Best Campgrounds near Mendota Heights, MN
Mendota Heights is surrounded by several established campgrounds within easy driving distance, including Lebanon Hills Regional Park in nearby Eagan and Lake Elmo County Park Reserve to the northeast. The area features a mix of camping experiences, from full-hookup RV sites to more secluded tent camping areas. Campers can find accommodations ranging from basic tent sites to cabins at places like Afton State Park Campground and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. Most campgrounds in the region offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to hiking trails, with varying levels of services from primitive sites to fully developed facilities with showers and electrical hookups.
Seasonal availability varies significantly across the campgrounds, with most operating from spring through fall. Lebanon Hills Regional Park, a popular destination for local campers, operates from April 30 to October 12, while some facilities like Afton State Park and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park remain open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when availability becomes limited. Many campgrounds in the area feature both drive-in and walk-in sites, accommodating different camping styles and equipment needs. "Lebanon Hills is a beautiful county park only a few minutes from Minneapolis / St. Paul. The sites are a good mix of private, and there's plenty to do with hiking, biking, and fishing available," noted one visitor.
The camping experience near Mendota Heights balances urban accessibility with natural settings. Several campers highlight the surprising seclusion available despite proximity to the Twin Cities. Lebanon Hills in particular receives consistent praise for offering private, wooded tent sites while maintaining convenient access to urban amenities. The east loop of Lebanon Hills provides more secluded experiences with sites spaced further apart and surrounded by trees, while the west loop offers full hookups for RVs with more open layouts. Wildlife sightings, including deer and turtles, are commonly reported at area campgrounds. Most locations provide access to water recreation opportunities through nearby lakes, though these may require short drives from the actual campgrounds. Campers often mention appreciating the balance of feeling removed from the city while remaining close enough for convenience.
