Glen Hills Facility Plans Restroom Building to Enhance Campground Amenities

The St. Croix County Community Development Committee convened on July 22, 2025, to discuss several key projects and funding allocations aimed at enhancing local recreational facilities. The meeting highlighted a significant development concerning the Glen Hills facility and its associated campgrounds.

The committee reviewed a project previously approved in the 2024 capital improvement plan, which allocated $920,000 for improvements. Following the successful application for a DNR Knowles Nelson stewardship grant of $249,500, the committee identified surplus funds available for additional enhancements. One of the primary proposals discussed was the installation of a prefabricated concrete restroom building, featuring four stalls, strategically located between the Vista Prairie Campground and the newly developed Whispering Oaks campsite.

The Vista Prairie Campground, established two years prior, includes 15 clustered group sites, while the Whispering Oaks area has recently added 12 new campsites equipped with electric and water services. The committee reported a 50% occupancy rate for these sites throughout the summer, indicating a positive response from the community.

The proposed restroom facility aims to improve sanitation access for campers, as current arrangements rely on five satellite toilets, which are costly to maintain and frequently pumped due to capacity issues. The new building would significantly reduce the need for these temporary facilities and enhance the overall camping experience.

The estimated cost for the restroom building has risen to approximately $194,000 due to inflation, but the committee expressed confidence that remaining funds from the project could cover this expense. Additionally, the Parks Department plans to utilize its fund balance to further offset costs.

The committee acknowledged that while the new restroom facility may not fully comply with health department regulations regarding the distance of restroom facilities from campsites, it would bring them closer to meeting these standards. Currently, only one satellite toilet would remain in the Peninsula area to ensure compliance.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to improving recreational facilities in St. Croix County, with the restroom project poised to enhance the camping experience and address sanitation needs effectively. Further discussions and approvals will determine the project's progression and implementation timeline.