Planning a camping trip with your furry companion? Finding pet-friendly campgrounds near Minneapolis and St. Paul is easier than you think. The Twin Cities area offers a mix of natural escapes, from state parks and regional reserves to cozy campgrounds that welcome dogs and other pets. Whether you're looking for a weekend retreat or a longer outdoor adventure, these spots combine convenience with the great outdoors.
In this guide, we've rounded up top-rated campgrounds and outdoor recreation areas within reach of Minneapolis and St. Paul. We focus on locations that are ideal for pet owners, with open spaces, trails, and nature settings where your pet can stretch their legs. While not every site explicitly advertises pet policies, these destinations are known for their outdoor appeal and are worth checking for pet-friendly amenities.
Our selection is based on location data, ratings, and visitor reviews to help you compare options. From the highly rated Lebanon Hills Campground to the scenic Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, you'll find a variety of settings to suit your camping style. Read on to discover the best pet-friendly campgrounds near Minneapolis and St. Paul.
★★★★☆ 4 · 403 reviews
Hidden Paradise Campground is a campground located in St Paul, Indiana, at 802 E Jefferson St. With a rating of 4.0 from 403 reviews, it offers a straightforward camping experience. While it's not in Minnesota, it's included here for those willing to travel further afield. The campground's name suggests a secluded retreat, and its solid review count indicates a reliable spot for outdoor stays.
Address: Hidden Paradise Campground, 802 E Jefferson St, St Paul, IN 47272, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,061 reviews
Minnesota History Center, located at 345 W Kellogg Blvd in St Paul, MN, is a history museum with an impressive 4.8 rating from 3,061 reviews. While not a campground itself, it serves as a cultural landmark in the area. For pet owners, it's a point of interest to explore before or after your camping trip, offering insight into Minnesota's past.
Address: Minnesota History Center, 345 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 2,232 reviews
Science Museum of Minnesota, at 120 W Kellogg Blvd in St Paul, MN, is a science museum rated 4.6 by 2,232 reviewers. This family-friendly destination is a great indoor option when you need a break from the outdoors. While pets are not typically allowed inside, the surrounding area offers parks and green spaces for a quick walk with your dog.
Address: Science Museum of Minnesota, 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 1,459 reviews
James J. Hill House, a history museum at 240 Summit Ave in St Paul, MN, boasts a 4.7 rating from 1,459 reviews. This historic mansion provides a glimpse into the Gilded Age. For campers, it's a nearby attraction to visit, though pets are usually not permitted inside. The surrounding Summit Avenue is known for its scenic beauty, perfect for a stroll with your pet.
Address: James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 7,088 reviews
Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, located at 120 W Kellogg Blvd in St Paul, MN, is a national reserve with a 4.6 rating from 7,088 reviews. This expansive recreation area along the Mississippi River offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking, hiking, and picnicking. It's an excellent spot for pet owners to explore natural landscapes near the Twin Cities, though specific pet policies may vary by section.
Address: Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 1,331 reviews
Minnesota Children's Museum, at 10 7th St W in St Paul, MN, is a children's museum rated 4.5 by 1,331 reviewers. While it's designed for kids, it's a nearby attraction for families camping in the area. Pets are generally not allowed inside, but the museum's location in downtown St. Paul offers nearby parks for pet breaks.
Address: Minnesota Children's Museum, 10 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 699 reviews
Bell Museum, located at 2088 Larpenteur Ave W in St Paul, MN, is a museum with a 4.6 rating from 699 reviews. This natural history museum offers exhibits on Minnesota's wildlife and habitats. For campers, it's an educational stop to learn about the local environment. Pets are typically not allowed inside, but the surrounding area has green spaces for walks.
Address: Bell Museum, 2088 Larpenteur Ave W, St Paul, MN 55113, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 632 reviews
Minnesota Transportation Museum, at 193 Pennsylvania Ave E in St Paul, MN, is a museum rated 4.6 by 632 reviewers. It showcases the history of transportation in the region. While not a campground, it's a cultural attraction near camping areas. Pet policies are likely restrictive indoors, but outdoor exhibits may allow leashed pets—check ahead.
