The Minneapolis area has 18 state and regional parks with camping facilities within a 30-mile radius of Robbinsdale. Located at 870 feet above sea level, this suburb experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 83°F from June through August. Most glamping and camping facilities near Robbinsdale remain open from April through mid-October, with some premium sites requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Biking on paved trails: Baker Campground offers multiple paved trails around lakes for cyclists of all skill levels. "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great," notes Bryan S.
Disc golf access: Bunker Hills Regional Park is located near top-rated disc golf courses. A camper mentioned, "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)." The course is accessible directly from the campground with minimal walking required.
Waterfront activities: Cleary Lake Regional Park provides paddling opportunities with rentals available on-site. "Cleary Lake is a good size and a kayaker's delight! The park also has a golf course and is very well kept!" reports Lili R. The lake permits non-motorized watercraft with multiple dock access points.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes offers tree-covered sites that create natural separation between camping areas. A visitor shared, "It is nicely shaded large sites. Great walking paths and clean restrooms. Great for a quick weekend camping trip." The tree canopy provides cooling shade during summer months.
Clean shower facilities: Lake Auburn Campground maintains well-rated bathroom facilities. A camper noted, "While some sites are a little uneven and better suited to RVs than to tents, all sites are spacious and clean. Campground management is helpful and friendly, and even has little fire starting bundles if you're having a rough time getting that fire going."
Proximity to Minneapolis: Many campers appreciate the accessibility of glamping near Robbinsdale while still feeling removed from urban areas. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," comments a visitor about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
What you should know
Gate closure enforcement: Parks strictly follow posted hours. One camper at Cleary Lake Regional Park warned: "Word to the wise, gates ACTUALLY close at 10pm, there's no way to contact anyone and I had to walk about a mile in parked outside the gate."
Bug protection essential: Multiple campers mention mosquitoes as an issue from June through August. A visitor to Ham Lake Resort noted: "We visited in August and needed gallons of bug spray." Bring long-sleeved clothing and EPA-approved repellent.
Water availability varies: Some parks have inconsistent water access on trails. "This may be an ongoing issue but none of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!" reported a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Families with children can combine glamping near Robbinsdale with water recreation. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," notes a visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park. The wave pool requires separate admission fees of approximately $8-12 per person.
Short hiking distances: Afton State Park offers family-friendly trails with wildlife viewing opportunities. "We went to Afton for a day trip filled with hiking, picnicking and scoping out future camping sites. Then I saw the snake. I literally grabbed my husband to hold him back from stepping on it," shared Emily G., highlighting the park's wildlife encounters.
Playground proximity: Baker Campground places families near recreational facilities. "This was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids. We will be back!" reports Heather V. The playgrounds include equipment for various age groups from toddlers to teens.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: For those bringing RVs to the Robbinsdale area, consider campground layout. "There are pull-through sites, back ups, 50 and 30 amp hook ups, and tent sites, covered pavilions, picnic tables and fire pits," notes a visitor to Ham Lake Resort.
Proximity to supplies: RVers appreciate camping facilities near resupply points. "The campground itself seems remote, secluded and peaceful, however, you are conveniently located to two well-stocked convenience stores, as well as Wal-Mart about 15 minutes away," explains one camper.
Electric hookup distribution: When glamping near Robbinsdale with electrical needs, check site maps carefully. "The five space spot has no water or electric hook up but was a great place for me to test out my new solar set up," noted Lance L. about a section of Cleary Lake Regional Park.
