J
Jon E.
Guide
GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Tents or small truck camper only
Small pullout area on state forest land. Can walk trail back to tent.
Best Campgrounds near Mahtomedi, MN
Campgrounds surrounding Mahtomedi, Minnesota provide a range of options for outdoor stays within easy access of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, located just 15 minutes southwest of Mahtomedi, features spacious tent and RV sites with electric hookups in a forested setting. William O'Brien State Park, situated approximately 20 miles north along the St. Croix River, offers year-round camping with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds in the area provide drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables, with several offering modern amenities like showers and sanitary dump stations.
Seasonal considerations shape the camping experience in this region, with most developed campgrounds operating from April through October. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, and several other nearby facilities close during winter months, while William O'Brien State Park maintains year-round accessibility. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays, particularly for electric sites and cabins which book quickly. Many campgrounds require entrance or vehicle permits in addition to camping fees. Access roads are generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles. A visitor noted, "We stayed 12 nights here in April to May. It was so peaceful and quiet. Saw deer almost every day."
Campers consistently highlight the privacy of sites and abundance of recreational opportunities as key attractions. The area's campgrounds feature extensive trail systems for hiking and biking, with many sites positioned to maximize natural screening between neighbors. Lake Elmo receives praise for its filtered swimming pond and extensive playground facilities. According to reviews from The Dyrt, "Sites are spacious and far enough away from others to feel like there was enough privacy." Another camper mentioned, "For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities" including "archery, horse trails, paved and grass trails," and various camping options from modern to primitive. Most campgrounds prohibit alcohol, while pet policies vary by location with several allowing pets in designated areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer sightings common throughout the region.
Best Camping Sites Near Mahtomedi, Minnesota (123)
1. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
37 ReviewsLake Elmo, MN7 milesWebsite+1 (651) 430-8370$23 - $80 / night
"For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond."
"Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."
2. Willow River State Park Campground
62 ReviewsHudson, WI14 milesWebsite+1 (715) 386-5931"Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"
"Located 5 miles outside of Hudson, Willow Creek State Park is large park with hiking, camp sites, fishing, canoeing, and the waterfall."
3. William O'Brien State Park Campground
39 ReviewsMarine on St. Croix, MN14 milesWebsite+1 (651) 539-4980$25 - $90 / night
"Easy walking trails surround the park which is nice and convenient. Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip. Camp sites were very clean and easy to access."
"We O'Brian has some of the best groomed trails that I have been on."
4. Afton State Park Campground
37 ReviewsAfton, MN16 milesWebsite+1 (651) 436-5391$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."
5. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
17 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN9 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$20 - $75 / night
"Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday. The campground is neat and well managed."
"We have lived in the Twin Cities for two decades and have never visited Rice Creek Chain of Lakes before. We will again!"
6. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
43 ReviewsApple Valley, MN23 milesWebsite+1 (651) 480-7773$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"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
7. Rice Creek Campgrounds
7 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN9 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$20 - $32 / night
"Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
"Beach was closed but we still got some good walks in. Fire ring was a little shallow for my liking so had to get some solid coals going to get dinner on the table."
8. Interstate State Park Campground
52 ReviewsTaylors Falls, MN27 milesWebsite+1 (715) 483-3747$24 - $50 / night
"This is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic"
"Now that I live in Minnesota, I find myself frequenting the Taylors Falls side. Here you have the amazing "Pot Holes" from glacial waters and some pretty spectacular rock climbing."
9. Bunker Hills Regional Park
16 ReviewsCoon Rapids, MN18 milesWebsite+1 (763) 862-4970$20 - $32 / night
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
10. St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
20 ReviewsDenmark, MN20 milesWebsite+1 (651) 430-8240"Minnesota is beautiful and there is so much to do here. The bathrooms are spotless and everything is new here."
"Washington County, which manages campgrounds at both the Lake Elmo Park Reserve and St Croix Bluffs Regional Park, does a great job of maintaining campgrounds, trails, and bathroom facilities at both parks"
Recent Camping Photos near Mahtomedi, MN
232 Photos of 123 Mahtomedi Campgrounds
Amy K.
Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
Amy G.
Rice Creek Campgrounds
Krista T.
