Within a 30-minute drive from New Hope, Minnesota, several regional parks offer rustic and primitive camping options with varying levels of amenities. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, with the terrain featuring a mix of prairie, forest, and lakefront settings. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, creating ideal conditions for glamping close to New Hope from late May through early September.
What to do
Paddle on Lake Independence: Located at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve, campers can rent canoes and paddleboards during summer months. "We had a WONDERFUL time. The beaches are stellar. We took out kayaks while some of us sat on the dock," writes one visitor who enjoyed the lake access.
Explore miles of paved trails: The extensive trail system throughout Bunker Hills Regional Park connects to surrounding areas. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," notes Tiffany W. in her review. The trails wind through wooded areas and open prairies, making them suitable for both casual walks and longer bike rides.
Visit the water park: During summer months, campers can cool off at the water park adjacent to Bunker Hills campground. "They have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved," explains Arielle P., highlighting the variety of recreational facilities available.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers campsites with good tree cover. "This is a beautiful park and the campsites for the most part all seem spacious, and the loop we were in (whichever one site 52 is in) all had decent tree cover," writes Krista T., describing the natural setting of the campground.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. At Lake Auburn Campground, "All of the campsites are very clean along with all of the other facilities and amenities they offered," according to UnnamedAdventures, who appreciated the maintenance standards.
Proximity to urban amenities: Most sites are within 30 minutes of metropolitan areas while maintaining a natural setting. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," reports Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park, highlighting the balance between accessibility and natural surroundings.
What you should know
Seasonal bugs: The wetland areas around these campgrounds can produce significant mosquito activity. At Lake Maria State Park, one camper advised: "Pack light and bring permethrin-treated clothes during bug season." Some sites require strategic timing to avoid peak insect seasons.
Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends. Weekend availability can be limited from June through August, with most sites booking 3-4 months in advance.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have sites near roadways. "Site 1 is my favorite despite the road noise due to the location of the tent pad and being on almost a peninsula offering lots of lake views," mentions Tori K. about Lake Maria State Park, noting the trade-off between location and ambient noise.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Auburn Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice. Bathrooms are clean," writes Amy K., who found the amenities suitable for children of various ages.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, Afton State Park offers alternative accommodations. "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., who stayed in the Eastern Bluebird camper cabin.
Beach day planning: Several parks offer swimming beaches with varying amenities. "The swim area was cool after a hot day and the beach was gently sloping and smooth," notes Sarah S. about Lake Auburn Campground, pointing out the family-friendly water access.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Minneapolis Northwest KOA: The campground layout varies significantly between areas. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot," advises Justin R., highlighting the convenience for RV campers.
Electrical hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer limited electric sites that book quickly. "There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp," explains Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park, noting the options for different RV power requirements.
Level site considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "While some sites are a little uneven and better suited to RVs than to tents, all sites are spacious and clean," Sarah S. mentions about Lake Auburn Campground, suggesting careful site selection for larger vehicles.
