88 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Lake Maria State Park Campground welcomes pets at all campsites with designated pet-friendly trails throughout the 1,580-acre wilderness. Baker Park Reserve and Minneapolis Northwest KOA maintain similar pet policies requiring leashes no longer than 6 feet, with both offering spacious sites where dogs can comfortably settle in by the fire. Crow Hassan Park Reserve features one of the best dog parks in Minnesota according to frequent visitors, with miles of beautiful trails along the Crow River ideal for birding while walking dogs. ['Sites are close to each other, but the grounds are clean with a dedicated K9 fenced area for a truly pet-friendly experience.'] South of Sand Dunes State Forest provides free dispersed camping where dogs can roam more freely, though campers note abundant poison ivy requires keeping pets on established paths. Most campgrounds in the area limit pets to two per site and require proof of current vaccinations.
Riverside City Park offers lovely views of the Rum River with a dog park just across the water within easy walking distance. Elm Creek Horse Camp provides trails where dogs and horses coexist, though owners should ensure their pets are comfortable around larger animals before booking. The campground's mostly level ground works well for tents and dog beds, with fire rings and enough space for camping gear plus canine companions. Seasonal considerations include heavy mosquito presence in summer months, particularly in wooded areas like Sand Dunes State Forest where long-sleeved clothing and pet-safe insect repellent become essential. Lebanon Hills Regional Park provides miles of hiking trails perfect for dogs, with multiple camping areas including full hookup options. The park's professional-built mountain bike trails and extensive cross-country ski routes remain accessible to leashed pets year-round, making it ideal for active dog owners seeking varied terrain.
"One of our kids & her husband live in Minneapolis, a sister & several nieces & nephews live close by."
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
from $21 - $29 / night
Check Availability"Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get. There are a few walk-in sites that I absolutely love."
"We picked this spot as we had dogs with and liked that there was a row of trees where we could tie them away from the fire . Would be a GREAT lot for multiple hammocks. "
from $50 / night
Check Availability"For the proximity to the city and nearby highways, this was a good spot. Didn’t expect to see as many campers as I did, but all seemed to be friendly."
"I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock."
"This park is only about 50 minutes away from me, and for hiking/camping I only think it is worth a trip in the fall."
"I chose Lake Maria for a solo camping excursion because it was close to the Cities, but still offered the level of seclusion I wanted."
from $22 - $80 / night
Check Availability"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."
"The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
from $20 - $32 / night
Check Availability"I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"
"Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"There was some suggestion that there was some drive in sites that were not reservable, that is. They were first come first serve. But I was unaware or unable to find those."
"Meadow setting where the campsites are, but then TONS of hiking trails with significant trees& shade. Really beautiful. Nice people staying in adjacent sites. We would return."
"Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody’s aiming at your pup), this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire."
from $16 / night
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TravelerLebanon hills has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation
GuideI never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!
GuideThis is a nice city campground with lovely views of the Rum River. There is a nice playground with a small climbing wall, benches to sit looking over the river. Picnic tables and a shelter are great for eating at. There is a dog park just across the river, within easy walking distance.
LegendThis is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic St Croix National Waterway. Although the campsites themselves are pretty run of the mill, the setting is spectacular in terms of breathtaking scenery, and myriad outdoor activities from rock climbing in the river gorge, paddling the river, hiking miles of trails, and learning geology at the Ice Age geology visitors center. If you are tenting camping, the south loop is great, and if you pick campsite 65 or 67 you will have direct access to the river which is peaceful and good for paddle opportunities. There are picnic areas with swimming along the river which is nice for group gatherings, and one is designated for folks with pets. Some of the rugged hiking trails along the bluffs and cliffs go right along the edge with minimal guard rails or walls, so keep a close eye on kids and pets because going over the edge is a possibility so utmost caution is advised.
LegendSmall little campground next to large casino. We lucked out and were able to stay 2 nights without reservations….only had to move because they were fully booked for the 4th…large concert event happening across the street. You will need to call early in the day to talk to office staff…who are very friendly. If after hours and there are no spots, you can dry dock in large lot in front of office. There is fuel on site as well as RV wash station. Bath house and laundry and card controlled ($5 card deposit on check in)…well maintained facilities. Dog park available, watch a few spots in fence near bottom where fencing has risen up…little dogs could easily climb under. Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis…25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America (Aquarium) and Security patrols regularly and there is shuttle if you want to visit casino. Pool at hotel is not included. Golf attraction is being completed next door so there was some construction traffic during day as expected.
GuideSites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground.
LegendThis was such a great spot! The campground is so nice and quiet!
Located 50 Miles NW of Minneapolis, and only 15 Miles from St. Cloud, MN.
GuideWe stayed here for a weekend in May. The campsites are a little bit on top of each other. There aren't many campsites that you're able to reserve. The majority of the campsites are seasonal campsites. There are a lot of mature trees that help with the shade! The beach area is nice, but the only problem is that boaters and kayaks are in the same general area so you have to be careful so you don't get hit. There is a dock for fishing as well. You can also rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards for a small fee. If you want to walk the whole campground having a golf cart would be nice. Also there is NO petting zoo as stated on the website or on the campground maps. There hasn't been one for a few years but they have yet to edit the website or the campground maps. We went there partly because there was a petting zoo for the little kids. Seems lazy to me that they can't update the website or the campground maps.
