Wedge Hill Group Camp

For Minnesotans planning a group outdoor adventure, Wedge Hill Group Camp, located within the beautiful William O'Brien State Park in Scandia, MN, is an option that comes with specific considerations. While William O'Brien State Park itself is a cherished natural gem, offering diverse landscapes and activities along the St. Croix River, it's important for groups to understand the unique characteristics of Wedge Hill Group Camp to ensure it aligns with their expectations for a collective outdoor experience.

Group camps are often sought after for their ability to bring larger parties together in a dedicated space. Wedge Hill Group Camp is indeed designed to host groups, providing a specific area within the expansive William O'Brien State Park. The park itself is known for its rolling, wooded hills, flood plain forests, and the picturesque St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, offering numerous opportunities for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.

However, based on feedback from past visitors, it’s crucial to enter a reservation for Wedge Hill Group Camp with a clear understanding of its setup and the park's operational guidelines. While the appeal of a group campsite is undeniable for large gatherings, matching expectations with the reality of the site's layout and the park's policies is key to a successful and enjoyable trip for your Minnesota group.

Wedge Hill Group Camp is nestled within William O'Brien State Park, with its address listed as 66CH+J3, Scandia, MN 55047, USA. This places it in the scenic Washington County, a relatively short and accessible drive for many Minnesota residents, particularly those in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. William O'Brien State Park itself is a popular destination, known for its proximity to the St. Croix River and its diverse natural landscapes.

The location offers a tranquil natural setting while remaining within reasonable driving distance of urban conveniences. Scandia and nearby Marine on St. Croix are charming communities that can provide access to basic supplies, although the park itself encourages self-sufficiency for campers. Access to the group camp within the park is typically straightforward via well-marked internal roads. While the exact positioning of the Wedge Hill Group Camp specifically relative to other park facilities like restrooms or visitor centers isn't always at the forefront of promotional materials, general park amenities are usually accessible by car or a reasonable walk/bike ride within the park.

For groups planning to meet at the campsite, the direct address helps with navigation, making it a feasible meeting point for collective outdoor adventures. The natural surroundings, including the St. Croix River, are a significant draw for the entire park area, offering a beautiful backdrop for any group activity.

• Dedicated group camping area, specifically designed for larger parties.
• Primarily accommodates tent camping, but smaller RVs or pop-ups may be allowed depending on site specifics and park regulations (groups should verify directly with the park).
• Outhouse facilities are typically available within the group camp area (as mentioned in customer feedback, their condition may vary).
• Access to potable water sources (though locations within the group camp versus central park facilities should be confirmed).
• Includes picnic tables for group meals and gathering areas.
• Features fire rings for communal campfires.
• No electric hookups are typically available at group camp sites, promoting a more rustic experience.
• Located within a state park, providing access to broader park amenities like hiking trails, river access, and potentially a dump station (usually at the main campground, not the group site itself).
• Trash disposal facilities are generally available within the park system, though not necessarily at each individual group site.

• Dedicated Group Space: Wedge Hill Group Camp is specifically allocated for larger parties, offering a designated area for groups to gather. This is a primary feature for those planning family reunions, youth group outings, or other collective outdoor events, as it simplifies logistics compared to booking multiple individual campsites.
• Proximity to William O'Brien State Park: Being located within William O'Brien State Park, the group camp provides access to the park's extensive natural amenities. This includes miles of hiking trails, opportunities for fishing and paddling on the St. Croix River and Lake Alice, and diverse wildlife viewing. The park's beautiful natural setting is a significant draw for any outdoor enthusiast.
• Rustic Camping Experience: The group camp offers a more traditional and rustic camping experience, lacking electric hookups and primarily utilizing outhouse facilities. For groups seeking to truly "rough it" and disconnect from modern amenities, this can be seen as a highlight, fostering a sense of adventure and closer connection to nature.
• Potential for Seclusion (with caveats): While some group camps offer deep seclusion, the reviews for Wedge Hill Group Camp indicate that sites can be "super close together with barely any privacy." This is an important consideration, as the level of personal space can significantly impact a group's experience. Groups looking for extensive spread-out areas should manage their expectations accordingly.
• Opportunity for Communal Activities: The design of a group camp naturally encourages shared activities, whether it's cooking together over a campfire, playing games in a central area (space permitting), or embarking on group hikes into the surrounding parkland. The shared nature of the space is intended to foster camaraderie.

As a facility within the Minnesota State Park system, Wedge Hill Group Camp adheres to the standard fee and reservation policies set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). State parks generally do not offer commercial "promotions" or seasonal discounts in the way private campgrounds might. Their pricing is structured to support the maintenance and operation of public lands and facilities.

To reserve Wedge Hill Group Camp, all vehicles entering William O'Brien State Park are required to have a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit, which can be purchased annually or daily. The fee for group campsites is separate and is typically a flat rate, which can be more cost-effective for large groups than booking numerous individual sites. These fees are vital for sustaining the park's resources and ensuring a quality experience for all visitors.

Given the limited number of group campsites in popular state parks, it is highly recommended to make reservations for Wedge Hill Group Camp well in advance, particularly for peak season weekends and holidays. Reservations can typically be made up to 120 days (or sometimes longer, up to 11 months, depending on current DNR policy) in advance through the Minnesota DNR's online reservation system or by phone.

While there are no traditional sales, the inherent "special offer" for Minnesota locals is the opportunity to secure a dedicated space for a large group gathering in a beautiful state park at an affordable, publicly managed rate, supporting the preservation of Minnesota's natural treasures for future generations.

Address: Wedge Hill Group Camp (within William O'Brien State Park), 66CH+J3, Scandia, MN 55047, USA

For specific inquiries regarding Wedge Hill Group Camp, its availability, facilities, or any park rules and regulations (especially those concerning noise and quiet hours), it is best to contact the main office of William O'Brien State Park directly.

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

For camping reservations for Wedge Hill Group Camp, it is strongly 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

Wedge Hill Group Camp, situated within William O'Brien State Park in Scandia, offers a specific type of outdoor experience for Minnesota locals, particularly those planning group outings. Its suitability hinges on a group's expectations for a rustic, communal camping trip within a beautiful natural setting, provided they are aware of and prepared for its particular characteristics.

For Minnesotans seeking a dedicated space to bring a large group together – be it a scout troop, a youth group, or a large family reunion – the existence of a designated group camp like Wedge Hill is a significant advantage. It simplifies the logistics of accommodating many people in one area, fostering a sense of shared adventure and camaraderie that can be challenging to achieve by booking individual sites scattered across a campground.

Furthermore, the group camp's location within William O'Brien State Park means immediate access to the park's extensive natural offerings. Locals can easily explore miles of hiking trails, enjoy the scenic beauty of the St. Croix River, and engage in outdoor activities like fishing, birding, and paddling. This provides a rich natural backdrop for group activities and offers educational opportunities about Minnesota's diverse ecosystems.

However, it is crucial for local groups to note the feedback regarding site proximity and strict adherence to park rules, particularly quiet hours. For groups that prioritize extensive privacy between sites, or those with members (including children or pets) who may find it challenging to maintain strict silence after 10 PM, this group camp might present challenges. Open communication within the group about these expectations, and perhaps a direct call to the park office for clarification on noise policies and site specifics, would be highly beneficial.

Ultimately, for Minnesota groups who are prepared for a rustic, communal camping experience, value the convenience of a dedicated group space, and are committed to respecting park regulations and fellow campers, Wedge Hill Group Camp offers a cost-effective way to enjoy the beautiful William O'Brien State Park. It's a place where shared memories can be made, provided everyone understands and embraces the unique environment it offers.