The Land of 10,000 Lakes is also notable for its likewise numerous assortment of trails and campgrounds for avid lovers of the great outdoors. Minnesota has many diverse natural environments to explore all across the state. While there are lots of spots to choose from, here are a couple especially neat sites to consider for your next foray when camping in Minnesota.


Part of the massive Dulux Complex rock formation, Eagle Mountain stands at a whopping 2,301 feet, the highest point of elevation in the state. Isolated from higher ground for hundreds of miles and overlooking several different lakes and a vast forest, the peak offers excellent opportunities to take a bird’s eye view of Minnesota’s rich natural beauty.


In addition to the campsites adjacent to Whale Lake, there are also many trails that run along the mountain, through the woods, and beside the lakes. Just keep in mind that Eagle Mountain’s trails overlap with the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, so be sure to get a BWCAW permit if you plan to cross over. Plus, you need an overnight permit from the Forest Service in nearby Tofte, MN.


The starting point for the grand Mississippi River, Lake Itasca, rests within Itasca State Park. The park hosts a variety of camping amenities such as lodges and internet access. You can also stop at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center to learn more about the lake and its link to the Mississippi. Or you can check out the University of Minnesota’s Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories campus.


In addition to excellent camping facilities, Lake Itasca has many other outdoor sights and activities for visitors to explore. Multiple trails snake by the shores of the lake and into the adjacent wilderness, and it’s definitely a great place to experience the beauty of Minnesota’s northern ecosystems. Plus, you can go fishing at the lake, assuming you have the necessary permits.


With so many different campsites and trails throughout Minnesota’s diverse natural environments, there’s bound to be one that’s just right for you. Whatever you’re looking for in your camping experience, whether it’s finding deluxe accommodations or exploring unique trails or getting a great view of the landscape, you’re sure to have a blast camping in Minnesota. 

Minnesota

The Best Camping in Minnesota | 100+ MN Campgrounds

Searching for the best camping near Chester, MN? Chester is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Chester, MN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Chester

The Best Camping Near Chester, Minnesota

Aefintyr is a camping and recreation company located in the scenic woods of the Whitewater River Valley in Southeastern Minnesota. We offer beautiful [blufftop hike-in camps](<https://www.aefintyroutdoors.com/en/blufftop-hike-in-camps>), cozy treehouse inspired camper cabins, outfitting and outdoor experiences. Perfect relaxation destination or home base for your Whitewater Valley adventures. Aefintyr is a small operation that values peace, quiet and quality over quantity. Get away from crowds and get into the woods! Onsite, enjoy a campfire, stargazing, hiking and observing the amazing animals, plants and fungi.

Nearby recreation opportunities include:

Elba Fire Tower - 1 miles

South, Middle and North Forks of the Whitewater River for trout fishing, river tubing, canoeing or kayaking - 1 mile

Whitewater State Park which offers miles of hiking trails in the bluffs, a swimming beach and additional fishing opportunities - 2 miles

Whitewater Wildlife Management Area for fishing, hunting and hiking - 2 miles

Gas station / c store, restaurant and 2 bars in the town of Elba - 1 mile







Aefintyr

Rochester-Marion KOA

This secluded campsite hosts one party of up to twelve people at a time. It is located below the scenic Bluff hollow along Root River. Pitch your tent in the forest or along the shores of the winding river. 

 Proximity to the river makes this place great for boating, fishing, and swimming. Amenities include a fire pit, picnic table and outhouse with a compostable toilet. Carry in your own water, firewood, food, and shelter.



Bluff Hollow on Root River

Chester Woods Park

Hidden Meadows RV Park

Carley State Park

Schools of trout happily swim through the lazy Whitewater River and various spring fed creeks of Whitewater State Park. And while it’s known for its fantastic fishing opportunities, the park also boasts year-round interpretive programs, a modern Visitor Center, and an especially appreciated lack of mosquitos, unique for the region. 

 Whitewater is well seasoned, with a number of historical attractions within and nearby. In fact, 2019 marks the 100th anniversary of the park. To commemorate the occasion, local conservationists and naturalists have teamed up to release a special Oral History Project from stories of campers and those native to the region. 

 Explorers and adventurers will love this park’s diverse selection of attractions and oddities. Home of the park office and interpretive services, the Whitewater Valley Visitor Center should be your first stop. The friendly Park staff are ready to help you plan your visit and load you up on information, and even loaner equipment such as GPS units, fishing kits, discovery kits for kids, and birding kits. Don’t skip the Discovery Room, which showcases nature displays, exhibits and a spotting area to observe the local bluebirds, cardinals, hawks and bald eagles flying about. 

