Savanna Campground

Hello, fellow Minnesotans! Are you looking for that perfect blend of peaceful wilderness and convenient accessibility for your next camping adventure? Look no further than Savanna Campground, a cherished part of William O'Brien State Park in Marine on St. Croix. This wonderful campground offers a genuine escape into nature, providing a serene environment where you can truly relax and enjoy the beauty of our state's outdoors, all within an easy drive from the bustling Twin Cities.

For us locals, finding a reliable and enjoyable camping spot that caters to both families and furry friends is a real win. Savanna Campground consistently earns high marks for its spacious, treed sites and its welcoming atmosphere, where the sounds of rustling leaves and crackling campfires replace the noise of everyday life. It's a place where you can set up your hammock, explore scenic trails, and create lasting memories with loved ones, making it an ideal destination for your next Minnesota getaway.

Savanna Campground is located on O Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA. Its prime location within William O'Brien State Park is a significant advantage for Minnesotans. Situated along the picturesque St. Croix River, a federally designated Wild and Scenic Riverway, the campground offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the St. Croix Valley.

One of the most appealing aspects of Savanna Campground is its accessibility. It's roughly an hour's drive from Minneapolis, making it an incredibly convenient option for weekend trips or longer vacations without the need for extensive travel. The well-maintained roads lead directly into William O'Brien State Park, ensuring a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, from large RVs to cars pulling tent trailers. This easy access means more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time on the road, a real bonus for us busy Minnesotans.

As part of William O'Brien State Park, Savanna Campground provides a range of services designed to enhance your camping experience while preserving the natural environment. These amenities cater to both comfort and convenience:

• Campsites: Savanna Campground offers a variety of drive-in campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Reviewers frequently note that sites are "large" and provide a good amount of personal "space," even when other campers are nearby.
• Electrical Hookups: Many sites within William O'Brien State Park's campgrounds, including Savanna, offer electrical hookups (e.g., 15-amp, 20-amp, and 30-amp), providing convenience for RVers and those needing power for medical devices or small appliances.
• Flush Toilets and Hot Showers: Campers have access to modern facilities, including flush toilets and hot showers, which are a welcome comfort after a day of hiking or exploring. Recent renovations to shower buildings within the park suggest improved facilities.
• Potable Water: Easily accessible sources for potable water are available throughout the campground area.
• Sanitary Dump Station: An on-site sanitary dump station is provided for RVs, making waste disposal convenient upon departure.
• Firewood and Ice Sales: Firewood and ice are typically available for purchase at the park office, ensuring you have essentials for your campfire and cool beverages.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite usually includes a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is very dog-friendly, allowing pets to join their owners on campsites and trails, provided they are leashed and attended to.

Savanna Campground shines with several features that make it a standout choice for campers in Minnesota:

• Spacious and Treed Sites: A consistent highlight is the size and natural setting of the campsites. Campers appreciate the "lots of trees for hammocks!" and the feeling of having their own "space," even when other campers are "semi-close." This creates a sense of privacy and immersion in nature.
• Family and Dog Friendly: The campground is explicitly noted as "very family friendly and dog friendly," making it an excellent option for those looking to bring their entire household, including their canine companions, to enjoy the outdoors.
• Secluded Yet Convenient: Despite being "close to the showers," some sites, like #87, are described as "very secluded," offering the best of both worlds – easy access to amenities without sacrificing privacy.
• Proximity to St. Croix River: Located within William O'Brien State Park, the campground provides direct access to the beautiful St. Croix River, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenic river views. Boat and canoe rentals are available within the park.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts 12 miles of hiking trails and 12 miles of cross-country ski trails (groomed in winter), winding through diverse landscapes including woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, and restored oak savannas. This offers endless opportunities for exploration and nature observation.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting encourages wildlife sightings, from various bird species to deer, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.
• Winter Camping Options: For the adventurous, Savanna Campground offers some winter campsites, allowing for year-round enjoyment of the park's beauty.
• ADA Accessibility: The park has made efforts to improve accessibility, with ADA-compliant campsites, renovated shower buildings with accessible fixtures, and accessible routes to facilities and trails.

For inquiries and reservations for Savanna Campground, as it is part of William O'Brien State Park, you should contact the main park office. While a specific phone number for Savanna Campground isn't typically listed separately, you can reach William O'Brien State Park at:

• Address: O Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, USA
• William O'Brien State Park Phone: (651) 439-6000 (General park information and reservation line. Note: The previously listed phone number for William O'Brien State Park was (651) 539-4980, so it's always good to verify the current number through the MN DNR website for the most accurate contact. For reservations, the toll-free line is often 866-857-2757).

It's highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak summer months and weekends, as William O'Brien State Park is a very popular destination for local Minnesotans. Check the Minnesota DNR website for the most current information on campsite availability and park guidelines.

For us Minnesotans, Savanna Campground at William O'Brien State Park is an exceptional local camping destination, perfectly blending accessibility with an immersive natural experience. Its location, just about an hour from Minneapolis, means we can easily escape the city for a rejuvenating weekend without the burden of a long drive. This convenience is a huge draw for families and individuals looking to maximize their time in nature.

The campground’s reputation as a "family friendly and dog friendly" spot, with "large" and often "secluded" sites, speaks directly to what many of us seek in a local camping experience: comfort, privacy, and the ability to bring our beloved pets. The abundance of trees provides perfect spots for hammocks, while the close proximity to well-maintained showers and restrooms adds a layer of comfort to the rustic charm.

Beyond the campground itself, being within William O'Brien State Park opens up a world of outdoor activities. Whether it's paddling on the beautiful St. Croix River, exploring the extensive network of hiking trails, or simply enjoying the quiet moments in the natural surroundings, there's always "plenty to do." The commitment to maintaining a beautiful and peaceful environment ensures that our local camping trips are not just about setting up a tent or RV, but truly about connecting with Minnesota's stunning landscapes. Savanna Campground offers an authentic, convenient, and truly enjoyable outdoor experience right here in our backyard.

Savanna Campground

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