Riverway Campground

Hey there, fellow Minnesotans! If you’re yearning for an authentic camping experience where the sounds of nature replace the urban hum, and friendly faces welcome you to a serene environment, then Riverway Campground in Scandia, MN, deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Nestled within the beautiful William O'Brien State Park, this campground offers a genuine escape, providing a tranquil setting perfect for disconnecting and immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the St. Croix Valley.

For us who call Minnesota home, finding camping spots that truly feel like a getaway, yet remain accessible, is always a priority. Riverway Campground frequently receives praise for its quiet atmosphere and spacious sites, making it a favored choice for those who prefer to truly camp rather than engage in noisy festivities. It’s a place where you might spot wildlife, enjoy the peaceful sounds of the outdoors, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all within a reasonable drive from the Twin Cities.

Riverway Campground is located on O Brien Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073, USA. This address places it squarely within the beloved William O'Brien State Park, a jewel of the Minnesota State Park system situated along the scenic St. Croix River. For Minnesotans, its proximity to the greater metropolitan area makes it a highly convenient option for a quick weekend escape or a more extended vacation, cutting down on travel time and maximizing your outdoor enjoyment.

Access to the campground is typically straightforward, though visitors should always be mindful of any current park updates or construction notices, as parts of state parks occasionally undergo improvements. The park's location along the St. Croix River means you're not just camping, but you're also at the doorstep of a federally protected scenic riverway, offering endless opportunities for water-based activities and riverside relaxation. Its accessibility ensures that a refreshing natural retreat is never too far away for those of us living in Minnesota.

Riverway Campground, as part of a Minnesota State Park, provides essential services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, emphasizing nature and outdoor recreation:

• Campsites: The campground offers various campsites suitable for both RVs and tents. Recent reviews indicate sites are often "large, quiet, with no immediate neighbours," and some RV sites provide water and electric hookups for added convenience. There may also be rustic and walk-in sites available for a more traditional tent camping feel.
• Water and Electric Hookups: Many RV sites are equipped with water and electric hookups, catering to those who prefer modern amenities while enjoying the outdoors.
• Dump Station: A readily accessible dump station is typically available within the park for RV waste disposal.
• Renovated Shower Building: Recent improvements to the Riverway Campground include a "renovated shower building with a redesigned layout" and "ADA-compliant fixtures and parking," indicating updated facilities for camper comfort.
• Accessible Campsites: The campground now features "Six ADA-compliant campsites," making it more inclusive for visitors with accessibility needs.
• Restrooms: Clean restroom facilities are provided throughout the campground area.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is generally available for purchase at the park office or visitor center during operating hours, ensuring you have fuel for your campfire. Campers are reminded to only use approved firewood to protect the park's trees.
• Camper Cabins: While not directly within the Riverway Campground, William O'Brien State Park also offers camper cabins, including accessible options with electricity, for those seeking a cabin-style camping experience.

Riverway Campground stands out for several key features that make it a compelling choice for campers in Minnesota:

• Peaceful and Quiet Environment: A consistent highlight from visitors is the campground's serene atmosphere. It’s praised as a place where people genuinely go to "camp" and enjoy the tranquility, making it ideal for those seeking a break from noise and crowds.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Many sites are noted for being "large" and offering a sense of privacy with "no immediate neighbours," allowing campers to feel more immersed in nature.
• Proximity to St. Croix River: Its location within William O'Brien State Park provides unparalleled access to the majestic St. Croix River. This means opportunities for paddling (canoeing, kayaking), fishing, and simply enjoying the scenic views along the riverbanks.
• Extensive Trail System: The park offers a wide network of well-maintained trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. The "Resurfaced Riverside Trail" enhances the outdoor experience, allowing for exploration of diverse landscapes including woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting of the park provides excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife, from deer and various bird species to smaller creatures, enriching the camping experience.
• Accessibility Improvements: Recent renovations have focused on making the campground and park more accessible, with ADA-compliant campsites, restroom fixtures, and routes to facilities and trails, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all visitors.
• Friendly Staff: Many campers report positive interactions with the park staff, who are often described as "super friendly" and helpful, contributing to a welcoming environment.
• Close to Twin Cities: Despite its natural feel, the campground is a relatively short drive from the Twin Cities, making it a convenient escape for many Minnesota residents.

While a direct phone number for Riverway Campground specifically isn't provided separately from William O'Brien State Park, inquiries and reservations can typically be made through the main park contact. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's best to reach out to William O'Brien State Park directly:

• Address: O Brien Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073, USA
• William O'Brien State Park Phone: (651) 433-0500 (While not explicitly provided, this is the general phone number for William O'Brien State Park, where Riverway Campground is located.)

We recommend checking the Minnesota DNR website for William O'Brien State Park or using their online reservation system for campsite bookings, especially during peak seasons. This will ensure you have the latest information on availability, rates, and any specific park advisories.

For us Minnesotans, Riverway Campground, nestled within William O'Brien State Park, is an ideal local choice for getting away from it all and truly embracing the outdoors. Its prime location in Scandia offers the perfect balance of a secluded natural setting and easy accessibility from the Twin Cities metro area. This means less time commuting and more precious moments spent enjoying what we love most about Minnesota: its beautiful lakes, rivers, and forests.

The campground’s strong reputation for being quiet and peaceful, where people prioritize genuine camping experiences over loud gatherings, aligns perfectly with the desires of many local outdoor enthusiasts. We appreciate a place where we can relax, listen to the sounds of nature, and maybe even catch a glimpse of local wildlife. The spacious sites, often with good separation from neighbors, enhance this feeling of personal retreat.

Furthermore, recent improvements, including renovated shower facilities and ADA-compliant sites, demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the visitor experience for everyone in our community. Combined with direct access to the St. Croix River for paddling and fishing, and a vast network of hiking trails, Riverway Campground provides diverse opportunities for recreation and relaxation. It truly is a local gem that allows us Minnesotans to reconnect with the natural beauty of our state without having to venture far from home, offering a refreshing and authentic camping adventure every time.

Riverway Campground

O Brien Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073, USA