The best camping near William O'Brien State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next William O'Brien State Park adventure.

94% (9 reviews)

Discover the natural splendor of William O'Brien State Park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near William O'Brien State Park

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in William O'Brien State Park

94%

(9)

Savanna and Riverway Campground

120 sites · RVs, Tents In William O'Brien State Park

Explore camping beyond William O'Brien State ParkDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in State Parks

Top-rated campgrounds near William O'Brien State Park

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(381)

Belle Creek Bluff

4 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Welch, MN

Belle Creek Bluff is on 28 acres of prime land in Welch. Belle Creek runs through the middle of the property. Walk, swim, paddle, fish and explore the this beautiful spring fed trout stream. There are a number of hiking trails on the property. Bordering state lands to the east of the property provide endless exploration and hiking adventures. Hike to the top of the bluff for a spectacular view of Welch valley and the ski hill. Hiking NE along Belle Creek can you spot the old model A truck along the banks? There are eagles, falcons, finches, and many colorful birds to see.

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(193)

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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Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents38 acres · Princeton, MN

Farm Glamping and Camping: Unplug and Reconnect with Nature's Rhythm Escape the everyday and embrace the simple joys of countryside living with our signature glamping experience. Our thoughtfully appointed site features a comfortable queen-sized bed where you’ll drift off to sleep surrounded by the gentle sounds of farm life. Glamping: Wake to beautiful views of our vibrant pasture and peaceful hay fields from your private deck with two inviting rocking chairs, the perfect spot to savor your morning coffee or evening beverage. As day turns to night, join fellow guests around our shared fire pit to toast marshmallows and share stories beneath Minnesota’s starry sky. Our glamping sites seamlessly complement the farm’s other experiences. Attend a Thursday or Saturday pizza night or join a goat yoga session during your stay. On nights without scheduled activities, guests are welcome to use the camp stove to prepare their own meals or we can make recommendations on local eateries. Camping: Situated along our field road are two spots between our hay field and pasture. Wake up to sounds of our cattle and enjoy a beautiful view of our growing hay field. Pet Policy Unlike our other Farm event spaces which are pet-free, we welcome your furry friend to stay with you in our glamping tents. Pets must remain leashed when outside the tent and stay within the designated glamping area throughout their visit. Enhance Your Stay with Add-On Experiences: Farm-Style Breakfast: Start your day with fresh baked caramel rolls, orange juice and French press coffee. Wood-Fired Sauna: Rejuvenate body and spirit in our authentic sauna experience Cold Plunge: Invigorate your senses with a refreshing cold plunge after the sauna Pet Package: Bring your furry friend along with our pet-friendly accommodation option (includes welcome treat and designated pet area)

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Good Root Growers

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

- Cabin Available Year Round - Campground Open May 1 - Oct 31 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 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 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!

94%

(9)

Lake Tommy Homestead

2 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Clear Lake, WI

Tranquil sanctuary on 37 acres of gorgeous mixed terrain, open for your enjoyment and recreation! A 12 acre lake with amazing wildlife/birdwatching, 20+ acres of wooded trails for hiking or mtn biking, a small meadow, gorgeous sunsets and night skies, and whatever else you make of it. Less than an hour from the Twin Cities, and 10 minutes from thriving Amery, a community with plenty to offer and charm for days.

98%

(116)

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

5 sites · Lodging8 acres · Pine City, MN

Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!

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(161)

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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(78)

