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Lebanon Hills Regional Park welcomes pets throughout its spacious campsites that feature full hookups or more remote electric-only sites tucked away in the pines. The campground includes both RV and tent camping options with fire rings, picnic tables, and pets-allowed status at all sites. Water and electric hookups are available, while select sites offer sewer connections. The park maintains clean restrooms and shower facilities that are inspected multiple times daily. Campers note the park provides a good mix of private sites, particularly in the East Loop where tent sites are far enough from each other that neighbors can't be seen or heard. Dog owners appreciate the well-maintained walking trails directly accessible from the campground and numerous hiking paths throughout the larger regional park system.
Multiple pet-friendly campgrounds surround the Mendota Heights area, including Afton State Park Campground, which allows pets at its tent sites, cabins, and yurt accommodations. Many nearby campgrounds provide designated pet exercise areas along with hiking trails suitable for leashed dogs. The campground areas remain quiet and secure while offering wildlife viewing opportunities, though pets should be kept under control at all times. Baker Park Reserve in Medina and William O'Brien State Park in Scandia both welcome pets at their cabin accommodations. Temperature and weather considerations are important when camping with dogs in Minnesota, as summer heat can affect hiking schedules and winter conditions may require additional pet gear. Campers report Lebanon Hills feels like a secluded, natural environment despite being only minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul.
"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very"
from $24 - $42 / night
Check Availability"Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks."
"It is also next to Afton Ski resort. This park has a lot of beautiful prairie landscape with some temperate forest features. Wildflowers, shrubs, fungi, evergreens, and deciduous trees."
from $22 - $85 / night
Check Availability"Campsites are pretty private except to people walking the trails. The falls are gorgeous!! Great for swimming when the water is not too high."
"Memorial Day 2019 with my siblings and our dog. Campsite 202 had plenty of room for an 8 person tent and 2 pickups."
from $25 - $90 / night
Check Availability"One of our kids & her husband live in Minneapolis, a sister & several nieces & nephews live close by."
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
from $21 - $29 / night
Check Availability"Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday. The campground is neat and well managed."
"It was very easy to find, close to the twin cities, and clean. There was good access to kindling for a fire in the nice fire pit that has a grill."
from $20 - $75 / night
Check Availability"It’s an easy on and off the interstate, super close to a gas station and RV wash bay. Also super close to some very large power lines. The kids enjoyed the compact playground and pool."
"Great spot close to attractions in the twin cities. The family friendly activities are perfect for families with younger kids, playground, swimming, crafts and games."
"It was a large back in site with plenty of room for our two very large dogs. The water wasn't turned on yet, but we were able to fill our fresh water tank with a hose from their laundromat."
"The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained. Campground is right next to the hotel/casino and very much within walking distance."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability"I imagine in the middle of summer, it might feel slightly less secluded as there are 3 other sites relatively close by, one of which you have to walk through to get to this one, but in early September,"
"The access to water is really nice and a couple sites were perfect. The hike in sites are super close to the car so it doesn’t even require much work. Plan to come here again!"
from $16 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Easy walking trails surround the park which is nice and convenient. Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip. Camp sites were very clean and easy to access."
"We O'Brian has some of the best groomed trails that I have been on."
from $25 - $90 / night
Check Availability"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
from $20 - $32 / night
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TravelerLebanon hills has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation
GuideI never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!
TravelerWe decided to make a spontaneous camping trip one weekend and found ourselves at Frontenac. The cart-in site we were at was very spacious but wasn't as secluded as we would have hoped. We didn't feel claustrophobic by any means but we could see several other sites from ours. We went early in the year and maybe the summer growth solves that problem. Bathrooms nearby but no water available. It was also windy enough in the evening that we called it an early night but I think that was just a front movingly through and had less to do with the hill we were on.
We went on a hike that showed off the wonderful bluffs along the Mississippi. As far as camping in Minnesota goes we prefer the options on the North Shore, but really enjoyed Frontenac and will be back to continue exploring.
