Dog-Friendly Camping near Shoreview, MN

Rice Creek Campgrounds near Shoreview, Minnesota offers campers 3 miles of paved trails around the lake, with distinct loops for both RVs and tent-only camping. Sites in the tent-only F Loop are particularly spacious and separated by mature trees, providing privacy not often found at suburban campgrounds. The park maintains a balanced blend of wooded seclusion and accessible amenities despite its location just minutes from Minneapolis.

What to do

Explore glacial potholes: At Interstate State Park Campground, visitors can hike through a maze of trails featuring massive water-carved rock formations. "The draw here is the potholes, but we will get to that... Some are so big that they still to this day have no idea how deep they go. Very cool to take the quick hike through the maze of small trails that show off these crazy formations," explains Erik R.

Kayak on multiple lakes: Lebanon Hills Regional Park provides excellent paddling opportunities with equipment rentals available. "Nice little lake to kayak on," notes Chris S., while another camper adds, "We love Lebanon Hills! Close to home and an oasis in the middle of the Twin Cities."

Hike prairie and forest trails: Local parks offer diverse terrain for hikers of all abilities. "We loved the falls. Our family spent a week here," says Keith M. about Willow River State Park. The region features both wooded paths and open prairie walks within minutes of most campgrounds.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening at Bunker Hills Regional Park. "This was a great park and close to everything. This campground was big with privacy between the camp spots," writes Melissa A. Another reviewer notes: "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious."

Clean modern facilities: Baker Park Campground receives consistent praise for its amenities. "The bathrooms and showers are nice and clean, some of the best I've seen at a campground!" notes Jennifer H. Another camper adds: "Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away."

Pet-friendly walking paths: Trails throughout the area welcome four-legged companions. "The campgrounds are grouped, we'll maintained, and always have firewood stocked for their guests. I love birding here as well," shares Alison O. Many suburban parks maintain extensive paved and unpaved trail networks ideal for dog walking.

What you should know

Seasonal insect concerns: Bug populations can be significant, particularly during summer months. "Mosquitoes were absolutely nuts!" reports Justin Q. at Rice Creek Campgrounds. Be especially prepared during June and July when both mosquitoes and horseflies are most active.

Firewood quality varies: Multiple campers mention issues with campground-sold firewood. "Many campsites are fantastic with good spacing and shade. Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advises Bruce M.

Highway noise at some sites: Traffic sounds can impact certain campgrounds. At William O'Brien State Park, "When the wind died down, you could also occasionally hear the loud motorcycles on the highway," reports Dani K. Consider requesting sites furthest from major roads when making reservations.

Tips for camping with families

Book tent-only loops for quieter camping: Families seeking peaceful environments should target specific areas. "The fact that this loop (F LOOP) was 'tent only' meant no generators! It was very quiet!" notes Amy G. about Rice Creek Campgrounds. Sites without electrical hookups often provide more tranquil surroundings.

Look for water activities: Multiple parks offer swimming options for children. At Afton State Park, one camper shares: "Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk."

Consider camper cabins for beginners: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird)—Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" describes Alison O. Most regional parks offer cabin options with advance reservations required.

Tips from RVers

Check site specifications carefully: Many campgrounds have specific limitations. "Reservation system is weird and the 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," advises Davis D. about Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

Consider weekday camping: RV sites fill quickly during peak season weekends. "Weekends have been packed and reservations scarce for months at state parks in Minnesota. Arriving on a Sunday afternoon was a dream—very few people in the campground loop," notes Dani K. Midweek arrivals provide better site selection and more peaceful experiences.

Utilize dumping stations: Most parks offer sanitary dump facilities, though not all have full hookups. "The park had a nice picnic table, which we used to help sort out our new (to us) trailer storage. We didn't use the fire ring, but it would have made for a nice campfire. We had full hookups, even though we only needed water and electric," mentions Joanne M. about her pet-friendly camping experience near Shoreview.