The best camping near Minnetonka with wildlife watching

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures! With over 370 options near Minnetonka, Minnesota, that cater specifically to wildlife watching, you're sure to find the perfect campsite. Whether you prefer a cozy tent, a rustic cabin, or a spacious RV, we've got you covered. And with prices ranging from just $5 to an average of $35 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Looking for recommendations? Check out our top campsites: Prairie Creek Forest Campground (202 reviews), Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River (157 reviews), and Stone Creek Farm (116 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly sites, and potable water. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't forget to try out hiking, surfing, and fishing in the area. Start planning your wildlife watching adventure today with Hipcamp!

97% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Minnetonka

1. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
43mi from Minnetonka · 7 sites · Tents
Thank you for a great 2025 Camping Season! This was our best year yet! We hosted more Hipcampers than any year before and are excited to have been honored again with a Best in Minnesota award. Thank you and we look forward to 2026. Booking for 2026 is open. Pitch your tent at one of our Walk-In forest campsites on 60 acres along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock" erratic, a 60 acre county park featuring waterfalls and trails, including a single track mountain bike trail. 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. We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. 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. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside our hilltop site 4 is up an adventurous gravel road (but is very accessible). Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Stephen's grandparents bought this farm. In addition to farming they also operated a trail riding stable here. Over the years, the arable land has been sold, but we retained the wooded areas which are twice crossed by creeks. About 30 years ago, a 60 acre county park bordering the south and west sides of our land was created. We are very excited to host campers as a way to preserve and share this beautiful property.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night

2. The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

98%
(225)
28mi from Minnetonka · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night

3. Stone Creek Farm

99%
(244)
49mi from Minnetonka · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

8. Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

99%
(47)
27mi from Minnetonka · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Fall is quickly arriving! We are a small, 15 acre property, that's located within one hour from Minneapolis/St. Paul. Our farm has wooded trails, bonfire pits, with amazing sunrises and sunsets. It is quiet and very peaceful. Our little town is 10 minutes from most shopping, with multiple restaurants minutes away. It's also very close to lakes and rivers for kayak/canoe enthusiasts, boaters, or visiting those parks for hiking, swimming and more. 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 abundant wildlife all around to gaze at and enjoy.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

9. Hazel hills

95%
(21)
39mi from Minnetonka · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Enjoy our back lot for a private campsite which borders a prairie preserve. Watch the deer come in the morning and evening and listen to our friendly, happy hens cluck away, not to mention all the beautiful song birds. We are happy to share our golf clubs and balls to hit a few into the field. Our kids love it! Tree coverage along with an open field. We cut the field to offer a walking trail to the prairie preserve. There is a tree surronded, very private tent site for tenters, but if you have a camper you can find a spot that works best for you! (The tent site is very private and a camper would not fit.) We are a short 10 min drive to Stillwater but there is so much to do in Somerset! Take a walk around the prairie preserve and kayak down the apple river, but don’t forget the local brewery and boutique shop. There is some great fishing on local lakes in the area as well. We offer a 30 amp electric hook up and our hose for water. We also have a shower tent with a camping porta potty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

17. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

100%
(12)
17mi from Minnetonka · 1 site · Lodging
Spend some cozy downtime enjoying a fire and the peacefulness of 4 acre lake property. Take a hot shower and sleep in a comfortable bed- all for less than a hotel room! It’s like glamping. **We do require a photo of a valid government ID from all members of your party, immediately after booking. The host will tell you how to send this. If not received within the specified time frame, your booking will be cancelled and you will not receive check in information. This property: Cozy lakeside cottage that sleeps two, with level lawn space nearby that will fit two additional tents in your group. Dedicated private space is in lower level backyard with access to dock* (*May -September), lake and wildlife wetlands with boardwalk. You'll see the setting sun from the end of the dock and have access to a paver patio firepit. Private 3/4 bath and comfortable TV room is 60 steps away in the house. Mostly private spaces with some shared spaces such as driveway, hallways, sometimes we cross paths in the yard. Mystic Lake Casino, Canterbury Downs, renaissance fest, Valleyfair, & many other area lakes besides the 600 acre all sports lake that the property is located on are in the immediate area. For location purposes, we are located 3.7 miles of the Prior Lake, MN McDonald's. The basic price of $80 per night includes up to two campers inside or outside of the  cottage,  but up to two additional campers and tents can be added to the reservation for $20 per person/ per night.  A limit of two persons inside of the cottage and four persons total are allowed per reservation. All persons must be declared ahead of reserving the space and ID’d for insurance purposes. Please note that all persons on the reservation must submit a copy of their valid picture government ID to the host (via platform) prior to arrival (but after booking), and sign a property liability waiver upon check in.   The host will discuss the procedure with you as HC supports pictures only after booking.  Please ask prior to booking if you have any questions about this- this is a requirement of our short term rental insurance, and part of our self check in procedure. We are a non smoking, non vape, no party/unregistered guest owner occupied property. Quiet private guests only please .
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night

