J
Jon E.
Guide
GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Tents or small truck camper only
Small pullout area on state forest land. Can walk trail back to tent.
Best Campgrounds near New Brighton, MN
Campgrounds near New Brighton, Minnesota range from county parks to regional reserves, with most facilities located within a 30-minute drive of the city. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups and drinking water, while Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park provides more diverse accommodation including cabins and glamping options. Several parks in the area maintain campgrounds with varying levels of development, from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV pads, with most concentrated along waterways like the St. Croix River and local lakes.
The camping season in this region typically runs from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Lebanon Hills Regional Park operates from April 30 to October 12, while Baker Park Reserve extends slightly longer from April 30 to October 20. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when sites fill quickly. Most campgrounds offer amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities, though specific features vary by location. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with occasional weak spots in more remote sections. One camper noted, "Lebanon hills has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with several parks offering swimming beaches, boat launches, and fishing opportunities. Baker Park Reserve provides access to Lake Independence, popular for both fishing and recreational boating. Campsites at William O'Brien State Park and Afton State Park offer proximity to the St. Croix River, with hiking trails connecting camping areas to scenic overlooks. While most campgrounds feature relatively open sites with limited privacy between neighbors, the natural settings and recreational opportunities compensate for the lack of seclusion. A visitor described Baker Park as having "open sites and beautiful lake with a swimming beach," noting that while privacy is limited, the park offers "very nice shower buildings and a nice office." Families particularly appreciate the playgrounds, swimming areas, and multi-use trails found throughout the regional park system.
Best Camping Sites Near New Brighton, Minnesota (119)
1. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
37 ReviewsLake Elmo, MN16 milesWebsite+1 (651) 430-8370$23 - $80 / night
"For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond."
"Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."
2. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
17 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN9 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$20 - $75 / night
"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."
3. Bunker Hills Regional Park
16 ReviewsCoon Rapids, MN11 milesWebsite+1 (763) 862-4970$20 - $32 / night
"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"
4. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
43 ReviewsApple Valley, MN20 milesWebsite+1 (651) 480-7773$24 - $42 / night
"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"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
5. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
38 ReviewsMaple Plain, MN21 milesWebsite+1 (763) 694-7662$21 - $29 / night
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
"The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."
6. Willow River State Park Campground
62 ReviewsHudson, WI26 milesWebsite+1 (715) 386-5931"Fun to play in the water, go behind the waterfall and a good hike up 200 steps to view the falls from above!"
"Located 5 miles outside of Hudson, Willow Creek State Park is large park with hiking, camp sites, fishing, canoeing, and the waterfall."
7. William O'Brien State Park Campground
39 ReviewsMarine on St. Croix, MN24 milesWebsite+1 (651) 539-4980$25 - $90 / night
"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."
8. Rice Creek Campgrounds
7 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN10 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$20 - $32 / night
"Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
"Beach was closed but we still got some good walks in. Fire ring was a little shallow for my liking so had to get some solid coals going to get dinner on the table."
9. Afton State Park Campground
37 ReviewsAfton, MN25 milesWebsite+1 (651) 436-5391$22 - $85 / night
"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."
10. Minneapolis Northwest KOA
11 ReviewsMaple Grove, MN16 milesWebsite+1 (763) 420-2255"The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."
"Sites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground."
Recent Camping Photos near New Brighton, MN
230 Photos of 119 New Brighton Campgrounds
Elissa W.
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
Amy G.
Rice Creek Campgrounds
Arielle P.
Bunker Hills Regional Park
Amy K.
Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
Zach H.
Minneapolis Northwest KOA
Blair
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
ERolf P.
Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
Jennifer H.
Town & Country Campground & RV Park
Wade H.
Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground
Steph H.
William O'Brien State Park Campground
Steph H.
Afton State Park Campground
leif D.
Willow River State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near New Brighton, MN
755 Reviews of 119 New Brighton Campgrounds
Jay W.
LegendInterstate Park — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Great park, plenty around the area...BUT THE NOISE!!!
Interstate Park in Wisconsin is just south of HWY 8 on HWY 35. The entrance is located on the west side of HWY 35 in the town of St. Croix Falls. St Croix Falls is a small town with a nice downtown on the river with plenty of restaurants (Dalles House Restaurant and Lounge is a favorite) and places for necessities. There are coffee shops, hotels and even a Wal-Mart nearby. There is also a casino in the town of Turtle Lake about 30 mins away.
