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 State Park adventure.

94% (9 reviews)

Wooded gorges and cascading waterfalls provide a scenic backdrop.

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Community favorites near Willow River State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Willow River State Park

A quick snapshot my awesome friend, Kyle took of me admiring the scenery and waterfall.

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Willow River Campground

154 sites · RVs, Tents In Willow River State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Willow River State Park

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The Double J

5 sites · RVs, Tents71 acres · Zumbrota, MN

Welcome to the Double J! Of the 71 acres we own, about half is tillable and the other half is woods and pastures for our horses. Within that, there is a beautiful secluded 3-acre meadow nestled down along along a beautiful 1,200 foot stretch of the Zumbro River where we have 5 spacious tent/RV campsites. While the campsites are all adjacent to each other along the river, they are each very spacious (the smallest being 100' wide and 75' deep), with some mature trees scattered around. Each sites (except Site #1) is able to accommodate up to 8 people and more than one tent or RV. There is a small meadow above all the sites where campers can play catch or other games. We provide and maintain a centrally located outhouse and keep the entire area mowed throughout the year. All sites offer great shade trees (perfectly spaced for hanging up a hammock) and access to the river - great for those hot summer days! Water activities to be enjoyed include fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and tubing (equipment not included). Some campers will drop in upstream at the Covered Bridge Park and float down to their campsite. The Zumbro River, especially in the fishing hole, offers great fishing including Trout, Small-mouth, Red-horse, and an occasional Northern or Sauger. Campers are welcome to to meander out into our pastures to pet our two horses, Shiloh and Champ. Also, we are just over a mile from town where you can visit Covered Bridge Park which has a Frisbee golf course and a nice play area for younger kids. Reserving adjacent sites, or all of the sites, makes for the ideal setting for a large family or group camp-out. In order to prevent overcrowding, we do reserve the right to limit number of sites, or campers per site based on overall parties/campers in the camping area. We will notify you if there are any limits at the time of your booking. We enjoy being able to share our property with others, and it is our desire to promote a safe, peaceful, family-friendly environment, therefore, be sure to note, we do have a NO ALCOHOL policy. PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to read the "RV Details" on the site information page as the road to the camping area may limit the type or size of RV due to a couple dips, a sharper curve, and it's steeper slope. Also, keep in mind, we reserve the right to cancel any reservations due to heavy rains or floods that may require our sites some additional time to dry out sufficiently. For updates and notice of last minute cancellations be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DoubleJCamping As is customary for most campgrounds, we ask that if you bring in your own firewood that it be kiln dried. Dry firewood can be purchased for $5.00/bundle. TIP - Being we do not reimburse campers in the event of rain (unless campground is flooded or too muddy), we highly recommend campers take advantage of Hipcamp’s Weather Guarantee option when booking. With Minnesota’s unpredictable weather it allows you to get reimbursed for any days it rains over a specified amount, even if you choose to stick out the rain! The cost is very reasonable making it almost a no-brainer! Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! We look forward to being able to serve you!

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The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · 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!

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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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Wild Vines Campground

25 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 and 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

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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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Pioneer Farm on Fish Lake

4 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Harris, MN

Canpers! We have had a great fall season! the leaves are starting with displays of outrageous color. This lakefront farm is a very special spiritual location. Listen to the night life in the woods and loons on the lake. Fall time- the acorns are falling:) The farm animals are gone now, but there remains a huge barn and outbuildings. Enjoy observing old time architecture! Room for soccer too! Monet tight? We are open to a refund of $20 a day for an hour for farm chores. Chores like mending fences, cutting vegetation, collecting the harvest from the earth, etc. Pay in full thru hipcamp, then we can arrange a task per interest and capabilities!! We're almost seventy now -getting harder to keep things up, ya know! need lots of oak limbs peeled off the bark:)

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Twin Folk Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Hager City, WI

