Camping near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Camping near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore scenic trails like those at Wild River State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Hiking was awesome," highlighting the beautiful trails available.
• Fishing: The area is great for fishing, especially along the St. Croix River. A family shared, "We were catching very small catfish and river chub faster than we could set our reels," making it a fun experience for kids.
• Canoeing and Kayaking: Rent canoes or kayaks for a day on the water. One reviewer at Riverview Campground noted, "There is kayak and canoe rental on the weekend," which adds to the fun.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Banning State Park Campground said, "Clean bathrooms, and friendly at the office."
• Secluded Campsites: Many enjoy the privacy of the campsites. One camper at Boulder Campground remarked, "The campsites are private and quiet," making it a perfect escape.
• Natural Beauty: The stunning views and natural surroundings are a big hit. A reviewer at Chengwatana State Forest Campground said, "Beautiful site, wish the river was higher for fishing," showcasing the area's charm.

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. A camper at Riverview Campground warned, "The mosquitoes were voracious!" so bring plenty of bug spray.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have fewer amenities. A visitor at Robinson Park Camping noted, "There are basic bathrooms and water available here, but not too much else in the way of amenities."
• First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Chengwatana State Forest Campground mentioned, "This is a pretty nice little self-service campground," emphasizing the need to arrive early.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Banning State Park Campground enjoyed the "great trails" and "lots to do here."
• Pack Entertainment: Bring games or outdoor toys to keep kids engaged. A camper at Old Logging Trail — St. Croix State Park suggested, "We didn't bring bikes, which was a mistake for us," highlighting the fun of biking in the area.
• Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have downtime. A family at Robinson Park Camping appreciated the "peace and quiet" they found during their stay.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Accessibility: Some sites can be tricky to access. A reviewer at Grand Casino RV Resort mentioned, "Virtually every site in the park is a blind back in from the driver seat," so be prepared for some maneuvering.
• Bring Extra Hoses: Water hookups can be far from some sites. A camper at Banning RV Park and Campground noted, "The water hookup was so far away that I needed to buy another hose to reach it."
• Look for Level Sites: Not all sites are level, which can make setup challenging. A visitor at Banning RV Park and Campground said, "The sites can be level and some others are not at all," so check site conditions before booking.

Camping near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Minnesota, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying nature, there's something for every camper.