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
leif D.
Willow River State Park Campground
Matt C.
William O'Brien State Park Campground
Bryce R.
Apple River Family Campground
Erik R.
Afton State Park Campground
Arielle P.
Bunker Hills Regional Park
Daryl L.
St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
Blair
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Krista T.
Lily Springs Regenerative Farm
Stacy S.
Wildwood RV Park & Campground
Recent Reviews near Mahtomedi, MN
748 Reviews of 123 Mahtomedi Campgrounds
Christine H.
TravelerTurtle Lake City Park
Not free
Electric hookup, dump station on site. Sites are a little close together. $25/night with a 7 day max stay.
Jay W.
LegendInterstate Park — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Great park, plenty around the area...BUT THE NOISE!!!
Interstate Park in Wisconsin is just south of HWY 8 on HWY 35. The entrance is located on the west side of HWY 35 in the town of St. Croix Falls. St Croix Falls is a small town with a nice downtown on the river with plenty of restaurants (Dalles House Restaurant and Lounge is a favorite) and places for necessities. There are coffee shops, hotels and even a Wal-Mart nearby. There is also a casino in the town of Turtle Lake about 30 mins away.
The park is home to the western terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that covers 1200 miles through Wisconsin. The park also offers a Ice Age Interpretive Center which boasts interactive activities and displays of the last Ice Age. The park is also home to several other trails worth discovering.
There are two campgrounds in the park, a North and South campground as well as two group campsites. The South is a bit more rustic. The showers are located at the North campground.
For amenities there are flush toilets and showers. There is a sandy swimming area available as well as boat launch and other water activities.
This park is beautiful especially being on the cliffs of the St. Croix River offering spectacular views through out the park and the area. You can even take the bridge over to Taylor Falls Park Minnesota for more spectacular views as well as other shopping options. If you take this trip, Taylor Falls Park will be on the South and your shopping options will be to your North.
Even being in such a wonderful location with plenty of activities and amenities, I find the camping hard to enjoy at this park for all the noise that generates from the hwy crossing over the river. The sound especially of the semi trucks and their brakes that go all night long. This is the big reason for the average rating for this campground.
T S.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Loved it!
Nice spot right on the lake. Lots of animal noises! Pretty sunrise/sunset.
Greg M.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Good spot for a night
Got in late on a Sunday night and there was plenty of space. Most sites are right along the gravel road so not super private. Wouldn’t recommend for large trailers/RVs as sites are small. Found a couple sets of deer bones right next to my site, not sure if it’s from hunters dumping their waste or coyotes but keep an eye out either way.
DIANNE T.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Girl on first car camping trip
Kind of confusing for first time. Was not sure where I could camp. But then found out it's the spots right along road. Beautiful. Some good spots. Ended up in a pull thru around w view.
Blake K.
ScoutFrontenac State Park Campground
Beautiful Views
You have clear views of the River and Valley from the campgrounds.
Corinna Y.TravelerOld Railroad Bridge
Great little getaway spot for winter camping!
We stayed here with a group of hot tent campers in early January. The site is large and had a couple of fire pits. Includes a few picnic tables, and a pit toilet. It's a beautiful open area not far from the parking lot with a gorgeous view of the St. Croix River.
CindyTravelerAvatan Family Nudist Campground
"Family-Friendly" in Name Only: A Cautionary Tale from a Disillusioned Par
We visited Avatan Nudist Campground last July with our two kids (ages 8 and 11) for what was supposed to be a wholesome, body-positive family getaway. The website and brochures paint a perfect picture: serene woods, a sparkling pool, family activities, and a "welcoming community" vibe. And on the surface? Yeah, the grounds are stunning—pristine trails, a well-maintained pool. The facilities are clean, the staff (mostly) polite, and the natural setting is genuinely relaxing. If you're just looking for a quiet spot to shed your clothes and unwind in nature, it checks those boxes.
