Three Rivers Park District features several convenient glamping options close to Waconia, Minnesota. Most sites operate from April through October with select heated accommodations available during winter months. The region sits within the Eastern broadleaf forest province with rolling terrain and numerous lakes, creating distinct microclimates that influence camping conditions throughout the year. The area's elevation ranges from 900-1000 feet above sea level with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F during peak season.
What to do
Explore extensive trail networks: Baker Campground connects to over 8 miles of paved bicycle trails throughout the 2,700-acre reserve. "There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities (which were very nice)," notes one visitor to Baker Campground.
Visit the Nature Center: A short hike from Lake Auburn Campground leads to educational displays about local wildlife. "This campground also has miles connected trails that lead through prairie lands and to a nature center where you and your kids can learn about the natural surrounding habitats," shares a camper.
Try disc golf: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers a top-rated disc golf course along with numerous other activities. "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)," mentions one reviewer who visited the park.
Water activities: Swimming beaches with designated areas provide safe water access at most parks. "The lake is nice. There are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards," explains a visitor describing Baker Park's lake amenities.
What campers like
Private tent areas: Unlike the open RV sections, some parks offer secluded tent camping. "The tent sites are a little more private—the hosts at this campground were very nice. We had a tent site with no hook ups. The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees," reports a camper at Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the quality of bathroom and shower facilities. "The campground is big with privacy between the camp spots. There were nice trails to help explorer the regional park. The bathrooms were nice and clean," writes a visitor to Bunker Hills.
Proximity to activities: Many campers appreciate that these sites balance natural settings with nearby attractions. "If you simply look at the list of amenities this park has, nature lovers would be quick to turn their nose up at it as an overly-commercialized playground. It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies... Basically, check this place out if you want to get out of the house for some outdoor pandemic family fun," explains a visitor describing Bunker Hills Park.
Well-maintained sites: The care taken in grounds maintenance stands out in reviews. "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot," notes a visitor to Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking, especially during summer months. "We spent two nights in the campground. It was fairly busy, but we still felt secluded despite a full campground," explains a reviewer at Baker Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Many parks have limited services outside peak season. "They're closing soon, but I caught this campground in their last 2 weeks open for the season! Feels lucky," notes a fall visitor to Lake Auburn Campground.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Watch out for stinging nettles! Campsite 100!" warns a camper at Afton State Park, highlighting the importance of checking site conditions.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting means dealing with local wildlife and insects. "Lots of bugs, especially near the tent sites which are located near a swampy area," notes a camper from Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Consider camper cabins: For families new to glamping near Waconia, heated cabins provide comfort with minimal equipment. "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!" shares a visitor to Afton State Park.
Check playground proximity: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers play areas near campsites. "For our first time camping, this was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids. We will be back!" a family reports after visiting Baker Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Nights can get chilly even in summer. "The temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week," notes a visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Water park options: Several campgrounds connect to water recreation facilities. "Within the park is large water park and wave pool. There are many paved trails, and an activity center," mentions a reviewer at Bunker Hills.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Many reviews mention uneven sites at certain campgrounds. "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," notes a visitor to Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Limited big rig access: While some parks accommodate larger RVs, many glamping sites near Waconia have size restrictions. "About the only nice thing about this place is the lady who answered the phone, Valerie... The site was very unlevel and the water Spicket didn't really work very well," cautions an RV camper at Minneapolis Southwest KOA.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or sanitary dump stations. "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 an RV camper.
Electrical options: Check amperage before booking. "The upper loop (sites 45-64) is definitely more geared towards RVs, so not what I would consider an ideal tent site," notes a visitor to Bunker Hills describing the campground layout.