20. A Quiet Stay on Our Family Farm!

100%
(21)
50mi from Minnetonka · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our small family farm, where life is as simple as it gets, and every season brings something special. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, you'll find that there’s plenty to see, do, and taste—plus, the chance to experience life on a small farm. Our farm is peaceful, scenic, and full of nature. You’ll be just 2 miles from Rod's Country Corner, a local spot with pizza, ice cream, and sandwiches, and a short drive to Lindstrom where you’ll find a meat shop . We have some delicious farm-fresh goodies for purchase. We’re surrounded by plenty of attractions, including parks, wineries, breweries, and more. +What to Expect During Your Stay: Rustic Camp Sites: Choose from a variety of locations on our beautiful, rural farm. You'll camp right next to nature, with the sounds of birds, a slight breeze, and the distant hum of farm life. Be aware, it’s not entirely pristine—this is a working farm after all! +Composting Toilet: We have a simple, rustic composting toilet for your convenience. Please be sure to read the instructions inside. We try to keep it as clean and fresh as possible, but be aware it’s a basic setup. +Fresh Local Food: If you’re here during the season, you can purchase fresh produce directly from us or from our neighbors. Lindstrom has a local meat shop, and you can grab essentials and snacks at Rod’s Country Corner. There’s always something to make your camp meals extra special. 0o Things to Keep in Mind: --Wildlife: Black bears do live in the area, so please make sure all food is stored securely in your car at night. We want to keep everyone safe and the bears wild! --Weather: Rural weather can be unpredictable, pop-up storms are common. Be sure to check forecasts, and keep rain gear handy. Tents are subject to wind, so make sure your setup is sturdy. --Quiet Hours: We value our peace and quiet here, so please respect our designated quiet time after sundown. It's a time to unwind and enjoy the stars. __No Smoking/No Pets: For the comfort all guests and to maintain a clean farm environment, we do not allow smoking (either tobacco or marijuana) or pets on the property, avoid bringing glass bottles to prevent accidents. 12 min to Interstate State Park. 10 min to Wild River State Park. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$11
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures! With over 370 options near Minnetonka, Minnesota, that cater specifically to wildlife watching, you're sure to find the perfect campsite. Whether you prefer a cozy tent, a rustic cabin, or a spacious RV, we've got you covered. And with prices ranging from just $5 to an average of $35 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Looking for recommendations? Check out our top campsites: Prairie Creek Forest Campground (202 reviews), Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River (157 reviews), and Stone Creek Farm (116 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly sites, and potable water. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't forget to try out hiking, surfing, and fishing in the area. Start planning your wildlife watching adventure today with Hipcamp!

97% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Minnetonka

1. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
43mi from Minnetonka · 7 sites · Tents
Thank you for a great 2025 Camping Season! This was our best year yet! We hosted more Hipcampers than any year before and are excited to have been honored again with a Best in Minnesota award. Thank you and we look forward to 2026. Booking for 2026 is open. Pitch your tent at one of our Walk-In forest campsites on 60 acres along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock" erratic, a 60 acre county park featuring waterfalls and trails, including a single track mountain bike trail. 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. We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. 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. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside our hilltop site 4 is up an adventurous gravel road (but is very accessible). Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Stephen's grandparents bought this farm. In addition to farming they also operated a trail riding stable here. Over the years, the arable land has been sold, but we retained the wooded areas which are twice crossed by creeks. About 30 years ago, a 60 acre county park bordering the south and west sides of our land was created. We are very excited to host campers as a way to preserve and share this beautiful property.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night

2. The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

98%
(225)
28mi from Minnetonka · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night

3. Stone Creek Farm

99%
(244)
49mi from Minnetonka · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

8. Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

99%
(47)
27mi from Minnetonka · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Fall is quickly arriving! We are a small, 15 acre property, that's located within one hour from Minneapolis/St. Paul. Our farm has wooded trails, bonfire pits, with amazing sunrises and sunsets. It is quiet and very peaceful. Our little town is 10 minutes from most shopping, with multiple restaurants minutes away. It's also very close to lakes and rivers for kayak/canoe enthusiasts, boaters, or visiting those parks for hiking, swimming and more. 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 abundant wildlife all around to gaze at and enjoy.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

