First a little fun on Empire Lake! – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

Having a little fun on Empire Lake!

The Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins are the best kept secret in central Minnesota. 

I was hesitant to even write this article because I want to keep them all to myself! But, since you’re here because you love the outdoors I decided to tell all. I even included a bunch of 360 degree photos so you can really get a feel for what they’re like.

The Whitetail Woods camper cabins were designed by Minneapolis’ HGA Architects and Engineers and were built in 2014. They even won an award from the American Institute of Architects in the “specialized housing” category.

I’ll tell you right off the bat that Dakota County really hit a home run here. The three cabins are nestled on 5,000 acres of protected land that is simply stunning. Among the rolling hills you’ll find 10 miles of summer hiking trails, 6 miles of cross country ski trails and more than 5 miles of winter hiking and snowshoeing.

The cabins are 227 sq. feet with an 84 sq. foot deck (which has chains for a hammock).

Main seating area in Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins. – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

The seating are is spacious and thoughtfully designed.

You’re going to want to sit on the deck all day. It rests on 14 foot stilts and provides a beautiful, private view of the forest below. There is a decidedly chill vibe that Dakota County has taken here, and it didn’t go unnoticed. The cabins are fairly close together, yet the scene still feels like it’s all your own.

Deck from the Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins. Note the hammock chain! – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

You’re going to love the deck. Check out the hammock chain!

Outside the Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins. They’re fairly close, but the space didn’t feel overly crowded. – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

There is a rack for cross country skis, and each cabin has their own fire pit. 

The Whitetail Woods shower house is simple, but clean and well maintained. – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA

The shower house is simple, but clean and well maintained.

If you’re looking for a quick getaway that will allow you to unplug and relax, this place is hard to beat. At the time of this writing they’re $75 a night. It’s great for a couple or a family of four. Six adults would get a little crammed. As I said earlier, they’ve been a massive success, which means that you’re going to have to book them a full year out. You can do that here. If you’re looking for camping recipes for the weekend go ahead and browse our lunch and dinner recipes. Lots of good eats over there. Make sure you share some pics with us if you go!

 

Here’s how close the Whitetail Woods camper cabins are to the Twin Cities!