The park is home to the western terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that covers 1200 miles through Wisconsin. The park also offers a Ice Age Interpretive Center which boasts interactive activities and displays of the last Ice Age. The park is also home to several other trails worth discovering.
There are two campgrounds in the park, a North and South campground as well as two group campsites. The South is a bit more rustic. The showers are located at the North campground.
For amenities there are flush toilets and showers. There is a sandy swimming area available as well as boat launch and other water activities.
This park is beautiful especially being on the cliffs of the St. Croix River offering spectacular views through out the park and the area. You can even take the bridge over to Taylor Falls Park Minnesota for more spectacular views as well as other shopping options. If you take this trip, Taylor Falls Park will be on the South and your shopping options will be to your North.
Even being in such a wonderful location with plenty of activities and amenities, I find the camping hard to enjoy at this park for all the noise that generates from the hwy crossing over the river. The sound especially of the semi trucks and their brakes that go all night long. This is the big reason for the average rating for this campground.
T S.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Loved it!
Nice spot right on the lake. Lots of animal noises! Pretty sunrise/sunset.
Greg M.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Good spot for a night
Got in late on a Sunday night and there was plenty of space. Most sites are right along the gravel road so not super private. Wouldn’t recommend for large trailers/RVs as sites are small. Found a couple sets of deer bones right next to my site, not sure if it’s from hunters dumping their waste or coyotes but keep an eye out either way.
DIANNE T.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Girl on first car camping trip
Kind of confusing for first time. Was not sure where I could camp. But then found out it's the spots right along road. Beautiful. Some good spots. Ended up in a pull thru around w view.
Corinna Y.
TravelerOld Railroad Bridge
Great little getaway spot for winter camping!
We stayed here with a group of hot tent campers in early January. The site is large and had a couple of fire pits. Includes a few picnic tables, and a pit toilet. It's a beautiful open area not far from the parking lot with a gorgeous view of the St. Croix River.
CindyTravelerAvatan Family Nudist Campground
"Family-Friendly" in Name Only: A Cautionary Tale from a Disillusioned Par
We visited Avatan Nudist Campground last July with our two kids (ages 8 and 11) for what was supposed to be a wholesome, body-positive family getaway. The website and brochures paint a perfect picture: serene woods, a sparkling pool, family activities, and a "welcoming community" vibe. And on the surface? Yeah, the grounds are stunning—pristine trails, a well-maintained pool. The facilities are clean, the staff (mostly) polite, and the natural setting is genuinely relaxing. If you're just looking for a quiet spot to shed your clothes and unwind in nature, it checks those boxes.
But dig a little deeper, and Avatan reveals itself as something else entirely—a place that's quietly optimized for adult fun, with kids as an inconvenient footnote they have to tolerate to keep the "family" label. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the real energy was elsewhere. Evenings around the fire pits and at the "Squirrel's" (code for the bar area) had this unmistakable swinger-party undercurrent. Lots of lingering glances, couples disappearing into the woods or private cabins, and a vibe that felt more like a discreet resort for the lifestyle crowd than a spot for building sandcastles with the little ones. Our kids picked up on it fast—whispers about "grown-up games" and awkward questions we had to deflect. The camp "tolerates" families, sure, but it's obvious the core membership would prefer a child-free zone. Activities for kids are minimal: a basic playground and the occasional nature hike, while the adults get themed nights, "sensual yoga," and late-night mixers that go until dawn.
What really soured the experience was the toxic underbelly of the community itself. This place is a powder keg of power struggles, with a small cadre of long-time board members and "elders" locked in a perpetual cold war. Gossip flows like the creek itself—endless whispers about who's sleeping with whom, who's "stealing" prime cabin spots, or who's cozying up to the President for favors. We overheard more drama in one week than in a season of reality TV. Cliques form fast: the "party crew" vs. the "purists," the swingers vs. the swingers-who-pretend-they're-not. As newcomers (and parents, no less), we felt like outsiders crashing a private club. Smiles were surface-level; the second you stepped away, the backstabbing started.
