Backpack Campground

Star4.60
7 reviews
Afton State Park, 6959 Peller Avenue South, Hastings, MN 55033
Scenic Views

Quick Facts

919 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

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Backpack Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Advance reservations incur a non-refundable reservation fee ($10 by phone / $8 online). Same-day reservations can be fee-free when made the same day.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Minnesota State Parks
Provider
651-201-6780
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What Campers Say

4.60

Top-Rated

Based on 7 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulbeachsites

"Reviews and reports describe a scenic, quiet backpacking experience with bluff-top views and varied sites; many praise the setting and trails. Common notes highlight steep, lengthy hike‑ins and rustic facilities."

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Campground Map

Afton State Park, 6959 Peller Avenue South, Hastings, MN 55033

Backpack Campground

Afton State Park, 6959 Peller Avenue South, Hastings, MN 55033


Best Time to Camp at Backpack Campground

Afton transforms beautifully with each season—spring wildflowers carpet the prairies, summer brings lush greenery and river swimming, autumn paints the bluffs in brilliant colors, and winter blankets the landscape for cross-country skiing adventures. The park's trail system welcomes hikers, horseback riders, and skiers year-round, while naturalist-led programs throughout the seasons help you connect more deeply with the landscape. Be sure to check the park's webpage for current conditions and seasonal program schedules before heading out.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Below Average

Trails, river vistas and meadows are especially appealing in summer months.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 11% in MN

Bluff and river vistas likely make for excellent fall color viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5
Average

Trails and meadows suggest pleasant spring hiking and wildflowers, but not specified.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5
Above Average

No winter info; Minnesota winters may limit use though solitude could be high.

Planning Tips

    About Backpack Campground

    Perched high above the scenic St. Croix River, Afton State Park captivates visitors with its dramatic landscape of rugged bluffs, sweeping prairie ridgetops, and deep wooded ravines. Whether you're drawn to the challenge of backpack camping, a refreshing swim along the rivershore, or exploring miles of winding trails through restored prairies, this park offers an authentic Minnesota wilderness experience just minutes from the Twin Cities.
    Hike‑in backpack campsites (suitable for tents and hammocks) located on bluff and prairie landscapes; sites vary from open prairie to wooded. Sites are remote and accessed by steep trails.
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    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    Afton State Park's backpack campground provides access to the park's trails, river overlooks, and swimming beach. The park supports year‑round trail use and wildlife/bird viewing opportunities.
    HikingExtensive trail network including loops and routes to bluff overlooks; trails range from easy to challenging and provide access to backpack sites (some hike‑in distances are steep and long).
    FishingFishing is listed among park highlights; access is generally to the St. Croix River and nearby waterways.
    SwimmingThe park includes a swimming beach on the St. Croix River.
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsBackpack sites are accessed by trails that traverse steep and rugged terrain; conditions can be muddy after rain. Standard park wildlife and visitor-safety considerations apply (e.g., secure food from wildlife).
    No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

    Weather at Backpack Campground

    Reviews

    4.6
    7 reviews
    Top-Rated
    Top-Rated
    Backpack Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews and reports describe a scenic, quiet backpacking experience with bluff-top views and varied sites; many praise the setting and trails. Common notes highlight steep, lengthy hike‑ins and rustic facilities.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 7 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Scenic bluff and river views, varied trails and overlooks, generally peaceful and uncrowded backpack sites, nearby swimming beach and strong birdwatching opportunities. Availability of a wood pile...
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    Based on 7 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Prepare for a significant hike in (pack appropriately and plan for weather), bring suitable footwear and tarps for muddy or sloped sites, secure food from raccoons, and bring means to saw or split...
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    Based on 7 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    Only about a mile hike in, this is perfect for anybody wanting to try backpacking...; Do not feed the trash pandas!!; Toilet has no ventilation and reeks.
    Based on 7 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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