Pet friendly camping near Brainerd, Minnesota centers around the Mississippi River with several campgrounds located at key points along its 120-mile recreational corridor. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and cool evenings dropping to the 50s. The lakes region features both lake and river camping options with diverse terrain from oak-pine forests to open meadows.
What to do
Hiking club trails: At Crow Wing State Park, access scenic sunset views directly from the campground. "You can join the hiking club trail straight from the campground, which was nice- I went on a few beautiful sunset walks to watch the sunset over the river," reports Sarah D. The trail is "just over two miles, all along the river, with pretty much continual sunset views if you take the trail East to West," according to HollyRose M.
Mountain biking: For cyclists, Red Rider Resort offers direct trail access to Cuyuna's mountain biking network. "Easy access to both single track and to paved cycling path. Sites are close but still felt private, especially when leaves fill in," notes Matthew H. The resort features "a bike trail heads off from camp, there's showers, a sauna, and a lake," according to Val Z.
Paddling: Experience the Mississippi River water trail by launching from multiple access points. "We were on a canoe trip down the Mississippi, which led us to this gem on the water," writes Amy G. about Baxter Canoe Camp. "Great access for canoeing and kayaking the Mississippi water trail. If you start at Kiwanis Park in Brainerd- you can make it to crow wing in four hours leisurely, or three fairly easily," explains HollyRose M.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campsites with privacy and water access rank highest among visitor reviews. "We grabbed a site just above the river. So peaceful and quiet. The few campers here on a late September day were mostly at the electric site area," shares Lindsey R. about Crow Wing State Park.
Convenient lake access: The region's lakes offer excellent fishing and paddling opportunities. At Crow Wing Lake Campground, "Great campground. Very clean and nice. Good fishing, nice lake and and good staff," says Brent G. The campground provides "lake front sites [that] are small width wise but your view of the lake makes up for it and helps the site feel more spacious," according to Melissa H.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities are consistently mentioned. "The bathroom and shower were clean and easily accessible," notes Sarah D. At Gull Lake Recreation Area, a camper mentions, "I really enjoyed this campground. Everything is level and clean and so well maintained. The beach was nice and clean-with playgrounds-and the water crystal clear. The bathrooms and vault toilets are the cleanest I've ever seen!"
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate from early May through October. "This park is nothing spectacular, but it was nice, wooded, and the staff were great. If you visit in the summertime, expect hellish mosquitoes and pack accordingly!" advises Sarah D. about Crow Wing State Park.
Site selection strategy: For privacy, choose non-electric sites at many parks. "The electric site area isn't super awesome, as it gets crowded and is more like a huge group camp. But the rest are way more private," explains HollyRose M. Similarly at Gull Lake Recreation Area, a reviewer notes, "This is an impressively well run campground nestled on both sides of the Gull River and on the shores of Gull Lake. The campsites are very large and impeccably maintained."
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife are present in the region. At Baxter Canoe Camp, a camper reported, "We did have a nighttime visitor in the form of something big and black and furry. We didn't see him, but heard the sounds of a bear. It never approached the tent, we never had to yell, and it never threatened. Simply grunted and 'barked' a few times, and then wandered away."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible recreation: Several campgrounds offer easy-access activities for children. "This campground is perfect for families with the heated pool, swimming beach, super playground and activities like horseshoes, shuffleboard, basketball, ladder golf, disc golf, and more," writes Kristen B. about Crow Wing Lake Campground.
Historical learning: Crow Wing State Park provides educational opportunities through its historical exhibits. "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!" explains HollyRose M. Another camper adds, "There is an old town site with informational plaques along the way that depict what life was like here in the 1890s."
Swimming options: Choose between lake and river swimming spots for different experiences. At True North Basecamp, "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. The shower/bathroom house was nice," reports Stacy M.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available at select parks. At Lum City Park, you'll find "50 amp service, water, fair wifi and dump station," notes Les W. Another camper adds, "It is a small campground. 15 sites. Firepits. Water and electricity. Shower and restrooms."
Site leveling: Most RV sites are well-maintained but preparation varies. At Gull Lake Recreation Area, "The sites are flat gravel (class5) no leveling blocks needed," explains Scott G. He adds the campground has "plenty of room for even the biggest rigs."
Parking considerations: Boat trailer parking is available but fills quickly on weekends. "The boat ramp was nice and a short walk over the dam from the campground. There is plenty of boat trailer parking but it did fill up on a Saturday," warns Melissa A. about Gull Lake Recreation Area.