And then there's the elephant in the (clothing-optional) room: the camp's ugly history with sexual predators. We didn't know it going in, but after a few days, the stories trickled out from sympathetic members—multiple incidents over the years involving members who turned out to be registered offenders or worse, preying on the vulnerable in this "trust-based" environment. The rules around anonymity are ironclad: no photos, no last names, "what happens at Avatan stays at Avatan." It's sold as protecting privacy in a nudist space, which sounds noble until you realize it shields the creeps. Anyone who dares speak up—whether it's a parent noticing a sketchy guy lingering too long near the kids' area or a survivor sharing a red flag—is immediately branded a "troublemaker," "paranoid," or "anti-community." We've heard of families getting shamed in group meetings, then quietly asked to leave for "disrupting the harmony." Evictions happen fast if you rock the boat, all in the name of keeping the peace and the paying members happy.
Look, we're no prudes. Nudism can be liberating, and we've been to other resorts where it felt truly inclusive and safe. But Avatan? It's a divided house built on denial. The adult-party atmosphere thrives because the kids are an afterthought, and the predator problem festers because calling it out gets you exiled. If you're a child-free couple into the full swinger scene, this might be your paradise—plenty of like-minded folks and zero judgment. But if you're a family hoping for that advertised "safe, empowering space"? Steer clear. Your kids deserve better than being tolerated in a place where silence is golden and the wrong questions get you blacklisted. We won't be back, and I hope this review saves someone else the regret.
- Erik R.
RangerAfton State Park Campground
A true year-round backpack camping experience
So, I think you know what you are signing up for here when you stay camp at the backpacking site at Afton, but let me fill in some of the blanks. #1 yes, the hill climb is as big of an effort as other people have said. You will feel like you earned your dinner. I may have found a hack for this, but more in that later. #2 the site are mostly private. I stayed on site #12. I could see (and they could have seen me) site #9, but thankfully no one was there. That would have been a bummer to have other looking into my site. There is even a semi-worn path between 12 and 9. They would make a good combo if you have a group. Other than that, totally secluded. As far space at #12, you could build as big of a tent structure there as you would need, easily room for a massive 16’x24’ palace (if you would dare to carry it) or anything smaller. An Eagle Scout project built hammock posts at this site, so it is ideal for that set up. #3 the campground amenities are very nice. The solar powered water works great year round, the two pits toilets (if you can even call them that) are very new and nice. And the coolest campground feature is the cut your own firewood station. I went a little overboard since it was so nice and had a way bigger fire than I needed. Bring your own saw and you will love it too. #4 After walking around the park, I discovered a possible hack. There is an unmarked entrance to the park on the north side. Instead of walking all my gear back to the parking lot, I walked the .5 miles to the service entrance, dropped my pack, and then walked the 1.8 miles back to the parking lot. I tend to carry too much. The flat short walk to drop my gear was worth it. Then I drop around the park and picked up my stuff. Probably not MN DNR endorsed way to do it, but I was proud of my discovery. All in, this is a unique and wonderful camping experience. Highly recommend.
David R.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Quick overnight
Nice spot with plenty of space between sites, which gives you some privacy. It’s right off a busy road, so you’ll hear some traffic noise. The hunters were out during my stay, so there were gunshots throughout the day, but that’s to be expected this time of year. Overall, a good spot for a quick overnight stay and it’s conveniently close to the cities.
Guide to New Brighton
Campsites near New Brighton, Minnesota offer year-round recreational opportunities despite the region's seasonal temperature variations that range from below-freezing winters to humid 80°F summer days. The area's terrain features a mix of prairie landscapes and wooded areas surrounding numerous lakes and waterways. Most camping facilities operate from April through October, with a few locations providing winter cabin options when temperatures typically drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking through varied terrain: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park features trails through diverse ecosystems. "There are a bunch of things to do including hiking, horseback riding, swimming in their filtered pond, boating and an insane playground," mentions one visitor about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Several parks maintain purpose-built bike paths for various skill levels. "Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure" can be found at Lebanon Hills, while Bunker Hills offers "plenty of trails both paved and unpaved."
Water recreation beyond swimming: Beyond basic beach access, campers can rent various watercraft. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, "there is a large water park with wave pool" adjacent to the campground, providing additional aquatic options for families looking to cool off during summer months.
Winter activities: When snow covers the ground, several parks transition to winter recreation. William O'Brien State Park maintains trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. One visitor noted exploring "William O'Brien in the middle of February" where "the moon was very bright that night so visibility was excellent" during a night trek through the snow-covered landscape.
