, one counter with ample storage under it, and even the windows are so deep," explains a visitor who appreciated the functional design.
Secluded waterfront sites: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers premium lakeside camping. "Site 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery," shares Clare L., highlighting a specific location for those seeking seclusion.
Accessible glamping: Many locations provide barrier-free options. Blair notes about Whitetail Woods: "Cabins are accessible for those who need special assistance, which is nice. The only caveat is I don't recall there being an automatic door opener to the cabins."
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water systems at many parks shut down during colder months. "No water on trail 4th July weekend 2019. 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. about Afton State Park Campground.
Shower limitations: Even at premium glamping sites, shower facilities can be basic. "Don't plan on a long shower to unwind unless you like cold water. There was maybe 2 minutes of hot water... The shower room is also set to a cool 58 degrees in the winter," cautions a visitor to Whitetail Woods.
Reservation challenges: Popular sites book up quickly. "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by," advises Scott M. about Whitetail Woods, while another reviewer notes, "For example, as of this review (early June), all weekends are booked for all cabins."
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark access: Bunker Hills Regional Park combines camping with water recreation. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," mentions Tiffany W., with another reviewer noting, "There's a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails."
Multi-generation activities: The regional parks offer varied terrain and amenities for different ages. "We love to camp here. Access to lake independence. A lot of biking trails. Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away," shares a visitor at Baker Campground.
Educational experiences: Many sites feature interpretive centers. "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 Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers various site types. "The lots were really big and we had no one near us, so it was nice and private. Most of the lots near the front were occupied but the back was almost empty, which is where the more wooded lots are," advises Zach H., emphasizing location preferences.
Winter hookups: For cold-weather glamping, verify which utilities remain operational. "The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent," notes a winter camper at Wild River State Park, though electricity access may vary seasonally at different locations.
Suburban convenience: Some glamping sites balance natural settings with nearby services. "This seems to be the hot spot for horses and if we go back I definitely want to do the horseback riding right outside the park!" mentions a Wild River visitor, highlighting amenities just beyond park boundaries.
