J
Jon E.
Guide
GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Tents or small truck camper only
Small pullout area on state forest land. Can walk trail back to tent.
Best Camping Spots near St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Campgrounds surrounding St. Louis Park, Minnesota provide a range of developed facilities within a short drive of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan and Baker Park Reserve in Medina represent the primary established campgrounds, offering amenities for tent camping, RV sites, and cabin accommodations. Most developed sites feature electric hookups, drinking water, and modern restroom facilities. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve and Bunker Hills Regional Park expand the mixed-use campground options with additional recreational opportunities including swimming areas, hiking trails, and boat access points. The convenient locations make these campgrounds ideal weekend getaways for St. Louis Park residents seeking outdoor recreation without traveling far from home.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the region, with most facilities operating from late April through mid-October. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Many county and regional parks require advance booking through their respective reservation systems, with sites becoming available 3-6 months ahead of arrival dates. Winter camping options are limited, though some parks offer year-round cabin rentals. Road access to campgrounds remains well-maintained throughout the camping season, with paved entrances and gravel interior roads suitable for most vehicles. One camper noted, "Baker Park near Minneapolis was our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation. This is one of the cleanest camps I've ever stayed at."
Campers consistently highlight the proximity of natural features despite being near urban areas. Lake access represents a significant draw at several campgrounds, with swimming beaches, boat launches, and fishing opportunities available. Lebanon Hills receives praise for its trail system and recreational amenities, with one visitor commenting that it "has everything for the family. Schultz Beach for summer fun. Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs." Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with some offering more secluded sites than others. Lake Elmo Park Reserve features both drive-in sites and more private hike-in camping areas. Most developed campgrounds provide standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to firewood purchases. Noise levels remain relatively low at most locations despite their proximity to the metropolitan area, though weekend occupancy tends to be high during peak summer months.
Best Camping Sites Near St. Louis Park, Minnesota (114)
1. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
43 ReviewsApple Valley, MN15 milesWebsite+1 (651) 480-7773$24 - $42 / night
"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"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
2. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
38 ReviewsMaple Plain, MN14 milesWebsite+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."
3. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
37 ReviewsLake Elmo, MN23 milesWebsite+1 (651) 430-8370$23 - $80 / night
"For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond."
"Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."
4. Dakotah Meadows RV Park
12 ReviewsPrior Lake, MN16 milesWebsite+1 (952) 445-8800$40 - $50 / night
"The grass around the lots is very green, lush and well maintained. Campground is right next to the hotel/casino and very much within walking distance."
"Shuttle bus comes through the camp if you want to go to the casino and play- it’s also within walking distance."
5. Bunker Hills Regional Park
16 ReviewsCoon Rapids, MN19 milesWebsite+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"
6. Minneapolis Northwest KOA
11 ReviewsMaple Grove, MN15 milesWebsite+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."
7. Town & Country Campground & RV Park
7 ReviewsSavage, MN12 milesWebsite+1 (952) 445-1756"It’s an easy on and off the interstate, super close to a gas station and RV wash bay. Also super close to some very large power lines. The kids enjoyed the compact playground and pool."
"Some road noise, but you are in the city so expected, but yet still quieter then in some areas being close to things. I recommend this park."
8. Lake Auburn Campground
10 ReviewsVictoria, MN16 milesWebsite+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."
9. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
17 ReviewsLino Lakes, MN21 milesWebsite+1 (763) 324-3340$20 - $75 / night
"Kelly's Bar nearby has a great fish fry on Friday. The campground is neat and well managed."
"It was very easy to find, close to the twin cities, and clean. There was good access to kindling for a fire in the nice fire pit that has a grill."
10. Cleary Lake Regional Park
8 ReviewsPrior Lake, MN18 milesWebsite+1 (763) 694-7777$16 - $50 / night
"I imagine in the middle of summer, it might feel slightly less secluded as there are 3 other sites relatively close by, one of which you have to walk through to get to this one, but in early September,"
"The access to water is really nice and a couple sites were perfect. The hike in sites are super close to the car so it doesn’t even require much work. Plan to come here again!"
Recent Camping Photos near St. Louis Park, MN
197 Photos of 114 St. Louis Park Campgrounds
Jennifer H.
Town & Country Campground & RV Park
ERolf P.
Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
Blair
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Zach H.
Minneapolis Northwest KOA
Wade H.
Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground
Erik R.
Lake Auburn Campground
Missy B.
Carver Park Reserve - Three Rivers Park District
Lili R.
