RV campgrounds near Bovey, Minnesota provide varied options for travelers exploring the Chippewa National Forest region. Located at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, the area experiences cool northern Minnesota temperatures with summer averages in the 70s and winter lows regularly below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to the region's harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: Trout Lake Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities directly from their shoreline. According to camper Jake, "Stayed here for two nights in tents. Used it as a base camp while me and some friends were mountain biking RedHead Mountain and Tioga over the weekend. Beautiful spot, kind of secluded away from the rest of the campers but not tucked away by any means. Right on the lake."
ATV trail riding: Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel & RV Campground connects directly to extensive trail systems. As Elijah R. notes, "Quiet little place, far enough away from too many things to make you feel like you're in town but anything you need is a hop skip and jump away. Paved walking and biking trails and hundreds of miles of ATV trails connected right to the rv park."
River exploration: The Mississippi River headwaters region offers paddling opportunities from several campgrounds. At Pokegama Dam Campground, Janet R. mentions, "Highlights include fishing in the rapids below the dam, or in the still river water above it, camping and relaxing under the tall pines in the campground, canoeing and kayaking on the river."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the Bovey area feature generously sized campsites. At Pokegama Dam Campground, TyAnn J. observed, "There are 19 extra large campsites that can accommodate a large RV, boat & trailer, and vehicle with room to spare, and also two gorgeous campsites right along the bank of the Mississippi River."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Multiple RV parks near Bovey emphasize community spaces. At Prairie Lake Campground, Danita H. shared, "Very laid back campground with a great area for both boats and swimming! I loved the vibe here! I would highly recommend this campground for both tent and RV experiences!!!"
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region generally maintain high cleanliness standards. Shari M. noted about Pokegama Dam, "Small campground, large sites with electric, tables and fire grills. Nice restrooms! We used our Senior National Park pass for 1/2 of $26. Sweet deal!!"
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV campgrounds in Bovey close during winter months. At Trout Lake Campground, David T. mentioned, "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."
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. Stephen L. noted about Pokegama Dam Campground, "Sites are level gravel pads. On the water sites have no beach shoreline lots of cattails. Highway noise is constant and Trains go by often all hours of the day."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Minnesota National RV Park, MickandKarla W. reported, "We got 3 bars LTE on Verizon and no CG WiFi. The only problem with site 25 is that the entrance to site 24 comes in at a weird angle right next to the entrance of site 25."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Pokegama Dam Campground, Melinda S. mentioned, "It is an excellent Campground that cost around $26 a night there is on-site electricity but not water or sewer there are several stations close by then you can hook a hose to and fill. The lots are spacious and has a good size playground."
Beach swimming: Big Winnie Store RV Park & Campground provides family recreation options. Janet R. noted, "There is swimming at a nearby beach but it is not on the premises. However, the grounds are meticulously maintained and the camping prices cant be beat--$20 a night for tent camping, and $35 a night for full RV campsite with hookups. There is a playground, laundry facilities, and full bathrooms."
History opportunities: Several campgrounds provide educational experiences. Janet R. mentioned about Pokegama Dam, "Unless you are here for the fishing on site, though, you will probably use this campground as a base to do day trips in the area, as the campground is not big enough to feature hiking trails and other on-site activities."
Tips from RVers
Golf access: Minnesota National RV Park caters to golfing enthusiasts. Bret S. explains, "This is a relatively new (2016?) campground built right next to the Minnesota National Golf Course clubhouse, and in the corner surrounded by Savannah holes 8 and 9. It's literally inside the golf course. Gravel pads, some a bit out of level. All 50 amp water and sewer."
Utility placement: Several RV campgrounds near Bovey have utilities positioned at the rear of sites. MickandKarla W. observed at Minnesota National RV Park, "The utilities are in the back of pad in this CG, so you may need 20+ feet of electric, sewer, or water cord/hose depending on your rig's configuration. The sewer grade is a bit up hill."
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds have high pressure systems requiring regulators. According to MickandKarla W., "The water pressure is very good at 60+ psi, so suggest a reducer. The sites were gravel with a picnic table and a nice fire pit."
