The best camping near Afton State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Afton State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Afton State Park

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Good Root Growers

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Prairie Farm, WI

- NEW 2024 - Sumac Camp and Pine Camp - Cabin Available Year Round - Campground Open May 1 - Oct 31 - Amish Bakery Fri & Sat - 15 min walk - Clear Lake Beach - 22 min drive Tucked in a valley among rolling hills just 70 miles east of St. Paul, discover a stunning sanctuary surrounded by hardwoods, pines and birch groves. Meander a walking trail system through 30 acres of woods and prairie. In 2019, all 10 acres of fields were planted as dedicated Monarch/pollinator habitat. This is a full sensory experience - flowered meadow and spectacular celestial nights with serenading hoot owls, frogs, crickets and yips of coyotes in the distance. Our chickens do their daily forage through the yard and woods. This is a birder's delight - a song bird refuge - turkey and deer being very common sightings. Our unique greenhouse and pergola are common use areas for all guests to enjoy. The pergola is a large cushioned area providing shade to read a book, charge a device, play cards, enjoy a beverage, eat a meal. Explore the greenhouse production of tomatoes, peppers, and ginger growing along with flowers and other hothouse varieties. Fill water containers, or use the large stainless steel sink (hot/cold water) and countertops to prep meals or wash up. You will also find a beverage service counter, yard games for use, and any on-farm items for sale in this area- firewood, plants, eggs and produce. Tucked discreetly behind the greenhouse is 1 of 2 drop-offs for garbage and recycling, and also 1 of 2 ultra clean port-a-potties found on property. *** We're family friendly! Adult occupancy is applied to 13 years and older. There is no occupancy charge/limit for children 12 years of age or under. *** We have 6 sites to offer. Providing a historical backdrop is our guest house - a fully restored Norwegian cabin built in 1894 (completed July 2022). Adjacent to the greenhouse is 2 RV (or tent) sites with full water and 30 amp hookups (Meadow Camp East and West). 2 additional sites accommodate RVs or tents. (Hill Camp and Sumac Camp). One of which is a very large area that is ideal for groups (Sumac Camp). Lastly, we have 1 walk-in tent site, the most private (Pine Camp), a short distance into the woods behind the greenhouse. Don't let our sleepy little town deceive you. The locals have huge hearts - are generous creatives, with ingenious businesses that spill over with hospitality. Uber local is 2 Amish businesses within a 15 minute walk - a bakery and a woodworking shop. We're happy to direct you to other local highlights: on-farm meat sales, herbal apothecary, goat milk products, home goods, local microbreweries and quilt shops to name a few. Local town events draw huge crowds with live music and fun for all ages. We are so blessed to steward this private oasis and look forward to sharing it with you!

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Whippletree Farm & Nature Trail

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Lake Elmo, MN

Welcome to Whippletree! This is our sixth-generation family farm, and while it's more of a hobby farm now, it has been in continuous agricultural production since 1869! Besides tillable farm land, we are stewards of native prairie, small wooded areas, a remnant of an oak savanna and wetlands, with trails throughout. We consider this our sanctuary and enjoying sharing it with others looking for a place of retreat to connect with the natural world. Stop by for a visit!

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Honeyberry Minnesota working farm

2 sites · RVs25 acres · Stillwater, MN

Small working farm of 25 acres with roughly 1/3 wooded. Bring cash if you want to buy fresh produce. Half-way between Hudson WI and Stillwater MN. Tons of activities to do, including the St Croix River. Mowed trails on the property, campfire wood provided. Walk up to our two-acre Haskap orchard.

