The Bay Lake area in central Minnesota sits within the Mississippi River basin, with several mine pit lakes formed from abandoned iron ore mines dating to the early 1900s. These mine pit lakes are known for their unusually clear water and steep underwater drop-offs. Most camping sites near Bay Lake, Minnesota are positioned around these former mining pits or connecting natural lakes, offering access to both water recreation and extensive trail systems.
What to do
Mountain biking at Cuyuna trails: The world-class Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area connects directly to several campgrounds, with routes for all skill levels. "The mountain biking trails were in great shape and were great for all skill levels. The lake was super clear and the small beach was wonderful," notes a visitor to Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.
Water activities on mine pit lakes: The Red Rider Resort offers direct lake access with unique features. "Beautiful views of the lake (mine pit) and swimming off of the private dock. If you want to fish here you must have a trout stamp," explains one camper. Another adds, "We want to come back and rent a cabin next time."
Historical exploration: Crow Wing State Park features interpretive trails documenting the area's history. "There is an old town site with informational plaques along the way that depict what life was like here in the 1890s. Excellent map signage on the hiking trails too," notes a recent visitor.
What campers like
Direct trail connections: True North Basecamp earns praise for its accessibility to trail systems. "Loved the proximity of True North to both Crosby restaurants and bars and the incredible trails of Cuyuna Country," writes a camper. Another mentioned, "Great rustic campground with trail access to Cuyuna MTB trails. Offers hot showers."
Clean facilities: Cuyuna Range Campground receives high marks for its infrastructure. "The sites were amazingly large with nice privacy between the lots. Easy to get into with plenty of room to spare. Each lot has full hook-ups, that was a huge bonus!" One reviewer notes the campground has "everything you need and nothing you don't."
Private sites: Unlike more crowded options, many campers value the spacing at certain campgrounds. "The site here was nice and wooded. Definitely a bit more private than other Cuyuna options," notes a Red Rider Resort visitor. Another camper commented, "Sites are close but still felt private, especially when leaves fill in."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most Bay Lake area campgrounds operate from May through October, but limited winter camping is available. "This is one campground in Minnesota that offers a handful of electric hookups for winter camping," notes a reviewer at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present in the area. "We loved this camp site. Very clean. The only downside depending on your view are the bears. There was a black bear in our camp 15 minutes after we went to sleep," reports a Mille Lacs Kathio camper.
Insects: Mosquitoes and flies can be intense during peak summer months. "Mosquitoes are extra brutal mid summer here so be prepared," warns one camper. Another reports: "Before we even stopped the car the deer flies were pelting the windows. Hundreds."
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends. Visitors to Cuyuna Range Campground note, "The website is easy to use, and the owners are responsive and super nice people."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Crosby Memorial City Park offers family-friendly amenities. "A very cool place for the kids! Swimming beach on Serpent lake is nice for the whole family. When they're tired of swimming, the skate park is always a good time. The playground is modern and very nice," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer fishing access for kids. "My kids had fun fishing for panfish off their dock," mentions a Red Rider Resort visitor. The fishing in mine pit lakes differs from natural lakes, with trout being stocked in some locations.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas appropriate for children. "We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake. We did hike up to the top of the camp area and were glad we stayed in the cabins," explains a True North Basecamp visitor discussing their family stay.
Cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, cabins provide a comfortable alternative. "Cabins are basic but clean with comfortable beds, a table and AC! Right on the lake and direct access to the trails," reports a True North Basecamp guest.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most RV sites in the area accommodate medium-sized units but have limitations. "The roads are very bumpy and narrow. There is no wood for sale, no dump station and the water has a funky taste," advises a Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area visitor.
Limited full hookups: While many campgrounds offer electric, not all provide full hookups. "Sites in the Cuyuna area have 50/30/20 amp electric, water, and sewer connection. Nice layout with ample trees between every site, and each pad is super wide," notes a Cuyuna Range Campground visitor.
Dump station locations: Some campgrounds require off-site dumping. "It's a nice little campground on the Mississippi River... Now the bad if the wind is blowing wrong you smell the waste water treatment plant next door," mentions an Aitkin County Campground guest.
