Wild River State Park sits approximately one hour northeast of Minneapolis along the St. Croix River, offering equestrian camping opportunities throughout its 7,000+ acres. The park features over 35 miles of trails winding through hardwood forests, prairie restoration areas, and river bluffs. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer highs typically reach the 80s, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences.
What to do
Winter activities: During colder months, Wild River State Park maintains groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. "We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails," notes Joanna B. about her Wild River State Park Campground winter visit.
Stargazing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the region offer excellent night sky viewing areas. "The star gazing area was great! Intermittently had 1-2 bars of T-Mobile with LTE Internet. Wi-Fi is available at the park entrance," shares Katherine T. about her Wild River experience.
Wildlife observation: The surrounding forests and wetlands host diverse wildlife populations. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," reports Kate H., highlighting the abundance of animal sightings.
What campers like
Private campsite layouts: The spacing between sites allows for privacy at many North Branch area campgrounds. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, "Despite many of these things not being anything that I have a slight interest in, this somehow works for the park and it feels like a hidden paradise," explains Krista T., who was "immediately enthralled by the scenery."
Water access points: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. "Right on the St Croix, there are beautiful river-side walks to be had. There are also Oak Savanna trails," mentions Erik R. regarding Wild River State Park's diverse landscape features.
Seasonal programming: Many parks feature special events throughout the year. "The candlelight ski was great and the routes were marked with different colored luminaries - for hiking and skiing. We really enjoyed that," shares Joanna B. about Wild River's winter activities.
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: Insect activity varies seasonally but can be intense during warmer months. At Lake Maria State Park Campground, one visitor reports, "The black flies were vicious, so be careful," highlighting the importance of proper insect protection.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. "Cell service was incredibly spotty on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Depending on where you're at, you'll get a low signal, but often it was only enough for texting," notes Ari A. about St. Croix State Park.
Variable shower facilities: Bathroom amenities differ across locations. "Some of the loops have old bathhouses that desperately need to be replaced, but they are in the process of doing so, which means some loops have great new bathrooms and showers," explains another camper at St. Croix State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with children, sites near play areas reduce transportation needs. At Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve, "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," shares Bryan S.
Nature programs: Many parks offer educational activities for younger campers. "I also enjoyed the campground program for the kids and families to watch," reports one visitor at Lake Elmo Park Reserve, highlighting structured recreational options.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. "The swim pond is great for kids, and other amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids," notes John H. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should research site dimensions before booking. At Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River, "This campground is great for everyone! It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites! You can either relax in the pool or even take a ride down the rum river in a rented canoe, tube, or kayak," reports Spencer C.
Electric hookup availability: While Wild River offers electric sites, capacity varies among campgrounds. "This place does have 30amp and 50amp hook ups and has pull through spots and sewer sites so that needs to change on this app. Max trailer length that I've seen here is 70'. Anyone can fit in here!" adds Spencer about Country Camping's accommodations.
Seasonal road access: Spring conditions can affect accessibility for larger vehicles. "Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," cautions Andy L. about Ann Lake, suggesting careful navigation during certain seasons.
Ranger
