The best forest camping near Waconia

·

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a forest adventure near Waconia, Minnesota, you're in luck. We have over 212 options for you to choose from, all nestled in the beautiful forests of the area. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, our campsites offer something for everyone. Check out our top-rated campsites like Prairie Creek Forest Campground (202 reviews), Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River (157 reviews), and Stone Creek Farm (116 reviews). From hiking to whitewater paddling to snow sports, there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. And with popular amenities like showers, pets allowed, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

94% (705) 26 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Waconia

The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

1. The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

98%
(226)
40mi from Waconia · 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
Prairie Creek Campground

2. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
46mi from Waconia · 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
Pearsons Century Farm

3. Pearsons Century Farm

98%
(132)
45mi from Waconia · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Homesteaded more than 100 years ago this farm is somewhat stuck in time. Once this was a prosperous dairy operation. Location location location, this place is my slice of heaven on earth. Located in the corner of 4 townships on an extremely quiet road. Our farm now raises grass fed beef and wooly pigs pastured along driveway along with the usual cast of a farm, dogs, cats, chickens, guineas and goats
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

4. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

6 sites · Jordan, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Lake Maria State Park

5. Lake Maria State Park

90%
(10)
19 sites · Silver Creek, Minnesota
Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

6. Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

46mi from Waconia · 1 site · Lodging
This rustic cabin is tucked away on two acres along Long Lake. The original log structure dates back to 1858, with a newer addition built from repurposed barn wood. Enjoy a quiet retreat or a romantic getaway by the fireplace. Spend time by the lake taking in the fresh air and wildlife, or reconnect with family around the table playing games. Our cabin is the perfect place to relax, re-energize, and reconnect.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$169
 / night
Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

7. Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

99%
(47)
37mi from Waconia · 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
Champion Valley

8. Champion Valley

90%
(70)
25mi from Waconia · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Champion Valley is a 150-acre outdoor adventure park in Lakeville, MN featuring ax-throwing, airsoft, paintball, escape rooms & archery tag. We are located 5 minutes off of Interstate 35W. It is situated on 150 acres of beautiful hills and waterways covered with thousands of trees.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night
Countryside full hookups RV site

9. Countryside full hookups RV site

88%
(8)
43mi from Waconia · 2 sites · RVs
Learn more about this land:New to Hip Camp? Save $10 on your first stay by booking through this link: hipcamp.com/i/alishaa989166 Quiet countryside retreat on 2.5 acres. Easy access to site from street. Electric, Water and sewer hook ups. Large field and fresh eggs from a dozen chickens. All neighbors are on large lots of 2 acres or more. 12 minutes to downtown Becker, 20 minutes to Monticello. 30 minutes to St. Cloud and Elk River.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Sand Dunes State Forest

10. Sand Dunes State Forest

100%
(3)
70 sites · Zimmerman, Minnesota
Discover Sand Dunes State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sakatah Lake State Park

11. Sakatah Lake State Park

100%
(1)
69 sites · Waterville, Minnesota
Discover Sakatah Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

12. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

83%
(3)
54 sites · Nerstrand, Minnesota
Discover the serene beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Afton State Park

13. Afton State Park

100%
(18)
31 sites · Afton, Minnesota
Give Afton State Park's four-stage geocache a run with free GPS units you can checkout at the park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Town & Country Campground

14. Town & Country Campground

100%
(1)
20mi from Waconia · 271 sites
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Town & Country RV Park and Campground stands out as a unique destination that has been cherished by families since its establishment in 1968. As a family-owned and operated business for over 55 years, we take pride in offering a welcoming atmosphere where every guest is treated like part of our family. Our campground features beautifully maintained grounds that provide a serene escape for visitors. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, ensuring that your stay is not only comfortable but also memorable for everyone in your group. At Town & Country, we strive to create an unforgettable experience filled with outdoor adventures. Enjoy nearby natural attractions, swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities that cater to all ages. Additionally, our location offers convenient access to local restaurants and shops, making it easy to explore the surrounding area. Come and discover the charm of Town & Country RV Park and Campground, where lasting memories await!

