The St. Croix River Valley region near Lindstrom offers cabin camping experiences at elevations between 800-950 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. The area features a mix of deciduous forest and prairie landscapes with fall colors typically peaking in late September to early October. Winter cabin camping requires additional preparation as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Shoreline fishing access: The Lily Springs Regenerative Farm provides lakeside campsites with fishing opportunities. "The lake is pretty, but I'm picky and chose not to swim in it. The goats are friendly and are quiet once it starts to get dark," notes one visitor about the unique combination of farm animals and lake access.
Winter exploration: Afton State Park Campground offers year-round cabin options for winter adventurers. A camper recounts, "I visited William O'Brien in the middle of February with two college roommates. As you can imagine, this meant snow was everywhere in the heart of winter in Minnesota. We decided to take a night trek through the park."
Waterpark access: Families staying at Bunker Hills Regional Park can enjoy the adjacent water facility during summer months. A visitor mentions, "There are park pavilions and a water park connected to the campsite, a gold course nearby, and shops, too - but the actual campsite, bike/walking/horse trails make you forget all of that."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the secluded feel at Wild River State Park Campground where cabins are tucked among trees. "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," shares one visitor who valued the seclusion.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding cabin accommodations near Lindstrom provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," reports a camper at Wild River State Park.
Dark skies for stargazing: Several cabin camping locations feature minimal light pollution. A camper at Wild River State Park notes, "The star gazing area was great! Intermittently had 1-2 bars of T-Mobile with LTE Internet. Wi-Fi is available at the park entrance."
What you should know
Reservation timing challenges: Securing cabin accommodations requires advance planning. According to a review of William O'Brien State Park Campground, "We planned this weekend with friends to camp in our matching teardrop trailers. We have never really camped with friends before, so the point was to just go, not to really travel far."
Insect preparations: Mosquitoes and ticks are common, particularly during summer months. A visitor to Lily Springs Farm advises, "While the Lakeside site was serene, walking into the White Pine Meadow campsite felt magical. Also buggy. The pines tower over you, and the understory is full of beautiful ferns. The site is mowed, but we still managed to pick up one tick walking through the trail."
Winter water availability: During cold months, some facilities reduce services. One visitor notes, "Water was easy to access, but the pit toilet is in the next loop over. If I stayed again, I might try site 121 or 123 since they have more privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playgrounds: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park features play areas near cabin accommodations. "We took a 30 minute drive north of the cities for a quick get away, and were rewarded with a very nice campground! There is a gorgeous beach area with tables, a pavilion, changing rooms and a well equipped playground," explains a visitor.
Pack for weather variations: Temperature fluctuations can occur even in summer. One camper shared, "The temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week. Absolutely loved the experience, and I will go again."
Consider hiking distances: When booking cabin accommodations, verify distance to bathrooms and water sources. A visitor at Wild River State Park explains, "Our campsite was on the farthest loop and was very private! Only one shower house and we had to drive there, the primitive toilet smelled so bad it burned!"
Tips from RVers
Electric service variations: Cabin camping areas near Lindstrom may have limitations on electrical capacity. A visitor to Big Rock Creek notes, "We came up with our camper with the expectation we'd have electric and water hook ups. For the most part we did. The electricity was not for a 30 amp hook up. It's 50 amp or use an adapter. We used the adapter and blew a circuit breaker when we used the A/C and the microwave at the same time."
Site size considerations: When transitioning between cabin and RV camping, note that not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "This campground is massive! We checked out Deer Creek site which is much closer to the car. It is a hike in/canoe site. It's wayyy more spacious, and even has two separate clearings," reports a camper at Wild River State Park.
Seasonal road conditions: Snow and spring thaw can affect access to camping areas. A Big Rock Creek visitor advises, "We came for the state park and that's where we spent most of the day. I think this campground has a lot of potential but there needs to be a lot of work."