But dig a little deeper, and Avatan reveals itself as something else entirely—a place that's quietly optimized for adult fun, with kids as an inconvenient footnote they have to tolerate to keep the "family" label. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the real energy was elsewhere. Evenings around the fire pits and at the "Squirrel's" (code for the bar area) had this unmistakable swinger-party undercurrent. Lots of lingering glances, couples disappearing into the woods or private cabins, and a vibe that felt more like a discreet resort for the lifestyle crowd than a spot for building sandcastles with the little ones. Our kids picked up on it fast—whispers about "grown-up games" and awkward questions we had to deflect. The camp "tolerates" families, sure, but it's obvious the core membership would prefer a child-free zone. Activities for kids are minimal: a basic playground and the occasional nature hike, while the adults get themed nights, "sensual yoga," and late-night mixers that go until dawn.
What really soured the experience was the toxic underbelly of the community itself. This place is a powder keg of power struggles, with a small cadre of long-time board members and "elders" locked in a perpetual cold war. Gossip flows like the creek itself—endless whispers about who's sleeping with whom, who's "stealing" prime cabin spots, or who's cozying up to the President for favors. We overheard more drama in one week than in a season of reality TV. Cliques form fast: the "party crew" vs. the "purists," the swingers vs. the swingers-who-pretend-they're-not. As newcomers (and parents, no less), we felt like outsiders crashing a private club. Smiles were surface-level; the second you stepped away, the backstabbing started.
And then there's the elephant in the (clothing-optional) room: the camp's ugly history with sexual predators. We didn't know it going in, but after a few days, the stories trickled out from sympathetic members—multiple incidents over the years involving members who turned out to be registered offenders or worse, preying on the vulnerable in this "trust-based" environment. The rules around anonymity are ironclad: no photos, no last names, "what happens at Avatan stays at Avatan." It's sold as protecting privacy in a nudist space, which sounds noble until you realize it shields the creeps. Anyone who dares speak up—whether it's a parent noticing a sketchy guy lingering too long near the kids' area or a survivor sharing a red flag—is immediately branded a "troublemaker," "paranoid," or "anti-community." We've heard of families getting shamed in group meetings, then quietly asked to leave for "disrupting the harmony." Evictions happen fast if you rock the boat, all in the name of keeping the peace and the paying members happy.
Look, we're no prudes. Nudism can be liberating, and we've been to other resorts where it felt truly inclusive and safe. But Avatan? It's a divided house built on denial. The adult-party atmosphere thrives because the kids are an afterthought, and the predator problem festers because calling it out gets you exiled. If you're a child-free couple into the full swinger scene, this might be your paradise—plenty of like-minded folks and zero judgment. But if you're a family hoping for that advertised "safe, empowering space"? Steer clear. Your kids deserve better than being tolerated in a place where silence is golden and the wrong questions get you blacklisted. We won't be back, and I hope this review saves someone else the regret.
Guide to Mahtomedi
Camping spots near Mahtomedi, Minnesota offer diverse terrain across the St. Croix River Valley, with elevations ranging from river-level sites to bluff-top camping areas. The region sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in the area operate on a reservation system with booking windows that open 90-120 days in advance.
What to do
Swimming in filtered ponds: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve features a unique chlorinated swimming pond with a sand bottom that eliminates weeds while providing a pool-like experience. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," notes Timothy S.
Exploring glacial potholes: Interstate State Park offers hiking trails leading to unique geological formations. "The draw here is the world's largest glacial potholes. When the river ran 200' higher than it does today, tornados of water eroded smooth round, massive holes in the rock. Some are so big that they still to this day have no idea how deep they go," shares Erik R.
Horseback riding: Bunker Hills Regional Park provides guided trail rides for all experience levels. "There is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on," mentions Krista T., who adds that the park offers "archery, frisbee golf" and more activities spread throughout the grounds.
Paddle sports on Rice Creek Chain: The connected waterways provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing with rental options. "Just east of st. paul - 2000 acres with 2 lakes and a swimming pond," describes Robert G. about the Lake Elmo area water features.
Waterfall hunting: Several parks near Mahtomedi feature seasonal waterfalls. "There is a beautiful little hidden waterfall that isn't on any of the park maps and you have to go off the trail to find it," shares Lindsay S. about St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Rice Creek Campgrounds earns praise for its spacious layout. "Level private sites, lots of trees, Showers were clean. Would definitely camp again," notes Corey P. The campground's thoughtful design keeps noise between sites to a minimum.
