Best Campgrounds near Ramsey, MN
Campgrounds near Ramsey, Minnesota range from full-service RV parks to rustic tent sites, with several options within a 30-minute drive. The region includes established campgrounds like Bunker Hills Regional Park in nearby Coon Rapids, offering cabin camping alongside traditional tent and RV sites, while dispersed camping opportunities exist at South of Sand Dunes State Forest for those seeking more primitive experiences. Campground amenities vary significantly across the area, with some locations like Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park providing electric hookups, showers, and reservable sites, while others maintain a more rustic setting with minimal facilities.
Seasonal considerations greatly impact camping in the region, with most campgrounds operating from May through October. Winter camping options are limited, though some parks like Lake Maria State Park remain open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Most established campgrounds require advance bookings through county or state reservation systems, while dispersed camping areas have stay limits between 14-21 days. Cell coverage varies significantly throughout the area, especially in more remote locations. One camper noted, "South of Sand Dunes State Forest feels like claiming a slice of untamed wilderness just an hour from the Cities with zero amenities as per MN DNR guidelines."
Campers consistently praise the region's water recreation opportunities, with several campgrounds situated near lakes or rivers. Baker Park Reserve near Medina receives positive reviews for its lake access, with one visitor describing it as "a good getaway for the weekend that's close" to the Twin Cities. Mixed-use campgrounds throughout the area balance family-friendly amenities with natural settings, though privacy between sites varies considerably. Ham Lake Resort offers 122 sites with full hookups but receives mentions of being "usually pretty crowded." For those seeking more seclusion, the walking trails and quieter surroundings of Ann Lake campground provide alternatives to busier locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the camping areas, with deer sightings common in less developed campgrounds and hiking trails accessible from many camping locations.
