Elm Creek Park Reserve offers over 20 miles of well-maintained equestrian trails through forests and open prairies. The trails vary in difficulty with some areas designed for novice riders while others challenge experienced equestrians. Seasonal water access points are available at designated locations along the trails from May through October when temperatures remain above freezing.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: Ride through the paved and unpaved trails at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve which provides access to Lake Independence. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," notes Bryan S. The park offers varied terrain suitable for riders of different experience levels.
Water activities: Enjoy swimming and paddling at Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River, located about 45 minutes from Plymouth. "The river is very clean and sandy bottom," explains David G. Campers can rent tubes, canoes, or kayaks for river excursions during summer months when water levels permit.
Wildlife observation: Observe local bird species and wildlife at parks like Crow Hassan Park Reserve, which provides habitat for numerous native species. "Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails," shares Alison O. The park's diverse ecosystems attract various bird species throughout the seasons.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Find private camping areas at Lake Maria State Park Campground where campsites require short hikes from parking areas. "It's a nice quiet park and so are the campgrounds," reports Jordan L. The backpack-in sites provide separation from other campers, with some positioned along lakeshores and others nestled in woodlands.
Clean facilities: Access well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at most established campgrounds near Plymouth. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, "The bathrooms were nice and clean," according to Melissa A. Most regional parks maintain their facilities daily during peak season from May through October.
Proximity to cities: Appreciate the convenient location of these parks relative to the Minneapolis metropolitan area. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," notes Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park. Most campgrounds are within 30-45 minutes of Plymouth.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book campsites in advance during peak season (June-August). At Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, "We arrived after 8pm and the check in processes was a little unclear and they were out of maps, which was only challenging because it was dark and we had not been to the site before," mentions Alyssa T. Most campgrounds fill quickly on summer weekends.
Seasonal insects: Prepare for mosquitoes and black flies, particularly in wooded areas during early summer. "The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns Steph H. about Lake Maria State Park. Bug pressure typically decreases by late August and September when temperatures cool.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before your trip as restrictions may apply during dry periods. Most campgrounds provide fire rings at each site and sell firewood on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species. Current fire condition information is updated weekly on park websites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. At Baker Park Reserve, "There is a nice park for kids just a small hike away," shares matt H. Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain playgrounds with equipment suitable for various age groups.
Water recreation options: Choose sites near swimming areas during summer months. "They have a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area," describes Spencer C. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park. Swimming areas at most parks remain supervised on weekends during peak season.
Educational opportunities: Participate in nature programs offered at many regional parks. "On Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch," mentions Tina H. about Lake Elmo Park Reserve. Programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your electrical needs and vehicle size. At Ann Lake, "Sites range from open and flat to secluded and a little hilly. Most sites are fairly private and well spaced. Higher elevation sites for air tv reception," advises Andy L. Campgrounds typically post maximum RV lengths for each site online.
Hookup availability: Check what utilities are available before booking. "This place does have 30amp and 50amp hook ups and has pull through spots and sewer sites," notes Spencer C. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park. Most regional parks offer electric hookups but limited water and sewer connections.
Generator policies: Understand noise restrictions, particularly in more rustic campgrounds. "Went on a busy summer weekend... sites that you can't drive directly up to were still too close to all of the RVers with loud generators," cautions Chris D. about Ann Lake. Most parks enforce quiet hours from 10pm to 7am.
