Lebanon Hills Campground

For many Minnesotans, the call of the great outdoors is an irresistible siren. Whether it's the serene quiet of a lakeside retreat, the invigorating challenge of a hiking trail, or simply the joy of a campfire under the stars, camping holds a special place in our hearts. While the state boasts countless pristine natural areas, finding a truly exceptional campground that balances natural beauty with convenient accessibility to urban amenities can be a challenge. That's where Lebanon Hills Campground, nestled within the expansive Lebanon Hills Regional Park in St. Paul, truly shines. This article is crafted for our local Minnesota users, offering a comprehensive and engaging look at what makes Lebanon Hills Campground an ideal destination for your next outdoor adventure.

Lebanon Hills Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an immersive experience designed to connect you with nature without venturing too far from the comforts and conveniences of the Twin Cities. It's a testament to Dakota County Parks' commitment to providing accessible and high-quality recreational opportunities. We'll explore everything from its prime location to its impressive array of services and features, aiming to highlight why this particular campground is perfectly suited for Minnesota residents seeking a memorable outdoor getaway.

Lebanon Hills Campground is ideally situated at 12100 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, St Paul, MN 55124, USA. This address places it squarely within the renowned Lebanon Hills Regional Park, a sprawling natural oasis that feels a world away from the urban hustle, yet remains incredibly close to it. Being located in St. Paul, within the larger Twin Cities metropolitan area, offers unparalleled accessibility for residents across the region. Unlike many remote campgrounds that require hours of driving, Lebanon Hills allows for a quick escape, making it perfect for weekend trips or even a mid-week break.

The campground's proximity to major roadways ensures easy navigation. It’s conveniently located near Dodd Road and Johnny Cake Ridge Road, which provide straightforward access from various parts of the metro. For those coming from Minneapolis or other surrounding suburbs, the drive is typically less than 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This ease of access significantly reduces travel time, maximizing your time enjoying the outdoors. Furthermore, its location within Lebanon Hills Regional Park means campers are immediately immersed in a vast network of trails, lakes, and natural habitats, offering an abundance of recreational opportunities right outside their campsite.

One of the notable benefits of this location, as highlighted by local reviews, is its closeness to major attractions. The Minnesota Zoo, a beloved family destination, is incredibly close by, making it a fantastic addition to any camping trip with children. While some city noise, particularly from airplanes, might be noticeable due to its proximity to the metro area and MSP Airport, it generally remains a peaceful retreat, a small trade-off for the exceptional convenience it offers.

Lebanon Hills Campground is committed to providing a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience, offering a range of services designed to enhance your stay. These services cater to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, ensuring a pleasant visit for all:

• Well-Maintained Campsites: The grounds are consistently kept in excellent condition, with mostly level and flat pads for easy setup of tents or RVs.
• Clean and Modern Restrooms/Bathhouses: Customer reviews frequently praise the cleanliness, warmth, and overall quality of the bath facilities, a crucial aspect of any comfortable camping experience.
• Hot Showers: Available in the bathhouses, providing a refreshing way to clean up after a day of outdoor activities.
• Potable Water Access: Readily available for drinking and other camping needs.
• Firewood Sales: Conveniently available on-site, including what one reviewer humorously (and accurately) called "Best firewood in the Twin Cities," ensuring you have everything you need for a cozy campfire.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: A recurring theme in customer feedback highlights the welcoming and accommodating nature of the campground staff.
• Free Wi-Fi: Available, particularly for sites closer to the main facilities, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.
• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient facility for wastewater disposal.
• Recycling Facilities: Supporting environmentally conscious camping.

What truly sets Lebanon Hills Campground apart are its impressive features and highlights, which cater to a diverse range of outdoor interests and ensure a memorable experience for all visitors:

• Access to Lebanon Hills Regional Park: The campground is nestled within 2,000 acres of pristine parkland, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife viewing.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 16 miles of paved and unpaved trails are accessible directly from the campground, perfect for hiking, trail running, or mountain biking.
• Beautiful Fire Pits with Grilling Options: Campsites come equipped with well-designed fire pits that often include grilling grates, enhancing your outdoor cooking experience.
• Playground for Children: A dedicated area for younger campers to enjoy, making it a truly family-friendly destination.
• Ponds and Lakes: Numerous water bodies within the park provide opportunities for fishing, paddling (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding), and simply enjoying the scenic views.
• Nature Immersion: Despite its urban proximity, the campground offers a genuine sense of nature, with opportunities for bird watching (as noted by a happy customer), wildlife spotting, and enjoying the tranquility of the natural environment.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Aside from occasional airplane sounds, the campground is praised for its peaceful environment, providing a true escape from city noise.
• Pet-Friendly: Welcoming to furry family members, allowing you to bring your beloved pets along for the adventure (subject to park rules and leash requirements).
• Close Proximity to Minnesota Zoo: An undeniable highlight for families, offering an easy and exciting day trip just a stone's throw away.
• Winter Activities: In colder months, the wider Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, making it a year-round destination.

As a public campground managed by Dakota County Parks, specific "promotions" in the traditional commercial sense are less common. However, the value proposition of Lebanon Hills Campground lies in its consistent affordability and the extensive amenities offered for the price. It frequently represents an excellent value for a camping experience so close to a major metropolitan area. For the most current information on rates, availability, and any potential seasonal discounts or package deals (which might be offered during off-peak times or for extended stays), it is always best to check the official Dakota County Parks website for Lebanon Hills Campground or contact them directly. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer weekends and holidays), as this popular campground tends to fill up quickly due to its appealing features and convenient location.

Ready to plan your unforgettable camping trip at Lebanon Hills Campground? Here’s how you can get in touch:

Address: 12100 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, St Paul, MN 55124, USA

Phone: (651) 480-7773

For reservations, detailed information on site availability, and answers to specific questions, calling the campground directly or visiting the Dakota County Parks website for Lebanon Hills Campground will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. The friendly staff are always ready to assist you in planning your visit.

Lebanon Hills Campground stands as a prime example of why Minnesota locals don't need to travel far to find a truly enriching outdoor experience. Its strategic location within Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers an unparalleled blend of natural immersion and urban accessibility, making it an ideal choice for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation without the extensive travel time. The meticulously kept grounds, modern and clean facilities (especially the highly-praised bathrooms), and the availability of essential services like on-site firewood and Wi-Fi ensure a comfortable and hassle-free camping trip.

Beyond the practicalities, the campground's integration into the vast regional park provides endless recreational opportunities – from miles of hiking and biking trails to serene lakes for paddling and fishing. The family-friendly amenities, including a playground and the close proximity to the Minnesota Zoo, make it an excellent choice for those with children. For birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone simply seeking a peaceful respite from daily life, Lebanon Hills offers a genuine connection with Minnesota's beautiful natural environment. It’s a testament to thoughtful urban planning, providing a vital green lung and a cherished outdoor resource for the residents of the Twin Cities and beyond. For a truly memorable and convenient camping adventure in the heart of Minnesota, Lebanon Hills Campground is undoubtedly a top recommendation for locals.