Hay Lake Campground and Day-Use Area is located near a mix of forested and open terrain in Minnesota. The area experiences temperatures ranging from lows of 10°F in winter to highs of 80°F in summer. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Savanna Portage State Park and the Mississippi River, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.

The campground is adjacent to the Hay Lake Public Landing. The campsites are considered primitive, designed to furnish only the basic needs of the camper. The campsites consist of a cleared area, fire ring, and table. Vault toilets, garbage cans, and drinking water are available. All sites are on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee. Highlights: Hay Lake campground offers a swimming beach and water access to Hay Lake, which is known for panfish, crappie, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Many of the campsites are located lakeside and have access to hiking and mountain bike trails. Hay Lake Campground is a great alternative to the more developed and heavily used Savanna State Park. CAMP SITES WATER & SANITATION RECREATION & TRAILS 20 camp sites 1 well drinking water lake access carry-in access 5 picnic tables swimming fishing3

Hay Lake Campground and Day-Use Area

Balsam is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Balsam, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Balsam, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Balsam

The Best Camping Near Balsam, Minnesota

I'm pretty sure this campground would be beautiful any time of year, but we visited on our anniversary in the fall and it was gorgeous! Most of the trees were yellow, and even in the overcast morning, gave the campground a wonderful warm glow!

The campground is a good size, and all the sites seem private. This is a state forest campground, and in MN, they are all very well maintained and the price is far better than a state park campground. In my opinion, they are far superior. Usually less crowded, lesser known, but better kept. Normally they are about $14 (bonus!), and sometimes free, depending on the time of year. Drop the money in the box at the entrance (honesty is appreciated) and take a site. No reservations accepted.

They have pit toilets, pets are accepted, there is drinking water available at a well pump, each site has a picnic table, plenty of space for a tent, lots of trees if you want to try a hammock, and a fire ring. It was very quiet at night (there was only one other site being used), and we heard a beautiful owl chanting in the night.

The lake was very nearby, and some sites have access via stairs, if you like. There seemed to be plenty of firewood, if you care to collect it, and it was the best option for a wonderful camping experience!

Photos of Hay Lake Campground and Day-Use Area

Real photos from real campers