Located on the St. Croix River, just 20 miles east of Saint Paul, Afton State Park is great for those trying to find outdoor camping near Minneapolis and is 1600 acres of rolling grassy fields, oak forests, and limestone river canyons amidst an ancient glacial landscape. The land for the park was acquired in 1967, but it took nearly 15 years of preparing revisions and compromises with local homeowners before the park lastly opened in 1982. Little advancement has actually entered into Afton State Park in an effort to maintain its natural attributes, and previous farmland atop the bluffs are continually being restored to their original state. This makes Afton a perfect location for campers seeking to experience the outdoors in a wilder setting.Load up your backpack with all you’ll need for your stay, as outdoor camping at Afton State Park needs a hearty, 0.75-mile hike in from the parking lot. The year-round campground offers 27 rustic websites with picnic tables and fire pits, with alternatives for pitching your tent in either open or woody areas. There is drinking water, a vault toilet and fire wood is provided within the camp location. There is also three boat-in campsites, and 2 group campgrounds that can accommodate as much as 60 people each. If you ‘d rather not rough it, the park likewise uses four camping cabins and 2 yurts, some of which are wheelchair available. There are also a number of picnic locations and restrooms within the park. Campground rates range from $15–$23/night; cabins range from$ 55–$70/night, and yurts $50–$65/night. When you’re all set to check out, start at the park’s Nature Shop where you can get info about the park’s plants and animals, or join a nature walk. Then pick from more than 20 miles of hiking, cycling, and equestrian routes, as well as a brief barrier-free course. If you’re checking out in winter season, much of these tracks are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Bring your GPS and go on a geocaching treasure hunt, or bring your field glasses and go on safari for a range of migratory birds, waterfowl, and wildlife, consisting of deer, foxes and badgers. And kids will like ending up being Junior Park Naturalists and finding out about bugs, birds, plants and other critters. If you’re searching for a real outdoor adventure, Afton State Park has what you’re searching for. Explore the best campgrounds near North St. Paul, MN! See genuine pictures & sincere evaluations to plan your ideal trip.