Cleary Lake Regional Park
Arielle P.
Bunker Hills Regional Park
Chris S.
Minneapolis Southwest KOA
Elissa W.
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
Amy G.
Rice Creek Campgrounds
Recent Reviews near St. Louis Park, MN
734 Reviews of 114 St. Louis Park Campgrounds
Jay W.
LegendInterstate Park — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Great park, plenty around the area...BUT THE NOISE!!!
Interstate Park in Wisconsin is just south of HWY 8 on HWY 35. The entrance is located on the west side of HWY 35 in the town of St. Croix Falls. St Croix Falls is a small town with a nice downtown on the river with plenty of restaurants (Dalles House Restaurant and Lounge is a favorite) and places for necessities. There are coffee shops, hotels and even a Wal-Mart nearby. There is also a casino in the town of Turtle Lake about 30 mins away.
The park is home to the western terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that covers 1200 miles through Wisconsin. The park also offers a Ice Age Interpretive Center which boasts interactive activities and displays of the last Ice Age. The park is also home to several other trails worth discovering.
There are two campgrounds in the park, a North and South campground as well as two group campsites. The South is a bit more rustic. The showers are located at the North campground.
For amenities there are flush toilets and showers. There is a sandy swimming area available as well as boat launch and other water activities.
This park is beautiful especially being on the cliffs of the St. Croix River offering spectacular views through out the park and the area. You can even take the bridge over to Taylor Falls Park Minnesota for more spectacular views as well as other shopping options. If you take this trip, Taylor Falls Park will be on the South and your shopping options will be to your North.
Even being in such a wonderful location with plenty of activities and amenities, I find the camping hard to enjoy at this park for all the noise that generates from the hwy crossing over the river. The sound especially of the semi trucks and their brakes that go all night long. This is the big reason for the average rating for this campground.
T S.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Loved it!
Nice spot right on the lake. Lots of animal noises! Pretty sunrise/sunset.
Greg M.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Good spot for a night
Got in late on a Sunday night and there was plenty of space. Most sites are right along the gravel road so not super private. Wouldn’t recommend for large trailers/RVs as sites are small. Found a couple sets of deer bones right next to my site, not sure if it’s from hunters dumping their waste or coyotes but keep an eye out either way.
DIANNE T.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Girl on first car camping trip
Kind of confusing for first time. Was not sure where I could camp. But then found out it's the spots right along road. Beautiful. Some good spots. Ended up in a pull thru around w view.
Cindy
TravelerAvatan Family Nudist Campground
"Family-Friendly" in Name Only: A Cautionary Tale from a Disillusioned Par
We visited Avatan Nudist Campground last July with our two kids (ages 8 and 11) for what was supposed to be a wholesome, body-positive family getaway. The website and brochures paint a perfect picture: serene woods, a sparkling pool, family activities, and a "welcoming community" vibe. And on the surface? Yeah, the grounds are stunning—pristine trails, a well-maintained pool. The facilities are clean, the staff (mostly) polite, and the natural setting is genuinely relaxing. If you're just looking for a quiet spot to shed your clothes and unwind in nature, it checks those boxes.
But dig a little deeper, and Avatan reveals itself as something else entirely—a place that's quietly optimized for adult fun, with kids as an inconvenient footnote they have to tolerate to keep the "family" label. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the real energy was elsewhere. Evenings around the fire pits and at the "Squirrel's" (code for the bar area) had this unmistakable swinger-party undercurrent. Lots of lingering glances, couples disappearing into the woods or private cabins, and a vibe that felt more like a discreet resort for the lifestyle crowd than a spot for building sandcastles with the little ones. Our kids picked up on it fast—whispers about "grown-up games" and awkward questions we had to deflect. The camp "tolerates" families, sure, but it's obvious the core membership would prefer a child-free zone. Activities for kids are minimal: a basic playground and the occasional nature hike, while the adults get themed nights, "sensual yoga," and late-night mixers that go until dawn.
What really soured the experience was the toxic underbelly of the community itself. This place is a powder keg of power struggles, with a small cadre of long-time board members and "elders" locked in a perpetual cold war. Gossip flows like the creek itself—endless whispers about who's sleeping with whom, who's "stealing" prime cabin spots, or who's cozying up to the President for favors. We overheard more drama in one week than in a season of reality TV. Cliques form fast: the "party crew" vs. the "purists," the swingers vs. the swingers-who-pretend-they're-not. As newcomers (and parents, no less), we felt like outsiders crashing a private club. Smiles were surface-level; the second you stepped away, the backstabbing started.
