Cabin accommodations near Woodbury, Minnesota range from rustic to modern with varying layouts and access requirements. Park cabins often sit at elevations between 700-900 feet, typical of the St. Croix River Valley region. While some park cabins remain bookable year-round, many operate seasonally from April through October, with winter availability limited to specific heated units.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: William O'Brien State Park features varying terrain with 12+ miles of trails. One visitor noted, "We loved the trails. It was easy to takes hikes of varying lengths. There were so many different kinds of birds, and the wildflowers were blooming and ferns were unfurling - so many shades of green!"
Water activities beyond swimming: St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park offers river access with boat launch facilities. A camper shared, "Beach is great. Easy boat launch. Clean facility. Quick trip to Prescott for bloodies at Muddy Waters. (Park is a dry park.)"
Wildlife viewing: Afton State Park provides diverse habitats for wildlife spotting. A visitor commented, "We went to Afton for a day trip filled with hiking, picnicking and scoping out future camping sites. Then I saw the snake... Lots of trails, sites to see, and wildlife to find."
Off-season recreation: Baker Park Reserve maintains winter activities when most cabins close. "After months of winter the first trip of the season is something we look forward to. The sites a Baker Park Reserve are larger than average," reported one early-season camper.
What campers like
Accessible cabin designs: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins feature thoughtfully designed spaces. A reviewer explained, "The storage in this place is amazing. Storage under the bed, one counter with ample storage under it, and even the windows are so deep that I was able to store most of my food on the sill."
Elevated camping experience: Cabins provide better overnight accommodations during challenging weather. At Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, a visitor mentioned, "Level private sites, lots of trees, Showers were clean. Would definitely camp again."
Proximity to Twin Cities: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers a quick escape without long drives. One camper shared, "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious."
Trail connectivity: Many cabin locations connect to broader trail networks. A William O'Brien visitor stated, "We bike from St. Paul to William O. It is a nice 40 mile ride mostly on paved or limestone trails."
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Be prepared for water systems to be shut down during shoulder seasons. A visitor to Whitetail Woods noted, "Outside water is shut off during some parts of the year, so bring your own drinking water if you are camping close to/during winter."
Reservation competition: Book cabin stays far in advance, especially for weekends. "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by," advised a Whitetail Woods camper.
Firewood considerations: Quality varies between locations. A Rice Creek Chain visitor warned, "Many campsites are fantastic with good spacing and shade. Access to lake is great. Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere."
Insect management: Prepare for seasonal bug activity. One camper at Rice Creek described, "Horseflies nonstop attacked us. To not get bite we had to run around like chickens with our heads cut off! No joke."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for park cabin clusters: Bunker Hills Regional Park cabins offer proximity to multiple activities. A visitor observed, "This is a nice, quiet campground with activities nearby. The sites are decently private and there is nice bathrooms/showers. We camped here while our friends used a camper cabin and they loved it too."
Facilities with modern bathrooms: Baker Park Reserve maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms and showers are nice and clean, some of the best I've seen at a campground!" reported a family camper.
Beach access considerations: Some beaches require walking from cabin areas. One Afton State Park visitor noted, "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."
Check for playground proximity: Many parks feature play areas but distances vary from cabin locations. A Baker Park visitor shared, "Nice playground for the kids. Fantastic bathrooms zoned showers."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park offers spacious sites. A reviewer explained, "Spacious sites and very clean restrooms!"
Electronic needs: Power capabilities vary widely between cabin locations. At William O'Brien State Park, one camper noted, "Wifi is available in the visitor center parking lot."
Camping alternatives when cabins fill: Veterans Campground On Big Marine Lake offers RV sites when cabins book up. A camper mentioned, "We have stayed in cabins and in our trailer. The pontoons they offer for rent are beautiful!! The lake is nice."
Sanitation facilities: Most cabin areas include dumping facilities for RV campers. One Baker Park visitor noted, "The shower house was very clean and roomy and an easy walk from the camp sites."
