Camping near Lakeville, Minnesota includes several campgrounds located within 30 minutes of this Twin Cities suburb. The region sits within the transition zone between prairie and hardwood forests, creating diverse ecosystems for exploration at various campgrounds. Winter camping options expand beyond just Whitetail Woods, with several parks offering year-round facilities despite average January temperatures of 15°F.
What to do
Hiking trails with waterfalls: Nerstrand Big Woods State Park features trails leading to a small but picturesque waterfall. "We went there last July just go hiking for the day. The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," says Halie B.
Kayaking opportunities: Paddling options exist at several parks, allowing campers to experience the region from the water. "Nice little lake to kayak on," writes Chris S. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park. The park's small lake offers a peaceful water experience accessible to beginners.
Winter recreation: While summer camping dominates, winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing keep parks active year-round. At Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins, visitors find heated accommodations that make cold weather camping comfortable. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees," notes Krista T.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the full-hookup areas mentioned in the existing description, tent campers can find secluded spots throughout the region. At Cleary Lake Regional Park, "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy," says Jeff C.
Diverse terrain options: The region offers varied camping environments from wooded areas to prairie settings. "The sites are nice and level, with plenty of space between each one. This feels very much like a nice state park," reports Joanne M. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Regional parks quality: Many campers compare the county and regional parks favorably to state parks. At Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, one camper noted, "Top of the line campground. Surprisingly well spaced sites, facilities modern and clean. Trees galore. Clearly the locals use this park a lot."
What you should know
Site reservation strategy: The popularity of these campgrounds requires advance planning. "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May," advises Blair about Lebanon Hills.
Bathroom facilities vary: While some parks offer full shower facilities, others have more basic options. At Lake Byllesby Regional Park, campers appreciate that "The facilities are very clean and well-kept," according to Deb M.
Cell service considerations: Beyond the general reliability mentioned in the existing description, specific campgrounds may have connectivity challenges. At Whitetail Woods, one camper warns, "There's WiFi available, but depending on which cabin you reserve signal will be too weak for real usage. Same for mobile data—don't plan on cell service here."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities: Several parks feature updated playgrounds for children. Angela L. notes about Lebanon Hills: "Our spot was spacious, and close to the bathrooms and play area. The play area was really nice and looked brand new. Our girls loved making new friends to play with."
Swimming options: St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park provides beach access for families seeking water recreation. "Beach is great. Easy boat launch. Clean facility," states Rikki I., highlighting amenities beyond just camping.
Educational opportunities: Parks often offer programs specifically for children. Lake Elmo features "Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch," according to Tina H., providing structured activities during weekend stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: For larger rigs, knowing site specifications matters. At Dakotah Meadows RV Park, "We have also stayed in the pull through sites, but not really a fan of those. Still, I would choose this park over others in the area for the access to 494 and 35W," advises Tom D.
Services and amenities: RV-specific features like dump stations and hookup quality vary by location. At Dakotah Meadows, "There is fuel on site as well as RV wash station. Bath house and laundry and card controlled ($5 card deposit on check in)…well maintained facilities," reports Beth B.
Level site availability: RV campers particularly appreciate well-constructed sites. Lisa D. describes Town & Country Campground: "It's a nice park but very close compact. Everyone is squeezed in like sardines. Very tight quarters on roads and sites."
