Best Campgrounds near St. Paul, MN
Campgrounds near St. Paul, Minnesota range from fully developed parks to more rustic settings, all within an hour's drive of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan and Lake Elmo County Park Reserve offer both tent and RV camping with electric hookups, while Afton State Park provides a more natural experience with hike-in tent sites and cabins. William O'Brien State Park, located about 45 minutes northeast of St. Paul along the St. Croix River, features drive-in campsites, walk-in tent areas, and cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds in the region maintain well-developed facilities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water.
The camping season for most parks runs from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations. "Lebanon Hills is a beautiful county park only a few minutes from Minneapolis / St. Paul. The park streets and sites are asphalt. The campground is part of a very large county park offering many activities," noted one visitor. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds feature both electric and non-electric sites, with some offering full hookups for RVs including water and sewer connections. Cell service varies by location but remains generally reliable throughout the region, with occasional weak spots in more wooded areas. Most parks enforce quiet hours and have specific regulations regarding pets, alcohol, and campfires.
The proximity to both urban amenities and natural features makes the St. Paul area appealing for weekend camping trips. Several visitors mentioned the convenience of being close to the city while still enjoying nature. According to one camper, "Afton State Park is close to St. Paul, and has the best hiking trails!" Water recreation opportunities abound, with many campgrounds situated near lakes or rivers. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve features a filtered swimming pond with a sandy beach, while campgrounds along the St. Croix River provide opportunities for paddling and fishing. Hiking trails are prevalent throughout the region, with Lebanon Hills offering extensive trail networks for hiking and mountain biking. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, various bird species, and occasional fox sightings in the more natural areas.