Previously a 100 acre century farm, this fertile land was tended to by generations of old time farmers. Their dairy cows pastured in areas which we now graze sheep. The restored quarry provided gravel for the nearby highway restoration and local projects.The property is currently a mix of hay ground, cropland, pasture, forest, and quarry. Twin sisters, Darla and Kayla, and their families live across the road from each other and own the surrounding 140 acres. They keep busy planting/tending trees, making hay, moving fence for grazing animals, operating a farm business called Twin Folk Farms (pastured meat, camps, etc), and raising their families.Learn more about this land:- This site is at the edge of a restored quarry, sheep pasture, and wooded hillside.- The site is tucked down a flat mowed path, so it feels very private and protected. - You can hike up a path to the sheep pasture. Sometimes sheep are there, sometimes elsewhere on the farm. You can hike the other direction and check out the restored quarry. We have paths all around the property, so feel free to respectfully explore.- You can't see the highway from this site, but you can hear it. It's super handy to be able to hop out of your campsite haven and onto the hwy, but be aware that you will hear vehicles.- There's a Mississippi river boat launch a few miles down the road, so feel free to park your boat at the bottom of the quarry driveway.- The Hay Creek riding trails are 25 minutes away, so contact us if you want to set up a place in the quarry to park your horses and trailer for the night. - We are certified to sell meat straight off of the farm (Twin Folk Farms), so contact us if you want to purchase your meat and have it delivered to your campsite. You can also set up a time to come up to the farm and purchase meat. - The beautiful, historic town of Red Wing is 10 minutes from our farm. You'll find a mix of modern amenities and historic shops to suit your fancy.

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Golden Maple Camp, Trails & Biking

1 site · Lodging60 acres · Beldenville, WI

Our beautiful property has been farmed by our family for many years. We have enjoyed preserving the woods with our mountain biking trails turned snow shoe trails in the winter. The woods are full of golden maple trees which is where we got the name for our personal campground. Come visit to see for yourself! Learn more about En Gedi, your tent site: You'll be staying in a private safari tent overlooking a 100 year old maple tree above a secluded hollow in our woods. With access to over 2 miles of marked out mountain bike trails and hiking trails here on the property. Outhouse, picnic table, fire pit with 4 chairs and 4 cots are provided (2 extra large, 2 large), sheets are provided for the 2 extra large cots. Drinking water is provided (2 gallon jug). Firewood is available for purchase at the campsite ($5/ten pieces of wood). You can also use whatever has fallen in the woods. Located at the end of a well worn field road access you'll need to hike in if you have a low clearance vehicle. Its about .25 mile long hike with a 100' ascent. Access in 4x4 can be limited in wet and muddy weather. We also have access to a class A trout stream about 1 mile away to enjoy swimming, fishing and lounging. We are a short 10 minute drive to many great local activities like Whitetail mountain bike trail in River Falls or Kinnickinnick river kayaking. Fantastic local Forestville Winery is less then 2 miles away with great wine and food options. Add on an experience to your stay like mountain bike classes or feeding our baby cows! Get the full country experience while you're camping!

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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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Red Cedar Glamping

2 sites · Lodging15 acres · Menomonie, WI

Just over an hour from the Twin Cities and 30 minutes from Eau Claire, Red Cedar Glamping is western Wisconsin’s premier glamping experience. Nestled privately in the forest behind a historic farmhouse, you simply won’t find more scenic views than our bluffs, sitting 50 feet above the Red Cedar River As you arrive, you’ll leave the blacktop behind in favor of a private mowed-grass road leading you behind a historic Amish-built barn and silo that are nearly 100 years old. Dedicated parking spaces for each site give you a reliable and safe place to leave your vehicle while you load up the provided off-road wagon to help haul your gear a short distance along marked trails to your tent site. Wildlife and wildflowers abound as you approach, where you’re greeted by a private cedar porch with two chairs. Inside your tent you’ll find an ultra-comfortable queen bed with down comforter, night stands, luggage rack, and a small console table with necessary amenities. Our sites are entirely off-grid, including solar lights and stocked with several gallons of fresh drinking water. Outside, a private fire ring with cooking grate is included at each site. Clean portable toilet facilities are located near the parking area, along with firewood for purchase. Once you’re settled, explore our marked trails leading to multiple fire pit sites situated on unbelievable lookouts high above the Red Cedar River. If you’re interested in splashing around the river, just ask and we’ll suggest the best route to access for your preferred activity. Spend your days exploring all the nature that our unique location has to offer, or check out one of the many excellent bars, restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops just 1 mile south in Downsville or 7 miles north in Menomonie. Bring your bikes for the Red Cedar Bike Trail. The possibilities are endless at Red Cedar Glamping!

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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.

89%

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Champion Valley

4 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · 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.

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

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