Savanna Campground

For Minnesotans yearning for a tranquil yet accessible escape into the great outdoors, Savanna Campground at William O'Brien State Park in Marine on St. Croix offers an idyllic setting. Just about an hour's drive from Minneapolis, this beloved campground provides the perfect blend of convenient location and immersive natural beauty. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or simply unwind amidst the peaceful surroundings, Savanna Campground consistently delivers a memorable experience that embodies the spirit of Minnesota's vibrant outdoor lifestyle.

William O'Brien State Park, a cherished gem in our state park system, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including majestic oak savannas, lush wetlands, and the pristine St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Savanna Campground is thoughtfully integrated into this natural tapestry, offering campers spacious sites that provide a sense of privacy while still being part of a welcoming community. It’s a place where you can feel connected to nature without sacrificing comfort, making it a highly desirable destination for families, friends, and even solo adventurers.

Imagine waking up to the gentle rustling of leaves, the morning sun filtering through the trees, and the promise of a day filled with hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing by a crackling campfire. Savanna Campground provides this quintessential Minnesota camping experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a refreshing break from the everyday hustle and bustle. Its combination of natural allure and well-maintained facilities ensures a comfortable and enriching visit for all who choose to explore its serene beauty.

Savanna Campground is located on O Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA, placing it firmly within the beautiful William O'Brien State Park. This location is incredibly advantageous for Minnesota locals, particularly those residing in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. As noted by a satisfied camper, it's "Only about an hour from Minneapolis," making it an exceptionally convenient destination for weekend getaways and even spontaneous mid-week adventures.

Marine on St. Croix is a picturesque community in Washington County, known for its scenic beauty and historic charm along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The park is easily accessible via well-maintained state highways, ensuring a smooth journey for campers arriving with tents, trailers, or RVs. The park's well-designed internal road system makes navigating to Savanna Campground a breeze. While immersed in nature, campers are never truly isolated, with nearby towns offering essential supplies, dining options, and additional recreational opportunities should you wish to explore beyond the park's boundaries. The journey to the campground itself often offers glimpses of Minnesota's stunning landscapes, setting the tone for a relaxing outdoor retreat.

• 120 campsites available, accommodating both tent camping and RVs.
• Many sites offer electric hookups, providing convenience for RVs and electronic devices. Savanna Campground specifically includes sites with 50-amp electric hookups, suitable for larger RVs and colder months.
• Drive-in campsites available, allowing easy access for vehicles and gear, as praised by a real customer.
• Each campsite includes a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining and gatherings.
• Each site is equipped with a fire ring, ideal for campfires and s'mores under the stars.
• Modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers are available (though availability of modern restrooms and dump station may be seasonal, with vault toilets available year-round).
• Potable water access points are located throughout the campground.
• A sanitary dump station is available for RV campers (typically mid-April through mid-October).
• Dog-friendly policies, making it a great choice for campers who wish to bring their canine companions (dogs must be leashed).
• Proximity to the St. Croix River, offering opportunities for fishing, paddling, and enjoying river views.
• Direct access to miles of hiking trails within William O'Brien State Park.
• Firewood can be purchased at the park office.
• Open year-round, making it ideal for off-season camping as well, particularly for RVs needing 50-amp hookups for cold weather.

• Spacious and Secluded Sites: Savanna Campground is celebrated for its generously sized campsites, which provide a sense of privacy and personal space. Even with other campers nearby, as noted by a reviewer, there's a feeling of having your own area. This ample space is perfect for setting up tents, spreading out gear, or simply enjoying a quiet moment amidst nature, making it feel less crowded than some other campgrounds.
• Hammock Heaven: For those who love to string up a hammock and relax, Savanna Campground is a dream. Reviewers specifically mention "Lots of trees for hammocks!" This feature highlights the abundance of mature trees throughout the campground, providing not only shade and a natural ambiance but also perfect spots for a relaxing swing among the pines and hardwoods.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Savanna Campground is consistently praised as being "very family friendly." This suggests an environment where children are welcome, and the overall vibe is conducive to creating lasting memories for families. While specific playgrounds aren't detailed in reviews, the park's natural setting and varied activities cater well to all ages, encouraging outdoor play and exploration.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: For many Minnesotans, a camping trip isn't complete without their furry friends. Savanna Campground is "dog friendly," allowing leashed pets, which is a significant highlight for pet owners looking for a getaway where their beloved companions can join in the fun and enjoy the outdoors alongside them.
• Proximity to Modern Amenities: Despite its natural setting, Savanna Campground doesn't compromise on essential comforts. Its sites are close to modern shower facilities, as highlighted by a camper who found site #87 both secluded and conveniently located near the showers. This balance ensures a comfortable stay, especially after a day of hiking or outdoor activities.
• Gateway to William O'Brien State Park: Staying at Savanna Campground offers direct access to all the wonders of William O'Brien State Park. This includes diverse ecosystems like oak savannas and wetlands, a vast network of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, excellent fishing opportunities on the St. Croix River and Lake Alice, and options for paddling. The natural beauty and diverse activities within the park itself are major draws.
• Year-Round Camping Potential: The fact that Savanna Campground is open year-round, with some sites offering 50-amp electric hookups, is a significant highlight. This makes it an ideal option for dedicated RV campers who wish to experience Minnesota's beautiful shoulder seasons or even winter camping, providing a comfortable base regardless of the weather.

