Chippewa National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Chippewa National Forest 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 Chippewa National Forest, MN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Leech Lake Recreation Area is located in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest in Federal Dam, Minnesota on the Leech Lake River. The area is best known for its fishing and boat access to Portage Bay on Leech Lake, a famous perch, walleye and musky fishery.
Boating, canoeing and fishing are very popular activities. Anglers will find walleye, perch, bass, northern pike and musky, where every cast has the potential to yield a trophy. Miles of scenic hiking trails meander around Leech Lake, including the Soo Line, Heartland and North Country National Scenic Trails.
Leech Lake has 316 miles of shoreline and encompasses 14 natural lakes. A mixed forest of elm, ash, maple, basswood, birch, aspen and pine covers the area. Wildlife is abundant around the lake, where campers commonly hear the tell-tale call of loons out on the water.
Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee.
$35 / night
Reservations to all Chippewa National Forest Campgrounds can be made six months in advance. Stony Point is located on beautiful Leech Lake, in the heart of Minnesota's Chippewa National Forest. Visitors enjoy the area for its boating, canoeing, fishing and birding opportunities.
Boating and fishing are very popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the campground. Anglers will find walleye, perch, bass, northern pike and muskie, where every cast has the potential to yield a trophy-sized catch. A boat ramp and dock are located within the campground. Miles of scenic hiking trails meander around Leech Lake, including the Paul Bunyon State Trail, Heartland Trail, Soo Line Trail and North Country National Scenic Trail.
The campground is situated on the banks of Leech Lake in an open, grassy area, surrounded by an old growth forest of oak, elm, maple and ash trees. Some trees are over 200 years old. Leech Lake is the third-largest lake in Minnesota at more than 112,000 acres, with nearly 200 miles of shoreline. Campers commonly hear the telltale call of loons on the water.
The very popular tourist town of Walker, Minnesota is located approximately 14 miles west of the campground, with a variety of restaurants, shops and festivals available there throughout the year.
$26 / night
Chippewa Loop is part of the Norway Beach Recreation Area, on the southern shores of beautiful Cass Lake in north central Minnesota. The campground is a perfect location for family camping, with excellent boating and fishing opportunities.
Cass Lake offers many recreational activities, including boating, canoeing, water skiing and swimming. Anglers fish for walleye, northern pike, perch and trophy muskie. A boat ramp is nearby. Star Island, in the middle of Cass Lake, is a unique feature of the Chippewa National Forest. Six miles of trails wind around the island, which is home to 199-acre Lake Windigo. Hiking and biking trails are available in the area, including the Migizi Bike Trail and the Norway Beach Trail. The Norway Beach Visitor Center is nearby. This building, with its magnificent fireplace, is a monument to the talents and craftsmanship of Civilian Conservation Corps enrollees. Educational programs and displays depict Dakota and Ojibwe heritage and the area's flora and fauna. A variety of special events are held at the center throughout the year. A kid's fishing day is held in June, Bald Eagle Day is sometime in July, and Smokey Bear's birthday party is held in August. Interpretive programs are offered every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Cass Lake offers many recreational activities, including boating, canoeing, water skiing and swimming. Anglers fish for walleye, northern pike, perch and trophy muskie. A boat ramp is nearby. Star Island, in the middle of Cass Lake, is a unique feature of the Chippewa National Forest. Six miles of trails wind around the island, which is home to 199-acre Lake Windigo. Hiking and biking trails are available in the area, including the Migizi Bike Trail and the Norway Beach Trail. The Norway Beach Visitor Center is nearby. This building, with its magnificent fireplace, is a monument to the talents and craftsmanship of Civilian Conservation Corps enrollees. Educational programs and displays depict Dakota and Ojibwe heritage and the area's flora and fauna. A variety of special events are held at the center throughout the year. A kid's fishing day is held in June, Bald Eagle Day is sometime in July, and Smokey Bear's birthday party is held in August. Interpretive programs are offered every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The campground is situated on the banks of Cass Lake, in a forest of mature red and white pine trees. Some sites overlook the scenic lake. Cass Lake is the largest of eight lakes that make up the Cass Lake Chain of Lakes. The lake covers nearly 16,000 acres and has 27 miles of forested shoreline and sandy beaches.
The town of Cass Lake is four miles west of the campground, offering restaurants, a bank, grocery and hardware stores, a movie theater and museum.
$26 / night
Winnie Campground is remotely located on the west side of Lake Winnibigoshish in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest. Visitors come to the area to enjoy boating, trophy muskie fishing and beautiful scenery.
Lake Winnie offers excellent fishing opportunities for walleye, perch and muskie. It is one of Minnesota's premier fisheries. Boating on this 67,000-acre lake is also very popular. A boat ramp and harbor are located next to the campground. Many hiking and biking trails meander around the lake and its 141 miles of shoreline. A picnic area is adjacent to the campground. Hunting areas can be found in the surrounding forest.
The campground is situated on the western shore of the lake in a scenic forest of mature red and white pine. Some sites have lake views.
