Best Campgrounds near Shoreview, MN
Campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Shoreview, Minnesota provide options ranging from rustic tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities, primarily concentrated in county and regional parks. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park stands as a centerpiece of the camping landscape, offering tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabins surrounded by lakes and trails. Bunker Hills Regional Park and Lebanon Hills Regional Park expand the selection of mixed-use campgrounds in the metropolitan area, each providing electric hookups, picnic areas, and sanitary facilities. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort.
The camping season in this region typically runs from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for summer weekends when metropolitan area campgrounds fill quickly. Many campers note the parks' proximity to urban amenities while providing a natural setting. According to one visitor, "We love to camp here as it's so close to home. Decent amenities, however NOT the feel of a State Park. Think suburbia meets nature." Access roads are generally well-maintained, and most camping areas offer drinking water, flush toilets, and shower facilities. County parks typically require a vehicle permit in addition to camping fees.
The camping experience near Shoreview balances suburban convenience with natural features. Several reviewers highlight the privacy between sites at Rice Creek, with one noting, "The sites are spaced out better than most other places I've camped and have trees and brush between the sites whenever possible." Wildlife viewing opportunities exist despite the metropolitan location, with trails connecting to larger natural areas and lake systems. Campers report moderate road noise from nearby highways at some locations, particularly those closest to major interstates. Family-friendly amenities like beaches, playgrounds, and paved biking trails receive consistent praise in reviews, making these campgrounds popular with local residents seeking quick weekend getaways without extensive travel time.