Address: Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Ave E, St Paul, MN 55130, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 317 reviews
Lebanon Hills Campground, situated at 12100 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd in St Paul, MN, is a highly rated campground with a 4.7 score from 317 reviews. This is one of the top pet-friendly campgrounds near Minneapolis and St. Paul, offering a natural setting within a regional park. With ample trails and open spaces, it's ideal for camping with your dog. The high rating reflects visitor satisfaction, making it a must-consider for your next outdoor trip.
Address: Lebanon Hills Campground, 12100 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, St Paul, MN 55124, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 18 reviews
Oak Grove, Champoeg State Park, located at 8237 Champoeg Rd NE in St Paul, OR, is a state park with a 4.7 rating from 18 reviews. Although it's in Oregon, this location is part of the Champoeg State Park system, which is known for its scenic beauty and camping opportunities. For those willing to travel, it offers a pet-friendly environment typical of state parks, with trails and picnic areas.
Address: Oak Grove, Champoeg State Park, 8237 Champoeg Rd NE, St Paul, OR 97137, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 10,534 reviews
Minneapolis Institute of Art, at 2400 3rd Ave S in Minneapolis, MN, is an art museum with a stellar 4.8 rating from 10,534 reviews. This world-class museum is a cultural highlight in Minneapolis. While pets are not allowed inside, the museum's location near residential areas and parks makes it easy to find a spot for a pet walk before or after visiting.
Address: Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 3,100 reviews
Mill City Museum, located at 704 S 2nd St in Minneapolis, MN, is a history museum rated 4.7 by 3,100 reviewers. Housed in a historic mill, it offers insights into the city's flour milling past. For campers, it's a great urban attraction. Pets are typically not permitted inside, but the adjacent Mississippi riverfront provides scenic walking paths for you and your pet.
Address: Mill City Museum, 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States
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How We Selected These Places
To create this list, we analyzed a set of locations supplied by CityPlaceList, focusing on campgrounds and outdoor recreation areas within or near the Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area. We compared each location based on its category, geographic relevance to the Twin Cities, user ratings, and review volume. Only locations with a clear outdoor or camping focus were prioritized, and we used publicly available data—such as ratings and addresses—to ensure transparency. We did not visit these sites personally; instead, we relied on the provided structured data to highlight the most promising options for pet owners seeking campgrounds near Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Tips
When camping with pets near Minneapolis and St. Paul, always check the specific pet policies of each campground or park before you go. Many natural areas require dogs to be on a leash, and some may have designated pet-friendly zones. Bring plenty of water for your pet, especially during warm weather, and be mindful of wildlife. Also, pack waste bags to keep the environment clean. For indoor attractions like museums, confirm if pets are allowed or if there are nearby pet care options. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there pet-friendly campgrounds near Minneapolis and St. Paul?
- Yes, there are several campgrounds and outdoor recreation areas near the Twin Cities that are suitable for pets. Lebanon Hills Campground in St Paul, MN, is a top choice with a high rating. Additionally, Mississippi National River & Recreation Area offers expansive outdoor spaces where pets can enjoy nature, though specific pet policies may vary by section.
- What should I consider when choosing a campground for my pet?
- Consider the campground's pet policy, including leash requirements and any restricted areas. Look for amenities like pet-friendly trails, water access, and waste disposal stations. Also, check reviews from other pet owners to gauge the experience. Always confirm the rules before booking.
- Can I bring my pet to museums near Minneapolis and St. Paul?
- Most museums, such as the Minnesota History Center, Science Museum of Minnesota, and Minneapolis Institute of Art, do not allow pets inside. However, they are often located near parks or riverfront areas where you can walk your pet. Plan to visit these attractions separately from your camping activities.
- What is the best pet-friendly campground in the Twin Cities area?
- Based on ratings and reviews, Lebanon Hills Campground stands out as a highly rated option with a 4.7 rating. It offers natural surroundings and trails, making it a great choice for camping with pets. Always verify current pet policies before your visit.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect pet-friendly campground near Minneapolis and St. Paul is all about knowing your options. From the highly rated Lebanon Hills Campground to the scenic Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, there are plenty of outdoor spaces where you and your pet can enjoy nature together. While some attractions like museums are not pet-friendly, they add to the variety of things to do in the area. Remember to check each location's pet policy before you go, and you'll be set for a memorable camping adventure. For more ideas, explore other outdoor destinations near the Twin Cities that welcome pets.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
