Riverway Campground

For Minnesotans, the allure of our state parks is undeniable. They offer a sanctuary of natural beauty, a respite from the everyday, and countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Among these cherished gems, William O'Brien State Park stands out, particularly its inviting Riverway Campground. Situated along the majestic St. Croix River in Scandia, Riverway Campground provides a quintessential Minnesota camping experience, blending picturesque scenery with convenient amenities. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent camping enthusiast, or looking for an accessible outdoor getaway, this campground offers a serene and engaging environment for all.

Recently, William O'Brien State Park has made significant strides in enhancing its facilities, including the Riverway Campground, to ensure an even more comfortable and inclusive experience for visitors. These upgrades, made possible by Get Out MORE funds and state bonding dollars, reflect Minnesota's commitment to preserving and improving our natural treasures for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we'll guide you through what makes Riverway Campground a fantastic choice for your next Minnesota adventure, highlighting its prime location, the services you can expect, its unique features, and why it's a perfect fit for locals seeking a rejuvenating escape.

Riverway Campground is nestled within the beautiful William O'Brien State Park, located at 16821 O'Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA, near Scandia, MN. This prime location places it right on the banks of the St. Croix River, a federally protected National Scenic Riverway that forms part of the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin. The park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including gently sloping meadows, wild marshes, and lush forests of oak, hickory, and pine.

Accessibility to Riverway Campground is excellent, making it a highly convenient option for residents across the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It's often cited as being "under an hour from where we live (near Chaska)" and "a great spot under an hour from the Twin Cities," which means less travel time and more time enjoying the outdoors. The park entrance is typically on Highway 95, just north of Marine on St. Croix, with well-maintained roads leading directly to the campground. A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit (daily or annual) is required in addition to campground fees.

The surrounding area offers more than just the park itself. Marine on St. Croix and Stillwater are charming historic towns nearby, providing opportunities for dining, shopping, and exploring local culture. The St. Croix River itself is a major draw for paddlers, anglers, and those who simply enjoy scenic views. The park's location ensures that campers have easy access to a variety of outdoor activities both within and immediately outside its boundaries, enhancing the overall camping experience.

Riverway Campground, as part of William O'Brien State Park, provides a solid range of services to ensure a comfortable camping experience, with recent renovations further enhancing its offerings:

• Campsites: Riverway Campground is one of two main campgrounds within the park (the other being Savanna Campground). It offers a variety of sites suitable for RVs and tents. Many sites are designed to accommodate RVs up to 60 feet in length. You can choose from cool and shaded sites or more open and spacious ones, depending on your preference.

• Electrical Hookups: 30-amp electric hookups are available at the Riverway Campground, providing convenience for RVers and those with electric needs.

• Renovated Shower Building: A significant recent upgrade includes a newly renovated shower building with a redesigned layout. These facilities are now equipped with a variety of ADA-compliant fixtures, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.

• Flush Toilets: Modern flush toilets are available, offering a more comfortable experience than vault toilets. (Note: During early season, like May, vault toilets might be available while shower building renovations are finalized, but flush toilets are the standard when fully operational).

• Dump Station: For RVers, a dump station is available within the park, covering essential waste disposal needs.

• Accessible Campsites: The campground now features six ADA-compliant campsites, specifically designed for accessibility and convenience, often located close to renovated bathroom facilities.

• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available throughout the campground.

• Firewood: Firewood is typically available for purchase (e.g., $6/bundle) at the park, with self-pay options often available if the ranger station is closed.

• Canoe/Kayak Rentals: William O'Brien State Park offers canoe and kayak rentals, usually from mid-May to mid-October, allowing guests to explore the St. Croix River without bringing their own equipment.

Riverway Campground, and William O'Brien State Park as a whole, boasts numerous features that make it a standout destination for Minnesota campers:

• Riverside Setting: The campground is beautifully situated alongside the St. Croix River, offering magnificent views and direct access to the water. Many sites are close to the river, providing a serene and scenic backdrop.

• Enhanced Accessibility: Recent upgrades to the shower building, the addition of ADA-compliant campsites, and new accessible routes (like to the park amphitheater and resurfaced Riverside Trail) significantly enhance the park's inclusivity for all visitors.