Proximity to metro with wilderness feel: Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers an urban escape without long travel times. "We love Lebanon Hills! Close to home and an oasis in the middle of the Twin Cities. Sites with full hookups or more remote sites with electric that are more tucked away in the pines," shares Katie C.
Volunteer naturalist programs: Weekend educational activities run at several campgrounds from May through September. "On Saturday nights they have a campgound program for the kids and families to watch. Very organized and clean facilities," reports Tina H.
Walk-in tent sites: William O'Brien State Park provides separate areas for tent campers seeking more seclusion. "Per others' advice, I stayed at Savannah campground because the sites are slightly bigger and more private than Riverway," writes Dani K., noting that visiting on Sundays means "very few people in the campground loop."
River access: Multiple campgrounds feature direct access to the St. Croix River. "Our site was right next to the shower building but remarkably quiet and with timer lights it wasn't too bright all night long. The trails nearby were gorgeous and a good workout," shares Lisa O. about her Interstate State Park experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campsites book quickly, especially on weekends from June through August. "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May," advises Blair about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Park entrance fees: Daily vehicle permits cost $6-7 at most regional parks, in addition to camping fees. "Your reservation fee does NOT include the daily parks fee of 7 dollars just FYI," warns Lynsey M.
Seasonal closures: Most shower facilities close in October, even at year-round campgrounds. "When Rice Creek Campground opens up again in April I'd highly recommend going there if all you want is a simple camping experience to get away from the city grind," suggests Roger D.
Insect preparation: Willow River State Park and other locations require good insect protection, particularly in June and July. "We had a battle with mosquitoes. We went through a lot of bug spray and coils. Deer flies were thick around the water filling station," reports Tim from his William O'Brien experience.
Wildlife encounters: "Raccoons will visit your site at night. We had everything secured but they still tried and plenty of racket until we chased them away," warns Tim about William O'Brien State Park. Food storage containers are essential at all camping areas near Mahtomedi.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Beach is great. Easy boat launch. Clean facility. The staff is super nice. Great hiking trails, bike trails, nearby horseback riding," notes Rikki I.
Playground facilities: Several parks feature recently updated play areas. "The play area was really nice and looked brand new. Our girls loved making new friends to play with," shares Angela L. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Camper cabins for beginners: Afton State Park offers alternative accommodations for families new to camping. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird)🏡🐦 Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" describes Alison O.
Nature centers: Educational opportunities exist at several parks during daytime hours. "The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," mentions Krista T.
Weekday camping advantages: Sites are more available and quieter Monday through Thursday. "Arriving on a Sunday afternoon was a dream—very few people in the campground loop (especially the non-electric ones), but still able to take advantage of a weekend day," explains Dani K.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds near Mahtomedi limit RV size to 60 feet or less. "Reservation system is weird and the sites are much bigger than they say. All rv sites are the listed length plus 16' for your tow vehicle, which you need to call to find out," advises Davis D. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
Electric hookup availability: Most parks offer limited 30-amp service with few 50-amp options. "Theres alot of hiking trails, the rustic sites are very nice, swim pond, fishing pier," mentions Jeff C. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Seasonal water access: Water connections are typically available May through mid-October, but water is shut off during freezing temperatures. "We stayed the last night of their camping season and were able to utilize water and electric hookups," reports Robert B.
Dump station locations: Several parks provide on-site sanitary dump stations with limited hours. "Clean facilities... there are water pumps. We stayed at site 72 which is at the beginning of the loop. This site isn't as secluded by trees as the other sites," notes Angela L.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds prohibit generator use in specific loops or during evening hours. "We wouldn't want to stay here when the loop is fully reserved," comments Dani K. about the non-electric area at William O'Brien, appreciating that "this loop (F LOOP) was 'tent only' meant no generators! It was very quiet!"
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mahtomedi, MN?
What camping is available near Mahtomedi, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mahtomedi, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 123 campgrounds and RV parks near Mahtomedi, MN and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mahtomedi, MN?
Which is the most popular campground near Mahtomedi, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mahtomedi, MN is Lake Elmo County Park Reserve with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mahtomedi, MN?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mahtomedi, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Mahtomedi, MN.
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