Twin Folk Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Hager City, WI

Previously a 100 acre century farm, this fertile land was tended to by generations of old time farmers. Their dairy cows pastured in areas which we now graze sheep. The restored quarry provided gravel for the nearby highway restoration and local projects.The property is currently a mix of hay ground, cropland, pasture, forest, and quarry. Twin sisters, Darla and Kayla, and their families live across the road from each other and own the surrounding 140 acres. They keep busy planting/tending trees, making hay, moving fence for grazing animals, operating a farm business called Twin Folk Farms (pastured meat, camps, etc), and raising their families.Learn more about this land:- This site is at the edge of a restored quarry, sheep pasture, and wooded hillside.- The site is tucked down a flat mowed path, so it feels very private and protected. - You can hike up a path to the sheep pasture. Sometimes sheep are there, sometimes elsewhere on the farm. You can hike the other direction and check out the restored quarry. We have paths all around the property, so feel free to respectfully explore.- You can't see the highway from this site, but you can hear it. It's super handy to be able to hop out of your campsite haven and onto the hwy, but be aware that you will hear vehicles.- There's a Mississippi river boat launch a few miles down the road, so feel free to park your boat at the bottom of the quarry driveway.- The Hay Creek riding trails are 25 minutes away, so contact us if you want to set up a place in the quarry to park your horses and trailer for the night. - We are certified to sell meat straight off of the farm (Twin Folk Farms), so contact us if you want to purchase your meat and have it delivered to your campsite. You can also set up a time to come up to the farm and purchase meat. - The beautiful, historic town of Red Wing is 10 minutes from our farm. You'll find a mix of modern amenities and historic shops to suit your fancy.

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(220)

Stone Creek Farm

6 sites · Lodging, Tents36 acres · Taylors Falls, MN

Situated on 36 acres, this working farm is 2 miles West of Taylors Falls. Dan 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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(62)

Evergreen Oasis Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Lindstrom, MN

Enjoy our 20-acre alpaca, sheep and u-pick flower farm located in Center City, Mn. Spend time with the animals, cutting flowers and even shopping in our barn market (when in season) We are surrounded by local hiking, swimming, fishing, shopping, breweries, state parks and more. As hosts we can be as interactive as you want!

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(35)

Paquin Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Nowthen, MN

Spring has arrived and the farm is ready to enjoy! We are a small hobby farm that's located within one hour from Minneapolis/St. Paul. Our farm has wooded trails, bonfire pits, is quiet and very peaceful. Our little town is 10 minutes from most shopping, with multiple restaurants minutes away. We offer multiple locations to camp on the property. There is a concrete pad with (2) 30-amp electric and (2) water hookups. The 2 sites with hookups are very level and easy to park on. There are many other areas to park and camp, with access to water for filling up tanks, and an outhouse for bathroom needs. Beanbag toss, basketball hoop, and ladder game are available upon request. Firewood available for a small fee. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed and under owner's control at all times when outside. Maximum of two pets per site. The sunrises and sunsets are absolutely amazing with wildlife all around to gaze at and enjoy.

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(18)

Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Braham, MN

Two campsites or our Chalet which sleeps five are available. Campsites are near a fabulous 10 acre deep spring fed lake. One campsite is in the prairie with a expansive view where 5 or 6 tents are possible. 2nd campsite is for one tent and is lakeside. Quiet peaceful trails through the woods. Animals at the home base. The chalet (in the pictures) , has all the needed amenities; showers, fridge, etc. Contact us for pricing details. Food and wine packages are available for the interested parties. This place is perfect.

The best camping near William O'Brien State Park guide

Overview

About

Dwellers of the Twin Cities, hear us now! William O’Brien State Park is only 1 hour from YOU. That’s equivalent to the time of your favorite show, so DVR that shiz and get outside instead. Your soul will thank you. When you arrive check out the Riverside Trail for a calming stroll along the water and through the oak-hickory forest. And believe us when we say walkin’ along water sure makes you want to jump on in. Good thing they’ve got a swimming area right on the spring-fed Lake Alice! Even more, this park has GPS units and much more for you to borrow... yes that means free. Stay for a night in the campground or a cabin and keep the good vibes flowin’ like the current of the St. Croix.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book your campsite well in advance to secure your spot amid the park's popular seasons.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Stay flexible with your dates and check the reservation system regularly for cancellations.
Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit William O'Brien State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters are cold and serene, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before planning your visit.
Remember that Highway 67 is permanently closed; follow alternative directions provided by the park.
Cell service may be limited, so download maps and directions ahead of time.
Park staff will check you in at your campsite, so there's no need to stop at the office upon arrival.
Familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

94%

9 ratings · 1 review

June 2015

The Savanna Campground is more secluded than the Riverway Campground. Some of the best hikes are around the Hardwood Hills Trail and the Woodland Edge Trail. Bring lots of bug repellant.