Glamping options near South Saint Paul, Minnesota offer diverse camping experiences within an hour's drive of the city. The area sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers with elevations ranging from 690 to 950 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures regularly dip below freezing, creating opportunities for unique cold-weather camping at sites specifically designed for year-round use.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Baker Campground offers multiple hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. One visitor noted, "The campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
Beach swimming: Lake Auburn Campground provides clean beach access for summer water activities. A camper mentioned, "The swim area was cool after a hot day and the beach was gently sloping and smooth." The beach area includes large shade umbrellas and a fishing dock.
Winter exploration: Wild River State Park Campground maintains groomed ski trails during winter months. According to one visitor, "We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails."
Disc golf adventures: Bunker Hills Regional Park features a top-rated disc golf course. A camper mentioned, "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing," making it ideal for campers seeking activity options beyond hiking.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers hike-in sites with waterfront access. One camper shared, "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy."
Heated winter accommodations: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins provides insulated shelter during cold months. A camper explained, "The cabins are well-built and heated. The wooded cabins have what seems like full-sized mattress bunk beds built into the wall. Each bunk has its own reading light."
Lake access and views: Lake Byllesby Regional Park features waterfront camping opportunities. A visitor described, "Lakeside sites are close together, with W/E hookups, but they're right in the lake with a wonderful view. The facilities are very clean and well-kept."
Walking distance amenities: Baker Park Reserve includes facilities within easy reach of campsites. A camper noted, "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins requires advance planning. A reviewer advised, "It's difficult to get reservations, so I recommend trying to start booking 120 days in advance, which is the farthest out you can reserve."
Water availability fluctuations: At Afton State Park, water sources may not be reliable year-round. One camper warned, "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."
Shower temperature limitations: Minneapolis Northwest KOA offers basic shower facilities. A camper reported, "The bathrooms were clean. The pool area was clean and without issue."
Winter bathroom access: Whitetail Woods has cold-weather considerations for facilities. A visitor explained, "The bathroom is heated and open year round. There are two year round showers as well, but don't plan on a long shower to unwind unless you like cold water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers family-friendly amenities. A camper shared, "Wonderful site! Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities. Great beach & sunrise. Highly recommend!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Wild River State Park provides wildlife viewing chances. A visitor noted, "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls."
Waterpark access: Bunker Hills Regional Park includes water recreation options. A camper remarked, "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," making it particularly appealing to families with children who enjoy swimming.
Beach facilities: Lake Auburn Campground includes child-friendly water access. A visitor mentioned, "Great playground and green space for the kids, beach is very nice. Bathrooms are clean." The playground accommodates various age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Baker Park Reserve offers varying site qualities for RVs. A camper advised, "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. The sites are about as private as the typical state park, so not very."
Hookup availability: Lake Byllesby Regional Park provides electrical connections. A visitor noted, "We love it here. It's not too easy to get spots on the holiday weekends, but somehow we managed it."
Winter camping preparations: Whitetail Woods has seasonal considerations. A camper shared, "Outside water is shut off during some parts of the year, so bring your own drinking water if you are camping close to/during winter."
