Tent camping near Mahtomedi, Minnesota provides easy access to the St. Croix River Valley's unique terrain, where rolling hills and river bluffs create dramatic elevation changes of up to 300 feet in some camping areas. The region transitions between oak savanna and river valley ecosystems, creating diverse camping environments within short distances. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels near water sources.
What to do
Hiking diverse landscapes: Crow Hassan Park Reserve features exceptional hiking trails across varied terrain. According to one visitor, "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" The park includes prairie restoration areas and riverside paths accessible year-round.
Winter outdoor activities: William O'Brien State Park offers winter camping with unique experiences. One camper shared: "I visited William O'Brien in the middle of February with two college roommates. The moon was very bright that night so visibility was excellent. We walked some trail through a frozen marsh landscape and happened upon a railroad that passed above our trail with a beautiful tunnel-overpass."
Swimming access: While primitive tent sites at Mahtomedi don't typically include swimming facilities, nearby parks offer water access. One reviewer at Afton State Park noted: "Less than an hour drive from Minneapolis this is a good get away. As expected it has many walk trails. Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk."
What campers like
Solitude and natural surroundings: At Afton State Park, campers appreciate the secluded feeling despite proximity to the Twin Cities. A reviewer stated: "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion."
Diverse wildlife encounters: Camping around Mahtomedi provides opportunities to see native Minnesota wildlife. One Afton State Park visitor shared an unexpected experience: "We went to Afton for a day trip filled with hiking, picnicking and scoping out future camping sites. Then I saw the snake. I literally grabbed my husband to hold him back from stepping on it and then he walks past it like nothing happened."
Off-season camping benefits: Lily Springs Regenerative Farm offers unique tent camping experiences with farm animals nearby. A camper reported: "The mosquito situation was very good, we never even went into our screen house that we had set up just in case it was mosquito misery. There is a designated (and clean!) portapotty for each campsite, the lakeside one is on the other side of the goat enclosure."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Tent camping near Mahtomedi has important seasonal considerations. At William O'Brien State Park, "The east part of the park was all closed for construction. Everything on the east side of the highway was closed so we could not hike a lot of the trails or use the beach which was a challenge with kids. Construction is scheduled to the end of 2025."
Wildlife encounters: Expect wildlife interactions when tent camping around Mahtomedi. One William O'Brien camper noted: "Raccoons will visit your site at night. We had everything secured but they still tried and plenty of racket until we chased them away. Lastly 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."
Water access issues: Facilities may have unexpected limitations. An Afton State Park visitor warned: "None of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. 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!"
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for larger groups: William O'Brien State Park offers options for families, but consider size limitations. One camper advised: "We stayed in a group site but there was no way 35 people could have camped in W3. Vaulted toilets need help and a good cleaning. The shower house needed a cleaning as well. There is no adjusting the shower temperature. Push the button and you get what you get."
Cabin options for easier family stays: When tent camping near Mahtomedi feels challenging, consider cabin alternatives. A visitor to Afton State Park shared: "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!"
Weekday stays for more privacy: For families seeking quieter camping experiences, timing matters. At William O'Brien State Park, a solo camper observed: "Good location for peace and quiet if you avoid the weekends. 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."
Tips from RVers
Horse-friendly camping options: Elm Creek Horse Camp provides specialized facilities for campers with horses. A visitor explained: "If you're the kind of camper who measures a site by how many tail wags it inspires, then Campsite 2 at Elm Creek Horse Camp is barking up the right tree. Tucked away near the archery range, this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire."
Site spacing considerations: When tent camping near Mahtomedi with an RV, site spacing affects privacy. At William O'Brien State Park, one camper noted: "The only downfall is how close you are to the next campsite. We would definitely stay here again!" Another visitor added: "We loved the trails. It was easy to takes hikes of varying lengths. There were so many different kinds of birds, and the wildflowers were blooming and ferns were unfurling - so many shades of green!"
