Camping spots near Zimmerman, Minnesota range from full-service campgrounds to secluded backcountry sites. The area sits at approximately 950 feet elevation with a continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Winter temperatures average 14°F, while summer brings 83°F temperatures with peak camping season running May through September when most facilities operate full services.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Bunker Hills Regional Park provides a top-rated course near the campgrounds. "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing," notes one camper at Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Water recreation options: Take advantage of tubing and canoeing at Country Camping. "Great tubing and canoeing. Key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," reports a visitor at Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Winter camping alternatives: While most campgrounds operate seasonally, Lake Maria State Park offers year-round options. "I would like to come back to this park in late fall and try out a camper cabin. There are three of them all on lakes," mentions a reviewer at Lake Maria State Park Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common throughout the region, particularly at dawn and dusk. "We did find one we thought we liked, but branches over hung, and rested on our camper (8ft high) and in fact most sites were shaded. As to be expected, mozzies were present," shares a camper from Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground.
Trail systems: The extensive trail networks provide hiking opportunities for all skill levels. "You'll access pull-off dispersed sites along gravel roads south of Ann Lake (Co Rd 233–237). The sites are spaced for solitude, nestled between pine stands and open sandy stretches—perfect for hammock hangs or pooch romps," notes a visitor to South of Sand Dunes State Forest.
Solitude and space: Many campers appreciate the sense of privacy at certain sites. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," remarks a Baker Park camper about Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve.
What you should know
Insects and irritants: Be prepared for seasonal bugs throughout the region. "Bring a journal and some good company—your phone's chances are slim. Recent check-ins confirm unreliable cell coverage, even for Verizon. It's peaceful... until you need GPS," warns a South of Sand Dunes State Forest camper.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," reports a visitor to Ann Lake.
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in this region. "Went on a busy summer weekend. Beautiful rustic campsites but even sites that you can't drive directly up to were still too close to all of the RVers with loud generators," shares a Minneapolis Northwest KOA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas. "The campground is nice and clean. Good size spaces. The tubing is a plus. Pool was small but nice. Splash pad was even nice for adults," mentions a Country Camping Tent & RV Park visitor.
Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated facilities for children. "This campground is great for everyone! It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites," notes another Country Camping review.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature programs and wildlife viewing. "There is a nice playground with a small climbing wall, benches to sit looking over the river. Picnic tables and a shelter are great for eating at. There is a dog park just across the river, within easy walking distance," shares a visitor to Riverside City Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Research specific site numbers when making reservations. "Campsites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Sites are large so they are clear," notes an Ann Lake camper.
Hookup availability: Electrical service can be limited during peak demand. "This place has awesome trails and so many deer! It's like they were camping with us," reports a visitor to Bertram Chain of Lakes.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require careful positioning. "Sites close to water or deep in the woods, sites for hammocks and group sites can be reserved. Just about everything you need," shares a camper at Ann Lake.
