Camping near Mendota, Minnesota offers access to over seven lakes and 45 miles of multi-use trails within a 35-mile radius. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 750 feet above sea level with mixed hardwood forests providing natural shade at most campgrounds. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during camping season with occasional rain showers in June and early July.
What to do
Kayaking on small lakes: Lebanon Hills Regional Park features calm waters perfect for beginner paddlers. "Nice little lake to kayak on," notes Chris S., who frequently visits the park.
Hiking varied terrain: Afton State Park offers significant elevation changes unusual for the area. "I hiked 11 miles here and it was awesome!" shares Mike K., while another visitor mentions encountering wildlife: "A Snake gave us great memories... Lots of trails, sites to see, and wildlife to find."
Archery practice: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve features a dedicated archery range open to campers. "Great campground, sites are spacious and spread out... and other amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids," according to John H.
Swimming in filtered ponds: Several parks offer swimming areas with enhanced water quality. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," explains Timothy S. about Lake Elmo's unique swimming facility.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Lebanon Hills Regional Park receives praise for its isolation despite suburban location. "Lebanon Hills is a great park and has a lot of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Our family selected this camp ground to test out some gear... Tent camp sites are far enough from each other that neighbors can't be seen, and we didn't hear them either," says Blair.
Urban convenience: Proximity to metropolitan amenities allows for quick supply runs. "We 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... lots of things in the area to do, and the 'city' isn't that far to drive to," reports Suzanne B. about Lebanon Hills.
Unique accommodations: Afton State Park Campground offers yurt camping options uncommon in the region. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," explains Jason S.
Prairie camping: Sites with natural screening create privacy. "The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion," notes Andrew C. about Afton's open-field campsites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill months in advance for summer weekends. "Reserve early online, most weekends were already reserved by mid May," advises Blair about Lebanon Hills.
Site privacy varies: Some parks offer more separation between campsites than others. "Sites are a little close with little to no privacy in most," mentions Davis D. about Lebanon Hills, while Willow River receives different feedback: "Large campsites, most with thick wooded areas between the sites," according to leif D.
Noise considerations: Willow River State Park Campground visitors note occasional ambient noise. "Highway noise was noticeable in the evenings," reports Maria D., though she appreciated "being in a no-generator loop, which kept things peaceful."
Water availability: Seasonal limitations affect water access on trails. "None of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!" advises Warren H.
Tips for camping with families
Look for filtered swimming areas: Baker Campground offers family-friendly water recreation. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," shares Bryan S.
Consider cabin options: Weather-resistant alternatives provide comfort for new campers. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird) - Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" describes Alison O. about Afton State Park.
Evening entertainment: Scheduled activities keep children engaged. "They also have an archery range and on Saturday nights they have a campgound program for the kids and families to watch. Very organized and clean facilities," notes Tina H. about Lake Elmo.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature recreational areas within short walking distance. "Our spot was spacious, and close to the bathrooms and play area. The play area was really nice and looked brand new. Our girls loved making new friends to play with," reports Angela L. about Lebanon Hills.
Tips from RVers
Hookup clarification: Dakotah Meadows RV Park provides concrete pads with full amenities. "This place has everything and it's in great as new condition... Sites are 60+ feet, concrete and level. Each site has their own fire pit," explains James and Susan K.
Seasonal water limitations: Early or late season camping may require adaptation. "The water wasn't turned on yet, but we were able to fill our fresh water tank with a hose from their laundromat," shares Michelle A. about Dakotah Meadows.
Size verification: When booking, confirm actual site capacity. "Reservation system is weird and 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," advises Davis D. about Lebanon Hills.
Convenient traveler services: Some parks offer additional amenities for RVers passing through. "There is a RV wash bay available for a fee and the campground even has gasoline available 24 hours a day using a credit card," notes Jim M. about Dakotah Meadows.
