Cabin camping near Brainerd, Minnesota centers around the region's abundant lakes and recreational trails. Most cabin options sit on lake shores or within wooded areas, with varying levels of seclusion and privacy. Winter cabin accommodations can be limited with many facilities closing between October and May, though several state parks maintain heated cabins year-round.
What to do
Hiking trails: Crow Wing State Park offers several hiking options along the Mississippi River. "The hiking club trail straight from the campground was nice- I went on a few beautiful sunset walks to watch the sunset over the river," notes one visitor, who also mentioned the trails were well-marked and roads well-maintained.
Water recreation: Many cabin properties provide watercraft access. At Camp Holiday Resort and Campground, "Turtle lake channels over to another lake. Makes a great boat or kayak trip. Boat kayak paddle board and paddle boat rentals available," according to one camper who stayed at a lakefront site.
Mountain biking: The Cuyuna area offers extensive trail systems accessible from various cabin locations. A visitor to True North Basecamp noted, "We stayed in a cabin for a week of biking. Excellent location with all the trails. It has a great swimming area, though it did get deep fast for little kids. We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake."
What campers like
Lakefront access: Many cabins feature private docks and water views. At Red Rider Resort, "My kids had fun fishing for panfish off their dock and although we never made it, they have a swimming beach that is a bit down the MTB access trail," one reviewer shared.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse cleanliness receives frequent positive mentions. "The bathroom / shower house were very clean. Everything was new or very well maintained," noted a visitor to Red Rider Resort's tent site.
Proximity to towns: Cabin locations often provide easy access to nearby communities. One camper at True North Basecamp praised the "great little campground right near the town (easy to bike in for coffee or beer) but it feels like you're deep in the northwoods!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most Brainerd area cabin rentals require advance booking, particularly for summer weekends. This is especially true for sites with specific views or amenities.
Seasonal operation: Many resorts close during winter months. A reviewer at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park noted the winter camping situation: "This is one campground in Minnesota that offers a handful of electric hookups for winter camping... The vault toilet is not easy to find from where the electric openings are in the winter... The vault toilet is several rows over and down, making it hard to find if you don't already know where it is."
Insect preparedness: Mosquitoes and flies can be problematic during summer months. "Mosquitoes are extra brutal mid summer here so be prepared," warns one Mille Lacs Kathio State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several properties provide dedicated play areas. At Camp Holiday Resort, families appreciate that "there are two nice playgrounds here, a slide, water trampoline, nice beach, and nice, clean bathrooms. The sites aren't very private, but some are right on the lake with a beautiful view."
Activity variety: Properties with multiple recreation options benefit families. "We loved this campground and this area! The owners and staff were great. They have a small market and a game room. The resort was clean and well maintained. There is a beach. You can also rent water toys, boats and pontoons," noted a visitor about Camp Holiday.
Historical features: Educational opportunities exist within some parks. Crow Wing State Park contains historical elements that campers frequently mention: "Historic signs describing the old town are along the beginning part of the trail near the picnic area. Kinda fun to read about and feel what old settlements were like!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Be prepared with leveling equipment at lake properties. One camper at Camp Holiday Resort noted, "Most of the lake side sites were pretty uneven, bring plenty of leveling blocks. That was really the only negative we had, but it wasn't really a big deal because we came prepared with just enough leveling blocks."
Electrical hookups: Check power availability carefully as it varies by location. At Birch Bay RV Resort, campers appreciate the "full hookups, good resort wifi and good Verizon" signal, making it suitable for those needing connectivity.
Visitor policies: Some resorts have strict guest regulations. A reviewer at Birch Bay RV Resort cautioned, "We give this resort 5 stars because, despite it not being visitor friendly, they are up front in their policies about visitors and the place is great in all other respects. If you want to have visitors while staying here it is best to consider these policy before visiting as they are strictly enforced."
