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Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Overview
Lake Elmo Park Reserve offers a sprawling 2,165-acre natural escape within the Washington County Parks system. Unlike typical commercial RV parks, this destination focuses on preserving the rolling hills and diverse ecosystems of Minnesota's landscape. Visitors will find a serene woodland environment that balances modern camping conveniences with deep immersion in nature. Whether you are passing through the Twin Cities or looking for a local weekend getaway, the park provides a spacious and well-maintained base for outdoor exploration.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Lake Elmo, MN, the park is ideally positioned between the bustling St. Paul metropolitan area and the historic charm of the St. Croix River Valley. The surrounding landscape is a mix of restored prairies and lush forests, providing a quiet buffer from urban noise. Its proximity to major highways makes it an accessible stop for travelers on I-94, yet once inside the gates, the expansive acreage creates a sense of true wilderness and seclusion from the nearby metro sprawl.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground accommodates RVers with a variety of site types, featuring electric hookups and level pads suited for various rig sizes. Guests have access to modern restroom facilities with showers and a convenient dump station for self-contained units. One of the most unique features is the two-acre chlorinated swimming pond, which features a sandy beach and filtered water for a controlled swimming experience. For those who enjoy the water in a more natural setting, the park offers a boat launch and fishing pier on the shores of Eagle Lake.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 20 miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, cycling, or cross-country skiing depending on the season. Just a short drive away, the historic town of Stillwater offers boutique shopping and riverboat dining along the St. Croix River. Families often visit the nearby St. Croix Valley Recreation Center or head into the Twin Cities for world-class museums and professional sports. The park’s location serves as a perfect jumping-off point for exploring both the natural beauty and the urban culture of Eastern Minnesota.
Who This Park Is Best For
Lake Elmo Park Reserve is ideal for nature-loving families and RVers who prefer scenic beauty over resort-style commercial amenities. It is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to visit the Twin Cities without staying in an urban environment. Because of its expansive trail system and unique swimming pond, it is particularly well-suited for active travelers and those traveling with children who need plenty of room to run and play in a safe, natural setting.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Dan Sheppard
I love this place— its trails, its trees, its lake that mirrors the sky. It called me to move, to ride, to hike, and I listened. I’ve shared it with my dogs, with my son and his bow, with takeout dinners beneath the open air, wildlife in my ears, with echoes of fireworks.
Ellen Smatlak
Clean, quiet campground except when the nearby gun club is open. Nice trail system through woods and restored oak savanna with location/map markers at path intersections. Some trails have lighting...not sure if that's year-round or just in winter for cross-country skiers. Beautiful Nordic Center for meetings.
Jason Bishop
My new favorite place on 🌎. Nearly 30 miles of multi-use trails. Today I hiked just over 4 miles of the unpaved trails (pro tip: don't wear tennis shoes like I did). Very little foot traffic and pristine nature.
Jennifer Bigelow
Great lake for kayaking. There is a separate area to launch canoes/kayaks with separate parking. There is no wake before noon. You can launch directly from the shore or use the kayak launch. There are also kayaks to rent using a self-service model. The whole park is large and lots to do. There is a separate, man-made swim pond, new huge play area, a few smaller play areas, walking and equestrian trials. Camping allowed too.
Nicholas Rahming
Beautiful reserve and park. Well kept paved roads and paved/dirt trails. Pretty quiet, good for dogs and nice to see horses on the meadow trails. Saw the mating osprey pairs and lots of other native birds.