Best Camping near Akeley, MN

Akeley is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Akeley campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Akeley. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Akeley, MN (225)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point

    3. Stony Point

    10 Reviews
    29 Photos
    74 Saves
    Walker, Minnesota

    Overview

    Reservations to all Chippewa National Forest Campgrounds can be made six months in advance. Stony Point is located on beautiful Leech Lake, in the heart of Minnesota's Chippewa National Forest. Visitors enjoy the area for its boating, canoeing, fishing and birding opportunities.

    Recreation

    Boating and fishing are very popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the campground. Anglers will find walleye, perch, bass, northern pike and muskie, where every cast has the potential to yield a trophy-sized catch. A boat ramp and dock are located within the campground. Miles of scenic hiking trails meander around Leech Lake, including the Paul Bunyon State Trail, Heartland Trail, Soo Line Trail and North Country National Scenic Trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated on the banks of Leech Lake in an open, grassy area, surrounded by an old growth forest of oak, elm, maple and ash trees. Some trees are over 200 years old. Leech Lake is the third-largest lake in Minnesota at more than 112,000 acres, with nearly 200 miles of shoreline. Campers commonly hear the telltale call of loons on the water.

    Nearby Attractions

    The very popular tourist town of Walker, Minnesota is located approximately 14 miles west of the campground, with a variety of restaurants, shops and festivals available there throughout the year.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers' Paradise
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers' Paradise
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers' Paradise
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers' Paradise
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers' Paradise
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers' Paradise

    6. Campers' Paradise

    6 Reviews
    21 Photos
    62 Saves
    Nevis, Minnesota

    Located on a private island in beautiful Lake Belle Taine in Minnesota’s northern lake country, Campers’ Paradise is a unique, destination campground. The perfect destination for your family vacation, reunion or to utterly relax on Island time. Generations of campers return year after year to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Belle Taine, sun on the sandy beaches, catch that “photo fish,” roast marshmallows over a blazing campfire, gaze at the shimmering northern lights, and just relax, relax, relax.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park

    7. Trails RV Park

    6 Reviews
    6 Photos
    9 Saves
    Walker, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Pines Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Pines Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Pines Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Pines Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Pines Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Pines Campground

    8. Sunset Pines Campground

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    21 Saves
    Hackensack, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $52 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground

    9. Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground

    13 Reviews
    117 Photos
    55 Saves
    Longville, Minnesota

    Overview

    Leech Lake Recreation Area is located in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest in Federal Dam, Minnesota on the Leech Lake River. The area is best known for its fishing and boat access to Portage Bay on Leech Lake, a famous perch, walleye and musky fishery.

    Recreation

    Boating, canoeing and fishing are very popular activities. Anglers will find walleye, perch, bass, northern pike and musky, where every cast has the potential to yield a trophy. Miles of scenic hiking trails meander around Leech Lake, including the Soo Line, Heartland and North Country National Scenic Trails.

    Natural Features

    Leech Lake has 316 miles of shoreline and encompasses 14 natural lakes. A mixed forest of elm, ash, maple, basswood, birch, aspen and pine covers the area. Wildlife is abundant around the lake, where campers commonly hear the tell-tale call of loons out on the water.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Vagabond Village Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Vagabond Village Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Vagabond Village Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Vagabond Village Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Vagabond Village Campground

    10. Vagabond Village Campground

    4 Reviews
    6 Photos
    27 Saves
    Park Rapids, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 225 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Akeley

Recent Reviews in Akeley

451 Reviews of 225 Akeley Campgrounds


  • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dower Lake Recreation Area
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Dower Lake Recreation Area

    Has everything you need

    offers sites with no hookups and sites with electric (no water, but potable water station is provided to fill up prior to parking) bathrooms and showers in the campground. Fire ring and picnic table provide for each site. Firewood and sewage dump station also provided for free to registered campers. There is a dock, sand swimming beach, horse shoe pits, disc golf, basketball court, and softball field.

  • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunnybrook Park
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Sunnybrook Park

    WOW!

    park features fishing in Whiskey Creek, (stocked with rainbow trout, crappies, and sunfish), picnic area, children's playground, semi-enclosed shelters, campground area with full hook-up and tent sites, two camping cabins, softball fields, frisbee golf, volleyball area and a children's zoo, which includes buffalo, whitetail deer, peacocks, and golden pheasants. Site had picnic table and fire ring.

    We thoroughly enjoyed the frisbee golf and the zoo!

