Best Campgrounds near Rockford, MN

The western suburbs of Rockford, Minnesota feature a mix of county parks, state forests, and regional reserves offering varied camping experiences within a 30-mile radius. Baker Park Reserve in nearby Medina provides well-maintained campgrounds with modern amenities including showers, electric hookups, and boat access to Lake Independence. Lake Maria State Park, located northwest of Rockford, offers more secluded camping with walk-in sites and rustic cabins nestled among hardwood forests and small lakes. The Three Rivers Park District manages several campgrounds in the area, including both developed sites with full hookups and more primitive options for those seeking a traditional camping experience.

Most campgrounds in the Rockford area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter camping available at Lake Maria State Park. Reservations are essential during summer weekends, particularly at popular locations like Baker Park Reserve. As one camper noted, "Baker Park was our camp choice for inexpensive camping near Minneapolis. It was crowded with RVs and tents alike but never seemed loud or cramped." The region experiences typical Minnesota seasonal conditions with humid summers prone to mosquitoes and occasional severe thunderstorms. Spring camping often means muddy conditions, while fall offers spectacular foliage with fewer crowds. Cell service varies considerably, with better coverage at developed campgrounds closer to town and spotty reception in more remote areas.

Family-friendly amenities distinguish many campgrounds near Rockford. Swimming beaches, playgrounds, and paved biking trails are common features at county and regional parks. Baker Park Reserve receives consistently high ratings for its clean facilities and lake access, though several reviewers mention limited privacy between sites. According to one visitor, "The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful." For those seeking more seclusion, the dispersed camping areas in Sand Dunes State Forest provide a more rustic experience, though campers should be prepared for primitive conditions and abundant poison ivy. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, waterfowl, and occasional fox sightings, particularly in the less developed camping areas north of Rockford.

Best Camping Sites Near Rockford, Minnesota (83)

    1. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve

    37 Reviews
    Maple Plain, MN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 694-7662

    $21 - $29 / night

    "Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."

    "The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."

    2. Lake Maria State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Silver Creek, MN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 878-2325

    "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."

    3. Minneapolis Northwest KOA

    11 Reviews
    Maple Grove, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 420-2255

    "The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees. The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."

    "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."

    4. Lake Rebecca Park Reserve

    3 Reviews
    Rockford, MN
    3 miles
    Website

    "Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home😁"

    "When I first pulled in I checked out the single track trail area first and the parking lot was full of mountain bikers. "

    5. Lake Auburn Campground

    11 Reviews
    Victoria, MN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (952) 443-2911

    $15 - $18 / night

    "This campground even has 2 walking/hike-in campsites to give your avid campers a real out-in-the-middle-of-nowhere kind if feel, like you drove hundreds if miles to get away from the hustle and bussle"

    "But the Eady walk to the lake, sitting on the dock or the grass and swimming III m the water are a great way to destress."

    6. Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground

    3 Reviews
    Maple Plain, MN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 694-7662

    "Tons of trails and camping. 🏕"

    7. Crow Hassan Park Reserve

    3 Reviews
    St. Michael, MN
    9 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer."

    "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"

    8. Ann Lake

    21 Reviews
    Zimmerman, MN
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 878-2325

    $15 - $17 / night

    "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."

    "Lake Ann Campground, located in the Sand Dunes State Forest north of Big Lake, MN is great for a weekend getaway with the family or a solo walk in trip."

    9. Carver Park Reserve - Three Rivers Park District

    7 Reviews
    Victoria, MN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 694-1112

    "Family friendly campground with educational activities. campsites are close together but it is a close drive from the cities and a nice place for families. Nice walking & biking trails."

    "We had site 57, which is more expensive but is also very large, surrounded by trees and has a patio, the other campsite sizes vary greatly with some being very small, it's very easy for groups to camp"

    10. Bunker Hills Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    Coon Rapids, MN
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 862-4970

    $20 - $32 / night

    "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"

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Recent Reviews near Rockford, MN

504 Reviews of 83 Rockford Campgrounds



Guide to Rockford

Camping near Rockford, MN, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area."
  • Water Activities: At Interstate State Park, you can rent canoes and kayaks. A reviewer shared, "Canoe and kayak rentals for more adventures on the river."
  • Wildlife Watching: Wild River State Park Campground is perfect for spotting deer and other wildlife. One camper noted, "We spotted three white-tail deer."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Lebanon Hills Regional Park said, "We were very surprised at the privacy of our site."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A review for Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve stated, "Shower facilities are very nice."
  • Convenient Location: Being close to the Twin Cities is a big plus. One camper at William O'Brien State Park Campground remarked, "It's conveniently located near the twin cities making it a great spot for a quick getaway."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Allowed: Some campgrounds, like Interstate State Park, have strict rules against alcohol. A reviewer mentioned, "NO alcohol allowed."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Lake Elmo County Park Reserve lacks showers and toilets, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Lake Maria State Park warned, "The mosquitos were awful."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Wild River State Park Campground, where one camper noted, "The sites are secluded by sumac trees."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities for everyone. A family at Afton State Park Campground enjoyed the "great trails for all different skill levels."
  • Pack Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, a camper at Lake Maria State Park advised, "Be prepared with bug spray/repellant!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve mentioned, "RV pads are gravel."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which offers "full hook ups."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some RVers noted that noise can be an issue. A camper at Interstate State Park shared, "People in RVs tend to not recognize their voices penetrate tent walls with incredible ease."

Camping near Rockford, MN, has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, the campgrounds in this area provide a great experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Rockford, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Rockford, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 83 campgrounds and RV parks near Rockford, MN and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Rockford, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rockford, MN is Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rockford, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Rockford, MN.