Camping options near Shoreview, Minnesota span from forested sites at Wild River State Park to family-oriented facilities at Lake Auburn Campground. The area's mix of prairie and woodland landscapes offers camping across elevations from 850 to 950 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging 65-85°F. Many campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from April through October, closing during Minnesota's harsh winter months when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Paddling expeditions: Country Camping Tent & RV Park provides direct access to the Rum River with kayak, canoe and tube rentals on site. "The river is very clean and sandy bottom," notes David G., making it ideal for beginners and families looking for gentle water activities.
Hiking varied terrain: Wild River State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems covering diverse ecosystems. "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise," reports Joanna B., highlighting its year-round recreational potential.
Stargazing opportunities: Lake Maria State Park provides designated stargazing areas away from light pollution. "The darkness here is wild and beautiful," one camper notes, suggesting visitors bring headlamps for navigating after sunset. The park's backcountry sites offer prime night sky viewing with minimal interference from urban light sources.
What campers like
Spacious, secluded sites: Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve receives praise for its generous campsites. "The sites a Baker Park Reserve are larger than average. This is a big campground with a lot of paved bike trails and a nice lake a short walk away," reports Melissa H.
Privacy among trees: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers wooded camping despite its suburban location. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," notes Doug B., highlighting the unexpected natural experience so close to urban amenities.
Tent platforms and level sites: Lake Auburn Campground provides well-maintained areas for tent setup. "While some sites are a little uneven and better suited to RVs than to tents, all sites are spacious and clean," shares Sarah S., adding that the "swim area was cool after a hot day and the beach was gently sloping and smooth."
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Heavy mosquito and black fly populations affect camping comfort, particularly at Lake Maria State Park. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns Steph H., recommending visits in late fall instead of summer.
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds maintain consistent water service. "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!" advises Warren H.
Yurt camping options: Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers yurt accommodations for those seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping near Shoreview. Yurt camping provides a middle ground between tent and cabin experiences, with semi-permanent structures that typically include proper beds while maintaining a connection to the outdoors.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Lake Auburn Campground features child-friendly swimming areas with thoughtful amenities. "The beach area looks nice" and includes "a playground, volleyball court and tons of miles of trails to shred on foot or bike," according to multiple reviewers, making it ideal for active families.
Activity variety: Country Camping has comprehensive children's facilities. "Great playground and heated pool the spaces were well kept and spaced apart... A ton for the kids to do!" reports Beasty B., highlighting the campground's family-oriented approach.
Accessibility considerations: Afton State Park Campground offers yurt camping as an alternative for families not ready for tent camping. "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," explains Jason S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Ham Lake Resort, RVers should request specific sites based on preferences. "There are pull-through sites, back ups, 50 and 30 amp hook ups, and tent sites, covered pavilions, picnic tables and fire pits," notes Kristin C., emphasizing the importance of communicating needs when reserving.
Seasonal considerations: Minneapolis Northwest KOA operates from April through mid-October with varying site quality. "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," reports David E., suggesting reservations well in advance for peak summer months when seeking optimal sites.
Proximity to supplies: Multiple campgrounds near Shoreview maintain convenience to resupply options. "The campground itself seems remote, secluded and peaceful, however, you are conveniently located to two well-stocked convenience stores, as well as Wal-Mart about 15 minutes away," notes a reviewer, highlighting the practical balance of natural setting with nearby amenities.
