Camping spots near Shoreview, Minnesota balance natural settings with proximity to Twin Cities conveniences. Located in Ramsey County with elevations averaging 900 feet above sea level, this area features glacial terrain with kettle lakes and rolling hills. Most local campgrounds offer additional activities beyond traditional camping, with availability running primarily from April through mid-October when average temperatures range from 45-75°F.
What to do
Biking trails: 6+ miles at Baker Campground: Connected network of paved paths for cyclists of all skill levels. "There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities," notes one camper.
Swimming options: chlorinated lake at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve: Unique swimming experience in a filtered pond with sand bottom. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," shares Timothy S.
Waterfall hikes: 1-mile trail at Willow River State Park Campground: Scenic cascades accessible via moderate hiking paths from most campsites. A visitor reports, "Walked about a mile to the falls area. This was really beautiful and was only the head was only a couple hundred yards from my site."
Archery range: free with camping at Lake Elmo: Practice target shooting with designated archery facilities. As one camper notes, "Amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids."
Kayak rentals: available at Lebanon Hills Regional Park: Paddling opportunities on small lakes within the park system. Chris S. simply states, "Nice little lake to kayak on."
What campers like
Site privacy: best at Rice Creek and Lebanon Hills: Many sites feature natural buffers and substantial spacing. One Lebanon Hills camper explains, "Tent camp sites are far enough from each other that neighbors can't be seen, and we didn't hear them either."
Mature forest settings: pine areas at Lebanon Hills: Wooded surroundings create natural shade and habitat for wildlife. A visitor recommends, "Sites with full hookups or more remote sites with electric that are more tucked away in the pines."
Clean facilities: Bunker Hills Regional Park: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower buildings. "Clean facilities, water nearby, and the kind of birdsong that makes you forget your emails exist," reports a satisfied camper at site C14.
Fishing opportunities: multiple parks: Lakes and river access for anglers throughout the region. A William O'Brien visitor highlights "miles of walking and hiking trails throughout the park" with "fishing, and great picnic area next to the river."
Reasonable pricing: under $30 for basic sites: Affordable camping options especially for county residents. "The office was open till 9pm very friendly. A little pricey for tent camping. The sites are private," notes a Lebanon Hills camper.
What you should know
Winter options limited: Only William O'Brien and Willow River maintain year-round access. Most other campgrounds close by mid-October and reopen in April or May.
Mosquito and horsefly prevalence: varies by season: Biting insects can be problematic, especially in wooded areas near water. At Rice Creek Campgrounds, one visitor experienced "horseflies nonstop attacked us. To not get bite we had to run around like chickens with our heads cut off!"
Firewood quality inconsistent: Multiple parks report issues with damp or unseasoned wood. "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advises a camper from Rice Creek.
Highway noise at some sites: Proximity to major roads affects certain camping areas. At Willow River, a camper mentions "highway noise was noticeable in the evenings."
Variable cell reception: Coverage spotty in wooded areas, especially at William O'Brien. A camper notes, "Cell reception for T-Mobile was minimal to non-existent. Wifi is available in the visitor center parking lot."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: multiple options at Afton State Park Campground: Recreation areas specifically designed for children. Baker Park campers mention, "Nice park for kids just a small hike away."
Beach alternatives: When lake access is unavailable due to maintenance, look for alternate swimming spots. At Willow River, "there is a great spot below the dam to cool off if needed."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks offer chances to observe native species. One camper at Bunker Hills recalls, "We had a few run ins with white tail deer further in the brush."
Walk-in sites consideration: Some parks require hiking to reach campsites. At Afton, "These sites do require a hike from parking. Would strongly discourage big coolers or lots of weight."
Camping education programs: Several parks offer weekend activities for children. Tina H. from Lake Elmo mentions, "On Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: verify before booking: Many parks have restrictions on RV size. Lebanon Hills campers discovered "sites are much bigger than they say. All RV sites are the listed length plus 16' for your tow vehicle, which you need to call to find out."
Electric hookups: 30/50 amp availability varies: Check specific campground requirements before arrival. Bunker Hills offers "both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp."
Dump stations: central locations: Most parks provide sanitary disposal areas rather than at individual sites. Rice Creek offers "level private sites, lots of trees, showers were clean."
Site leveling challenges: Some parks have uneven terrain requiring blocks or levelers. A Willow River camper reports having "level sites" which made setup much easier.
Early booking essential: Reserve 2-3 months ahead for prime summer weekends. One camper who booked Rice Creek three months in advance found "the whole campground was booked up."