 The vast expanse of outdoor wilderness is really what you’ll want to check out. If you only have time for a quick visit, check out the Chimney Rock Trail for an awesome view of the Whitewater River. Those searching for a more accessible hike can take the Meadow Trail, which drops off right into a grassy valley, surrounded by dramatic Minnesota bluffs. During the hot and humid summers, go unwind at the beach for a refreshing dip in the cold, spring-fed water. Those more interested in history lovers should visit the famous Elba Fire Tower. Built in 1933, this sturdy tower offers cozy 360 degree views of the entire wetland region below. You’ll be especially grateful for the chance to unwind, thanks to the arduous 500-step climb required to ascend to the top. 

 Finally, firmly planted atop the land sits Inspiration Point; a beautiful limestone rock outcrop that overlooks the entirety of the Whitewater valley. Known as the most popular attraction within Whitewater State Park, visitors can still discover solace from their troubles. In fact, this is the only overlook in the entire park where there are no signs of civilization anywhere in sight. With just a little imagination, standing atop Inspiration Point on a clear, calm day can make you feel as if you could step down into a deep forested paradise, unspoiled and far from the reach of society. 

 Whitewater campground here is plentiful, with every site having full electric hookups and full-through capabilities. The campground features a full range of amenities including regularly placed shower houses with laundry facilities, and a number of group camping areas as well. Furthermore, there are 5 cabins available with various sleeping capabilities.



Whitewater State Park - Minneiska Campground

Oxbow County Park

Tilly's American Travelers RV Resort

Autumn Woods RV Park

Are you in need of a campground near Houston, MN? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Houston. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Houston camping trip.

Houston

The Best Camping Near Houston, Minnesota

Cleveland is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Cleveland is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Cleveland, reviewed by campers like you.

Cleveland

The Best Camping Near Cleveland, Minnesota

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Minneapolis. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Minneapolis campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Minnesota camping adventure.

Minneapolis

The Best Camping Near Minneapolis | Minnesota Campgrounds

St. Paul is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. St. Paul is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near St. Paul, MN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

St. Paul

The Best Camping Near St. Paul, Minnesota

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Rochester, MN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Rochester is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Rochester camping trip.

Rochester

The Best Camping Near Rochester, Minnesota

Looking for the best campgrounds near Duluth, MN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Duluth, MN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Duluth

The Best Camping Near Duluth, Minnesota

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near BloomingtonMn. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of BloomingtonMn. Find the best campgrounds near BloomingtonMn, MN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

BloomingtonMn

The Best Camping Near BloomingtonMn, Minnesota

Bloomington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Bloomington is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Bloomington, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Bloomington

The Best Camping Near Bloomington, Minnesota

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Brooklyn Park, MN has a lot to offer. Brooklyn Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Minnesota camping adventure.

Brooklyn Park

The Best Camping Near Brooklyn Park, Minnesota

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Plymouth, MN has a lot to offer. Plymouth is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Plymouth, MN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Plymouth

The Best Camping Near Plymouth, Minnesota

Chippewa National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Chippewa National Forest. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Chippewa National Forest camping trip.

Chippewa National Forest

The Best Camping Near Chippewa National Forest, Minnesota

Campers can find some of the best camping opportunities in Minnesota near the Canadian border in Voyageurs National Park. Camping in the park is limited to pitching a tent or staying in a rustic cabin. Campers who want a little luxury can stay in a 20th-century hotel by picturesque Kettle Falls. Campsites near Ellsworth Rock Gardens have views of the artist’s collection of abstract sculptures on the terraced outcrop. Campgrounds by the park’s three lakes are perfect for nature and water lovers. Fish from the bank or take a boat out to explore the various islands. RV campers will also find the necessary hookups and amenities to enjoy their time exploring the park and MN.

Voyageurs National Park

The Best Camping Near Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Searching for the best camping near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, MN? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Minnesota camping adventure.

St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

The Best Camping Near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Minnesota

Join the fun near Superior National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Superior National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Superior National Forest, MN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Superior National Forest

The Best Camping Near Superior National Forest, Minnesota

Saint Croix National Scenic River, MN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Minnesota camping adventure.

Saint Croix National Scenic River

The Best Camping Near Saint Croix National Scenic River, Minnesota

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Loyalhanna Lake, MN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Loyalhanna Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Loyalhanna Lake, MN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Loyalhanna Lake

The Best Camping Near Loyalhanna Lake, Minnesota

Crooked Creek Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Minnesota camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Crooked Creek Lake camping trip.

Crooked Creek Lake

The Best Camping Near Crooked Creek Lake, Minnesota

Looking for the best campgrounds near East Branch Clarion River Lake, MN? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of East Branch Clarion River Lake. Find the best campgrounds near East Branch Clarion River Lake, MN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

East Branch Clarion River Lake

The Best Camping Near East Branch Clarion River Lake, Minnesota

Searching for the best camping near Tionesta Lake, MN? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Minnesota camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Tionesta Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Tionesta Lake

The Best Camping Near Tionesta Lake, Minnesota

Looking for the best campgrounds near Canyon Lake, MN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Canyon Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping in Chester

Top Campgrounds in Chester (118)

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