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Established Camping

Willow River

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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

Detail location of campground

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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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    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

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

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
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
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.

  • Review photo of Willow River by Scott M., December 22, 2022
  • Review photo of Willow River by Scott M., December 22, 2022
  • Review photo of Willow River by Scott M., December 22, 2022
  • (13) View All
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
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.

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
  • Review photo of Willow River by Tia H., August 19, 2017
  • Review photo of Willow River by Tia H., August 19, 2017
  • Review photo of Willow River by Tia H., August 19, 2017

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.