Sauna Camp invites you to embrace Minnesota’s crisp winters in the most invigorating way possible. Nestled just outside Minneapolis, this community-driven oasis pairs toasty wood-fired cedar saunas with exhilarating plunges throug...
Owners Sophie and Danny have created something special on Lake Independence: a Nordic-style sauna and cold plunge experience that feels less like a commercial operation and more like coming home to friends. The staff consistently earns praise for being welcoming, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making everyone comfortable, especially first-timers nervous about the shock of below-freezing water. Multiple saunas at different temperatures, a heated changing house with lockers, and well-maintained facilities show thoughtful attention to detail. The experience itself follows the traditional cycle of sweating in hot saunas followed by cold plunges in the lake, and reviewers rave about both the physical effects (incredible post-visit naps, relaxation that lasts all day) and the unexpected social aspect. People mention chatting with new faces, rolling in snow together, and cheering each other on as highlights. The two-hour sessions seem to be the sweet spot, and many visitors immediately sign up for punch cards or season passes after their first visit. Even in brutal -27 degree weather, hesitant newcomers report being thrilled they pushed through their doubts.
Such a fun experience! Between chatting with new faces to rolling in the snow to cheering others on in the lake, we had a blast! Felt very relaxed the rest of the day and ready to conquer the week. Highly recommend! Will be back!
Madi Schraut
February 1, 2026
Such a fun experience! Between chatting with new faces to rolling in the snow to cheering others on in the lake, we had a blast! Felt very relaxed the rest of the day and ready to conquer the week. Highly recommend! Will be back!
Madi Schraut
February 1, 2026