Riverway Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking William O'Brien State Park, Riverway Campground offers an idyllic retreat for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Minnesota's natural splendor. Located in Scandia, this campground is a beloved destination for both seasoned campers and those new to the great outdoors. With its close proximity to the majestic St. Croix River, Riverway Campground provides a truly unique and refreshing experience, inviting visitors to unwind amidst stunning landscapes and the serene sounds of nature. It's a place where the fresh scent of pine trees fills the air, instantly transporting you to a sense of calm and tranquility, making it feel like a true escape to the farther reaches of Northern Minnesota, even though it's conveniently located closer to home.

Riverway Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to adventure and relaxation. The park is renowned for its well-maintained environment and the diverse opportunities it offers for outdoor activities. From leisurely strolls along the riverbanks to more challenging hikes through scenic trails, there's something to captivate every nature enthusiast. Despite its popularity, the campground is thoughtfully designed to offer a sense of privacy and seclusion at individual campsites, ensuring a peaceful experience for all guests. This balance of vibrant activity within the larger state park and the quiet solace of individual sites makes Riverway Campground a standout choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of engagement and peaceful retreat in the heart of Minnesota.

Riverway Campground is conveniently located at 16814 O Brien Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073, USA, placing it within the beloved William O'Brien State Park. This prime location offers unparalleled accessibility for residents across Minnesota, particularly those residing in the Twin Cities metropolitan area and surrounding communities. The drive to Scandia is scenic and straightforward, allowing for a relatively short journey from urban centers, which means less time traveling and more time enjoying the tranquility of nature. This ease of access makes Riverway Campground an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without the hassle of extensive travel planning.

Beyond its easy reach, the campground's setting within William O'Brien State Park means that campers are immediately immersed in a rich natural environment. The park’s extensive network of trails connects directly from the campground, providing instant access to miles of exploration. While offering a sense of peaceful isolation, Riverway Campground also benefits from its proximity to charming local towns such as Stillwater and Taylors Falls. These nearby communities offer a variety of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and unique shops, allowing campers to easily replenish supplies or enjoy a meal out. Additionally, the stunning Interstate State Park, known for its breathtaking geological formations and hiking opportunities, is just a short drive away, providing even more options for adventure. This combination of natural seclusion and convenient access to local attractions makes Riverway Campground an incredibly appealing and practical destination for a wide range of visitors.

Riverway Campground at William O'Brien State Park is committed to providing a fulfilling camping experience with a range of services designed for comfort and convenience.

• Campsites with Amenities: The campground offers a variety of campsites, many of which are very close to the St. Croix River, providing beautiful views and easy access for strolls along the water. While specific details on hookups (electric, water, sewer) for all sites are best confirmed directly with the park, the availability of well-maintained sites is a consistent highlight from visitor reviews.

• Firewood Availability: Firewood bins are provided at the campground for campers to purchase wood. While popular, especially on weekends when they are restocked multiple times daily, campers should be aware that during weekdays, refills might be less frequent. It is advisable to plan accordingly or consider bringing some of your own, especially if a consistent campfire is a priority.

• Swimming Access: The park offers nice swimming opportunities, with a dedicated beach area. Many visitors also enjoy swimming directly along the river, providing different options for water recreation.

Riverway Campground and William O'Brien State Park are brimming with features and highlights that ensure a memorable outdoor experience for all visitors.

• Proximity to the St. Croix River: A major highlight is the campground's very close proximity to the St. Croix River. This allows campers to easily stroll along the riverbanks, enjoy scenic views, and even swim in its waters. The river provides a serene backdrop to the camping experience.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: The park boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails. These trails offer a fair amount of room to explore, with many side trails connecting the campground to the larger areas of the park. Visitors consistently praise the beautiful scenery found along these paths, providing excellent opportunities for nature walks and active exploration.

• Abundant Pine Trees: A standout feature that surprises and delights many visitors is the sheer number of pine trees throughout the park. The pervasive scent of pine creates a refreshing, "farther North" feeling, enhancing the sense of being truly immersed in nature and away from urban life.

• Scenic Beauty: The overall beauty of the park and campground is a recurring theme in visitor feedback. From the river views to the wooded landscapes, the natural aesthetics contribute significantly to a peaceful and enjoyable stay.

• Campsite Privacy: Despite being a popular camping and recreation area, the campsites at Riverway Campground are designed to feel pretty private. This thoughtful layout allows campers to enjoy a sense of seclusion and personal space even when the park is busy.

• Proximity to Local Attractions: The campground’s location is excellent for exploring nearby attractions. Stillwater, known for its charming shops and historic downtown, and Taylors Falls, offering picturesque views and unique experiences, are both a short drive away. Additionally, the stunning Interstate State Park, with its dramatic landscapes, is highly recommended for a day trip.

• Wildlife Observation: While not explicitly detailed, state parks in Minnesota often offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the natural setting of William O'Brien State Park suggests a chance to observe various local flora and fauna.

For inquiries and further information about Riverway Campground, please use the following contact details:

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

Phone: (651) 539-4980

Mobile Phone: +1 651-539-4980

It is always advisable to contact the campground directly for the most current information regarding reservations, site availability, and specific park rules, especially concerning cell phone service which can be limited within the park.

Riverway Campground at William O'Brien State Park stands out as an exceptional choice for locals in Minnesota seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor escape. Its convenient location in Scandia means that residents of the Twin Cities and surrounding areas can easily embark on a nature retreat without extensive travel. This accessibility is key for busy individuals and families, making spontaneous weekend trips or even mid-week escapes a practical and enjoyable option. The transition from urban life to the serene embrace of the St. Croix River valley is remarkably smooth, allowing for more time to be spent immersed in nature and less time on the road.

What truly makes Riverway Campground suitable for local Minnesotans is the rich array of experiences it offers within a familiar and beloved state park system. The feeling of being "farther North" due to the abundant pine trees, combined with the convenience of being close to home, provides the best of both worlds. Whether it's the peaceful strolls along the St. Croix River, the extensive and well-maintained hiking trails that invite exploration, or the quiet privacy offered by individual campsites, the park caters to diverse preferences. Furthermore, the proximity to charming towns like Stillwater and Taylors Falls, as well as the geological wonders of Interstate State Park, adds significant value, allowing for a blend of natural immersion and local cultural exploration. Despite being a popular destination, the ability to find solitude on the trails and within the private campsites ensures that everyone can find their own personal slice of tranquility. Riverway Campground is not just a place to camp; it's a cherished local treasure that provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and reconnection with Minnesota's stunning natural heritage.

Riverway Campground

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