Camping areas near Oakdale, Minnesota range from densely wooded parkland to prairie settings, typically situated 250-500 feet above sea level within the St. Croix River Valley watershed. Most sites experience summer temperatures between 65-85°F from June through August, with frequent evening thunderstorms. Water recreation opportunities on lakes and rivers remain the central attraction for most visitors, though site amenities vary considerably between county and state-managed facilities.
What to do
Pothole exploration at Interstate State Park: Located about 50 minutes from Oakdale, this unique geological area features the world's largest glacial potholes. "The draw here is the potholes... Very cool to take the quick hike through the maze of small trails that show off these crazy formations," notes Erik R. of Interstate State Park Campground.
Fishing at St. Croix Bluffs: Anglers can access the St. Croix River directly from the park with a designated boat launch area for small watercraft. "Beach is great. Easy boat launch. Clean facility... Quick trip to Prescott for bloodies at Muddy Waters," writes Rikki I. from St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park.
Trail running at Lebanon Hills: With over 20 miles of unpaved trails through forested terrain, this park offers technical trail running opportunities across varying difficulty levels. One visitor commented, "We love Lebanon Hills! Close to home and an oasis in the middle of the Twin Cities... Great hiking," writes Katie C., who frequents the park regularly.
What campers like
Spacious campsites at Bunker Hills: Sites average 40-50 feet between neighbors, offering more privacy than typical metro campgrounds. "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.
River views from premium sites: The highest-rated sites back directly onto the St. Croix River, often with small beach access points. "When we first arrived to Interstate State Park our very first thought was 'that this is awful'... And then we came upon our site. With a waterfall on the back side and saint croix river on the other. I could not asked for a better site," shares Nina T.
Filtered swimming at Lebanon Hills: The park's swimming area features a sand-bottomed lake with modern water filtration. "The office was open till 9pm very friendly... Great biking and hiking trails. Great amenities. Close to the zoo as well as the city," notes Rico R. when describing Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
What you should know
Variable site spacing at William O'Brien: Compared to other nearby parks, the campground has tighter site configurations. "Compared to Wild River State Park, the sites at Savannah are pretty cramped with inconsistent vegetation between sites. I wouldn't want to stay here when the loop is fully reserved," reports Dani K. about William O'Brien State Park Campground.
Seasonal insect populations: Horseflies become particularly prevalent during July and August at several area campgrounds. One camper at Rice Creek described: "As we slowly whined down a gravel road the trees became more dense... that is when we started noticing the horseflies were making it known that we were 'trespassing on their turf'."
Off-season facility reductions: Many parks reduce water access and close shower buildings during April, early May, and after October 15th. "Firewood is $6/bundle. Self-pay available at site 74e if the ranger station is closed. Bring exact change since you'll be paying by envelope," advises a camper at William O'Brien.
Tips for camping with families
Filtered swimming ponds: Lake Elmo's swimming area offers chlorinated water without the algae or weed growth of natural lakes. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," explains Timothy S. from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Archery facilities: Several parks offer beginner-friendly archery ranges with equipment rentals available on weekends. "Great campground, sites are spacious and spread out, electric hookups at all sites, swim pond is great for kids, and other amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids," shares John H.
Designated tent areas: Some campgrounds provide dedicated tent pads raised 4-6 inches above ground level for drier camping. "Our site was spacious, and close to the bathrooms and play area. The play area was really nice and looked brand new. Our girls loved making new friends to play."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups but limited sewer: Most parks provide 30-50 amp electric service, but full hookups remain limited. "I stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. It has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps," explains Angela L.
Reservation timing for weekends: Weekend sites at Willow River State Park book 3-4 months in advance during peak season. "Unfortunately, I was only able to stay one night as my cross country trip hit this campground on the Thursday before memorial day and the whole weekend was booked," notes Leif D. from Willow River State Park Campground.
Site length accuracy: Lebanon Hills reservation system lists sites without accounting for tow vehicle parking space. "Reservation system is weird and the sites are much bigger than they say. All RV sites are the listed length plus 16' for your tow vehicle, which you need to call to find out," explains Davis D.
