Best Campgrounds near Hudson, WI
Located near the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, the camping landscape around Hudson provides a mix of state parks and county facilities with diverse site options. Willow River State Park Campground serves as a primary camping destination, featuring over 100 sites including electric hookups and spacious, wooded sites across three campground loops. The St. Croix River valley contains several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Hudson, most offering accommodation for tents and RVs, with some facilities like Afton State Park and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park also providing cabin options. Campground density increases along the river corridor where state and regional parks maintain developed camping areas.
Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays, particularly during the peak season from May through October when campgrounds regularly reach capacity. Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though winter camping brings reduced services with limited bathroom access and no shower facilities. Electric sites are common throughout the region, but full hookups with sewer connections are less prevalent, available primarily at private campgrounds and select county parks. Cell service varies by location and carrier, with several reviewers noting good 5G coverage in the newer campground loops at Willow River State Park. According to one visitor: "T-mobile reception was good in the 100 loop. No reception in the other two loops as they are down the hill farther."
The waterfall at Willow River State Park represents a key attraction for campers, with hiking trails connecting campground areas to scenic overlooks and swimming areas. Campers frequently mention the balance of natural amenities and modern conveniences, with multiple reviews highlighting the park's well-maintained facilities. Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds and specific loops, with the 300 loop at Willow River described as having better lake access but more foot traffic. Several visitors commented on the convenient proximity to the Twin Cities, making these campgrounds popular for weekend getaways. A review mentioned: "It's a great park conveniently located near the twin cities making it a great spot for a quick getaway." Families particularly appreciate the combination of hiking trails, swimming opportunities, and playground facilities found at many of the established campgrounds in the area.
