The best camping near Willow River State Park

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

94% (9 reviews)

Wooded gorges and cascading waterfalls provide a scenic backdrop.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Willow River State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Willow River State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Willow River State Park

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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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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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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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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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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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Pioneer Farm on Fish Lake

4 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Harris, MN

Canpers! We have had a great fall season! Thank you so much! we are now moving into the colder season. we encourage tent camping for the brave! You can go snow shoe walking! This lakefront farm is a very special spiritual location. Listen to the night life in the woods and loons on the lake. Fall time- the acorns are falling:) The farm animals are gone now, but there remains a huge barn and outbuildings. Enjoy observing old time architecture! Monet tight? We are open to a refund of $20 a day for an hour for farm chores. Chores like mending fences, cutting vegetation, collecting the harvest from the earth, etc. Pay in full thru hipcamp, then we can arrange a task per interest and capabilities!! We're almost seventy now -getting harder to keep things up, ya know! need lots of oak limbs peeled off the bark:)

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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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Golden Maple Camp, Trails & Biking

1 site · Lodging60 acres · Beldenville, WI

Our beautiful property has been farmed by our family for many years. We have enjoyed preserving the woods with our mountain biking trails turned snow shoe trails in the winter. The woods are full of golden maple trees which is where we got the name for our personal campground. Come visit to see for yourself! Learn more about En Gedi, your tent site: You'll be staying in a private safari tent overlooking a 100 year old maple tree above a secluded hollow in our woods. With access to over 2 miles of marked out mountain bike trails and hiking trails here on the property. Outhouse, picnic table, fire pit with 4 chairs and 4 cots are provided (2 extra large, 2 large), sheets are provided for the 2 extra large cots. Drinking water is provided (2 gallon jug). Firewood is available for purchase at the campsite ($5/ten pieces of wood). You can also use whatever has fallen in the woods. Located at the end of a well worn field road access you'll need to hike in if you have a low clearance vehicle. Its about .25 mile long hike with a 100' ascent. Access in 4x4 can be limited in wet and muddy weather. We also have access to a class A trout stream about 1 mile away to enjoy swimming, fishing and lounging. We are a short 10 minute drive to many great local activities like Whitetail mountain bike trail in River Falls or Kinnickinnick river kayaking. Fantastic local Forestville Winery is less then 2 miles away with great wine and food options. Add on an experience to your stay like mountain bike classes or feeding our baby cows! Get the full country experience while you're camping!

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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.

Booked 1 time

Secluded Ice Age Trail Camping

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Luck, WI

Nestled aside several glacial deposits sits a 40 acre lot with multiple spots for camping. From dense maple forest to a meadow with young white pines, this property has it all. I keep several areas mowed and there is plenty of room for parking. At the moment, there is no official outhouse so we recommend following the "leave no trace" guidelines. Property is about 4 miles from Straight Lake State Park and under 1 mile to two different segments of the ice age trail. The main camping area sits high and shielded from the road by a wooded ridge. Rustic gravel driveway to main camping area. Traversable by most vehicles and campers. No electricity or water here. Just space to be in peace and a fire pit.

The best camping near Willow River State Park guide

Overview

About

Almost 3,000 acres of forested gorges and wildflower-dotted prairies stretch along the banks of the Willow River in this western Wisconsin park. Willow Falls are the star attraction, and you can take your pick of four viewpoints. Seasoned kayakers can tackle the river rapids, but for a leisurely paddle, head to Little Falls Lake, where you can cruise, kayak, and cool off with a swim, then relax beachside. To explore further, discover more than 13 miles of hiking trails, follow paved bike trails, or seek out a quiet spot to fish before checking into Willow River Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of the 130 RV/tent sites at Willow River Campground via the Wisconsin State Park website.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance. There is a minimum 3-day booking for holiday weekends and a minimum 2-day stay from May 15 through October.
Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of six months in advance to avoid disappointment.

When to go

Willow State River Park is a popular destination year-round, but it’s busiest from May through October. Activities are seasonal, so come in summer to swim, in spring or fall to hike and paddle, or in winter to snowshoe, sled, and cross-country ski. Views of the falls are most impressive after rainfall. Camping is possible year-round.

Know before you go

Willow State River Park is close to the Minnesota state border, about a 40-minute drive from Minneapolis.
Vehicle admission permits are required to enter the park, in addition to camping reservation fees. Hunting and fishing permits are also required.
Facilities include a boat launch, fishing pier, picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms.
There are accessible campsites, picnic areas, and restrooms at Willow River, plus the accessible fishing pier and Hidden Ponds Nature Trail.