Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers year-round camping options just 20 miles north of New Brighton, Minnesota. The park sits at 860 feet elevation in the humid continental climate zone, with warm summers and cold winters that allow for diverse seasonal camping experiences. For visitors seeking upscale outdoor accommodations beyond traditional camping, glamping near New Brighton provides accessibility to the Twin Cities while maintaining natural surroundings.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Bunker Hills Regional Park contains wooded trails that make you forget you're near the Twin Cities. "Lots of bike trails, miles of trails both paved and unpaved. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids," notes Arielle P., highlighting the diverse trail options available at Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Explore the St. Croix River: The river provides beautiful scenery and water activities for all skill levels. "We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise," shares Joanna B. about her winter experience at Wild River State Park.
Birding opportunities: The wetland areas attract diverse bird species throughout the year. "I love briding here as well," mentions Alison O. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve, making it worthwhile for wildlife enthusiasts to bring binoculars during their visit.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer tree cover for a more secluded experience. "The sites are decently spaced with good tree cover. Noise seemed to travel between sites," reports Katherine T. about Wild River State Park, noting the balance between privacy and campground community.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently highlighted in reviews. "The bathroom facility has seen better days. The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," mentions Krista T. about Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park.
Winter accommodations: Several parks offer year-round options including heated yurts. "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!" exclaims Alison O. about her stay at Afton State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during summer months and for premium glamping units. "We stayed here when we got our first camper and it is nicely shaded large sites. Great walking paths and clean restrooms. Great for a quick weekend camping trip," explains Courtney C. about Rice Creek Chain of Lakes.
Varying bug conditions: Prepare accordingly based on season and location. "Take a look at other reviews as they come in and see what time of year they visited. Maybe they'll have a similar experience, maybe not," advises Steph H. about Lake Maria State Park, where summer bugs can be particularly aggressive.
Distance between facilities: Some campgrounds have considerable distances between amenities. "Only one shower house and we had to drive there, the primitive toilet smelled so bad it burned!!" warns Kate H. about Wild River State Park, suggesting campers choose sites strategically based on bathroom access needs.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Many parks have dedicated children's areas. "There are park pavilions and a water park connected to the campsite, a gold course nearby, and shops, too - but the actual campsite, bike/walking/horse trails make you forget all of that," notes Kenan R. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Beach access considerations: Not all beaches are easily accessible from camping areas. "Less than an hour drive from Minneapolis this is a good get away. Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk," explains Alison about Afton State Park.
Family-friendly site selection: Baker Campground offers specific areas ideal for groups with children. "We went with a ground of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax. The sites are fairly large, but very open," reports Jennifer H., mentioning the campground's convenient layout for family groups.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some glamping locations have limited RV access based on size. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious. There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp," explains Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Hookup variations: Available connections differ between parks, affecting comfort during extended stays. "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," notes David E. about the Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires special preparation for RV systems. "The upper loop (sits 45-64) is definitely more geared towards RVs, so not what I would consider an ideal tent site," advises Krista T. about Bunker Hills, providing specific site numbers for RV campers.