What campers like
Natural privacy barriers: Certain campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. At Rice Creek Campgrounds, "sites are spacious and spread out" with one visitor noting that "the tent only loop" is particularly appealing because "you don't see this often." Another camper observed that "tent camp sites are far enough from each other that neighbors can't be seen."
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campers appreciate the balance of wilderness and convenience. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," reported one camper at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. Another visitor called it "an oasis in the middle of the Twin Cities."
Well-maintained facilities: Consistent cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. "The bathrooms were among some of the nicest I've used at a campground. The shower stall was big enough for a meaty human like myself to shower comfortably," commented one Lebanon Hills visitor. Another camper at Baker Park noted the "nice clean bathrooms" and "very nice shower buildings."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak times. For William O'Brien State Park Campground, one visitor advised that "you might want to" make reservations immediately when returning home as "most weekends were already reserved by mid May."
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and location. "The mosquitoes were absolutely nuts!" reported one camper at Rice Creek Campgrounds, while another described their experience as "Horsefly Camping Trip From Hell" where "to not get bite we had to run around like chickens with our heads cut off!"
Firewood considerations: Quality and availability of firewood differs between parks. "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advised one Rice Creek visitor. At Afton State Park, "they do have firewood available however it is long slab wood, so you do need to cut it yourself."
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers before booking. At Afton State Park, "a few of the sites are in wooded areas" while others are in prairie settings. One visitor to Baker Park Campground noted site C14 had "the fire ring placement... doing its own thing like 30 feet from the tent pad—felt like I needed a shuttle to roast a marshmallow."
Tips for camping with families
Explore specialized family amenities: Several parks feature kid-friendly facilities. At Afton State Park Campground, "Camper Cabins" offer an alternative to tent camping with "heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds" plus a "screened in porch." These provide comfortable options for families with young children.
Consider swimming alternatives: When beach access is limited, seek other water options. At Lake Elmo Park Reserve, "they have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," according to one visitor. Another notes that "the swim pond is great for kids."
Look for educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs specifically designed for younger visitors. One Baker Park visitor mentioned that "on Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For campers requiring complete utilities, specific campgrounds offer comprehensive services. At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, "the sites are well maintained" with "nice hookups" including water, electric, and sewer connections. Another visitor noted the "level sites" which are important for larger RVs.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary considerably in privacy levels. One KOA visitor cautioned that "your packed in on top of each other like sardines in a can," while another noted sites are "on the small side" unless you secure "an end site."
Accessibility for larger vehicles: Some campgrounds accommodate bigger rigs better than others. At Baker Park Campground, "modern sites" are available with sufficient space for larger RVs, while William O'Brien has more limited options for oversized vehicles, particularly in the Savanna Campground section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in New Brighton, Minnesota?
What campgrounds are available in New Brighton, Minnesota?
While New Brighton itself doesn't have campgrounds within city limits, several excellent options are available nearby. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers drive-in and walk-in sites with water and toilet facilities just minutes away. Lebanon Hills Regional Park is another fantastic option offering family-friendly camping in the Minneapolis suburbs with amenities like Schultz Beach, mountain bike trails, hiking paths, and cross-country skiing in winter. Both parks provide a convenient camping experience close to the Twin Cities while maintaining a natural setting.
Are there tent camping resorts in New Brighton, Minnesota?
Are there tent camping resorts in New Brighton, Minnesota?
While New Brighton doesn't have tent camping resorts within city limits, several excellent options exist nearby. William O'Brien State Park Campground offers clean, accessible tent sites with easy walking trails and proximity to Stillwater for day trips. For a more rustic experience, Cannon River Wilderness Area provides free tent camping sites next to the river, perfect for hammock camping. Both locations are within easy driving distance from New Brighton and offer the tent camping experience you're looking for, with varying levels of amenities and natural settings.
Can I rent an RV in New Brighton, Minnesota for camping?
Can I rent an RV in New Brighton, Minnesota for camping?
Yes, you can rent an RV near New Brighton for camping trips. While there aren't rental facilities directly in New Brighton, several RV rental companies operate in the greater Twin Cities area. After securing your rental, Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve is an excellent, inexpensive option for RV camping near Minneapolis. It's well-managed by Three Rivers Parks with clean facilities. Another option is Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, which offers modern sites with hookups. For rental information, check RV dealerships in nearby Blaine, Coon Rapids, and Minneapolis.
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