The best forest campgrounds near Waconia, Minnesota

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)

Top-rated campgrounds

Waterfall in the adjacent park is a 500 foot walk down the trail.

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)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Prairie Creek Campground

99%

(855)

46mi from Waconia · 7 sites · Tents · Nerstrand, MN

Thank you for a great 2025 Camping Season! This was our best year yet! We hosted more Hipcamers 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. 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.

2. The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

98%

(225)

40mi from Waconia · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

3. Pearsons Century Farm

98%

(132)

45mi from Waconia · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Grove City, MN

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

4. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

6 sites · Jordan, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

5. Lake Maria State Park

90%

(10)

19 sites · Silver Creek, Minnesota

Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

6. Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

46mi from Waconia · 1 site · Lodging · Grove City, MN

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.

7. Champion Valley

90%

(70)

25mi from Waconia · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lakeville, MN

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.

8. Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

99%

(47)

37mi from Waconia · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Nowthen, MN

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.

9. Countryside full hookups RV site

88%

(8)

43mi from Waconia · 2 sites · RVs · Becker, MN

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.

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

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

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

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

14. Town & Country Campground

100%

(1)

20mi from Waconia · 271 sites · Savage, MN

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!

Camper favorites near Waconia

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

46mi from Waconia · 1 site · Lodging · Grove City, MN

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.

Champion Valley

90%

(70)

25mi from Waconia · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lakeville, MN

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.

Peaceful & Secluded Sanctuary

99%

(47)

37mi from Waconia · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Nowthen, MN

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.

Countryside full hookups RV site

88%

(8)

43mi from Waconia · 2 sites · RVs · Becker, MN

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.

Town & Country Campground

100%

(1)

20mi from Waconia · 271 sites · Savage, MN

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!

Public campgrounds near Waconia

Equestrian Campground

14mi from Waconia · 6 sites · in Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

90%

(10)

Lake Maria Campground

34mi from Waconia · 19 sites · in Lake Maria State Park

100%

(2)

Ann Lake Campground

41mi from Waconia · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sand Dunes State Forest

100%

(1)

Bob Dunn Horse Campground

41mi from Waconia · 15 sites · in Sand Dunes State Forest

100%

(1)

Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

45mi from Waconia · 69 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sakatah Lake State Park

83%

(3)

Nerstrand Big Woods Campground

48mi from Waconia · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

100%

(18)

Afton Campground

50mi from Waconia · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Afton State Park

Stories from the community

Samuel

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

They are wonderful hosts, the lots are private and secluded. Direction are clear, everything is always nice. Highly recommended.

A

Alyssa

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

Super nice spot! Very easy to find and instructions were really clear. The welcome information was really nice to have with good recommendations for the area and what to know about the property.

B

Ben

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Great place beautiful if you like camping you will like this area.

G

Gloria

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

The site was beautiful and easy access. We loved our weekend here!

J

Joni

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Stephen was a great host. We made a scheduling error and he worked hard to accommodate us. Peaceful beautiful property, nearby amazing nature parks and quaint town of Northfield. It was just the solitude and time away we needed.

R

Rachel

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

Place was beautiful. Site was private and the stars were beautiful. Stephen is as friendly and accommodating. Weather didn't cooperate, so I look forward to coming back and exploring the area more

K

Kay

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Stephen’s place is beautiful! Trails right from the campsites into Caron park which has a lovely little waterfall. I hope to go back and see it in the spring. Historic towns, biking trails, and state parks close by. Campsites were great, outhouse was clean and convenient. We stayed in site 2. Loved it!

Jonathan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Great campsite! Site 3 was beautiful right by the creek. Easy walk from parking lot with large cart to help. Definitely recommend!

K

Kassi

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

What can I say that hasn't been said already in all their glowing reviews? It's wonderful and you should definitely camp here.

R

Ricky

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Very peaceful and quaint. My daughter and I had our first camping trip together and it was a great time. Instructions were perfect, I didn’t have any questions.

Split Rock. Much larger in person. A short hike in Caron Park near the camp sites.

J

Joanna

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

I spent 2 beautiful nights here. Stephen is very helpful in making sure any questions are answered and making sure you’re settled in. The sites are private feeling and next to Caron Park. I got a couple hikes in and just enjoyed the peaceful nature sounds. It was my first time camping by myself and I really found out how wonderful it is to disconnect from social media. I will definitely be back.

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

This was our second time at this site. The privacy is great. Being right on the creek is something you don't get at most places. The trails connecting to the campground are fun to walk and explore. You have waterfalls, the split rock and many other things to see. Our dog loves it here as well. We'll definitely be back next year.

P

Phuong

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

The place was amazing! Site 4 was very secluded and was very nice during the fall. Plenty of space to tent. Will definitely be back soon! Thank you for the amazing location.

T

Ted

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

Site 3 was wonderful and immersed in nature. Caretakers were wonderful and accommodating! Everything was accessible and larger towns were 15 minutes away or less. Highly would recommend!!

Roxanne

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

We had a great time tent camping here! It was private and close to nice parks and stores for anything we needed last minute. It fit all 7 of us and 3 cars comfortably.

B

Brent

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

We chose this spot for our first time camping together, and it was a great pick. We really enjoyed the short hiking area right next to the campsite, with a very cool little waterfall!

C

Caitlin

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Prairie Creek Campground

Beautiful, private property with access to trail to waterfall. The hosts were so nice and welcoming. I loved hearing all the animals at night.

E

Ella

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

Tent camped on site one and it was lovely! We got in pretty late so we didn’t get to enjoy the nice fire pit as we were just setting up to sleep. Got up in the AM and took a short walk to see the pretty horses, chicken, and turkeys. The turkeys have pretty big personalities! 10/10

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Prairie Creek Campground

I stayed at campsite #3 and absolutely loved it! The creek provided such relaxing white noise and was so peaceful. The site is pretty decently sized and felt very private. The grounds were kept really nicely and loved that we were able to cut through the owners yard to get to the waterfall and split rock. Definitely make sure to take a picture of the trails on the shed before going though! I checked out all the sites when I was there and I think they are all pretty great, but #3 was the best in my opinion, because of the creek. It’s not far from town if you want to go out and explore or get supplies. I’d definitely recommend booking here!

Kristin

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

We had a fun time at the Shady Hideaway site! My husband and I, unfortunately, had a rainstorm roll in the first day of our weekend trip, but we still had a lovely time just relaxing in the tent and listening to the rain. The site is very private and a great location to relax and enjoy a weekend out of the cities. We also got to see some super cute goats down the path!