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Memorial Forest Park
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Memorial Forest Park

    Green and Peaceful

    This is a beautiful quiet place to park it for a while. There is everything here from 43 ft Class A rigs to tents. We were the only ones for about four days when we got here and now the campground is completely full. It’s the middle of September, and you wouldn’t know you were practically in the middle of the city with all the foliage. The only downfall is you have to unhook to go dump every so often. Thankfully the dump site is inside the campground

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Clint Converse Campground
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Clint Converse Campground

    Peaceful

    Was here every summer in the late eighties and early nineties as a kid with my family and it’s still as nice and peaceful as it was then. I’ll continue to keep coming back every summer

  • Elizabeth T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle's Landing
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Eagle's Landing

    Amazing Family Campround Great for all ages

    This is our second year and starting into our third. This campground has been great for our family. Everyone in the campground is very friendly, pool is amazing and the lake is great for fishing. It is a seasonal campground so it is awesome to be able to leave our camper here year-round.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Den Landing Canoe Camp
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Bear Den Landing Canoe Camp

    Hidden spots a plenty along road

    The coordinates go to bear landing boat ramp culdesac. Nice views and about one good spot there, but may have someone pulling up to check out if the spot is taken or fish or use ramp. But it was a Fri night for me and just one car of two hunters came checking the spot for birds then left after a few minutes. Calm quiet crisp late Aug night. I honestly recommend take the first spot on right after turn in from main road its about 100 yards from main road. Its private there or theres other small dirt openings along road while going toward culdesac. Obviously if you go to far off bear landing rd you may hit on private property though so watch for signs.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Creek Horse Camp
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Grant Creek Horse Camp

    A nice camp depending on timing

    A free county camp very well maintained grass with nice toilet, clean well water, firepit, benches all well cared for. I was alone all day mid week in summer until a big rig pulled up at 10pm and took half the other spots about a dozen horses. It seemed cool for one night as a tenter but a clicky type of horse owners environment where they may not want folks without horses. A nice creek near by with space and a interesting place for my dogs to soak in all the smells even if its just one night.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cassaway Dispersed
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Camp Cassaway Dispersed

    Free dispersed camping

    About a quarter mile from main road but very rough road meaning huge holes, just go slow. A few spots right next to the lake maybe 5 but the loop is generally close together for 3 of them. Its a really nice secluded spot actually with fresh clear cool waters. The mid summer bugs werent as bad when there was slight winds. May get adventurous and explore the rustic trails around the lake. Lots of wood sticks around to gather as well. Maybe you get lucky and are only one there to feel like in the movie castaway.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 6 Mile Campground
    Aug. 28, 2024

    6 Mile Campground

    Free campsite nice lake

    An old national forest campsite, rustic with ground fire pits. Good for tent. You will be able to see the drive in spots by the fire pits. About 6 spots. Only two other RV people there mid summer weekday. The spots are spread out decently. Theres a boat ramp and an old outhouse toilet. Be ready to bring bug spray. Dont miss the sign while driving down 6 mile lake rd, the coordinates work better on map directions.

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Vagabond Village Campground
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Vagabond Village Campground

    Clean, lots to do

    Lots of amenities, $60+ /night, guest fees. More open with less “trees and camping” feel so not for everyone but we liked it.

  • Micheal S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Bemidji State Park Campground
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Lake Bemidji State Park Campground

    Nice State Park

    This was an overnight stopover our way west. The site was spacious compared to some state parks. There were plenty of trees and a bit of terrain changes that made them more appealing. The lake was large and inviting (except for current swimmer's itch breakout). The bathrooms and showers were clean and the park staff was pleasant.

  • Adam L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails RV Park
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Trails RV Park

    Very nice RV park

    I stayed here for 2 nights. I was with my parents who had an RV but I just stayed in a tent in the back of their spot. It was a very clean park. You can tell they take care of it. Showers were nice. Pool was warm. Everyone at the park seemed nice. It's not on the lake but there is a boat landing with 2 ramps about a mile away. It's right on a major bike trail.

  • Phillip S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowen Lodge
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Bowen Lodge

    Great place to camp

    All hookups needed are available, including sanitary, 30 and 50 amp, and water

  • Bjoern C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Itasca
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Camp Itasca

    Nice place to explore itasca state park

    The primitive campsites were very spaces but surrounded by poison ivy. An outhouse was nearby and water accesses well. Shows were clean and staff extremely friendly.

  • Denny K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crosslake Campground
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Crosslake Campground

    Bad time

    We got to the site and we had low branches asked them to cut them. They said they were at there standards so we had hold it up. Them the site next to us had to have rock concrete us and 4 others called several times nothing

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Point
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Stony Point

    Great campground right on Leech Lake

    Great campground right on Leech Lake.  A quick drive to Walker if you need any supplies.  Plenty of options for getting firewood near by.

    We were on site 23 and it was a huge site (as were most sites)  No issues with neighbors being noisy other than a yapping dog.  Site was nice and level.

    There are some sites that are definitely less desirable around the main bathroom / shower house.

    With the wind off the lake bugs were well managed - but this is MN in the summer - so there were mosquitoes and flies - but that is expected.

    Grass was well maintained

    Beach was great albeit shallow. But nice soft sand.

    Wouldn't have any qualms about going back

    FYI - they don't supply a solo stove - but I love mine so I use it instead of the fire ring

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeze Campgrounds
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Breeze Campgrounds

    Great place!