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The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Oak Grove, MN

Enjoy 10 acres shared between 2 sites! The two campsites are large and can accommodate approximately 6 tents comfortably at each. If more is needed let us know we have room and can accommodate. There is a shared bathroom/changing room and trash/recycling between the sites. There is a water point in the barn if you need to fill up on drinking water just make sure you have a container for it. Site includes a picnic table and firepit and many acres with downed trees to salvage. Bundles of firewood can be purchased if needed. This area includes a back pasture and woods with trails throughout for walking/mountain biking. There are many horse trails in the area, if you want to bring your horses that is fine as long as you bring containment for them and clear it with us first. We are approximately 1 mile from a rum river access. There are multiple river trip options from our property. We are also 3 mins from lake george and the Rum River Regional Park for swimming, biking, fishing, boating, and more paddling. There is a Bills gas n grocery as well as a G-will liquors less than a minute from the property. The Ponds golf course is about 4 mins away as well. If you are looking to hit downtown Anoka that is a straight shot and approx 12 mins away. This site is on an active hobby farm that has dogs, cats, horses, chickens, goats, turkeys, and multiple gardens. We have a farm stand by the road where we sell items such as fresh roasted coffee, eggs, BBQ sauce, pickles, maple syrup, hot sauce, and more! We are very pet friendly and like to meet new furry faces, so feel free to bring them along!

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Stone Creek Farm

6 sites · Lodging36 acres · Taylors Falls, MN

Situated on 36 acres, this working farm is 2 miles West of Taylors Falls. Dan and Danielle bought this property with the intention of growing stone fruits (plums, peaches, apricots and cherries) using sustainable and organic practices because health and wellness matter to them! They are still in the process of improving their property. Many of the building on the property were in poor condition, including the old barn foundation which is now one of Dan and Danielle favorite places to keep cool in the summer. After they had excavated all the debris (which took years) they were able to transform it with gardens and fire pit for all to enjoy. They love sharing what they have been blessed with! They hope you enjoy their place as much as they do! Feel free to ask them to show you around or even get your hands dirty with them as they plant or harvest.

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Clover Bee Farm

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Shafer, MN

We are a small family farm. From April-October we make a living on the farm and enjoy rural life. We’re very busy during these months and if you stay with us you may be able to enjoy fresh produce for purchase- we also have neighbors that sell eggs, there is a Meat shop in downtown Lindstrom and 2 miles away is Rod's Country Corner (ice cream, pizza, sandwiches, essentials). So, you could have the opportunity for some delicious camp food while staying here. It is very beautiful with much to see and do. Things to note: 1. There are black bear in the area, please keep food stowed away in your car at night and your campsite clean. 2. Storms pop-up and tents etc. are subject to wind, please be mindful of the weather and any incidents that occur are not liable to the property owners. When you arrive pull up in the driveway we will direct you to your location... and please park your vehicle close to your site. When you are tent camping this can come in handy during any inclimate weather, which can pop up randomly during the summer months. We have a rustic composting toilet for guest use. Please read the instructions on the inside before using. This is a working farm, it can be unkempt or messy- it is also mosquito forward and wood tick forward-please bring bug spray. Many of our past campers have enjoyed the scenery despite being next to a slightly trafficked road. Also, fireworks are very popular with the neighbors in the area around July 4th. Please respect our quiet time, when the sun goes down-so do we. No Smoking Marijuana or Tobacco on the farm, and no pets. Preferably no glass bottles either. ++Attractions in the area++ Ice Age Trail Wild River State Park (canoe and kayak rental available) Interstate State Park (Boat Tours, kayak and canoe rental, hiking) The water park at Wild Mountain Boat Rental: https://www.captainshawnsrental.com/ Wineries: Chateu St Croix, Wild River Winery, Dancing Dragonfly, Rustic Roots Breweries: Uncommon Loon, Trap Rock Shopping: Antiques in every town! My favorite is The Lindstrom Antique Store. Rock Shop in Taylors Falls, St Croix Falls downtown is cute too. Osceola has lots of fun treasures. Food: Juneberry Cafe, Anderson's Ice Cream Shop, Watershed Cafe in Osceola, Marketplace Grocery store, Brinks Grocery store, 3 Arrows Coffee --even though we're a rural area, there is no shortage of things to do here!--

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field view campsite

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Northfield, MN

Learn more about this land:You"ll camp right next to the Horse pasture and on our field drive with wonderful views and sunsets. The field is surrounded on three sides by Rice County Wilderness Park so it is very private and quiet.

