Lebanon Hills Regional Park and Cleary Lake Regional Park accept pets at all campsites, providing amenities for campers with dogs. The campgrounds feature a mix of tent sites, RV spots with hookups, and shaded areas where pets can rest during summer heat. Dogs must remain on leash throughout both parks. Lebanon Hills offers secluded tent sites spaced far enough apart that neighbors can't be seen or heard, creating a peaceful environment for reactive dogs. Many sites at Cleary Lake back up to wooded areas with private "nooks" for fire pits, giving pets and owners space to relax.
Hiking trails through Lebanon Hills provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, with multiple path options accessible directly from the campground. Sites that back up to green spaces at Lebanon Hills tend to be sunnier, while others offer more shade coverage. Cleary Lake features hike-in spots that remain very close to parking areas, making it convenient for campers with pet supplies. A private dock at Cleary Lake's group campsite allows dogs water access in a controlled setting. Both parks maintain clean facilities with regular bathroom maintenance, though campers should bring their own pet waste bags and water bowls as dedicated pet stations are limited.
$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"
"It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very"
$16 - $50 / night
"I imagine in the middle of summer, it might feel slightly less secluded as there are 3 other sites relatively close by, one of which you have to walk through to get to this one, but in early September,"
"The access to water is really nice and a couple sites were perfect. The hike in sites are super close to the car so it doesn’t even require much work. Plan to come here again!"
$40 - $50 / night
"It was a large back in site with plenty of room for our two very large dogs. The water wasn't turned on yet, but we were able to fill our fresh water tank with a hose from their laundromat."
"The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained. Campground is right next to the hotel/casino and very much within walking distance."
$24 - $34 / night
"This is a Nice campground middle of Minnesota. Surprising place in the middle of farm country. Very nice campground and lots of walking trails. Great for leaf peeping."
"Though they were right next to each other, they felt very secluded. Site 4 felt a bit more private from the main road because the campsite slightly slopes downward."
"It’s an easy on and off the interstate, super close to a gas station and RV wash bay. Also super close to some very large power lines. The kids enjoyed the compact playground and pool."
"Some road noise, but you are in the city so expected, but yet still quieter then in some areas being close to things. I recommend this park."
$22 - $85 / night
"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."
"Near lake and excellent bike path. Great brewery and winery close by."
"Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they’re right in the lake with a wonderful view. The facilities are very clean and well-kept."
"A couple weeks ago we spent some time at the Northwest koa...that one had private tent sites surrounded on 3 sides by trees, quiet spaces etc."
$26 - $46 / night
"There is a bathroom, but it is a 10 minute walk, so plan to be self-sufficient in that regard. Friendly host."
$26 - $32 / night
"Full hookups available, quite a few pull through lots and close to the twin cities! No wifi, so make sure you've got decent cell service and hotspot if you need internet/wifi."
TravelerLebanon hills has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. 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
GuideI never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!
TravelerWe decided to make a spontaneous camping trip one weekend and found ourselves at Frontenac. The cart-in site we were at was very spacious but wasn't as secluded as we would have hoped. We didn't feel claustrophobic by any means but we could see several other sites from ours. We went early in the year and maybe the summer growth solves that problem. Bathrooms nearby but no water available. It was also windy enough in the evening that we called it an early night but I think that was just a front movingly through and had less to do with the hill we were on.
We went on a hike that showed off the wonderful bluffs along the Mississippi. As far as camping in Minnesota goes we prefer the options on the North Shore, but really enjoyed Frontenac and will be back to continue exploring.
LegendSmall little campground next to large casino. We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations….only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th…large concert event happening across the street. You will need to call early in the day to talk to office staff…who are very friendly. If after hours and there are no spots, you can dry dock in large lot in front of office. 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. Dog park available, watch a few spots in fence near bottom where fencing has risen up…little dogs could easily climb under. Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis…25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America (Aquarium) and Security patrols regularly and there is shuttle if you want to visit casino. Pool at hotel is not included. Golf attraction is being completed next door so there was some construction traffic during day as expected.
GuideWe were here for a night to see a concert at the amphitheater and everyone was super friendly. It was easy to check in, and we were able to do laundry and shower which was great. It’s mostly gravel but they have some tent sites on the grass. They are dog friendly and have some grassy areas to walk your pets which was great.
GuideSites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground.
ScoutWe called for an RV site but they don't allow pets.
TravelerWe just found this campground in September and this year we've been there 3 times and we live in Montana, there's no place I'd rather stay. It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups
The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very helpful.
lots of things in the area to do, and the "city" isn't that far to drive to.
GuideBeautiful, spacious, trees but open. Nice trails, clean restrooms, level sites. No alcohol allowed and no pets! Fire rings, sturdy picnic table. Electric and water.
I made reservations online and when we arrived they said I had reserved a place at Elmo Lake which was 20 miles away. Same 2 county facilities but different campgrounds. Oops my bad. Different addresses!
Camping options near Lakeville, Minnesota lie within the Minnesota River Valley area characterized by a mix of wooded ravines, prairie patches, and lake environments. Most camping areas in this region sit at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level with local weather patterns creating warm summers and significant temperature drops in fall, affecting campsite selection for those with pets. The terrain ranges from flat developed sites to more rugged walk-in locations throughout Dakota County's park system.
Lake activities available year-round: The Lake Byllesby Regional Park provides water access for boating, fishing, and swimming. "Nice little lake to kayak on," notes one camper about nearby waters, while another mentions that some lakes "become green with algae as the summer goes on," suggesting spring and early summer visits might be better for water activities with pets.
Trails for all ability levels: Several parks offer trails ranging from paved paths to more rugged hiking options. "Great biking and hiking trails," shares one camper about Lebanon Hills Regional Park. The network of trails at Lebanon Hills connects directly to camping areas, making it convenient to explore without driving to trailheads when camping with dogs.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Spring and fall migration periods offer chances to spot birds and other wildlife. One visitor to Nerstrand Big Woods noted, "The variety of old growth trees was spectacular," making it an excellent spot for nature photography with pets at a safe distance from wildlife.
Private camping spots: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites at certain parks. At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, "The sites are nice and level, with plenty of space between each one. This feels very much like a nice state park," according to one reviewer, which creates a more peaceful environment for campers with pets who need space from neighbors.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. One camper mentioned, "The bathroom facility near the ranger station was very well maintained and cleaned several times a day," which is particularly helpful for longer stays with pets.
Diverse site options: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers unique camping experiences. "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy," shares one camper. Another notes, "site 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery."
Reservation requirements: Most parks in the area require advance booking, especially during summer months. A camper at Dakotah Meadows RV Park noted, "My photo shows our row with 5 empty spots and they said they were full," indicating their reservation system sometimes holds spots even if people don't show up.
Seasonal operations: Many parks close or limit services during winter months. The Lebanon Hills camping season runs "April 30 to October 12," while some other facilities like Dakotah Meadows operate year-round with different service levels.
Terrain variations: Some campgrounds have significant elevation changes. One camper mentioned about Afton State Park that "The hike to the campground is short and grueling," which is important to know when bringing pet supplies and camping gear.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play spaces for children. A camper at Lake Byllesby Regional Park shared, "The playground is a short walk to the tent area, which was a big hit with our kids. Our girls didn't want to leave!" This provides entertainment options when camping with both children and pets.
Swimming options for cooling off: Several parks feature swimming beaches or lake access. "The lake is right next to the campground with RV sites right on the water," mentions one Lake Byllesby visitor, offering a convenient way for families and pets to cool down during summer heat.
Budget-friendly accommodations: Some campgrounds offer more affordable options for families. A Lebanon Hills visitor commented, "A little pricey for tent camping. The sites are private. Great biking and hiking trails. Great amenities. Close to the zoo as well as the city." This indicates varied pricing across different sites and accommodation types.
Hookup availability: Town & Country Campground offers various utility connections. "If you're looking for an RV Park in the Shakopee/Savage area this place is nice. Game room small pool unfortunately all closed due to COVID but super cute little park," shares a visitor, indicating amenities beyond basic hookups for RV campers with pets.
Site leveling considerations: Pay attention to site grading when booking. One RVer noted about the Minneapolis Southwest KOA, "The site was very unlevel," highlighting the importance of checking site specifics before arrival, especially when traveling with pets that might be disturbed by an uneven setup.
Proximity to urban amenities: For those wanting access to city services while camping with pets, multiple options exist. A Town & Country camper mentioned it's "clean, friendly, and convenient to the cities. Some road noise, but you are in the city so expected," showing the trade-off between convenience and quieter, more remote locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Lakeville, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Lakeville, MN is Lebanon Hills Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 43 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Lakeville, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 85 dog-friendly camping locations near Lakeville, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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