    We were scheduled for 5 nights, but extended to 8 because it was such a great spot. Don and his wife were very nice, and super helpful. We checked in late, and Don even helped us set up camp. Nice pool too. Showers and bathrooms are very clean. Laundry is nice. Highly recommend if you can snag a spot.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulch Lake
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Gulch Lake

    Not thrilled with this spot

    This campsite was a bit confusing for me to find and I still wonder if I’m at the right place. It’d be a peaceful night if it weren’t for the generator running all night across from me 😤 The mosquitoes are terrible, but that’s expected. I also thought it’d be on the water but it’s not… The road can also be pretty tough so be prepared if your pulling a trailer. I don’t think this was what I expected

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from DeSoto Lake Backpacking Sites — Itasca State Park
    Jul. 29, 2024

    DeSoto Lake Backpacking Sites — Itasca State Park

    Great hike-in sites

    I recently camped at BP4, on Desoto Lake. They have maybe recently added bear boxes to these two sites (3&4), I didn't see that mentioned in any reviews or the MN park website. The trail was a bit swampy and horrible with mosquitoes but the camp sites themselves were not bad at all. A very nice spot, secluded and beautiful.

  • Tracy M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Schoolcraft State Park Campground
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Schoolcraft State Park Campground

    Hidden Gem

    I had the entire park to myself. Beautiful view of the Mississippi River, not far from the headwaters. Enjoyed the sounds of nature as I relaxed in site #6. I took advantage of the on-site fire wood via the Yodel Portal app. Amazed that I had the place to myself.

  • Kerry K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Leech Lake Reservoir Leech Lake Recreation Area
    Jul. 25, 2024

    COE Leech Lake Reservoir Leech Lake Recreation Area

    Great campground

    Was here last year also. Great place for older people that have a national parks card. $13.00 a night is unbeatable. Park is always clean and well maintained. And free laundry too. Yes, there are skeeters, but this is summer in Minnesota. You learn to deal. Quiet and not packed at all. Site is large and flat and trees galore.

  • Elizabeth D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Lake County Campground
    Jun. 29, 2024

    Long Lake County Campground

    Beautiful Area

    This will be our 4th time up here. Great Place to stay at. Lake is beautiful and good fishing. Has a boat dock and parking. Site we were in is kinda smaller but we made it work. Facilities are clean and well taken care of.

  • Diane R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite — Itasca State Park
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite — Itasca State Park

    Remote, beautiful, trumpeter swans, loons and beavers!

    I stayed for 2 nights.  it was beautiful and serene.  There is a bear box which was helpful to store food and supplies since I was Hammocking.  Great trees for Hammock.  I was also able to get internet so I was able to see a big storm coming.  The birds and insects were suddenly silent and the clouds came in fast.  I was able to check weather apps and go to the shelter a mile toward the parking lot and wait out the storm.



Guide to Akeley

Camping near Akeley, Minnesota, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of options for outdoor fun. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking Trails: Explore the many trails in the area. Campers rave about the “many bike and walking/hiking trails” at Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park, where the park is well-maintained and offers beautiful views.
  • Fishing and Swimming: Enjoy fishing or swimming in the lakes. One visitor at Hungry Man Forest Campground mentioned, “I was able to bank fish right from the campsite,” highlighting the great access to fishing spots.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Lake Bemidji State Park Campground noted, “Took many pictures of loons on Mary’s lake,” showcasing the area's rich biodiversity.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities. A review for Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park states, “Men’s bathroom is cleaned twice a day! Showers are clean and water is hot!”
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One visitor at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground said, “This campground has large, nicely spaced sites with lots of mature trees.”
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. A review for Campers' Paradise highlights, “The staff were wonderful... helpful, courteous and polite.”

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Stony Point warned, “With the wind off the lake bugs were well managed... but this is MN in the summer - so there were mosquitoes and flies.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds are more rustic. A review for Gulch Lake mentions, “There are no actual bathroom facilities,” so plan accordingly.
  • Reservations: Some sites are first-come, first-served. A visitor at Hungry Man Forest Campground noted, “You can’t reserve a site here,” so arriving early is a good idea.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. A review for Trails RV Park mentions, “The kids love the pool,” making it a great spot for families.
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Bear Paw Campground said, “Bear Paw is probably best, it’s right on the lake and more spread out.”
  • Nature Exploration: Encourage kids to explore nature. A visitor at Lake Bemidji State Park Campground shared, “Great trails to hike,” perfect for family adventures.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Pine Ridge Campground mentions, “Some sites require quite a bit of leveling if you're coming with a camper.”
  • Dump Stations: Know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground noted, “There’s also laundry facilities available,” which can be a plus for longer stays.
  • Road Conditions: Be aware of road conditions leading to campgrounds. A visitor at Trails RV Park mentioned, “It’s right on a major bike trail,” making it easy to access local attractions.

Camping near Akeley, Minnesota, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions