Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Brainerd, MN
Crow Wing State Park Campground welcomes dogs throughout all camping areas with specific pet-friendly tent sites offering river views and access to hiking trails. The campground provides shaded campsites with picnic tables and fire rings where pets can remain on-site with their owners. Leashed dogs are permitted on all trails within the park, including the scenic Mississippi River path. Gull Lake Recreation Area and Lum City Park also accommodate pets with designated camping areas that include water and electrical hookups. Campers report that while most sites maintain adequate spacing between neighbors, the electric sites tend to be more crowded with less privacy for dogs needing space. The clean restrooms and shower facilities are accessible to campers with pets, though no dedicated pet washing stations are available. Dogs must be leashed at all times and owners must clean up after their pets throughout all campground areas.
Canoe Landing Campsite at Crow Wing State Park provides secluded pet-friendly camping with direct river access where dogs can cool off during summer months. Red Rider Resort offers both tent and cabin accommodations that welcome pets, making it suitable for those seeking more substantial shelter with their animals. The Paul Bunyan Bike Trail passes through the park and welcomes leashed dogs, creating a 120-mile recreation option for active pet owners. Park rangers regularly maintain the grounds and enforce quiet hours, helping ensure a peaceful experience even with pets present. During peak summer weekends, sites fill quickly, so advance reservations are recommended for pet owners needing specific accommodations. True North Basecamp provides cabin options for those camping with dogs who prefer solid shelter. Wildlife encounters are possible in all camping areas, so keeping dogs secured is essential for both wildlife and pet safety. The seasonal camping availability varies by location, with most facilities open from early May through mid-October.