Lakehead Boat Basin, near Duluth, Minnesota, is a unique spot for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of city camping while still being close to nature. This marina offers RV parking with full hookups, making it a convenient choice for travelers looking to explore the area without sacrificing comfort.

The campground features clean, modern bathrooms and showers, which visitors appreciate after a day of activities. Many campers have enjoyed the views of the Duluth port and the iconic lift bridge, with one reviewer noting, “Seeing the largest freighter on the Great Lakes leave Duluth makes this spot for city camping even better!” 

For those who like to stay active, kayaking in the harbor is a popular pastime, and the nearby Canal Park is just a short walk away, offering restaurants and entertainment. While the sites can feel a bit close together, the marina atmosphere and the chance to watch marine activities make it a lively place to camp. If you’re looking for a blend of urban convenience and waterfront charm, Lakehead Boat Basin is worth considering for your next adventure.

Lakehead Boat Basin

Looking for the best campgrounds near Duluth, MN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Duluth camping trip.

Duluth

The Best Camping Near Duluth, Minnesota

All asphalt/Concrete fairly level RV Park with full hookups 30-50 amp mixed in with Marina.  Called (Lakehead Boat Basin) in Duluth MN. Easy walk to Canal Park with the world famous Lift Bridge, Museum’s, Restaurants and regular tourist items.

Location Location Location 

This is a marina with RV parking in the city of Duluth. So don't expect pristine views and quiet natural settings. But for city camping, this worked out well. The sites are decent-size and mostly level. No privacy from neighbors and side-to-side could be tight quarters depending on the rig (and if it has slides) that is next to you. But for being within walking distance of a good restaurant and entertainment district, this is a quieter spot than being in the city proper. 

The marina makes for some nice views over the Duluth port and the lift bridge, which offers some cool sites when it goes up and Great Lakes freighters come through. There is some routine marina and port noise, but we didn't find it troublesome. (Note that the lift bridge schedule could throw off arrival and departure since you need to travel over it to reach the marina.)

Cell service was great for Verizon and T-Mobile, plus the campground WiFi is good, too.

Having clean, modern bathrooms, showers, and laundry available in the adjacent hotel is a nice amenity.

It's city camping, but it's a good spot to hang out for a few days to enjoy Duluth.

Tip: If you don't need a sewer hookup, go for the higher numbered sites with electric and water only for better views. 

Another tip: Check the maritime visitor's center near the lift bridge for arrival and departure schedule of Great Lakes freighters. It's impressive to see them go by!

Good spot for city camping

In town, at marina, and boat dry dock yard. Fun for those that enjoy looking at boats and watching marine activities. No playground for children. 

Camping on a pier

Found this convenient spot in a pinch. We’re traveling in our car, camping without reservations and ended up empty. Pulled in here and a huge bonus was we kayaked the harbor and saw a huge boat come under the bridge! Not sure if we’d plan to stay here as we are more woodsy tent folks but ya find the sunshine even when the clouds are low and rolling in. Thanks for being here-saved us!

Photos of Lakehead Boat Basin

Real photos from real campers