9. Hazel hills

95%
(21)
39mi from Minnetonka · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Enjoy our back lot for a private campsite which borders a prairie preserve. Watch the deer come in the morning and evening and listen to our friendly, happy hens cluck away, not to mention all the beautiful song birds. We are happy to share our golf clubs and balls to hit a few into the field. Our kids love it! Tree coverage along with an open field. We cut the field to offer a walking trail to the prairie preserve. There is a tree surronded, very private tent site for tenters, but if you have a camper you can find a spot that works best for you! (The tent site is very private and a camper would not fit.) We are a short 10 min drive to Stillwater but there is so much to do in Somerset! Take a walk around the prairie preserve and kayak down the apple river, but don’t forget the local brewery and boutique shop. There is some great fishing on local lakes in the area as well. We offer a 30 amp electric hook up and our hose for water. We also have a shower tent with a camping porta potty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

17. Cozy Lakeside Cottage Guestroom

100%
(12)
17mi from Minnetonka · 1 site · Lodging
Spend some cozy downtime enjoying a fire and the peacefulness of 4 acre lake property. Take a hot shower and sleep in a comfortable bed- all for less than a hotel room! It’s like glamping. **We do require a photo of a valid government ID from all members of your party, immediately after booking. The host will tell you how to send this. If not received within the specified time frame, your booking will be cancelled and you will not receive check in information. This property: Cozy lakeside cottage that sleeps two, with level lawn space nearby that will fit two additional tents in your group. Dedicated private space is in lower level backyard with access to dock* (*May -September), lake and wildlife wetlands with boardwalk. You'll see the setting sun from the end of the dock and have access to a paver patio firepit. Private 3/4 bath and comfortable TV room is 60 steps away in the house. Mostly private spaces with some shared spaces such as driveway, hallways, sometimes we cross paths in the yard. Mystic Lake Casino, Canterbury Downs, renaissance fest, Valleyfair, & many other area lakes besides the 600 acre all sports lake that the property is located on are in the immediate area. For location purposes, we are located 3.7 miles of the Prior Lake, MN McDonald's. The basic price of $80 per night includes up to two campers inside or outside of the  cottage,  but up to two additional campers and tents can be added to the reservation for $20 per person/ per night.  A limit of two persons inside of the cottage and four persons total are allowed per reservation. All persons must be declared ahead of reserving the space and ID’d for insurance purposes. Please note that all persons on the reservation must submit a copy of their valid picture government ID to the host (via platform) prior to arrival (but after booking), and sign a property liability waiver upon check in.   The host will discuss the procedure with you as HC supports pictures only after booking.  Please ask prior to booking if you have any questions about this- this is a requirement of our short term rental insurance, and part of our self check in procedure. We are a non smoking, non vape, no party/unregistered guest owner occupied property. Quiet private guests only please .
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night

20. A Quiet Stay on Our Family Farm!

100%
(21)
50mi from Minnetonka · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our small family farm, where life is as simple as it gets, and every season brings something special. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, you'll find that there’s plenty to see, do, and taste—plus, the chance to experience life on a small farm. Our farm is peaceful, scenic, and full of nature. You’ll be just 2 miles from Rod's Country Corner, a local spot with pizza, ice cream, and sandwiches, and a short drive to Lindstrom where you’ll find a meat shop . We have some delicious farm-fresh goodies for purchase. We’re surrounded by plenty of attractions, including parks, wineries, breweries, and more. +What to Expect During Your Stay: Rustic Camp Sites: Choose from a variety of locations on our beautiful, rural farm. You'll camp right next to nature, with the sounds of birds, a slight breeze, and the distant hum of farm life. Be aware, it’s not entirely pristine—this is a working farm after all! +Composting Toilet: We have a simple, rustic composting toilet for your convenience. Please be sure to read the instructions inside. We try to keep it as clean and fresh as possible, but be aware it’s a basic setup. +Fresh Local Food: If you’re here during the season, you can purchase fresh produce directly from us or from our neighbors. Lindstrom has a local meat shop, and you can grab essentials and snacks at Rod’s Country Corner. There’s always something to make your camp meals extra special. 0o Things to Keep in Mind: --Wildlife: Black bears do live in the area, so please make sure all food is stored securely in your car at night. We want to keep everyone safe and the bears wild! --Weather: Rural weather can be unpredictable, pop-up storms are common. Be sure to check forecasts, and keep rain gear handy. Tents are subject to wind, so make sure your setup is sturdy. --Quiet Hours: We value our peace and quiet here, so please respect our designated quiet time after sundown. It's a time to unwind and enjoy the stars. __No Smoking/No Pets: For the comfort all guests and to maintain a clean farm environment, we do not allow smoking (either tobacco or marijuana) or pets on the property, avoid bringing glass bottles to prevent accidents. 12 min to Interstate State Park. 10 min to Wild River State Park. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$11
 / night

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Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field