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 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

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Public campgrounds in the park
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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

from

$23

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near William O'Brien State Park

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(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.

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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(122)

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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(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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(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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(26)

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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(305)

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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(57)

Wild Vines Campground

24 sites · Tents6 acres · Taylors Falls, MN

With some of the oldest vines in Minnesota, (1994) Wild Mountain Winery has been in operation since 2010 as a premier winery. Nestled on the second highest point in Chisago County, we offer picturesque views and quiet, natural setting. With both food, beer, cider and wine to sample, you will find something that makes you smile. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the setting you choose; in the vines of our 6 acres of vineyard, or in the woods next to the winery. Enjoy all the amenities of the winery with a short walk to your cot, hammock or sleeping bag. No "drive-in" sites available, but we provide pull carts or courtesy shuttle upon request. Close to Wild Mountain Ski & Water park. Each site offers a fire ring. On site bathrooms and potable water. Camp any day of the week. Check in- Friday 2:00, or by special request Sat/Sun 12:00 Weekdays 12:00 Check out- 11:00

IdylwoodEquestrianCenter.com

10 sites · TentsStillwater, MN

idylwoodequestriancenter.comLearn more about this land:$1,300 per night price includes hour-long lessons for 10 people and overnight camping.Idylwood Equestrian Center offers full equine services to riders of all ages and levels.

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(25)

Wilder Retreat

3 sites · Lodging6 acres · Shafer, MN

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Wilder Retreat on the Saint Croix River. Come experience the magic of the river valley and this special land were you’ll stay at either the Wilder Bell Tent or The Writers Cabin. Tucked away in the woods behind an 1890’s farmhouse and bordering the Saint Croix River. The cabin has a sleeping loft with a queen memory foam mattress and cozy bedding. Two burner propane cooktop and pump sink along with all you need to cook. Hike the half mile down to the river and explore nearby Taylor’s falls. Sit out under the stars by the campfire, cozy up in the sleeping loft, and enjoy a quiet getaway in the beautiful Saint croix River valley. This listing can be booked along with my other listing "Wilder Bell tent" for bigger groups. The Space: The Writers Cabin is a small pine cabin with a sleeping loft, built in sofa that doubles as another single bed, and a built in dining area. There is a two burner propane cooktop, as well as a pump sink for doing dishes or water, and the kitchen is equipped with basic cooking needs as well as dishes and utensils. Coffee and Chemex pour over are provided along with olive oil, salt and pepper. The cabin is solar powered. Wood burning Sauna year round and seasonal/warm weather outdoor shower and bath. Port o potty toilet. Guest Access: Guests can pull directly up to the cabin and park right by it. The river is just a 1/2 mile hike down, and there is a federal campground at the river as well with picnic tables, fire pits, toilets and water access. Other things to note: Upon arrival guests can sign up at the sign up sheet on sauna fence for 2 hour private time slots in our wood burning Nordic sauna and use the outdoor shower area and bath in the summer. Sauna is year round. We do have dogs and chickens at our farm. Please keep dogs away from the chicken coop and run area. The cabin sits back behind our farmhouse, but feels incredibly private and has a gorgeous view. Frequently Asked questions: Can I check in early? I do my best to accommodate early check ins, but if the cabin is booked back to back I may not be able to. Do you rent kayaks or canoes? We don't rent, but there are some great places nearby that do! We highly recommend getting out on or in the river! Can you recommend places to visit or to eat? I'd love to! Just Ask! Is there water in the cabin? Yes, there is water in the pump sink for doing dishes and drinking (not purified drinking water). Is there electricity? The cabin is solar powered. Just keep in mind that you don't want to drain the battery by leaving things plugged in too long or leaving lights on. Is there a campfire area? Yes, we have a solo stove for outdoor fires and we supply wood for it. Is there a fridge? No fridge in the cabin, so we recommend just packing your food in a cooler. One can be supplied if you don't have one. What is the bathroom situation? Port o potty

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Fischer's Rolling Green Farm

1 site · RV, Tent43 acres · Lindstrom, MN

We have 43 beautiful acres currently home to one happy heifer, two grand old mules, two lovable lambs, four precocious pigs, and dozens of cheerful chickens. We share a small pond with our neighbors and are less than 3 miles from South Center Lake, where you can put in your kayaks. Other local attractions include Franconia Art Park, Downtown Lindstrom, quaint Osceola, WI, Taylor's Falls and more. There is an apple orchard 2 miles away with u pick strawberries in spring and apples in the fall.

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.

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.