TravelerWe just found this campground in September and this year we've been there 3 times and we live in Montana, there's no place I'd rather stay. It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups
The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very helpful.
lots of things in the area to do, and the "city" isn't that far to drive to.
Sand Dunes State Forest offers multiple camping options within 30 minutes of Otsego, Minnesota. The area sits on glacial till and outwash plains with sandy soils supporting unique woodland and prairie ecosystems. Most campgrounds around Otsego remain open from May through October, though specific opening dates vary with spring conditions and freezing temperatures.
Hiking trails with wildlife viewing: Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest features extensive trail networks where campers report frequent wildlife sightings. "The trails are a lot of fun... lots to see. The outhouses are kept up well and pump water road side," notes Johnny H., who has been camping there for over 30 years.
Beach access for swimming: Several campgrounds offer lake access for cooling off during summer months. "The beach is nice and private, but it's a bit of a hike from the campsites. I'd recommend just hopping in the car and driving over if you've got young kids with you," advises Emily H. about Ann Lake's swimming options.
Winter activities: Lake Maria State Park Campground maintains trails year-round. "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," reports Tori K., who appreciates the park in all seasons.
Horse trail riding: Elm Creek Horse Camp provides dedicated facilities for equestrians. The camp offers a "solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire. The ground is mostly level—perfect for a tent and a sturdy dog bed—and the trails? Chef's kiss," according to Alison O.
Secluded backpacking sites: Backpackers appreciate the walk-in sites for privacy and wilderness experience. "Only about a mile from the parking lot. This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," shares Lydia N. about Lake Maria State Park.
Free dispersed camping options: South of Sand Dunes State Forest provides no-cost camping alternatives. "I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock," says Joslyn H. about this pet-friendly camping area near Otsego.
Spacious campgrounds with tree coverage: Baker Park Reserve offers well-maintained sites with natural surroundings. "The campgrounds are grouped, well maintained, and always have firewood(etc) stocked for their guests," notes Alison O., who grew up next to this park.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the quality of facilities. "Love that it's only an hour from the metro area! Very rustic campground, clean facilities, and water spigots throughout. Really enjoy how quiet it is!" reports Lisa O. about Ann Lake campground.
Poison ivy prevalence: Ann Lake and surrounding areas have significant poison ivy growth. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy," warns Kari P., suggesting campers should stay on established trails.
Seasonal bug populations: Summer months bring increased insect activity. "Walking along the kids all looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts. Even though we'd sprayed everyone down the bugs must have felt safety in numbers because we were covered in welts in no time flat," describes Steph H. about her family's July visit to Lake Maria State Park.
Variable cell service: Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground offers modern amenities but campers should prepare for limited connectivity in more remote campgrounds. "2 bars of 4g service made it a little difficult to pay online over the phone. No reception in lower elevation sites," notes Andy L. from his experience at Ann Lake.
First-come, first-served policies: Some campgrounds require advance planning due to their reservation systems. "This campground is on a first come, first serve basis. There are no reservations for the regular sites (although I do think they might take reservations for the equestrian and group sites)," explains Emily H. about Ann Lake camping areas.
Choose sites with playground access: Bunker Hills Regional Park combines camping with family-friendly facilities. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," mentions Tiffany W., while another camper notes that "The waterpark is a blast and we were able to find discount passes online."
Set up defensive strategies for bugs: Apply appropriate repellents before arrival. "We prepared the kiddos for a quick grab and run and jumped out of the car. Our campsite was about a mile from the car so we started at a quick walk onto the trail," shares Steph H. about her family's approach to managing mosquitoes at Lake Maria.
Consider camper cabins for beginners: Several parks offer cabin options for families new to camping. "They also have little cabins to stay in that I'd like to try out!" notes Jordan L. about Lake Maria State Park, providing alternatives to tent camping for families.
Plan for bathroom access: When camping with children, bathroom proximity matters. "Very quiet. Camp host was nice. Found a tucked away site that we could park in front of for more privacy," reports Caleb T. about his experience at Ann Lake, where vault toilets are maintained along main roads.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Consider campground layout when bringing RVs. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," advises Andy L. about navigating Ann Lake with larger vehicles.
Generator noise considerations: Some campgrounds restrict or limit generator use. "Went on a busy summer weekend. Beautiful rustic campsites but even sites that you can't drive directly up to were still too close to all of the RVers with loud generators," notes Chris D. about his experience at Ann Lake.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Many campgrounds around Otsego welcome pets with varying restrictions. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot," shares Justin R. about Minneapolis Northwest KOA, which provides dedicated pet areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Otsego, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Otsego, MN is Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve with a 4.5-star rating from 38 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Otsego, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 88 dog-friendly camping locations near Otsego, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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