Riverway Campground

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Scandia, Minnesota, Riverway Campground offers a truly immersive outdoor experience for locals seeking a refreshing escape. Part of the renowned William O'Brien State Park, this beloved campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient access to charming nearby towns. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the joys of the outdoors, Riverway Campground promises a memorable and rejuvenating adventure right in your backyard.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the fresh scent of pine in the air. Riverway Campground is celebrated for its stunning surroundings, particularly its proximity to the majestic St. Croix River. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature, enjoy waterside activities, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting. The campground’s design ensures a sense of privacy even within a popular recreational area, allowing you to find your own slice of serenity.

Many local Minnesotans have cherished memories of their time at Riverway Campground, highlighting its beauty and the abundance of activities available. From serene strolls along the riverbanks to invigorating hikes through well-maintained trails, there's something for every pace and preference. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, all seeking to experience the best of Minnesota's natural wonders.

Riverway Campground is conveniently located at 16814 O Brien Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073, USA. This prime location places it within William O'Brien State Park, a jewel of the Minnesota State Park system. For residents across the Twin Cities metro area and surrounding communities, the campground is remarkably accessible, offering a relatively short drive for a full-fledged outdoor experience. Its position in Scandia means it's not too far from urban conveniences, yet it feels wonderfully removed, providing that essential sense of escape.

The campground’s strategic location also provides excellent access to a wealth of local attractions. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the charming historic towns of Stillwater and Taylor's Falls. These towns are famous for their unique shops, delightful dining options, and scenic riverside views, making for perfect day trips to complement your camping adventure. Additionally, the proximity to Interstate State Park offers further opportunities for stunning hikes and breathtaking natural landscapes, easily reachable from the campground. The well-maintained roads leading to the park ensure a smooth journey, setting the stage for a relaxing stay even before you arrive.

While the natural setting promotes a feeling of being away from it all, it’s worth noting for those relying on constant connectivity that cell phone service within the park can be inconsistent. However, for many, this provides an opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the tranquility of their surroundings, reinforcing the idea of a genuine break from daily routines.

• Well-Maintained Campsites: Riverway Campground provides a variety of campsites, many of which offer a good degree of privacy, allowing campers to feel secluded even in a popular park.
• Access to William O'Brien State Park Facilities: As part of the state park, campers have access to broader park amenities, which often include restrooms, showering facilities, and picnic areas.
• Firewood Availability: Firewood is typically available for purchase on-site, though it's advised to check availability, especially during peak times, as supplies can run low.
• Hiking Trail Access: Direct access to an extensive network of well-maintained hiking trails, including paths that wind along the St. Croix River and connect to larger areas of the park.
• Swimming Access: Opportunities for swimming, either at designated beach areas or along the river, providing a refreshing way to cool off during warmer months.
• Proximity to Water Activities: Being close to the St. Croix River, the campground facilitates activities like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, although equipment rental may need to be arranged externally.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: The campground’s location offers easy drives to nearby towns like Stillwater and Taylor’s Falls, providing access to shops, restaurants, and other sightseeing opportunities.

• Stunning St. Croix River Access: A major draw for campers is the campground’s close proximity to the beautiful St. Croix River. Many campsites are within easy walking distance, offering opportunities for riverfront strolls, fishing, and enjoying the serene water views.
• Abundant Pine Forests: The campground boasts a surprising number of pine trees, creating an atmosphere that feels reminiscent of more northern Minnesota landscapes. The distinctive scent of pine adds to the immersive natural experience.
• Extensive and Scenic Hiking Trails: Riverway Campground provides access to a wealth of hiking trails. These trails are well-maintained, offer beautiful scenery, and include paths that lead along the river and connect to various parts of William O'Brien State Park, catering to different skill levels.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting offers chances to observe local wildlife, enhancing the outdoor adventure.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground's atmosphere and amenities make it suitable for families, providing a safe and engaging environment for children and adults alike to enjoy the outdoors.
• Private-Feeling Campsites: Despite being a popular destination, the campsites are designed to offer a good sense of privacy, allowing campers to enjoy their personal space and the tranquility of nature.
• Proximity to Historic Towns and Parks: Its location near Stillwater, Taylor's Falls, and Interstate State Park means campers can easily venture out for sightseeing, shopping, and additional hiking experiences, enriching their stay.

As a public campground located within William O'Brien State Park, Riverway Campground typically follows the standard reservation and fee structures set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). While specific "promotions" in the traditional retail sense may not be advertised, visitors can often find value through the various state park passes available. For instance, an annual Minnesota State Parks and Trails vehicle permit provides unlimited visits to all 75 state parks and recreation areas for a full year, offering significant savings for frequent visitors. This is an excellent "special offer" for local Minnesotans who plan to explore multiple state parks throughout the year.

Additionally, the DNR website is the best resource for current fee schedules, reservation availability, and any potential seasonal discounts or programs that might be offered. It's always recommended to book campsites well in advance, especially for popular weekends and holidays, to secure your preferred spot. While there aren't often "buy one get one free" type deals, the enduring value lies in the affordable access to well-maintained facilities and unparalleled natural beauty that Riverway Campground consistently provides.

To learn more about Riverway Campground, inquire about reservations, or get the most up-to-date information on park conditions and amenities, you can reach them using the following details:

Address: Riverway Campground, 16814 O Brien Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073, USA

Phone: (651) 539-4980

Mobile Phone: +1 651-539-4980

For the most comprehensive information and to make reservations, it is highly recommended to visit the official Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for William O'Brien State Park. This online resource will provide details on campsite availability, specific park rules, and any alerts or advisories.

For Minnesotans seeking an accessible, beautiful, and enriching outdoor experience, Riverway Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Its prime location within William O'Brien State Park in Scandia means you don't have to travel far to feel completely immersed in nature. This convenience makes it ideal for weekend getaways, mid-week escapes, or even just a quick overnight refresh.

The campground offers a genuine taste of Minnesota’s natural beauty, from the comforting scent of abundant pine trees to the calming presence of the St. Croix River just steps away. The well-maintained hiking trails provide ample opportunity for recreation and exploration, catering to both casual walkers and more avid hikers. Despite its popularity, the thoughtful layout of the campsites ensures a good level of privacy, allowing you to relax and reconnect with your surroundings without feeling overcrowded.

Beyond the immediate campground, the easy access to charming nearby towns like Stillwater and Taylor's Falls adds an extra layer of appeal. You can spend your days hiking and relaxing in nature, and then easily venture out for a delightful meal, some unique shopping, or further scenic exploration. This blend of natural tranquility and convenient access to local attractions makes Riverway Campground a versatile destination.

While a bit of planning around firewood and potential cell service limitations might be helpful, these minor considerations are far outweighed by the overall quality of the experience. Riverway Campground consistently delivers a high-quality camping adventure that is both rejuvenating and deeply connected to the spirit of Minnesota's outdoors. It's a place where local memories are made, traditions are started, and the everyday stresses fade away, making it truly suitable for every Minnesotan looking for their next great outdoor escape.