William O Brien State Park Camping

William O’Brien State Park is one of Minnesota’s most popular camping destinations, offering a beautiful natural setting along the St. Croix River just one hour northeast of the Twin Cities. Known for its rolling wooded hills, scenic river views, and wide range of outdoor activities, the park is a perfect escape for campers, RV travelers, and nature lovers year-round.

Located in Washington County, the 1,520-acre park features an abundance of camping options for all types of visitors. Whether you’re bringing a large RV, pitching a tent, or staying in a cozy camper cabin, William O'Brien State Park has you covered. The campground is designed with accessibility, comfort, and convenience in mind, making it an ideal spot for both first-time campers and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Campgrounds and Camping Options

William O'Brien State Park offers two main campgrounds, along with camper cabins and group camping areas. There are 124 total campsites, four camper cabins, and four group camps.

Riverway Campground
Riverway Campground is open seasonally from mid-April to mid-October. It includes 114 sites, most of which can accommodate RVs and campervans up to 60 feet in length. The campground offers 30-amp electric hookups, flush toilets, hot showers, and a sanitary dump station. The restrooms and showers are ADA-accessible, and three designated accessible campsites are located close to these facilities. Visitors can choose from shaded or open campsites, depending on their preferences.

Savanna Campground
Open year-round, the Savanna Campground is ideal for off-season camping. This campground includes sites with 50-amp electric hookups, which are especially useful for RV travelers in colder months. While modern restrooms and the dump station are unavailable during the off-season, vault toilets and the nearby Visitor Center restrooms remain open for use.

Camper Cabins
The park also features four rustic camper cabins, three of which are available year-round. These cabins sleep five to six people and offer a more comfortable camping experience without the need for a tent or RV. Each cabin includes indoor seating, a picnic table, and a fire ring outside. Although they do not have running water or indoor plumbing, they are located close to campground restrooms.

Group Campsites and Walk-In Sites
William O'Brien State Park has four group camping areas that accommodate 35–50 people each, located near the river. There are also two walk-in tent sites for those looking for a more secluded experience.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations can be made online 24/7 or by phone at 866-857-2757 (TTY: 952-936-4008) from April through September between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. A Minnesota State Park permit is required: $35 for an annual permit, $26 for a second vehicle, $12 for disabled visitors, or $7 for a daily pass. Campsite and cabin fees vary by type and season.

Things to Do While Camping

Hiking and Trails
The park features 12 miles of hiking trails that pass through oak savannas, wetlands, glacial moraine, and wooded forests. Trails vary in difficulty from easy to moderate. The Riverside Trail, a 1.5-mile ADA-accessible loop, is a popular option with scenic overlooks and interpretive signage.

Water Activities
The St. Croix River is a designated National Scenic Riverway and offers excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the park from mid-May to mid-October. A boat ramp is located within the park for easy water access. While swimming is not allowed in the river due to strong currents, Lake Alice features a sandy beach perfect for a summer swim.

Fishing
Anglers can fish for northern pike, bass, walleye, and trout from the riverbanks or the accessible fishing pier near Lake Alice. Forgot your gear? The park loans out fishing poles and tackle for free.

Wildlife and Birdwatching
The park is home to an array of wildlife including deer, foxes, raccoons, beavers, and woodchucks. Birdwatchers will find raptors, woodpeckers, warblers, orioles, bluebirds, and herons among the species frequently seen throughout the park’s diverse habitats.

Winter Activities
Winter camping is available at the Savanna Campground. During the snowy months, the park’s trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing. The Riverside Trail is open for snowshoeing. The Visitor Center remains open and serves as a warming house, with interpretive exhibits and educational programs available year-round.

Picnicking and Day Use
The park features two reservable picnic shelters—one at the main picnic area and another near the beach. Each shelter includes electricity, a fireplace, and ADA-accessible features. Picnic areas throughout the park offer great spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Accessibility and Amenities
William O'Brien State Park is designed to be accessible and inclusive. It offers ADA-accessible restrooms, trails, and campsites. Parking is available throughout the park, including at trailheads, the Day Use Area, and the Interpretive Center. Pets are allowed in designated areas, and recycling and waste reduction practices are encouraged.

Directions and Parking

William O’Brien State Park is located at 16821 O’Brien Trail N, Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota 55047. It’s easily accessible by car via MN-95 and has wide roads suitable for large RVs and trailers. Parking is available at multiple locations throughout the park. Public transportation to the park is limited, so driving is recommended.

Final Thoughts

Camping at William O'Brien State Park offers a rich and rewarding experience for all types of visitors. With its blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, modern amenities, and historical significance, it’s easy to see why this park remains one of Minnesota’s top state park destinations. Whether you're enjoying the summer sun by the river or exploring snowy trails in the winter, this park is a must-visit for any camping enthusiast.