As part of the Minnesota State Park system, Savanna Campground at William O'Brien State Park operates under the standardized fee and reservation structure set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). State parks generally do not offer commercial "promotions" or seasonal discounts in the same way private campgrounds might. Their mission is to provide accessible outdoor recreation for all residents at a reasonable, publicly managed rate.

To camp at Savanna Campground, all vehicles entering William O'Brien State Park are required to have a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit. This permit can be purchased annually (offering great value for frequent park visitors) or as a daily pass. Camping fees are separate and vary based on the type of site (e.g., sites with electric hookups typically have a slightly higher rate). These fees directly contribute to the ongoing maintenance, improvements, and operations of the park and its various facilities.

Given the popularity of William O'Brien State Park and the convenience of Savanna Campground's amenities and location, it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for weekends, holidays, and during the peak summer season. Reservations can typically be made up to 120 days (or sometimes longer, up to 11 months, depending on the DNR's current policy) in advance through the Minnesota DNR's online reservation system or by phone.

While you won't find "buy one night, get one free" deals, the inherent value of camping at a well-maintained state park with abundant natural beauty, accessible amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere at an affordable public rate is the ongoing "special offer" for Minnesota locals.

Address: O Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA

This address places Savanna Campground within William O'Brien State Park. For direct inquiries regarding the campground, park conditions, or specific amenities, it's best to contact the main park office.

Phone: (651) 433-0500 (William O'Brien State Park Office)

For camping reservations and to check real-time availability, it is highly recommended to use the official Minnesota DNR website's reservation system or call their dedicated reservation line:

Minnesota DNR Parks and Trails Reservation Line: 866-857-2757

Savanna Campground at William O'Brien State Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for Minnesota locals, offering a compelling blend of convenience, comfort, and authentic outdoor experiences. Its appeal for residents stems from several key attributes that cater directly to our state's love for nature and accessible recreation.

Firstly, its highly convenient location, "only about an hour from Minneapolis," makes it a premier choice for quick getaways. Minnesotans can easily escape the urban hustle for a weekend of rejuvenation without spending excessive time traveling. This accessibility means less planning, more spontaneity, and ultimately, more quality time spent enjoying the natural beauty of the St. Croix River Valley right in our backyard.

Secondly, Savanna Campground brilliantly combines the appeal of raw nature with essential modern comforts. The availability of drive-in campsites, electric hookups, and well-maintained showers and flush toilets caters to a wide spectrum of campers, from those new to the outdoor scene to seasoned RV enthusiasts. This blend ensures that a diverse range of local families and individuals can enjoy the wilderness without completely sacrificing the conveniences that make for a relaxing trip, especially with children or pets.

Furthermore, the campground's setting within William O'Brien State Park means immediate access to a wealth of activities. Locals passionate about hiking will find miles of diverse trails. Anglers will appreciate the opportunities for fishing on the St. Croix River. The "family friendly and dog friendly" atmosphere highlighted by real customers underscores its welcoming nature, making it ideal for creating cherished memories with all members of the household, including our beloved four-legged companions. The presence of abundant trees perfect for hammocks also speaks to the thoughtful design that caters to genuine outdoor relaxation.

In summary, Savanna Campground at William O'Brien State Park is more than just a place to stay; it's a quintessential Minnesota outdoor experience. It's a testament to our state's commitment to preserving natural spaces while making them accessible and enjoyable for everyone. For Minnesotans seeking a convenient, comfortable, and truly engaging camping adventure that feels both close to home and wonderfully wild, Savanna Campground is an unbeatable choice.