The town of Cass Lake, Minnesota is 25 miles west of the campground, offering restaurants, a bank, grocery and hardware stores, a movie theater and museum.
$16 / night
Leech Lake Recreation Area is located in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest in Federal Dam, Minnesota on the Leech Lake River. The area is best known for its fishing and boat access to Portage Bay on Leech Lake, a famous perch, walleye and musky fishery.
Boating, canoeing and fishing are very popular activities. Anglers will find walleye, perch, bass, northern pike and musky, where every cast has the potential to yield a trophy. Miles of scenic hiking trails meander around Leech Lake, including the Soo Line, Heartland and North Country National Scenic Trails.
Leech Lake has 316 miles of shoreline and encompasses 14 natural lakes. A mixed forest of elm, ash, maple, basswood, birch, aspen and pine covers the area. Wildlife is abundant around the lake, where campers commonly hear the tell-tale call of loons out on the water.
Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee.
$35 / night
Reservations to all Chippewa National Forest Campgrounds can be made six months in advance. Stony Point is located on beautiful Leech Lake, in the heart of Minnesota's Chippewa National Forest. Visitors enjoy the area for its boating, canoeing, fishing and birding opportunities.
Boating and fishing are very popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the campground. Anglers will find walleye, perch, bass, northern pike and muskie, where every cast has the potential to yield a trophy-sized catch. A boat ramp and dock are located within the campground. Miles of scenic hiking trails meander around Leech Lake, including the Paul Bunyon State Trail, Heartland Trail, Soo Line Trail and North Country National Scenic Trail.
The campground is situated on the banks of Leech Lake in an open, grassy area, surrounded by an old growth forest of oak, elm, maple and ash trees. Some trees are over 200 years old. Leech Lake is the third-largest lake in Minnesota at more than 112,000 acres, with nearly 200 miles of shoreline. Campers commonly hear the telltale call of loons on the water.
The very popular tourist town of Walker, Minnesota is located approximately 14 miles west of the campground, with a variety of restaurants, shops and festivals available there throughout the year.
$26 / night
Guide
I came in late October. As are most of the campsites in upper Minnesota this time of year, the owner told me they were closed. But he was happy to let me stay overnight for a reduced off-season fee. There were no hookups at this time of the year. It's a very pleasant lake. A lot of permanent RVs parked here. It's very quiet, although there is a highway that runs right next to the property. For my very small off-season fee, I got a shower included!
Scout
Was here every summer in the late eighties and early nineties as a kid with my family and it’s still as nice and peaceful as it was then. I’ll continue to keep coming back every summer
Traveler
This is our second year and starting into our third. This campground has been great for our family. Everyone in the campground is very friendly, pool is amazing and the lake is great for fishing. It is a seasonal campground so it is awesome to be able to leave our camper here year-round.
Guide
The coordinates go to bear landing boat ramp culdesac. Nice views and about one good spot there, but may have someone pulling up to check out if the spot is taken or fish or use ramp. But it was a Fri night for me and just one car of two hunters came checking the spot for birds then left after a few minutes. Calm quiet crisp late Aug night. I honestly recommend take the first spot on right after turn in from main road its about 100 yards from main road. Its private there or theres other small dirt openings along road while going toward culdesac. Obviously if you go to far off bear landing rd you may hit on private property though so watch for signs.
Guide
A free county camp very well maintained grass with nice toilet, clean well water, firepit, benches all well cared for. I was alone all day mid week in summer until a big rig pulled up at 10pm and took half the other spots about a dozen horses. It seemed cool for one night as a tenter but a clicky type of horse owners environment where they may not want folks without horses. A nice creek near by with space and a interesting place for my dogs to soak in all the smells even if its just one night.
Guide
About a quarter mile from main road but very rough road meaning huge holes, just go slow. A few spots right next to the lake maybe 5 but the loop is generally close together for 3 of them. Its a really nice secluded spot actually with fresh clear cool waters. The mid summer bugs werent as bad when there was slight winds. May get adventurous and explore the rustic trails around the lake. Lots of wood sticks around to gather as well. Maybe you get lucky and are only one there to feel like in the movie castaway.
GuideAn old national forest campsite, rustic with ground fire pits. Good for tent. You will be able to see the drive in spots by the fire pits. About 6 spots. Only two other RV people there mid summer weekday. The spots are spread out decently. Theres a boat ramp and an old outhouse toilet. Be ready to bring bug spray. Dont miss the sign while driving down 6 mile lake rd, the coordinates work better on map directions.
Scout
Lots of amenities, $60+ /night, guest fees. More open with less “trees and camping” feel so not for everyone but we liked it.
Traveler
This was an overnight stopover our way west. The site was spacious compared to some state parks. There were plenty of trees and a bit of terrain changes that made them more appealing. The lake was large and inviting (except for current swimmer's itch breakout). The bathrooms and showers were clean and the park staff was pleasant.
