Camping sites near Medina, Minnesota sit within the western suburbs of the Twin Cities, offering hardwood forests and prairie landscapes at elevations between 900-1,100 feet. The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer camping temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Most campgrounds in the region operate on a reservation system with varying rates between $25-40 per night depending on amenities.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Several campgrounds feature extensive trail networks. At Lake Maria State Park, campers enjoy secluded woodlands with "winding wooded trails, wildflowers, and glimpses of the lake through the trees." The park offers both day hikes and longer backpacking options connecting to backcountry sites.
Water activities: Lake swimming and boating opportunities are accessible at multiple locations. Lake Auburn Campground features "a nice lil beach for swimming" and a gentle shoreline that remains "gently sloping and smooth." Many campers appreciate the fishing docks available at waterfront campgrounds.
Unique outdoor recreation: Beyond standard camping activities, some parks offer specialized recreation options. Bunker Hills Regional Park provides "archery, an event center, frisbee golf" along with "a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site seclusion varies significantly across campgrounds. Baker Campground in Loop C offers "quiet, lots of trees, nice fire rings. Bathrooms were close and well kept." Some campers note "the sites are large and plentiful so it was not crowded."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms and showers receive frequent positive mentions. At Lebanon Hills Regional Park, "the bathroom facility near the ranger station was very well maintained and cleaned several times a day." Another camper noted the "nice clean bathrooms" that enhance the camping experience.
Proximity to attractions: Many campers appreciate the balance of nature with nearby conveniences. One visitor to Lebanon Hills enjoyed that it was "close to the zoo as well as the city" while others value campgrounds that are "a short drive home" for testing gear or quick weekend trips.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on summer weekends. The Lake Auburn reviewer advised: "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May."
Bug activity: Insect populations can impact camping comfort, particularly in wooded areas. A camper at 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." Consider "permethrin-treated clothes during bug season."
Noise considerations: Sound carries between sites at some campgrounds. A camper at Minneapolis Northwest KOA noted: "The KOA was nice and clean but your packed in on top of each other like sardines in a can." Research site maps carefully if seeking quiet camping experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. Lake Rebecca Park Reserve features "the best kids park at any campground I've been to" alongside "an amazing beach" and "great trails" for family exploration.
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature programming. One camper mentioned Lake Auburn has "programs every Saturday night, some of the ones we've been to were about bugs, raptors, bees, and snakes, there are usually programs during the day at the nature center as well."
Campsite selection: Families should research specific sites before booking. At Baker Park Reserve, one camper noted sites are "fairly large, but very open (which was ok with a group of us, not our style when it's just us though)." Consider proximity to playgrounds, bathrooms, and noise levels.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check actual site sizes before booking. At Lebanon Hills, "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."
Utility hookups: Available connections vary widely between campgrounds. The Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers "clean site, great staff, nice hookups" with "full hookup sites" available for larger rigs. Some campers recommend calling ahead to request specific site features not listed online.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger RVs. One camper at Crow Hassan Park Reserve noted "the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time," which could present challenges for drivers of larger rigs.