And then there's the elephant in the (clothing-optional) room: the camp's ugly history with sexual predators. We didn't know it going in, but after a few days, the stories trickled out from sympathetic members—multiple incidents over the years involving members who turned out to be registered offenders or worse, preying on the vulnerable in this "trust-based" environment. The rules around anonymity are ironclad: no photos, no last names, "what happens at Avatan stays at Avatan." It's sold as protecting privacy in a nudist space, which sounds noble until you realize it shields the creeps. Anyone who dares speak up—whether it's a parent noticing a sketchy guy lingering too long near the kids' area or a survivor sharing a red flag—is immediately branded a "troublemaker," "paranoid," or "anti-community." We've heard of families getting shamed in group meetings, then quietly asked to leave for "disrupting the harmony." Evictions happen fast if you rock the boat, all in the name of keeping the peace and the paying members happy.
Look, we're no prudes. Nudism can be liberating, and we've been to other resorts where it felt truly inclusive and safe. But Avatan? It's a divided house built on denial. The adult-party atmosphere thrives because the kids are an afterthought, and the predator problem festers because calling it out gets you exiled. If you're a child-free couple into the full swinger scene, this might be your paradise—plenty of like-minded folks and zero judgment. But if you're a family hoping for that advertised "safe, empowering space"? Steer clear. Your kids deserve better than being tolerated in a place where silence is golden and the wrong questions get you blacklisted. We won't be back, and I hope this review saves someone else the regret.
- Erik R.
RangerAfton State Park Campground
A true year-round backpack camping experience
So, I think you know what you are signing up for here when you stay camp at the backpacking site at Afton, but let me fill in some of the blanks. #1 yes, the hill climb is as big of an effort as other people have said. You will feel like you earned your dinner. I may have found a hack for this, but more in that later. #2 the site are mostly private. I stayed on site #12. I could see (and they could have seen me) site #9, but thankfully no one was there. That would have been a bummer to have other looking into my site. There is even a semi-worn path between 12 and 9. They would make a good combo if you have a group. Other than that, totally secluded. As far space at #12, you could build as big of a tent structure there as you would need, easily room for a massive 16’x24’ palace (if you would dare to carry it) or anything smaller. An Eagle Scout project built hammock posts at this site, so it is ideal for that set up. #3 the campground amenities are very nice. The solar powered water works great year round, the two pits toilets (if you can even call them that) are very new and nice. And the coolest campground feature is the cut your own firewood station. I went a little overboard since it was so nice and had a way bigger fire than I needed. Bring your own saw and you will love it too. #4 After walking around the park, I discovered a possible hack. There is an unmarked entrance to the park on the north side. Instead of walking all my gear back to the parking lot, I walked the .5 miles to the service entrance, dropped my pack, and then walked the 1.8 miles back to the parking lot. I tend to carry too much. The flat short walk to drop my gear was worth it. Then I drop around the park and picked up my stuff. Probably not MN DNR endorsed way to do it, but I was proud of my discovery. All in, this is a unique and wonderful camping experience. Highly recommend.
Maria D.GuideNerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground
Site 4
Nerstrand is so lovely in October. We reserved sites 2 and 4. Though they were right next to each other, they felt very secluded. Site 4 felt a bit more private from the main road because the campsite slightly slopes downward. There is also a log bench positioned close to the fire which some may think is nice but was a bit inconveniently placed for our bigger group to gather around the fire. Plenty of trees to set up multiple hammocks at site 4.
The bathrooms were updated and clean. Unfortunately on our last day, the campground lost running water so only the vault toilets were usable. As someone who doesn’t prefer this option, the vault toilet near the ranger station was actually pretty clean and updated too.
David R.GuideSouth of Sand Dunes State Forest
Quick overnight
Nice spot with plenty of space between sites, which gives you some privacy. It’s right off a busy road, so you’ll hear some traffic noise. The hunters were out during my stay, so there were gunshots throughout the day, but that’s to be expected this time of year. Overall, a good spot for a quick overnight stay and it’s conveniently close to the cities.
Guide to St. Louis Park
Camping spots near St. Louis Park, Minnesota range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV parks, with most operating from April through October. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, with summer averages around 80°F. Many campgrounds in the region maintain dedicated swimming areas with filtered water or natural lake access, creating family-friendly environments within 30 minutes of the metropolitan area.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers miles of both paved and unpaved trails throughout its 1,600-acre property. "There are park pavilions and a water park connected to the campsite, a gold course nearby, and shops, too - but the actual campsite, bike/walking/horse trails make you forget all of that," notes one camper.
