Maybe many minnesotans prefer lake houses over campgrounds, or long winter seasons make it inoperable, I had a hard time finding camp grounds from Google map near Minneapolis. Finally chanced through the "regional parks" (unique only to Minnesota ???) and found this one particular site. And of course the registration only opens up in March. I was lucky enough to plan in advance and jump in early snatched a spot for my small trailer in July.
What a wonderful and quiet spot right in Apple Valley. 5 min from the Zoo and highways, and 10min from major shopping areas, it is about 28min from downtown without traffic.
The campsite was paved, SPACIOUS and clean and well cared for, with nice shades and quiet family campers. Shower house is clean although water pressure can be low at times but acceptable. Just a pleasant set up as I imagined how Minnesota feels like!
Did I mention about the park itself? It is large and somewhat nested as several pieces through multiple neighborhoods. We fished at a couple of the ponds with little to show for but mostly due skill limitations.
Overall among top tier campsites we have visited this far!