From luxury cabins to primitive campsites, there are many ways to enjoy camping in Minnesota. One of the most underrated camping styles is yurt camping, a wonderful hybrid combining basic tent-style camping with a few modern conveniences, like a sturdy shelter, beds, and tables. Next time you feel like you need to spend some time outdoors, head over to Afton State Park, where you can hit the trails, and then spend the night in one of their awesome yurts.
Nestled on the St. Croix River in Washington County, Afton State Park’s hiking trails are some of the most scenic in Minnesota.
Karin Erickson/All Trails
There are more than 20 miles of hiking trails throughout the park, leading you to the top of scenic bluffs and all over the beautiful park.
Christine Cartwright/All Trails
The River Trail is divided into the North River Trail and the South River Trail.
Tricia G/All Trails Both are loop trails and just shy of four miles. The South River Trail will take you near the yurt rentals, where you can hike straight to your front door!
Much of the trail runs right alongside the river with beautiful wide-open views.
Kaelin Krolak/All Trails
It’s a nice mix between the waterfront views and forested terrain.
Nate Thompson/All Trails You might even get lucky and spot some wildlife enjoying the trails, too!
Once you’ve explored the trails, head back to your new home away from home.
Oannaokateo/Trip Advisor
These yurts can sleep up to seven people.
N/Google These are fairly primitive, and you’ll need to bring your own bedding.
Just like camping in a tent, you won’t have electricity…
Abhishek Reddy Chamakura/Google
…but that’s okay, because you’ll have a fire pit to cook your meals and swap ghost stories around.
Alex Hatzenbuhler/Google Don’t forget the s’mores, they’re the best part!
In the evenings, sit back and enjoy the beautiful Minnesota night sky and do a little stargazing.
Nbuzz/Trip Advisor If you see a shooting star, make a wish!
Karin Erickson/All Trails
Christine Cartwright/All Trails
Tricia G/All Trails
Both are loop trails and just shy of four miles. The South River Trail will take you near the yurt rentals, where you can hike straight to your front door!
Kaelin Krolak/All Trails
Nate Thompson/All Trails
You might even get lucky and spot some wildlife enjoying the trails, too!
Oannaokateo/Trip Advisor
N/Google
These are fairly primitive, and you’ll need to bring your own bedding.
Abhishek Reddy Chamakura/Google
Alex Hatzenbuhler/Google
Don’t forget the s’mores, they’re the best part!
Nbuzz/Trip Advisor
If you see a shooting star, make a wish!
Ready to book your yurt? Visit Afton State Park’s website for rates and availability. For more hiking adventures, check out these scenic hiking trails in Minnesota so hidden that you might find yourself the only ones on the trail!
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Address: Afton State Park Trail, Minnesota, USA
