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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 adventure.

94% (9 reviews)
94% (9 reviews)

Wooded gorges and cascading waterfalls provide a scenic backdrop.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Willow River State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Willow River State Park

90%
(25)

Willow River Farm

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents17 acres ¡ North Hudson, WI
17 acres very close to Willow River State Park, with private trails for hiking and dog walking, consisting of mature pine forest and beautiful pasture. Goats and chickens. You can do Goat Yoga! Four-wheeler and dirtbike available for rent, firewood available for purchase. Full RV hook-ups (power, pump-out, and water) at RV site. Located only ten minutes from beautiful Stillwater and Hudson, and only a mile or so from the St. Croix River. 35 minute drive from downtown Minneapolis.
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$39
 / night
100%
(39)

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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$35
 / night
100%
(120)

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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$36
 / night
100%
(304)

Belle Creek Bluff

3 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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$40
 / night
96%
(14)

Hazel hills

1 site ¡ RV, Tent7 acres ¡ Somerset, WI
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.
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from 
$35
 / night
100%
(2)

Wild Haven farm

1 site ¡ RV, Tent2 acres ¡ MN
Beautiful encampment with the luxury of country home feel. Located in just ten minutes from downtown stillwater following up the river along the St.Croix boom site. 2 acres surrounded by trees and farm fields. Fire pit to enjoy s’mores and stories. Activities that can be enjoyed include visiting the St.Croix boom site, enjoying downtown a Stillwater, kayaking the river , and returning to our farmhouse for fires, cooking over the fire, and card games.
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$25
 / night
100%
(10)

Marsh Mellow Meadow

1 site ¡ RV, Tent75 acres ¡ Baldwin, WI
Located just off of Interstate 94 between the Twin Cities and Eau Claire, WI, this camping site will surely please all campers who want a sense of wilderness with convenient city access. The diverse property in the "Prairie Pothole" region of Wisconsin offers walking trails through 10 acres of meadow habitat with lots of wildlife to view (sandhill cranes, deer, pheasants, turkeys, songbirds and more). Enjoy a beautiful 360-degree view of rolling hills and beautiful sunrises and sunsets right from your campfire. There are over a dozen fruit trees planted and attractive landscaping at the campsite. The 300 ft gravel driveway makes access easy for cars, trucks, campers and RVs. Pine Lake Rec Area is only 2.5 miles away (bring your boat or canoe/kayaks). There are three golf courses located within 11 miles of the campsite -- two 9-hole courses and one 18-hole course. The location is perfect for travelers looking for a cheap and simple place to stay just off Interstate 94 and Hwy 63.
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from 
$20
 / night
99%
(190)

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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$45
 / night

SnowGlobe Igloo Hudson, WI

1 site ¡ Tent22 acres ¡ Hudson, WI
Welcome to the Snowflake Suite of the Pink Castle with the amenities of the SnowGlobe with hottub included. Located at the famous Pink Castle in downtown Hudson. Where fantasy meets reality. Be prepared to be completely mesmerized as you relax in our luxurious heated ZenTemperpetic underneath a gorgeous starry sky. The Pink Castle’s snowflake suit is exactly what you need for your getaway from reality. Dresses per season is the decor you will arrive to, Christmas…there will be a Christmas tree, faux fireplace going, Christmas music as you rewind in the warmth comfort of the suite. The amenity of the SnowGlobe. This absolutely clear and pristine dome is heated by an electric fireplace so this real life fairy tale is available to you all winter long. Guests are blown away by the experiences that come from staying at the famous Pink Castle. There’s just something truly magical about being this submersed in nature and our location has something special to offer with the fall- early spring seasons. Watching beautiful soft snowflakes cascade around its walls & Snuggling warmly in luxurious blankets while star gazing. Rainstorms have new meaning, sunsets and sunrises become even more of a life changing experience. It is truly something you have to experience first hand once - if not a million times & we are so excited to now offer this as one of our fantasy collection. Your outdoor activities and amenities: Starglazing SnowGlobe. You will have your own VIP private hottub at your fingertips in your outdoor oasis. Roast some marshmellows over the fire at the firepit. Book a private chef to service your stay! How about, some on location pampering service by our Aesthetician will sure to relax you. This location is a photographer’s dream, a once in a lifetime romantic get away, & just the perfect place to get away alone to reconnect with yourself and nature- with still being not so secluded. Be prepared to be completely swept off your feet in this glamorous, pristine, luxurious atmosphere that cannot be matched. One stay will have you ready to book your next, & wondering what other properties we have available in our fantasy location series. Add ons (not included but can be added On) Wine & Hors d’oeuvre tray (which are Pictured): $150 Pampering sessions: $100’per person Chef: please contact for a quote. We look forward to hosting your magical adventure.
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$349
 / night
83%
(127)

Harbor Bar

12 sites ¡ RVs, TentsHager City, WI
Located at Harbor Bar across from Red Wing MN. said to be on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river. Fish from shore in one of the best fisheries in the country. Full restaurant & bar with live music on weekends.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent along the banks of the mighty Mississippi river. bar, restaurant, outdoor music festivals, fishing. View pretty Red Wing from across the river. Located on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river.
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$20
 / night
100%
(1)

Kinni Croix Farms

5 sites ¡ RVs78 acres ¡ River Falls, WI
Kinni Croix Farms is a four-season regenerative farm. We use organic methods to grow vegetables, flowers, herbs and Christmas trees. The farm is next to Kinnickinnic State Park where you will find miles of trails designated for hiking or biking. In the winter these trails are groomed for skiing and fat tire biking. The Park is on the St Croix River and has a public access beach. We also have hiking trails maintained on the farm for the use of our guests. Time permitting, I’d be happy to give you a tour of the farm and explain my regenerative farming methods. Organic produce is for sale at a discount for guests when available.
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$32
 / night
100%
(61)

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.
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$42
 / night

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

  1. You can reserve one of the 130 RV/tent sites at Willow River Campground via the Wisconsin State Park website.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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