West St. Paul's surrounding camping areas sit at approximately 850-950 feet above sea level in Minnesota's Mississippi River Valley region. The area experiences warm summers with highs in the 80s and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most tent camping sites near West St. Paul require reservations during peak season from May through September.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Afton State Park offers extensive trail networks through varied terrain. "I hiked 11 miles here and it was awesome!" reports Mike K. The park features woodland, prairie, and riverfront environments for day hiking.
Swimming at natural beaches: Take advantage of swimming spots along the St. Croix River during summer months when water temperatures reach the 70s. "Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk," notes Alison at Afton State Park.
Wildlife observation: Look for deer, fox, and numerous bird species in the early morning or evening hours. "We went to Afton for a day trip filled with hiking, picnicking and scoping out future camping sites. Then I saw the snake," shares Emily G., highlighting the diverse wildlife encounters possible.
What campers like
Prairie camping with natural privacy: At William O'Brien State Park, campers appreciate the natural screening between sites. "We love this park!! very friendly and well kept! Two campgrounds to chose from. Tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river!" writes Michelle S.
Fall color viewing: The deciduous forests around Nerstrand Big Woods State Park provide exceptional autumn color displays from mid-September through October. "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails," notes Tim B.
Secluded tent sites: Many tent campers prefer the walk-in sites at several area parks for increased privacy. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," writes Matt C. about Nerstrand's tent camping options.
What you should know
Water access challenges: Water availability varies significantly between parks and seasons. "This may be an ongoing issue but 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 before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!" warns Warren H.
Hike-in site preparation: Many of the best tent camping sites near West St. Paul require carrying gear some distance. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites," explains Andrew C. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Reservation planning: Secure sites early, especially for summer weekends when availability becomes limited. "My first time solo camping was at William O'Brien State Park on a Sunday evening. Weekends have been packed and reservations scarce for months at state parks in Minnesota," shares Dani K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Rebecca Park Reserve offers exceptional facilities for children. "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to," reports Daniel R.
Wildlife education opportunities: Plan morning nature walks when animals are most active. "We love this park!! very friendly and well kept! Two campgrounds to chose from. Tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river!" notes Michelle S. about William O'Brien State Park.
Evening amphibian listening: Several campsites offer frog and toad watching opportunities after dark. "This campground is lovely. You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite," shares Laura E. about the Savanna Campground at William O'Brien.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection strategy: When tent camping near West St. Paul in RV campgrounds, look for buffer sites. "Typical State Park has a nice, small campground. The sites have quite a few trees separating them, but most of the sites on the C loop back up almost into the sites on the right side of the B loop," advises Deb M. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground.
Utility availability: Most tent camping areas near West St. Paul offer limited electrical access. "Sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet," reports Timothy S., highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Seasonal considerations: Plan tent camping trips around the region's varying conditions. "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails. Little area to get wet but not swimming. Sites are good and some can handle bigger RV's. Some Electric sites," notes Tim B. about Nerstrand.
