RV sites near Baxter, Minnesota offer access to the scenic Brainerd Lakes region, known for its 460+ lakes and mixed forests of pine, birch, and oak. The camping season generally runs from April through October with a few parks accommodating winter camping. Many RV parks in the region are located near golf courses, trail systems, or lakes with concrete pads and spacious sites set among mature pine trees.
What to do
Golfing nearby: Fiddlestix RV and Golf Resort combines camping with golf access. "The golf course was under new design construction due to adding additional sites, but it was playable," notes one camper who visited during renovations.
Water activities: Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular at Birch Bay RV Resort where they offer "free kayak and paddle board use" with "gorgeous sunsets" over their lake according to reviewer Mary F.
Trail access: The Paul Bunyan Trail connects multiple communities near Wildwedge Golf and RV Park. One visitor shared, "Rode our bikes on the Paul Bunyan Trail to Nisswa and had some ice cream at The Chocolate Ox. Did a little shopping and got a beer at the brewery."
Ice fishing: Winter campers can experience unique opportunities at area lakes. A visitor to Hidden Bay RV Resort reported, "I'm talking winter camping on the lake on the Ice in an 'Ice Castle' catching walleye... Lots of other ice fisherman in January and February. My largest walleye here was a slot fish."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campgrounds in the region often feature larger-than-average sites. At R.V. There Yet Campground, a visitor noted, "Each site has tons of space and lots of trees between sites. No looking into your neighbors site. Plenty of space for hammocks!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and grounds are consistently mentioned in reviews. At RV Resort Village, a camper shared, "Shower house was spacious and very clean. The grounds were beautifully landscaped with full grass."
Pet-friendly amenities: Most parks accommodate pets with designated areas. Birch Bay RV Resort is described as "very dog friendly" with a reviewer mentioning the "whole place is immaculate."
Concrete pads: Several RV parks feature concrete pads for easier setup. A reviewer at RV Resort Village mentioned, "Many lots were set with concrete slabs, making set-up fast and easy."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access can be challenging at some parks. When visiting R.V. There Yet Campground, one visitor observed, "The road was very bumpy. This time of year it is fairly frozen, but could be messy in wet weather. Class 5 or gravel would be an awesome addition. The current road is primitive and might be difficult with RVs."
Seasonal occupancy: Many parks have a high percentage of seasonal residents. At Fiddlestix RV and Golf Resort, a reviewer noted, "With the pool, new putt-putt golf, and other family activities, the CG was full of people."
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is typically needed, especially for weekend stays. For Riverview RV Park, a visitor mentioned, "You do need to call for a reservation and leave your credit card number to hold your site. At this time it is not possible to book online or by email."
Lake access: Despite names suggesting waterfront locations, not all parks offer direct water access. A reviewer clarified about Riverview RV Park, "Despite the name, it is not on a river. It is near a small creek/tributary to the Pine River."
Tips for camping with families
Play areas: Look for campgrounds with dedicated spaces for children. Birch Bay RV Resort offers a "huge kiddy play area on water" according to one reviewer.
Recreation options: Many parks have both on-site and nearby activities. A visitor to Wildwedge Golf and RV Park appreciated that "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained."
Traffic awareness: With many seasonal residents using golf carts, be mindful of campground traffic. At Fiddlestix RV Resort, a camper observed, "Just about every seasonal guest here has a golf cart, and they drove them around continuously during our Labor Day stay."
Local attractions: The Brainerd Lakes area offers numerous family-friendly destinations. A Wildwedge visitor mentioned, "Great location for lots of activities" with local shops and attractions within biking distance.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Position varies between parks, requiring different hose lengths. One camper at Riverview RV Park And Campground mentioned they needed "about 35' of electric and water hose" with sewer being "more central" requiring "about 18' of sewer hose."
Water pressure: Regulators may be needed at some parks. A camper noted, "The water pressure was good, and we put on a reducer."
Satellite reception: Tree coverage affects connectivity. One RVer reported, "Our area had a few shade trees, but we had no problem hitting the north sky for Starlink."
Winter camping options: Some RV parks accommodate ice fishing setups with plowed access. Hidden Bay RV Resort provides "well plowed roads, nice showers" for winter ice fishing in specialized RVs called Ice Castles.