LegendThis is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic St Croix National Waterway. Although the campsites themselves are pretty run of the mill, the setting is spectacular in terms of breathtaking scenery, and myriad outdoor activities from rock climbing in the river gorge, paddling the river, hiking miles of trails, and learning geology at the Ice Age geology visitors center. If you are tenting camping, the south loop is great, and if you pick campsite 65 or 67 you will have direct access to the river which is peaceful and good for paddle opportunities. There are picnic areas with swimming along the river which is nice for group gatherings, and one is designated for folks with pets. Some of the rugged hiking trails along the bluffs and cliffs go right along the edge with minimal guard rails or walls, so keep a close eye on kids and pets because going over the edge is a possibility so utmost caution is advised.
LegendSmall little campground next to large casino. We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations….only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th…large concert event happening across the street. You will need to call early in the day to talk to office staff…who are very friendly. If after hours and there are no spots, you can dry dock in large lot in front of office. There is fuel on site as well as RV wash station. Bath house and laundry and card controlled ($5 card deposit on check in)…well maintained facilities. Dog park available, watch a few spots in fence near bottom where fencing has risen up…little dogs could easily climb under. Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis…25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America (Aquarium) and Security patrols regularly and there is shuttle if you want to visit casino. Pool at hotel is not included. Golf attraction is being completed next door so there was some construction traffic during day as expected.
GuideWe were here for a night to see a concert at the amphitheater and everyone was super friendly. It was easy to check in, and we were able to do laundry and shower which was great. It’s mostly gravel but they have some tent sites on the grass. They are dog friendly and have some grassy areas to walk your pets which was great.
GuideSites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground.
ScoutWe called for an RV site but they don't allow pets.
TravelerWe just found this campground in September and this year we've been there 3 times and we live in Montana, there's no place I'd rather stay. It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups
The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very helpful.
lots of things in the area to do, and the "city" isn't that far to drive to.
Camping options near Mendota Heights position visitors at the intersection of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, where the terrain features rolling hills covered in oak forest and prairie lands. The area sits at 840 feet elevation with temperature ranges from 10°F in winter months to 85°F during summer camping season. Sites fill quickly during summer weekends, with reservations often needed 3-4 months in advance for prime locations.
Kayaking and paddling options: The small lake at Lebanon Hills Regional Park provides an accessible paddling experience for beginners. "Nice little lake to kayak on," notes Chris S., making it ideal for less experienced paddlers or families with younger children.
Trail exploration: Discover the varied landscapes at William O'Brien State Park Campground where trails showcase different Minnesota ecosystems. One camper observed the trails offered "so many different kinds of birds, and the wildflowers were blooming and ferns were unfurling -so many shades of green!" The park's main trails connect to the campground, making them easily accessible.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk are prime times for wildlife spotting at Cleary Lake Regional Park. The park's shoreline camping spots provide opportunities to view water birds and aquatic wildlife. A visitor mentioned that "site 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery," making it perfect for nature observation.
Private sites: Tent campers appreciate the secluded feeling at Willow River State Park Campground where many sites offer good separation. "Most of the trail heads start at the campground. Walked about a mile to the falls area. This was really beautiful and was only a the head was only a couple hundred yards from my site," writes one visitor, highlighting the convenient access to natural features.
Clean facilities: The attention to maintenance stands out at Bunker Hills Regional Park, where bathrooms and shower facilities receive regular attention. "The park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp," notes a regular visitor, adding a sense of security to the camping experience.
Proximity to attractions: Despite feeling remote, most campgrounds offer easy access to metropolitan amenities. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes campers mention the convenience: "Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities. Great beach & sunrise," says Max P., pointing out the balance between natural surroundings and urban accessibility.
Seasonal considerations: Minnesota's weather affects camping comfort throughout the year. "June was the perfect time for us to go. Warm days and cool nights make for great camping and campfires," notes a camper at Willow River State Park. Spring brings mud and mosquitoes, while fall offers colorful foliage but cooler nights requiring additional gear.
Reservation requirements: Sites at popular parks like Afton State Park Campground fill quickly. A visitor advises: "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May." Many campgrounds require bookings 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Mendota Heights, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Mendota Heights, MN is Lebanon Hills Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 44 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Mendota Heights, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 89 dog-friendly camping locations near Mendota Heights, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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