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Prairie Creek Forest Campground

7 sites · Tents60 acres · Nerstrand, MN

Pitch your tent at one of our Walk-in campsites on 60 acres of forest or hilltop prairie along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock", a 60 acre county park featuring waterfalls and trails, including a single track mountain bike course. That's 120 acres of exploring outside your tent; this campground truly offers a large amount of remote forest for recreation right on site. Big Woods State Park is less than 2 miles away. Faribault is 8 miles and Northfield is 9 miles from our driveway; they offer dining, boutiques, and all other amenities. Nerstrand is 4.5 miles east and has a gas station and a fantastic meat market. Numerous Cannon River put-ins are within 10 miles. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside site 4 is up a steep hill. Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. Sites are priced for one tent, please let us know if you need to have more than one tent. A map of the land is in the photos and shows locations of sites, parking and more. All Sites are Walk-In! We have a cart you may use to haul gear in. Site 1 is near the creek. Approximately 200 feet from main parking area. Steel fire ring and grill grate, picnic table. Site 2 is in the pines. Approximately 200 feet from main parking area. Steel fire ring and grill grate, picnic table, this site has good hammock trees. Site 3 is by the creek. Approximately 300 feet from main parking area. Steel fire ring, steel grill ring, picnic table, this site has good hammock trees. Site 4 is on the hilltop. Site 4 has parking for 2 vehicles at the site. Steel fire ring with grill grate, stone fire ring, picnic table, this site has good hammock trees. There is NOT room to park a trailer. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Ted's parents bought this farm. Over the years, the arable land has been sold but we retained the wooded area which is crossed twice by a stream. About 20 years ago, a 60 acre county park was created to the south and west. The property is bordered on two sides by this county park. When Ted was in high school, the family sold the dairy cows and started a bare bones horseback riding ranch using trails in these woods as riding trails. We are very excited to host campers as a way to preserve and share this beautiful property.

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Wilder Retreat

3 sites · Lodging6 acres · Shafer, MN

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Wilder Retreat on the Saint Croix River. Come experience the magic of the river valley and this special land were you’ll stay at either the Wilder Bell Tent or The Writers Cabin. Tucked away in the woods behind an 1890’s farmhouse and bordering the Saint Croix River. The cabin has a sleeping loft with a queen memory foam mattress and cozy bedding. Two burner propane cooktop and pump sink along with all you need to cook. Hike the half mile down to the river and explore nearby Taylor’s falls. Sit out under the stars by the campfire, cozy up in the sleeping loft, and enjoy a quiet getaway in the beautiful Saint croix River valley. This listing can be booked along with my other listing "Wilder Bell tent" for bigger groups. The Space: The Writers Cabin is a small pine cabin with a sleeping loft, built in sofa that doubles as another single bed, and a built in dining area. There is a two burner propane cooktop, as well as a pump sink for doing dishes or water, and the kitchen is equipped with basic cooking needs as well as dishes and utensils. Coffee and Chemex pour over are provided along with olive oil, salt and pepper. The cabin is solar powered. Wood burning Sauna year round and seasonal/warm weather outdoor shower and bath. Port o potty toilet. Guest Access: Guests can pull directly up to the cabin and park right by it. The river is just a 1/2 mile hike down, and there is a federal campground at the river as well with picnic tables, fire pits, toilets and water access. Other things to note: Upon arrival guests can sign up at the sign up sheet on sauna fence for 2 hour private time slots in our wood burning Nordic sauna and use the outdoor shower area and bath in the summer. Sauna is year round. We do have dogs and chickens at our farm. Please keep dogs away from the chicken coop and run area. The cabin sits back behind our farmhouse, but feels incredibly private and has a gorgeous view. Frequently Asked questions: Can I check in early? I do my best to accommodate early check ins, but if the cabin is booked back to back I may not be able to. Do you rent kayaks or canoes? We don't rent, but there are some great places nearby that do! We highly recommend getting out on or in the river! Can you recommend places to visit or to eat? I'd love to! Just Ask! Is there water in the cabin? Yes, there is water in the pump sink for doing dishes and drinking (not purified drinking water). Is there electricity? The cabin is solar powered. Just keep in mind that you don't want to drain the battery by leaving things plugged in too long or leaving lights on. Is there a campfire area? Yes, we have a solo stove for outdoor fires and we supply wood for it. Is there a fridge? No fridge in the cabin, so we recommend just packing your food in a cooler. One can be supplied if you don't have one. What is the bathroom situation? Port o potty

