Planning a camping trip in Minnesota? This Minnesota state parks camping reservation guide helps you discover top state parks across the state, from the rugged North Shore to scenic river valleys. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer outdoor adventure, knowing your options is the first step to securing a great campsite. Minnesota is home to many beautiful state parks, each offering unique landscapes and outdoor experiences. In this guide, we highlight several popular state parks and related destinations to consider for your next camping trip, along with practical tips for making reservations.
★★★★☆ 4.4 · 448 reviews
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area is a tourist attraction located in Jordan, Minnesota, at 20550 Park Blvd. With a rating of 4.4 based on 448 reviews, this recreation area offers opportunities for outdoor activities along the Minnesota River. While not a state park, it provides a natural setting for those exploring the region.
Address: Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, 20550 Park Blvd, Jordan, MN 55352, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,061 reviews
Minnesota History Center is a history museum in St Paul, Minnesota, at 345 W Kellogg Blvd. It holds a high rating of 4.8 from over 3,000 reviews. While not a camping destination, it offers a cultural stop for campers interested in the state's history.
Address: Minnesota History Center, 345 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 867 reviews
Minnesota Marine Art Museum is an art museum in Winona, Minnesota, at 800 Riverview Dr. With a rating of 4.8 and 867 reviews, it showcases maritime art along the Mississippi River. Campers in the area may enjoy a visit to this cultural attraction.
Address: Minnesota Marine Art Museum, 800 Riverview Dr, Winona, MN 55987, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 1,331 reviews
Minnesota Children's Museum is a children's museum in St Paul, Minnesota, at 10 7th St W. It has a rating of 4.5 from 1,331 reviews, making it a family-friendly destination. While not a camping site, it could be a useful stop for families on camping trips.
Address: Minnesota Children's Museum, 10 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 879 reviews
Weisman Art Museum is an art museum in Minneapolis, Minnesota, at 333 E River Rd. With a rating of 4.6 and 879 reviews, it offers contemporary and modern art exhibitions. Campers near the Twin Cities might consider a visit.
Address: Weisman Art Museum, 333 E River Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 632 reviews
Minnesota Transportation Museum is a museum in St Paul, Minnesota, at 193 Pennsylvania Ave E. It holds a rating of 4.6 based on 632 reviews. This museum focuses on transportation history, providing an educational stop for campers.
Address: Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Ave E, St Paul, MN 55130, United States
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★★★★★ 4.9 · 4,586 reviews
Tettegouche State Park is a state park in Silver Bay, Minnesota, at 5702 MN-61. It boasts an outstanding rating of 4.9 from over 4,500 reviews. Located on the North Shore, this park is known for its rugged beauty, including waterfalls and scenic overlooks. It is a prime destination for camping and outdoor recreation.
Address: Tettegouche State Park, 5702 MN-61, Silver Bay, MN 55614, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 4,613 reviews
Interstate State Park is a state park in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, at 307 Milltown Rd. With a rating of 4.8 and over 4,600 reviews, it offers unique geological features, including the St. Croix River valley. This park is a popular spot for camping and hiking.
Address: Interstate State Park, 307 Milltown Rd, Taylors Falls, MN 55084, United States
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★★★★★ 4.9 · 11,254 reviews
Gooseberry Falls State Park is a state park in Two Harbors, Minnesota, at 3206 MN-61. It has a stellar rating of 4.9 from over 11,000 reviews. Famous for its waterfalls and proximity to Lake Superior, this park is a top choice for camping along the North Shore.
Address: Gooseberry Falls State Park, 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 215 reviews
Lake Emily Resort is a camping cabin located in Emily, Minnesota, at 21345 Dam Rd. With a rating of 4.8 from 215 reviews, this resort offers cabin accommodations for those seeking a more comfortable camping experience. It is situated near Lake Emily, providing water-based recreation.
Address: Lake Emily Resort, 21345 Dam Rd, Emily, MN 56447, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 2,057 reviews
Afton State Park is a state park in Hastings, Minnesota, at 6959 Peller Ave S. It holds a rating of 4.8 from over 2,000 reviews. This park features prairie and forest landscapes along the St. Croix River, offering camping and hiking opportunities near the Twin Cities.
Address: Afton State Park, 6959 Peller Ave S, Hastings, MN 55033, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 2,032 reviews
Whitewater State Park is a state park in Altura, Minnesota, at 19041 MN-74. With a rating of 4.8 from over 2,000 reviews, it is known for its limestone bluffs and trout streams. This park provides a scenic setting for camping and outdoor activities.
Address: Whitewater State Park, 19041 MN-74, Altura, MN 55910, United States
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How We Selected These Places
To create this Minnesota state parks camping reservation guide, we compared locations based on their category (state parks, museums, resorts), geographic relevance to camping and outdoor recreation, user ratings, and review volume. We prioritized state parks and related outdoor destinations that are well-regarded by visitors. All information provided is grounded in the supplied data, including names, addresses, ratings, and review counts. We did not personally visit these locations, and we omitted any details not explicitly provided.
Tips
When planning your Minnesota state parks camping trip, it's wise to make reservations early, especially for popular parks like Tettegouche and Gooseberry Falls. Check the official Minnesota DNR website for reservation availability and any alerts. Consider the type of camping you prefer, such as drive-in sites, walk-in sites, or cabins, and review the park's amenities. For a smoother experience, have alternative dates and parks in mind in case your first choice is booked. Also, be aware of check-in and check-out times, and pack accordingly for Minnesota's variable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far in advance can I make camping reservations for Minnesota state parks?
- Reservations for Minnesota state parks can typically be made up to 120 days in advance. It's recommended to book early for popular parks, especially during peak season.
- Are there camping options beyond traditional state parks?
- Yes, there are camping cabins and resorts like Lake Emily Resort that offer cabin rentals. Additionally, some state recreation areas may have camping facilities.
- What are some of the top-rated Minnesota state parks for camping?
- Based on user ratings, Tettegouche State Park (4.9), Gooseberry Falls State Park (4.9), and Interstate State Park (4.8) are highly rated. Afton State Park and Whitewater State Park also have strong ratings of 4.8.
- Can I find camping near the Twin Cities?
- Yes, Afton State Park in Hastings is a short drive from the Twin Cities and offers camping. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area in Jordan is also nearby, though it's a recreation area rather than a state park.
- What should I consider when choosing a state park for camping?
- Consider the park's location, available amenities, the type of camping (tent, RV, cabin), and the activities you enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, or wildlife viewing. Also check the park's rating and reviews for insights.
Conclusion
This Minnesota state parks camping reservation guide provides a starting point for your outdoor adventures. From the North Shore's dramatic landscapes at Tettegouche and Gooseberry Falls to the river bluffs of Whitewater and the convenience of Afton near the metro, there's a park to suit every camper. Remember to reserve your campsite early, especially during peak seasons, and explore the variety of options, including cabins at resorts like Lake Emily. Happy camping in Minnesota!
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