Best Campgrounds near Waterville, MN

Camping near Waterville, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: There are plenty of trails to explore. For instance, at Sakatah Lake State Park Campground, visitors enjoy the Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail that runs through the park. One camper mentioned, "Great place to camp and get away from the cities without a long drive."
• Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, have nearby lakes and rivers for fishing. A reviewer noted, "The trails were in great shape and beautiful with past-peak grasses and developing colors in the trees."
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. At Red Fox Campground — Minneopa State Park, one camper shared, "This park has one of my favorite sites... The park is unique in that it has bison."

What campers like:

• Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve said, "Peaceful, quiet, with spacious sites that are situated in a staggered way, so you never feel like you’re on top of each other."
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at Afton State Park Campground mentioned, "Beautiful surroundings and clean bathrooms."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. At Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, one guest noted, "The staff and the host are very helpful and fun."

What you should know:

• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Lebanon Hills Regional Park advised, "Must reserve months in advance as usually full."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at Afton State Park Campground pointed out, "No showers, but clean toilets."
• Wildlife Precautions: Be mindful of local wildlife. A reviewer at Red Fox Campground warned, "Please be kind to mother nature and keep your food and trash secure!!"

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. At St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, one family enjoyed, "A lot of walking trails, and several playgrounds for the kids."
• Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or hiking gear to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Myre-Big Island State Park mentioned, "Great bike trails. Well spaced, quiet sites."
• Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids happy with snacks and games for downtime. A camper at Baker Campground suggested, "The lake was a bit reedy and silty but overall a fantastic and easy option."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve noted, "Nice private sites, great bike trails."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, check for campgrounds with full hookups. A visitor at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park mentioned, "Sites are close together and the use of large campers seemed to far outnumber those staying in tents."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A camper at Myre-Big Island State Park said, "Easy dump station. Showers were very nice and clean."

Camping near Waterville, Minnesota, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful getaway.