Guide
Came across this park while looking to put together a four-day trip in our travel trailer. This is a great park with great facilities and a great lake. No big boats allowed no more than 10 mph. No no waterskiing. Makes it ideal for paddling, kayaking, and calm water.
Scout
I stayed here for 2 nights. I was with my parents who had an RV but I just stayed in a tent in the back of their spot. It was a very clean park. You can tell they take care of it. Showers were nice. Pool was warm. Everyone at the park seemed nice. It's not on the lake but there is a boat landing with 2 ramps about a mile away. It's right on a major bike trail.
ScoutAll hookups needed are available, including sanitary, 30 and 50 amp, and water
Guide
The primitive campsites were very spaces but surrounded by poison ivy. An outhouse was nearby and water accesses well. Shows were clean and staff extremely friendly.
Guide
Great campground right on Leech Lake. A quick drive to Walker if you need any supplies. Plenty of options for getting firewood near by.
We were on site 23 and it was a huge site (as were most sites) No issues with neighbors being noisy other than a yapping dog. Site was nice and level.
There are some sites that are definitely less desirable around the main bathroom / shower house.
With the wind off the lake bugs were well managed - but this is MN in the summer - so there were mosquitoes and flies - but that is expected.
Grass was well maintained
Beach was great albeit shallow. But nice soft sand.
Wouldn't have any qualms about going back
FYI - they don't supply a solo stove - but I love mine so I use it instead of the fire ring
Scout
We were scheduled for 5 nights, but extended to 8 because it was such a great spot. Don and his wife were very nice, and super helpful. We checked in late, and Don even helped us set up camp. Nice pool too. Showers and bathrooms are very clean. Laundry is nice. Highly recommend if you can snag a spot.
Guide
This campsite was a bit confusing for me to find and I still wonder if I’m at the right place. It’d be a peaceful night if it weren’t for the generator running all night across from me 😤 The mosquitoes are terrible, but that’s expected. I also thought it’d be on the water but it’s not… The road can also be pretty tough so be prepared if your pulling a trailer. I don’t think this was what I expected
Scout
I recently camped at BP4, on Desoto Lake. They have maybe recently added bear boxes to these two sites (3&4), I didn't see that mentioned in any reviews or the MN park website. The trail was a bit swampy and horrible with mosquitoes but the camp sites themselves were not bad at all. A very nice spot, secluded and beautiful.
Guide
Absolutely nothing interesting about this place. It’s just a standard issue dirt lot with a slight incline. Open parking, no sites.
Guide
I had the entire park to myself. Beautiful view of the Mississippi River, not far from the headwaters. Enjoyed the sounds of nature as I relaxed in site #6. I took advantage of the on-site fire wood via the Yodel Portal app. Amazed that I had the place to myself.
Guide
Was here last year also. Great place for older people that have a national parks card. $13.00 a night is unbeatable. Park is always clean and well maintained. And free laundry too. Yes, there are skeeters, but this is summer in Minnesota. You learn to deal. Quiet and not packed at all. Site is large and flat and trees galore.
Traveler
Very rustic and quiet. Great beach and fishing Peer is awesome as well. Catch lots of Sunny’s right next to the dock. Great place to teach kiddos how to fish. Highly recommend for a good rustic camping experience.
Guide
Small and well maintained park as you would expect for a USACE site. Super clean bathrooms. Level sites and great views of the Mississippi.
Road noise from Hwy 2 is a downside.
Scout
It was ok. It was free. Per US Forest service website, this is now a free camping area. There was an established fire ring and marked camping spots. The mosquitoes were out of this world but perhaps after so much camping in the south we are just spoiled. There were a lot of other people camping but at least 5 sites available on Friday 7/5/24 late in the day.
Traveler
This will be our 4th time up here. Great Place to stay at. Lake is beautiful and good fishing. Has a boat dock and parking. Site we were in is kinda smaller but we made it work. Facilities are clean and well taken care of.
Scout
I stayed for 2 nights. it was beautiful and serene. There is a bear box which was helpful to store food and supplies since I was Hammocking. Great trees for Hammock. I was also able to get internet so I was able to see a big storm coming. The birds and insects were suddenly silent and the clouds came in fast. I was able to check weather apps and go to the shelter a mile toward the parking lot and wait out the storm.
Traveler
Very nice area with a water access, fire pit and outhouse. About a 10-15 min drive from main road and there are more campsites to find further in
Ranger
This campground is incredibly peaceful. Even with kids and most spots full, it’s just quiet. Lake is beautiful. Things are clean.
Camping near Chippewa National Forest, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin or a spacious RV site, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Camping near Chippewa National Forest, Minnesota, offers a unique blend of nature and community. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Chippewa National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, Chippewa National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 197 campgrounds and RV parks near Chippewa National Forest and 12 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Chippewa National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chippewa National Forest is Lake Bemidji State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chippewa National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Chippewa National Forest.
What parks are near Chippewa National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Chippewa National Forest that allow camping, notably Mississippi River Headwaters - Leech Lake and Mississippi River Headwaters - Cross Lake.