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Hoppensteadt Hills

4 sites · Lodging45 acres · Amery, WI

Come stay in our 45 wooded acres that run along the Apple River. Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature amongst the rolling hills. This property has been in our family for generations. Come, stay and enjoy our property as we have for over 80 years. We provide secluded campsites with easy access and parking next to each site. Enjoy walking through our park- like trails which run throughout the woods. Listen to the wildlife, sit by the campfire, or enjoy canoeing, kayaking, or fishing on Apple River, and many other nearby lakes that our town has to offer. Downtown Amery is 2 miles away from the property. Enjoy small-town attractions, such as breweries, gift, antique, and thrift shops, outdoor music, grocery stores, coffeeshops, local restaurants, and bars. You can take a day trip to many of other small towns nearby, such as: - Taylor Falls, for hiking or daily river cruises on St Corix River. Located only 20 minutes west of Amery. - Balsam Lake, for shopping, eateries, restaurants, and boating. Located only 20 minutes NW of Amery. -Osceola, take a hike and enjoy the views of Cascade Falls. Stroll around downtown's many shops located 20 minutes due west of Amery. -Marine on St Croix, and Stillwater which are under 45 minutes west. We are just over an hour from the Twin Cities. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS- Apple River-boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Access through public landing in downtown Amery 1 mile away. Cat Tail Trail-part of the Wisconsin State trail system. ½ mile from Hoppensteadt Hills. Must obtain trail sticker. 4 wheeling, side by side, hiking. St. Croix Casino-Turtle Lake-10 miles away. Deer Lake Winery- Deer Lake-8 miles away. Balsam Chains of Lakes, - Balsam Lake, WI- 10 Miles away. Balsam Lake Beach- Balsam Lake, WI-10 miles away. Ahlgren Wildlife Preserve- Balsam Lake, WI- 12miles away. Dancing Dragonfly Winery-St. Croix Falls, WI-12 miles away. Taylors Falls canoe and Kayak Rental- Taylor Falls, MN, 12 miles away. Eric’s Canoe/Kayak rental-St. Croix Falls, WI-14 miles away. Canoe on the St. Croix Scenic Riverway. Interstate Park-St. Croix Falls, WI/Taylors Falls, MN-16 miles away. Cascade Falls- Osceola, WI-17 miles away. Osceola St. Croix Valley Railway- Osceola, WI- 17 miles away. Osceola Bedrock Glades State Natural Area- Osceola, WI -17 miles away. Standing Cedars State Natural Area- Osceola, WI- 17 miles away. RESTAURANTS- Amery Family Restaurant- Downtown Amery-2 miles away. Farm Table-Downtown Amery-2 miles away. Village Pizzeria-Downtown Amery-2 miles away. Amery Ale Works-Local brewery/restaurant- 6miles away. Deer’s Bar-Deer Park-8 miles away. Excellent burgers. Thirsty Otter Tavern - Balsam Lake -, WI- 10 miles away. Indian Head Supper Club-Balsam Lake-10 miles away. Lift Bridge Brewing- New Richmond, WI- 18 miles away. 45th Parallel Distillery- New Richmond, WI- 18 miles away.