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a forest adventure near Waconia, Minnesota, you're in luck. We have over 212 options for you to choose from, all nestled in the beautiful forests of the area. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, our campsites offer something for everyone. Check out our top-rated campsites like Prairie Creek Forest Campground (202 reviews), Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River (157 reviews), and Stone Creek Farm (116 reviews). From hiking to whitewater paddling to snow sports, there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. And with popular amenities like showers, pets allowed, and toilets, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

94% (705) 26 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Waconia

The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

1. The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

98%
(226)
40mi from Waconia · 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
Prairie Creek Campground

2. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
46mi from Waconia · 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
Pearsons Century Farm

3. Pearsons Century Farm

98%
(132)
45mi from Waconia · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Homesteaded more than 100 years ago this farm is somewhat stuck in time. Once this was a prosperous dairy operation. Location location location, this place is my slice of heaven on earth. Located in the corner of 4 townships on an extremely quiet road. Our farm now raises grass fed beef and wooly pigs pastured along driveway along with the usual cast of a farm, dogs, cats, chickens, guineas and goats
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

4. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

6 sites · Jordan, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Lake Maria State Park

5. Lake Maria State Park

90%
(10)
19 sites · Silver Creek, Minnesota
Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

6. Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

46mi from Waconia · 1 site · Lodging
This rustic cabin is tucked away on two acres along Long Lake. The original log structure dates back to 1858, with a newer addition built from repurposed barn wood. Enjoy a quiet retreat or a romantic getaway by the fireplace. Spend time by the lake taking in the fresh air and wildlife, or reconnect with family around the table playing games. Our cabin is the perfect place to relax, re-energize, and reconnect.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$169
 / night
Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

7. Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

99%
(47)
37mi from Waconia · 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
Champion Valley

8. Champion Valley

90%
(70)
25mi from Waconia · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Champion Valley is a 150-acre outdoor adventure park in Lakeville, MN featuring ax-throwing, airsoft, paintball, escape rooms & archery tag. We are located 5 minutes off of Interstate 35W. It is situated on 150 acres of beautiful hills and waterways covered with thousands of trees.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night
Countryside full hookups RV site

9. Countryside full hookups RV site

88%
(8)
43mi from Waconia · 2 sites · RVs
Learn more about this land:New to Hip Camp? Save $10 on your first stay by booking through this link: hipcamp.com/i/alishaa989166 Quiet countryside retreat on 2.5 acres. Easy access to site from street. Electric, Water and sewer hook ups. Large field and fresh eggs from a dozen chickens. All neighbors are on large lots of 2 acres or more. 12 minutes to downtown Becker, 20 minutes to Monticello. 30 minutes to St. Cloud and Elk River.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Sand Dunes State Forest

10. Sand Dunes State Forest

100%
(3)
70 sites · Zimmerman, Minnesota
Discover Sand Dunes State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sakatah Lake State Park

11. Sakatah Lake State Park

100%
(1)
69 sites · Waterville, Minnesota
Discover Sakatah Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

12. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

83%
(3)
54 sites · Nerstrand, Minnesota
Discover the serene beauty of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Afton State Park

13. Afton State Park

100%
(18)
31 sites · Afton, Minnesota
Give Afton State Park's four-stage geocache a run with free GPS units you can checkout at the park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Town & Country Campground

14. Town & Country Campground

100%
(1)
20mi from Waconia · 271 sites
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Town & Country RV Park and Campground stands out as a unique destination that has been cherished by families since its establishment in 1968. As a family-owned and operated business for over 55 years, we take pride in offering a welcoming atmosphere where every guest is treated like part of our family. Our campground features beautifully maintained grounds that provide a serene escape for visitors. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, ensuring that your stay is not only comfortable but also memorable for everyone in your group. At Town & Country, we strive to create an unforgettable experience filled with outdoor adventures. Enjoy nearby natural attractions, swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities that cater to all ages. Additionally, our location offers convenient access to local restaurants and shops, making it easy to explore the surrounding area. Come and discover the charm of Town & Country RV Park and Campground, where lasting memories await!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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