Best Campgrounds near Carlton, MN

Join the fun near Carlton. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Carlton campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Carlton, MN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Carlton, Minnesota (120)

    1. Jay Cooke State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Carlton, MN
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 384-4610

    "Jay Cooke is really a must experience state park within easy driving distance to other parks in Minnesota and Wisconsin."

    "North east Minnesota has some very beautiful country. Highly recommend this spot. "

    2. Spirit Mountain Campground

    24 Reviews
    Proctor, MN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 628-2891

    "The downhill mountain biking is awesome (the kids still want to go back) and the Adventure Park was a lot of fun too - and a short walk from camp. "

    "We were pleasantly surprised with the campground when we rented one of their walk-in areas. The tent areas are pretty secluded and surrounded by woods with minimal neighbor friends."

    3. Pattison State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    South Range, WI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 399-3111

    "The hike-in sites are great, not too far to walk but you have privacy. One thing to note about the hike-in sites is that the trails aren't well marked."

    "Heavy storm and food damaged washed out the main freeway to the park, destroyed the river side trails from Little Manitou to Big Manitou falls and shut down the public beach and campgrounds for some time"

    4. Buffalo Valley Camping

    10 Reviews
    Esko, MN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 624-9901

    "Campground was so clean and nice trails to walk around. The bar & grill had great food and service. 10/10!"

    "Close to downtown Duluth (10 mins.)"

    5. Cloquet-Duluth KOA

    9 Reviews
    Carlton, MN
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 879-5726

    "Nice campground...a little rural but close to town. Helpful staff, decent size sites and hookups. Pool area was nice but busy on our stay. Great family camping."

    "The camp is close to Duluth but still far enough away to get you completely out of the city and, while exploring, we came across Jay Cook State Park (only about 15 min away) which is beautiful!!"

    6. Indian Point City Campground

    14 Reviews
    Proctor, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 628-4977

    "You are so close to the downtown area in this hidden cove. There are walking/biking trails around the grounds. There are few mosquitos and the staff is very friendly."

    "Near city and bike path. Quiet and friendly folks."

    7. Fond du Lac City

    9 Reviews
    Wrenshall, MN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 780-2319

    "Great place.Plenty to do.People that work there are freindly and helpful.Great mountain bike trails across the road,and hiking trails only right down the road about 6 blocks.Lots of Canoe and kayak rentals.Bath"

    "-kind campground hosts with quiet but well-used atvs

    -easy lake access with docks and shoreline

    -free wifi

    -this is a good day-of campsite if you’re looking for an adventure or a fun story to tell!"

    8. Knife Island Campground

    6 Reviews
    Esko, MN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 879-6063

    "The campground has an island you can take a wooden bridge over too that offers some fishing spots and a nice little walking trail. Fire ring and picnic table provided. "

    "Kayaking trips are great but sometimes finding a wilderness place to stay and keep yourself submerged, away from civilization can be tricky when traveling."

    9. Red Pine Campground

    9 Reviews
    Proctor, MN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 481-9210

    "We were traveling with friends and the staff (owners I believe) made it work out for us to have sites next to each other.

    Park felt well cared for and attended too."

    "It’s next to Duluth and looks like a city park. Many permanent residents. Very clean and comfortable. I’d stay again if I’m in the area. Now we’re driving north to find a moose."

    10. Spafford City Park

    3 Reviews
    Cloquet, MN
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 879-6758

    "Wedged between the St Louis River, the highway, and a ceiling tile factory, this campground has four tent sites on the edge of the river with the rest of the campground having full hookup sites for RV’"

    "On the west end of the property is access to a pedestrian bridge where you may find some fisherman in the summer. You can walk to the Northeastern Bar of the coffee shop."

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Recent Reviews near Carlton, MN

487 Reviews of 120 Carlton Campgrounds



Guide to Carlton

Camping near Carlton, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Jay Cooke State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The site was nice and secluded but still close to water and bathrooms," making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the St. Louis River. A visitor at Fond du Lac City Campground noted, "Great place. Plenty to do," highlighting the river's accessibility for water sports.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Savanna Portage State Park Campground often see various wildlife. One reviewer shared, "I always see lots of wildlife," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the secluded sites at Jay Cooke State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The circle this site was part of was just that," emphasizing the quiet and private atmosphere.
  • Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Amnicon Falls State Park Campground are praised for their cleanliness. One camper mentioned, "Clean toilets. Good water," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers at Buffalo Valley Camping often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor noted, "Very friendly owners and great campsites," making for a welcoming experience.

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. One camper warned, "Mosquitoes are brutal here," so bring bug spray.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Indian Point City Campground, may have fewer facilities. A reviewer mentioned, "The shower and bathroom are showing their age," indicating that some areas might need updates.
  • Noise Levels: Campers at Cloquet-Duluth KOA noted that noise can be an issue. One visitor said, "Our site was directly across from the playground," which might not be ideal for those seeking peace.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Secluded Sites: Look for spots that offer privacy, like those at Jay Cooke State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "We spent 2 nights at the back of the campgrounds in the most secluded area."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One camper at Pattison State Park Campground said, "Hiking trails were great!! Very picturesque," which can keep the kids entertained.
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Buffalo Valley Camping enjoyed the on-site bar and grill, saying, "The best chocolate fudge cake I've ever had."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Pattison State Park Campground mentioned, "Nice pull-through sites," which can be easier for larger rigs.
  • Bring a Leveling Kit: Some sites may require leveling. A visitor at Indian Point City Campground noted, "We had to work a bit to get our camper level," so be prepared.
  • Use Local Resources: Campers at Cloquet-Duluth KOA appreciated the nearby grocery store, saying, "Kwik Trip down the road has everything you forgot to bring."

Camping near Carlton, Minnesota, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Carlton, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Carlton, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 120 campgrounds and RV parks near Carlton, MN and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Carlton, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carlton, MN is Jay Cooke State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 66 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carlton, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Carlton, MN.

What parks are near Carlton, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Carlton, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.