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Camping

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Nature

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Established Camping

Willow River

6 Reviews

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Willow River, near Willow River, Minnesota, is a cozy campground that offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With spacious sites surrounded by tall trees, it’s an ideal spot for setting up tents or RVs, and you can even bring your pets along.

This campground has some solid amenities, including drinking water and pit toilets, which campers appreciate. Visitors have noted that it’s typically less crowded, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of peace and quiet. One camper mentioned, “It’s typically less crowded. Little bit off the beaten path but a good campground nonetheless.”

For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s plenty to explore nearby. The location is just a few miles from the Soo Line Trail, which is perfect for four-wheeling and other adventures. Plus, you’re close to town, so grabbing supplies or enjoying a meal is a breeze.

While some noise from the nearby freeway can be heard, it doesn’t seem to bother most campers. As one reviewer put it, “Usually hardly anyone is here,” which adds to the charm of this hidden spot. Whether you’re looking to relax by the campfire or explore the surrounding nature, Willow River has a welcoming vibe that makes it worth a visit.

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Location

Willow River is located in Minnesota

Directions

In town of Willow River take North St. (E) to frontage road of I-35; turn left (N) 0.5 mi.

Coordinates

46.32800047 N
92.82600027 W

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Connectivity

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T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T5G
Excellent Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BY

Bent Trout Lake Campground

11 min away

Snake River Campground

34 min away

Drive Time

Presented by

41 min from Duluth, MN
1 hr 24 min from Minneapolis, MN
1 hr 38 min from St. Cloud, MN
2 hrs 31 min from Eau Claire, WI

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T5G
Excellent Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

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Katherine T.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 3, 2025

Wooded with i35 Access

This was a nice spot to camp overnight before an event in the area. There were mosquitoes a plenty due to the lake. Good spacing between sites and wooded enough to almost forget how close you are to i35. There is some traffic noise though as a city dweller I slept right through it. Pit toilets were clean.

Month of VisitJune

Silas P.

Scout

Reviewed May. 23, 2025

Very quiet

It's very nice with beautiful views of the water. I will say that ticks have been a issue on my dogs. Other then that love it!

Site21

Month of VisitMay

Scott M.

Legend

Reviewed Dec. 22, 2022

Quiet

Been here a few times throughout the year and it’s typically less crowded. Little bit off the beaten path but a good campground none the less.

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Nigel N.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 11, 2021

Super nice and not a lot of people

Kind of off the beaten path. You have to take the Willow River exit and go through the town a little bit. There's a small sign next to the Squirrel Cage restaurant and bar. You'll be next to the freeway and you'll hear the noise but it's not that bad. Usually hardly anyone is here. They have picnic tables, pit toilets and water.

Month of VisitJune

Josh M.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 6, 2019

General Andrew's

Decent four wheeling campsite for a weekend trip. Located a few miles from the soo line trail. A little bit smaller of a location and traffic. Offers outhouses and water. In town amenities close by.

Tia H.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 19, 2017

Hidden treasure

The campsites are large, beautiful tall trees, lots of trees for hammocks, and on the way to Duluth. We would definitely come back.

SiteSite 11

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Willow River Campground from Duluth, Minnesota?

Willow River Campground is conveniently located on the way to Duluth, making it a popular stopping point for travelers. The exact distance isn't specified, but it's close enough to serve as a good basecamp for those planning to visit Duluth. Many campers use it as an overnight stop before events or further travel to Duluth.

Where is Willow River Campground located in Minnesota?

Willow River Campground is located just off Interstate 35 in the small town of Willow River, Minnesota. To find the campground, take the Willow River exit and travel through town for a short distance. Look for a small sign next to the Squirrel Cage restaurant and bar which marks the entrance to the campground. The location offers a somewhat secluded feel while maintaining convenient highway access.

Is Willow River Campground part of a state park or forest?

Willow River Campground does not appear to be part of a state park or forest. It seems to be a standalone campground near the town of Willow River. The campground offers a more rustic, less crowded experience compared to state park facilities, while still providing access to natural areas and outdoor recreation opportunities including four-wheeling trails and the nearby Soo Line Trail. For official designation information, contact the campground directly.

What amenities are available at Willow River Campground?

Willow River Campground offers basic amenities including pit toilets, water access, and picnic areas. The campground features large campsites with plenty of tall trees that provide shade and perfect spots for hammocks. There are beautiful water views from some sites. The campground is situated near town amenities, with the Squirrel Cage restaurant and bar located close to the entrance. The area also offers access to the Soo Line Trail for recreational activities.

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