Glamping options around St. Louis Park, Minnesota cluster within regional and state parks, typically within a 30-minute drive radius. The area sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate that delivers warm summers and cold winters. Camping season generally runs April through October, with most glamping accommodations closing after the first snowfall in late autumn.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: At Crow Hassan Park Reserve, visitors can enjoy extensive trail networks in varied terrain. "This is an all-time favorite park... Absolutely gorgeous in the fall. Pit toilets are available and there is water available at the entrance off of Park drive," notes one reviewer.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Lake Auburn Campground offers swimming access at its beach area. A visitor mentioned, "The beach area looks nice" while another commented, "A cute lil beach for swimming!" The campground provides water recreation just minutes from metropolitan areas.
Winter camping opportunities: Several parks maintain year-round operations including Afton State Park Campground which offers winter yurts. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," notes one reviewer.
What campers like
Spacious sites with natural barriers: Campers at Cleary Lake Regional Park appreciate the site layout. One visitor noted, "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy." Another camper shared, "Lots of good trees and space between campgrounds which isn't always the case at the regional parks."
Clean facilities throughout the season: Bunker Hills Regional Park maintains high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms were nice and clean. The only down fall was there was no trash cans in the campground only with you were leaving the campground," reports a visitor. Another mentioned, "Clean with nice fire rings. Bathrooms were close and well kept."
Proximity to Twin Cities: Most glamping sites sit within a 30-minute drive from St. Louis Park. One camper described Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park as "Wonderful site! Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities. Great beach & sunrise."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations require advance booking, particularly during summer months. The booking window typically opens 120 days ahead for cabins and yurts.
Off-season limitations: Water access may be restricted in shoulder seasons. A visitor to Afton State Park noted, "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!"
Campsite characteristics vary widely: Even within the same campground, sites offer different experiences. At Lake Auburn, a camper observed, "The sites are well maintained. The sites aren't very private though." Meanwhile, at Cleary Lake, a visitor reported, "I can't really speak for any of the other sites here, but 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and structured activities: Family-friendly amenities exist at most locations. At Lake Auburn Campground, a visitor noted, "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice."
Look for educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programming. "The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours," mentions a camper at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes.
Select sites based on access needs: For families with young children, consider proximity to facilities. At Baker Campground, a visitor shared, "For our first time camping, 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!"
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Not all sites offer power connections. Check site specifications when booking as many glamping locations have limited electric sites.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks. A visitor to Minneapolis Southwest KOA noted, "The site was very unlevel and the water Spicket didn't really work very well."
Seasonal road access considerations: Spring thaw can affect road conditions. Most glamping locations maintain paved access roads, but connecting trails to sites may become muddy during wet periods.