Water recreation: Lake Auburn Campground provides a swimming beach with shade umbrellas and a fishing dock on its namesake lake. A visitor reports, "The beach area looks nice" and "Lake Auburn's sites are all along a one way road that loops through the campground."
Mountain biking: Lebanon Hills Regional Park features purpose-built mountain biking trails separate from hiking paths. "Great biking and hiking trails. Great amenities. Close to the zoo as well as the city," writes one reviewer who gave the park five stars.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Campsites at Baker Campground offer varying degrees of seclusion. "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," explains one reviewer.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds provide easy access to metropolitan amenities while maintaining natural settings. A camper at Dakotah Meadows RV Park notes, "Very convenient for visiting Minneapolis—25/30 minutes from airport/Mall of America (Aquarium) and Security patrols regularly."
Clean facilities: Regional parks maintain high standards for bathroom and shower facilities. At Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, "The check in staff was friendly, helpful and efficient. She gave us the info we needed for wood and other campgrounds in the area. Our site was clear, flat and grassy, and had an established fire pit."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer months, especially on weekends. A Lake Auburn visitor advises, "I bought new camping gear and this campground, given its proximity to our house, made for an easy weekend getaway to give the gear a trial run."
Site spacing considerations: Some private campgrounds place units close together. A Minneapolis Northwest KOA camper notes, "The KOA was nice and clean but you're packed in on top of each other like sardines in a can."
Seasonal limitations: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve and similar parks typically operate with defined seasons. "We stayed the last night of their camping season and were able to utilize water and electric hookups," reports one visitor who appreciated the "really well maintained" facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks feature dedicated swimming areas with enhanced facilities. Lake Elmo provides "a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming."
Playground access: County parks invest in quality play equipment. At Bunker Hills, one visitor reports the park is "perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved."
Weekend programming: Some parks offer scheduled activities for children. According to one Lake Elmo camper, "On Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch. Very organized and clean facilities."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most county and regional parks offer electric service but limited water and sewer connections. Town & Country Campground visitor noted, "The site we're in is w&e only but they have a dump station. It appears to be sold out for the weekend so book ahead."
Site dimensions: Consider rig size when booking. At Lebanon Hills, "Sites with full hookups or more remote sites with electric that are more tucked away in the pines" allow for different camping experiences, according to one reviewer.
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds feature uneven terrain. Baker Park campers advise checking site details before booking, with one reporting that site C14 has "super peaceful vibes, nice tree cover, flat tent pad, and plenty of space to spread out."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in St. Louis Park?
Where are the best campgrounds in St. Louis Park?
While St. Louis Park itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive. Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers a family-friendly experience with miles of hiking trails, mountain biking, and a beach—perfect for weekend getaways. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve is another top choice, providing clean facilities and affordable rates near Minneapolis. Both offer convenient suburban camping experiences with various recreational activities. Other highly-rated options in the greater Twin Cities area include William O'Brien State Park and Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, each providing unique outdoor experiences within easy driving distance of St. Louis Park.
What are the most affordable camping options in St. Louis Park?
What are the most affordable camping options in St. Louis Park?
Budget-conscious campers near St. Louis Park have several affordable options. Cannon River Wilderness Area offers free camping in a beautiful riverside setting. Sites are accessible via a short 10-minute walk from parking, perfect for hammock camping along the water. High Island Creek Park provides another economical option with sites nestled in a scenic forested gulley. For those with RVs looking to save money, Cabela's in Rogers allows overnight parking, though it's worth noting the location experiences highway noise. Budget travelers might also consider Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, which offers reasonable rates with access to numerous walking trails. These options provide cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing natural beauty or basic amenities.
Are there any lakefront camping options in St. Louis Park?
Are there any lakefront camping options in St. Louis Park?
Lake Elmo County Park Reserve offers excellent lakefront camping with impressive amenities including a filtered swimming pond with a sandy beach and built-in umbrellas. The park features modern campsites with partial shade and easy access to boating, swimming, and hiking. Another excellent option is Minneapolis Northwest KOA, which provides waterfront sites with convenient access for both boats and RVs. For those willing to venture slightly further, Lake Auburn Campground near Victoria offers beautiful lakeside camping with drive-in, boat-in, and walk-in access options. These locations provide the perfect mix of water recreation and comfortable camping experiences within reasonable driving distance of St. Louis Park.
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