Maple Plain camping areas sit approximately 900-1,000 feet above sea level in Minnesota's western Twin Cities metro area. The region features glacial terrain with rolling hills, wetlands, and hardwood forests surrounding Lake Independence. Seasonal temperature variations affect camping conditions significantly, with July averaging 83°F while May and October temperatures can dip below 45°F.
What to do
Tubing on the Rum River: At Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River, visitors can float down the river back to the campground. "The key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," notes camper David G., who also mentioned the campground provides transportation upriver.
Swimming pool access: Several campgrounds offer heated pools as alternatives to lake swimming. "The pool was nice and splash pad was even nice for adults," according to a camper at Country Camping who visited during particularly hot weather.
Hiking in local nature preserves: Baker Park Reserve contains extensive trail systems through woodland and prairie habitats. "We spent two nights in the campground. It was fairly busy, but we still felt secluded despite a full campground. There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking," reports ERolf P.
Mini golf and recreational facilities: Family-friendly activities are available at St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park. "It has a 9 hole mini golf, shuffleboard, salt water pool, and a lobby/gift shop. They also offer a nice seating area for those hot or raining days with free arcade," explains S L.
What campers like
Spacious sites with mature trees: Many campers appreciate the natural setting and ample space between sites. "Absolutely beautiful campground with mature trees. Cedars, white oaks, hickory's and more. The birds are singing and so are the kids because this place has so much to do for them," reports Aaron L. about St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park.
Riverside camping options: Proximity to water ranks high for camper satisfaction. "Great tent sites right on the river," notes Tom D. about Country Camping RV Park, adding, "Close to the Twin Cities, right on the Rum River."
Children's amenities: Families appreciate dedicated facilities for younger campers. "This campground is great for everyone! It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites!" explains Spencer C. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Proximity to Twin Cities: Dakotah Meadows RV Park offers convenient access to metropolitan attractions while providing campground comforts. "Great place to stop and rest when traveling through the twin cities. Great price for full hookup," notes Jon C.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the area close by mid-October. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve operates from April 30 to October 20, while St. Cloud Campground & RV Park runs from May 1 to October 10.
WiFi connectivity issues: Internet access varies significantly between locations. At St. Cloud Campground & RV Park, "It was the worst wifi of about 15 campgrounds we've been to on our trip this year. They warned us it was slow, but we couldn't even connect to it from our site," reports Tina.
Site privacy considerations: Privacy levels differ widely between campgrounds. At Baker Park Reserve, one camper notes, "The sites are about as private as the typical state park, so not very, but that is offset by all the other positives this campground has to offer."
Winter camping options: For off-season travelers, Love's RV Hookup offers year-round sites. "Still open in the winter! Convenient location right off I94 and HWY 23. Close to Waite Park for entertainment and food," says Tori K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose campsites near recreational facilities for convenient access. "There's a nice park for kids just a small hike away," notes matt H. about Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve, which features multiple play areas within walking distance of campsites.
Swimming options for various ages: Pools with splash pads accommodate different swimming abilities. Carol H. explains that Country Camping offers a "swimming pool with splash pad," and adds, "We've stayed at Country Camping for years! Great variety of things to do for everyone...Our grandkids love it too!"
Indoor activities for inclement weather: Consider campgrounds with covered facilities during Minnesota's unpredictable weather. "They offer a nice seating area for those hot or raining days with free arcade," mentions S L. about St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park.
Site selection for family privacy: Particular camping areas offer better seclusion. At St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park, Teresa O. suggests, "We have a pop up so we parked on a grassy spot next to the cabins that backed up to a field. It was nice to be there instead of in the thick of the big camper section."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Premium surfaces create stable parking at Dakotah Meadows RV Park near Prior Lake. "The campground has cement parking pads with full hookups. The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained," reports Jim M.
Driving access considerations: St. Cloud Campground & RV Park provides practical access for larger vehicles. "The site was level and easy to get into to," notes Beverly, who used the site for an overnight stay.
RV wash facilities: Some locations offer cleaning stations. According to Beth B., Dakotah Meadows provides "fuel on site as well as RV wash station," which is particularly valuable after driving dusty or muddy roads.
Overnight convenience options: Love's RV Hookup serves as a practical stopover point for travelers. "These are a great option for a stop halfway through a trip. You have clean bathrooms in Love's, Hardee's for food, Love's for snacks and drinks, and gas is right there," explains Tori K.
