Cabin camping near Oakdale, Minnesota offers year-round options with sites situated at elevations ranging from 700-900 feet above sea level throughout the St. Croix River Valley region. The area features a mix of deciduous forest and restored prairie landscapes, with cabin availability highest during spring and fall months. Winter cabin camping typically requires reservations 3-6 months in advance due to high demand.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation changes: At Wild River State Park Campground, trails provide a mix of river views and forest terrain. "We walked some trail through a frozen marsh landscape and happened upon a railroad that passed above our trail with a beautiful tunnel-overpass. We walked along the tracks after that in the brisk air and had a few run ins with white tail deer further in the brush," notes David K. about his winter hiking experience.
River activities all season: St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park offers river access and boat launches for summer water recreation. "Easy boat launch. Clean facility. The staff is super nice. Great hiking trails, bike trails, nearby horseback riding. Quick trip to Afton for lunch at Afton House Inn. Quick trip to Prescott for bloodies at Muddy Waters," according to Rikki I.
Winter candlelight events: Winter cabin users can participate in special night events. "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 her winter visit to Wild River State Park.
What campers like
Spacious cabin layouts: The cabins at Rice Creek Campgrounds provide ample space and modern amenities. "Level private sites, lots of trees, showers were clean. Would definitely camp again," reports Corey P. The campground's cabin facilities include access to modern toilet and shower buildings.
Natural surroundings with privacy: Many cabins are situated to maximize privacy while maintaining access to facilities. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," writes Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park, which features camper cabins in wooded settings.
Easy access to recreational facilities: Cabin locations are often strategically placed near recreational amenities. "Something for everyone here! 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," notes Arielle P. about Bunker Hills Regional Park's conveniences.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies by season and location. "NO WATER ON TRAIL 4TH JULY WEEKEND 2019 (FILL UP AT VISITOR CENTER)," warns Warren H. about Afton State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of checking water availability before arrival.
Firewood considerations: Quality and availability of firewood differs across locations. "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advises Bruce M. about Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Terrain challenges for access: Some cabin locations require physical effort to reach. "These sites do require a hike from parking. Would strongly discourage big coolers or lots of weight," cautions Adam P. about carry-in sites at Afton State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly cabin options: William O'Brien State Park Campground offers cabin accommodations with natural attractions for children. "This campground is lovely. You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite," shares Laura E. about the Savanna Campground area.
Recreation variety for different ages: Parks with multiple activity options keep families engaged. "We love this park!! very friendly and well kept! Two campgrounds to chose from. Tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river!" reports Michelle S. about William O'Brien State Park.
Accessibility considerations: Family cabin users should evaluate distance to facilities. "We stayed in a group site but there was no way 35 people could have camped in W3. Vaulted toilets need help and a good cleaning," notes Tim, highlighting the importance of checking facility conditions when planning family stays.
Tips for RVers
Site selection and sizing: Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve offers cabin and RV options with specific site characteristics. "The sites a Baker Park Reserve are larger than average. This is a big campground with a lot of paved bike trails and a nice lake a short walk away," mentions Melissa H.
Utility hookups and access: When choosing between cabin or RV camping, consider hookup availability. "These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," says Jason S. about yurt accommodations at Afton State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts cabin and RV access differently. "The east part of the park was all closed for construction. Everything on the east side of the highway was closed so we could not hike a lot of the trails or use the beach which was a challenge with kids," shares Tim about construction at William O'Brien extending through 2025.