• Extensive Trail System: The park offers 12 miles of trails for hiking, ranging from easy to challenging. The Riverside Trail, which follows the St. Croix, is particularly popular and offers informative signs and ADA accessibility. In winter, these trails transform into groomed cross-country ski and snowshoeing paths.

• St. Croix River Paddling: The gentle waters of the St. Croix River are perfect for canoeing and kayaking. With rentals available, it's easy to enjoy a relaxing float down this scenic waterway.

• Fishing Opportunities: Anglers can enjoy fishing in the St. Croix River, with accessible fishing piers available. The park also loans out fishing poles and tackle boxes if you don't have your own.

• Variety of Sites: Campers can choose from a range of sites, including those with 30-amp electric hookups, and options for both shade and openness.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: The park provides multiple picnic areas, including shelters that can be reserved, offering a perfect spot for outdoor meals and gatherings.

• Proximity to Twin Cities: Its location makes it an ideal quick getaway from the metropolitan area, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, more convenient vacations.

As a Minnesota State Park campground, Riverway Campground typically operates under a standard fee structure set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Direct "promotions" in the commercial sense (like percentage discounts or buy-one-get-one offers) are not common. However, the value proposition lies in the affordable state park fees and the extensive amenities and natural beauty included.

What you should be aware of:

• Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permit: In addition to camping fees, a daily or annual Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry into the park. An annual permit is often the most cost-effective option for frequent visitors.

• Off-Season Camping: While Riverway Campground is generally open from late April through mid-October, some state parks offer limited winter camping options, often at reduced rates, though Riverway specifically typically closes after mid-October.

• Reservations: Given its popularity, especially among Twin Cities residents, reservations for campsites are highly recommended, particularly for weekend trips during the busy summer months. The state park reservation system (reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb) is the primary way to book.

• Interpretive Programs: The park often offers free interpretive programs year-round, providing educational and engaging activities that enhance your visit at no extra cost.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any seasonal information, always check the official Minnesota DNR website for William O'Brien State Park or utilize the state's reservation system.

For reservations, general inquiries about William O'Brien State Park, or specific questions about Riverway Campground, you can use the following information:

Address: William O'Brien State Park, 16821 O'Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA. (Note: While Scandia is the local municipality, the park's official address is often listed as Marine on St. Croix).

Park Office Phone: +1 (651) 539-4980 (This is the general park office number, which handles campground inquiries).

For online reservations, the official state park reservation website is: https://reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb. It is strongly advised to use this online portal for booking, especially during peak season, due to high demand.

For Minnesotans, Riverway Campground within William O'Brien State Park is more than just a place to camp; it's a cherished local treasure that embodies the spirit of our state's natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Its close proximity to the Twin Cities, often less than an hour's drive, makes it an incredibly convenient escape for a weekend getaway or even a spontaneous mid-week recharge. This accessibility is a huge advantage for busy locals who want to maximize their time outdoors without extensive travel.

The recent comprehensive accessibility improvements, including ADA-compliant shower facilities and campsites, underscore Minnesota's commitment to ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of our state parks. This inclusivity makes Riverway Campground a welcoming destination for families, individuals with disabilities, and seniors, allowing more Minnesotans to connect with nature comfortably.

Beyond accessibility, the campground's setting along the St. Croix River is a major draw. Locals appreciate the opportunity to paddle or fish on this stunning National Scenic Riverway, or simply relax by the water's edge, enjoying the peaceful sounds and scenic views. The extensive network of hiking and skiing trails provides year-round recreational options, meaning this park isn't just a summer destination but a place to enjoy through all of Minnesota's distinct seasons. The option of electric hookups for RVs and the provision of clean, renovated facilities offer a comfortable balance between rustic camping and modern convenience, catering to a wide range of camping preferences.

In essence, Riverway Campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, convenient location, and thoughtfully maintained amenities. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, outdoor enthusiasts can pursue their passions, and anyone can find a tranquil retreat without venturing far from home. For Minnesotans, it truly represents an ideal local escape to experience the best of what our state has to offer.