Cabin camping near Minnetonka, Minnesota offers year-round accommodations within a 25-mile radius of the city. The area sits at approximately 930 feet above sea level in the western Twin Cities metro region, with hardwood forests and numerous lakes creating natural boundaries between camping areas. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, while summer cabin stays typically require reservations 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: Baker Park Reserve features extensive paved trails around multiple lakes ideal for spotting local wildlife. "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," notes Bryan S. about Baker Campground.
Water activities and beaches: Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides water access points along the Crow River. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails," reports Alison O. about the Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Disc golf and outdoor recreation: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers additional recreation beyond standard camping. "Clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground," mentions David E. about the spacious camping environment near disc golf courses.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Lake Maria State Park provides secluded cabin options surrounded by nature. "Site B6 at Lake Maria State Park feels like a secret woodland sanctuary — set up on a slight rise, tucked beneath a cathedral of towering oaks and maples," shares Alison O. about the Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Variety of cabin options: Rice Creek Campgrounds offers diverse cabins with varying amenities. "Level private sites, lots of trees, showers were clean. Would definitely camp again," notes Corey P. about the Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Accessibility to urban amenities: Bunker Hills Regional Park balances natural settings with nearby services. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," observes Doug B. about cabin accommodations near city conveniences.
What you should know
Seasonal maintenance schedules: Winter cabin availability varies significantly between locations, with some parks closing water access completely. "The cabin site was nice because we had an end site, otherwise sites are on the small side. The playground could use some revamping and the pool area was closed," notes Elena about seasonal maintenance at Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Reservation windows: Most cabins require advanced booking, particularly during summer months when booking windows open 120 days prior to arrival date.
Firewood regulations: Quality and cost vary by location. "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advises Bruce M. about bringing alternative fuel sources.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers additional family entertainment within the park boundaries. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," mentions Tiffany W., highlighting attractions beyond standard cabin amenities.
Playground proximity: Choose cabin sites near play areas for easier family management. "Close to a really fun park for our kids. We will be back!" shares Heather V. about her family's first camping experience at Baker Campground.
Off-season family options: Consider spring or fall cabin rentals for fewer crowds and insects. "Fire ring was a little shallow for my liking so had to get some solid coals going to get dinner on the table. Nice clean site, community water pump worked great!" notes Justin Q. about shoulder season camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection algorithms: Research specific site attributes before booking. "If I wanted one with trees I needed to put a note on my reservation. He also suggested calling the office and requesting a site with trees," shares Diane A. about the booking system at some private campgrounds.
Alternative cabin access: Several parks offer cabin accommodations alongside RV sites. "The wooded cabins near our site looked comfortable with level pads and good separation from neighboring campers," reports a visitor who stayed at Afton State Park Campground.
Off-road parking considerations: Many cabins require short walks from parking areas. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes," explains Tori K. about accessing remote cabin locations.
