Baker Park Reserve sits approximately 10 miles west of Wayzata at an elevation of 945 feet above sea level. This popular camping destination features dense hardwood forests surrounding Lake Independence, with the terrain transitioning from rolling woodland to restored prairie. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with humidity levels that can make evening campfires particularly welcome.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Independence: Baker Campground offers access to swimming beaches with camping areas just a short walk away. "We spent two nights in the campground. 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 Baker Campground visitor.
Trail exploration: Miles of paved and unpaved trails wind through Crow Hassan Park Reserve, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" writes a reviewer.
Winter camping opportunities: Unlike seasonal facilities, Lake Maria State Park Campground maintains year-round cabins. "We went in the middle of November. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart. Buddy and I parked at the southeast parking lot so the hike was about a mile and also hilly," explains one winter visitor.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: While many cabin areas have close neighbors, some campgrounds offer more privacy for tent campers. At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, "The sites were really big and we had no one near us, so it was nice and private. Most of the lots near the front were occupied but the back was almost empty, which is where the more wooded lots are."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower buildings receive consistent praise. A visitor at Rice Creek Campgrounds reports, "In the morning, when I could see everything, I was thoroughly impressed by the space, the maintenance of the property, the size of the campsites. All of them were impressive and big!"
Proximity to Twin Cities: Many appreciate how close camping options are to urban areas without sacrificing natural settings. "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great," notes a Baker Park Reserve visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for cabins. Plan to reserve several months ahead for summer weekends.
Cabin variability: Amenities differ significantly between locations. Some cabins are rustic with minimal features, while others offer more comforts. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, "Also there are two camper cabins, they look more utilitarian than atmospheric though."
Bug preparation: Minnesota's lakes and forests mean insect activity, particularly in early summer. "The bugs are aggressive here, especially near the tent sites which are located near a swampy area," warns a Minneapolis Northwest KOA visitor.
Firewood availability: Most campgrounds sell firewood on-site, but quality varies. At Rice Creek, one camper noted, "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds within walking distance of cabin areas. A family staying at Baker Park mentioned, "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
Waterpark options: Some parks offer additional water recreation beyond natural lakes. A Bunker Hills camper notes, "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails" make it ideal for families with children who need multiple activities.
Walking distance considerations: When booking cabin camping near Wayzata with children, check distance to restrooms. At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, "Only 1 bath house and it's not close to most of the tent sites."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: When reserving cabin alternatives with an RV, site grade matters. One camper at Minneapolis Southwest KOA reported, "The site was very unlevel and the water Spicket didn't really work very well."
Privacy between sites: RV sites often provide less separation than cabin areas. A camper at Minneapolis Northwest KOA observed, "The KOA was nice and clean but your packed in on top of each other like sardines in a can."
Road conditions: Access roads to some camping areas may be narrow or poorly maintained. Check campground maps before booking large rigs, as some areas note "The roads had enough of a country feel that they were fun for walking around with my kids and dog."
