Camping cabins near Dresser, Wisconsin provide shelter in an area that receives an average of 32 inches of rainfall annually and sits at an elevation of approximately 1,075 feet. The St. Croix River valley creates a diverse landscape with both oak savannas and densely wooded riverbanks where cabin campers can find accommodations throughout the year. Winter cabin camping is available at several locations with varying insulation and heating options.
What to do
River activities: Wild River State Park Campground offers kayaking and canoeing along the St. Croix River. "Wild River State Park is my go-to campground since it is within an hour of my home. Love the scenic trails and all the park has to offer. Hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, exploring, informational programs, and the wooded campsites," notes Jeff L.
Winter adventures: Several parks maintain cabins for winter use. "2/8/20-2/9/20. First time to this park. The campground was fully reserved but was empty, the low was 10 so people must have bowed out. We snowshoed and skied. The candlelight ski was great and the routes were marked with different colored luminaries - for hiking and skiing," says Joanna B. about Wild River State Park Campground.
Farm experiences: Farm-based camping lets visitors participate in agricultural activities. "This is a big park with a diversity of hiking, equestrian, and canoeing options. Since the park runs along the St. Croix, there are beautiful river-side walks to be had. There are also Oak Savanna trails. Several trails are for horses," notes Erik R. about their spring stay at Wild River.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value seclusion. "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," says Stephanie H. about her experience at William O'Brien State Park Campground.
Star gazing opportunities: Clear night skies offer excellent viewing. "The star gazing area was great! Intermittently had 1-2 bars of T-Mobile with LTE Internet. Wi-Fi is available at the park entrance," Katherine T. mentions about Wild River State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," Kate H. shares about her camping experience, noting the abundance of animal encounters.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "Cell reception for T-Mobile was minimal to non-existent. Wifi is available in the visitor center parking lot," reports Dani K. after staying at William O'Brien State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites book quickly, especially on weekends. "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. Arriving on a Sunday afternoon was a dream—very few people in the campground loop," notes Dani K.
Firewood availability: Parks sell firewood with varying prices and quality. "Firewood at $7 a bundle doesn't burn, it just smokes. I asked for a refund. Buy firewood elsewhere," advises Bruce M. about his experience at Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Some parks offer swimming opportunities with varying facilities. "Less than an hour drive from Minneapolis this is a good get away. As expected it has many walk trails. 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," shares Alison about Afton State Park Campground.
Playground availability: Family-friendly campgrounds often include play areas. "Nice campground with lots of trails, a beach, and many playgrounds. Only recommendation is to get the firewood from down the road and not at the campground," suggests Lenora H. about Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Educational opportunities: Some locations offer learning experiences. "We really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails. The candlelight ski was great and the routes were marked with different colored luminaries," says Joanna B. about winter activities.
Tips from RVers
Site spaciousness: Many RV sites offer adequate room but vary by campground. "Level private sites, lots of trees, Showers were clean. Would definitely camp again," reports Corey P. about Rice Creek Campgrounds.
Electrical hookups: Available power varies between campgrounds. "We went for a relaxing family weekend, getting to see the Christmas lights everywhere at night was nice," mentions one visitor to Big Rock Creek, noting the availability of power for seasonal decorations.
Dump station locations: Some parks provide on-site sanitary facilities. "I went camping alone on this campground, I brought my smaller 20ft trailer and had the most peaceful experience," shares Sergio Z. about Rice Creek Campgrounds, which offers a dump station for RV waste.