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Lionheart

3 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Millville, MN

Our land is a unique find with a little bit of everything. With river access, you can enjoy swimming/water activities and wind down with the wildlife sounds and campfire crackle. We have a few standup paddle boards, and river tubes available to rent and farm fresh eggs to purchase and enjoy with your morning campfire breakfast. The best on the Zumbro! Come experience life outdoors on the river :). *Please Note: there is an active shooting range to the north of the sites which you may hear 9:00am - 6:30pm. The shots are loud and echo in the valley. **While our property and our campsites are private, the river is not. Please expect tubers, kayakers and water lovers of all ages to be on the river at anytime.

SnowGlobe Igloo Hudson, WI

1 site · Tent22 acres · Hudson, WI

Welcome to the Snowflake Suite of the Pink Castle with the amenities of the SnowGlobe with hottub included. Located at the famous Pink Castle in downtown Hudson. Where fantasy meets reality. Be prepared to be completely mesmerized as you relax in our luxurious heated ZenTemperpetic underneath a gorgeous starry sky. The Pink Castle’s snowflake suit is exactly what you need for your getaway from reality. Dresses per season is the decor you will arrive to, Christmas…there will be a Christmas tree, faux fireplace going, Christmas music as you rewind in the warmth comfort of the suite. The amenity of the SnowGlobe. This absolutely clear and pristine dome is heated by an electric fireplace so this real life fairy tale is available to you all winter long. Guests are blown away by the experiences that come from staying at the famous Pink Castle. There’s just something truly magical about being this submersed in nature and our location has something special to offer with the fall- early spring seasons. Watching beautiful soft snowflakes cascade around its walls & Snuggling warmly in luxurious blankets while star gazing. Rainstorms have new meaning, sunsets and sunrises become even more of a life changing experience. It is truly something you have to experience first hand once - if not a million times & we are so excited to now offer this as one of our fantasy collection. Your outdoor activities and amenities: Starglazing SnowGlobe. You will have your own VIP private hottub at your fingertips in your outdoor oasis. Roast some marshmellows over the fire at the firepit. Book a private chef to service your stay! How about, some on location pampering service by our Aesthetician will sure to relax you. This location is a photographer’s dream, a once in a lifetime romantic get away, & just the perfect place to get away alone to reconnect with yourself and nature- with still being not so secluded. Be prepared to be completely swept off your feet in this glamorous, pristine, luxurious atmosphere that cannot be matched. One stay will have you ready to book your next, & wondering what other properties we have available in our fantasy location series. Add ons (not included but can be added On) Wine & Hors d’oeuvre tray (which are Pictured): $150 Pampering sessions: $100’per person Chef: please contact for a quote. We look forward to hosting your magical adventure.

The best camping near Afton State Park guide

Overview

About

Hikers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers need to look no further for nature-oriented recreation. Perched on the bluffs overlooking the scenic St. Croix River, this park boasts a rugged, rolling landscape. The swimming beach and campgrounds are a 3/4-mile hike from the parking area, but worth it.

Afton makes it so easy for visitors to enjoy this great park. Trails include 20 hiking miles, 4 paved miles for bikes and 5 miles for horses. In winter, cross-country skiers enjoy 12 miles of groomed trails, 2.5 of which are a beginner's loop. Snowshoers find rentals here and 12 miles of trails to call their own. The park even clears 1 mile of the paved bike trail for winter hiking!

Camping options abound. Choose from 24 campsites, one canoe-in site, four camper cabins with electricity, two yurts, and two rustic group camps. Short on time? Check out the visitor center with interpretive displays. The 0.4-mile paved trail behind the building winds you through the restored prairie.

Nearby attractions

Embrace the beauty of the outdoors while camping near the Lebanon Hills Regional Park. Its verdant trails, calm lakes, and comfortable campsites offer an accessible escape from the hustle of daily life, creating a haven for nature lovers.