Best Campgrounds near Clearwater, MN

Camping near Clearwater, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Bunker Hills Regional Park. One visitor mentioned, "Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails." This park is great for both hiking and biking enthusiasts.
• Fishing: At Lake Maria State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing in the scenic lakes. A camper shared, "We took several strolls along the fishing ponds and into the woods."
• Swimming: The beach at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park is perfect for a refreshing swim. One reviewer said, "Swimming beach is nice as well."

What campers like:

• Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve. A visitor noted, "Peaceful, quiet, with spacious sites that are situated in a staggered way, so you never feel like you’re on top of each other."
• Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One review from Lebanon Hills Regional Park stated, "The showers were clean and the hot water was great."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Father Hennepin State Park Campground said, "Everyone here at Baker is so helpful and accommodating."

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground warned, "Mosquitos so thick we had to wear nets over our faces."
• Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. One visitor at Lebanon Hills Regional Park advised, "Must reserve months in advance as usually full."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Ann Lake, are more primitive with fewer amenities. A camper noted, "Camping here is primitive with few amenities."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Bunker Hills Regional Park, which has playgrounds and a water park. One family shared, "It feels like a hidden paradise."
• Pack Bug Spray: Given the presence of mosquitoes, especially in summer, it's essential to bring bug spray. A camper at Lake Maria State Park Campground mentioned, "Be prepared with bug spray/repellant!"
• Plan for Outdoor Activities: Engage in hiking, fishing, or swimming to keep the kids entertained. A visitor at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park said, "Great campground with all the amenities one might need."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A camper at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve noted, "RV pads are gravel. Shower facilities are very nice."
• Be Mindful of Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough roads. A visitor at Ann Lake mentioned, "The road into the campground was a bit bumpy."
• Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to use the sanitary dump stations available at campgrounds like Crow Wing State Park Campground for convenience. A camper shared, "Dump station on site."

Camping around Clearwater, Minnesota, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!