Baker Park Reserve offers cabin camping near Maple Plain, Minnesota in natural surroundings west of Minneapolis. The cabins at Baker Reserve vary by season, with some available during winter months when other campgrounds close. During peak summer, many cabin options fill quickly due to proximity to Lake Independence and regional trails. Visitors can reserve sites online through the Three Rivers Park District or by calling the reservation line.
What to do
Bike the park trails: Baker Park Reserve features paved bike paths that connect with surrounding areas. A camper noted, "There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities (which were very nice)" at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, which offers a similar trail system.
Swimming beaches: Lake Maria State Park provides lake access for cooling off during summer months. A visitor mentioned that at Lake Maria, "You could see the occasional car from the site, which is surrounded by a small pond. You could hear voices, but not see anyone. In fact, I went the whole weekend without seeing a single person."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding cabin sites provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One visitor to Crow Hassan Park Reserve observed, "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the cabin areas having adequate space between units. A reviewer of Bunker Hills Regional Park noted, "This park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious. There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp."
Clean facilities: The facilities at cabins and campgrounds in the area are typically well-maintained. One visitor to Baker Park mentioned, "The campground was big with privacy between the camp spots. There were nice trails to help explorer the regional park. The bathrooms were nice and clean."
Winter options: Unlike many seasonal operations, some cabins remain available during colder months. At Lake Maria State Park, a visitor recommended, "Pack light and bring permethrin-treated clothes during bug season. And don't forget a headlamp — the darkness here is wild and beautiful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak season. For Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground, a visitor confirmed, "I have lived in the area all my life and remember exploring nature in all aspects at baker park! Fun, clean and fairly priced! Most activities are free!"
Bug seasons: Insect activity peaks during summer months in this region. A candid reviewer of Lake Maria State Park warned, "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon."
Cabin amenities vary: Not all cabins offer identical features or access. At some locations like Minneapolis Northwest KOA, sites are "packed in on top of each other like sardines in a can," according to one visitor, while others offer more privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many cabins are situated near recreational areas for children. A visitor to Minneapolis Northwest KOA shared, "It has a small pool and game room but not much else for kids. The bugs are aggressive here, especially near the tent sites which are located near a swampy area."
Multi-activity parks: Some cabin locations offer diverse activities for different age groups. A visitor to Baker Park Reserve reported, "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
First-time camping spots: For families new to cabin camping, certain locations are more beginner-friendly. A visitor to Baker Campground shared, "For our first time camping, this was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids. We will be back!"
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: RV campers should research specific cabin locations in advance. A reviewer at Bertram Chain of Lakes noted, "Really nice campground! Meadow setting where the campsites are, but then TONS of hiking trails with significant trees & shade."
Seasonal access: Some cabin areas near Maple Plain close during winter months. Minneapolis Northwest KOA operates seasonally with one visitor commenting, "This is the closest campground to our home, so it has the distinction of being the place where my kids had their love of camping kindled! The sites are stacked on top of each other, but there is a pool (unheated) and a cute little camp store."
Utility hookups: For those combining RVs with cabin rentals for larger groups, availability of services varies. One camper at Bunker Hills Regional Park observed, "Stayed here when we got our first camper and it is nicely shaded large sites. Great walking paths and clean restrooms. Great for a quick weekend camping trip."
