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Best Campgrounds in Minnesota

4,344 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Minnesota campgrounds feature diverse options for outdoor experiences, from lakeside retreats to wooded settings. State parks like Split Rock Lighthouse and Jay Cooke offer established campgrounds with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables. Many Minnesota campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with sites at places like Gooseberry Falls State Park providing drive-in access. Cabins and glamping options exist at select locations such as Jay Cooke State Park and Blue Mounds State Park, expanding lodging possibilities beyond traditional tent sites.

Reservation requirements vary across the state, with most developed campgrounds accepting bookings several months in advance. "Clean bathrooms and water stations are available at many state parks, though campground services often close by 6pm," noted one visitor to Gooseberry Falls. Seasonal operation affects accessibility, with some campgrounds like Split Rock Lighthouse open only from April to October, while others such as Gooseberry Falls and Wild River remain accessible year-round. Winter camping requires additional preparation for snow and freezing temperatures. Minnesota's abundant lakes and rivers create mosquito-heavy environments during summer months, particularly after rainfall, making insect protection essential gear.

Campers consistently praise Minnesota's water-adjacent camping opportunities. Sites near lakes, waterfalls, and rivers receive particular mention in reviews, with water features enhancing the camping experience. "The park has several different biomes - oak forests, lakeshore, bog, pine forests with lovely hike-walks that can be as long or short as you need," reported one visitor about Lake Bemidji State Park. Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with some offering secluded, wooded sites while others position campsites in closer proximity. Several reviewers note increasing RV and generator use at state parks creating noise concerns at more densely arranged campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout Minnesota campgrounds, with birds, deer, and small mammals commonly sighted from campsites.

Best Camping Sites in Minnesota (1,243)

    1. Cart-In Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

    71 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7625

    $25 / night

    "Minnesota state parks are very clean. Friendly staff. Amazing views."

    "There are plenty of trees to cool things down and the lake is in sight of all parts of the campground. Trees for hammocks and fire pit for s'mores."

    2. Jay Cooke State Park Campground

    71 Reviews
    Carlton, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 384-4610

    $23 - $90 / night

    "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. "

    3. Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground

    70 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7100

    $25 - $75 / night

    "Well-spaced, secluded sites with convenient access to restrooms, water access, and hiking trails Steps away from the magnificent lake."

    "Stopped at Gooseberry on our way up the coast of Lake Superior on a long weekend."

    4. Baptism River Campground — Tettegouche State Park

    53 Reviews
    Illgen City, MN
    Website

    $25 - $35 / night

    "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds in northern Minnesota along the glorious shores of Lake Superior.  The campsites are surrounded by plenty of wilderness to allow some privacy. "

    "The north shore of Minnesota is beautiful. Granite cliffs line the drive north of Duluth Mn. This is where you will find Tettagouche State park."

    5. Blue Mounds State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Hardwick, MN
    Website
    +1 (507) 283-1307

    $24 - $50 / night

    "Quiet place with nice bike and walking paths. Electric only 30amp water close by. Full dump station."

    "Amazing remnant of Minnesota prairie set among the farm country."

    6. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park

    51 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3007

    $25 - $250 / night

    "Whitewater is by far one of the top state parks in Minnesota. Their camping facilities are clean with running water and free showers. The campsites are quite spacious but not too wooded."

    "Easy access to hiking trails. My site was close in distance to adjacent ones, but was on the edge by the creek, so it was pretty quiet."

    7. Interstate State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +1 (715) 483-3747

    $24 - $50 / night

    "This is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic"

    "Now that I live in Minnesota, I find myself frequenting the Taylors Falls side. Here you have the amazing "Pot Holes" from glacial waters and some pretty spectacular rock climbing."

    8. Temperance River State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Schroeder, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 626-4300

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Campground Review Temperance River State Park is just off of scenic Highway 61 north of Duluth, Minnesota about 60 miles."

    "We LOVE this campground, as it's an awesome place to to call home base for a bit and take day trips around the North Shore."

    9. Lebanon Hills Regional Park

    44 Reviews
    Apple Valley, MN
    Website
    +1 (651) 480-7773

    $24 - $42 / night

    "Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"

    "We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."

    10. Wild River State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +1 (651) 583-2125

    $23 - $90 / night

    "Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."

    "We stayed in campsite 29 in the drive in campsite over Labor Day weekend."

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Recent Reviews in Minnesota

4344 Reviews of 1243 Minnesota Campgrounds

  • Cari E.The Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 6, 2026

    Shipwreck Creek Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

    A summer beauty

    This is still a fairly new campground, having opened in 2022, but the crews did such a great job of ensuring the campground stays rooted in nature—the grounds are STUNNING in the summer months. The bathhouse is in pristine condition and one of the nicest I’ve ever been to (finally, someone installed numerous hooks for bags/towels!)

    The only real downside to the campground is that it’s a bit of a trek to literally everything else—the beach, lighthouse, and trailheads. If you don’t want to drive, there is a very nice paved bike path leading to the main areas of the park—getting to the beach takes less than 5 minutes as it’s mostly downhill, but be prepared for the uphill battle on your way back.

    There is also a dishwashing station behind the bathhouse, if needed. Currently the dump station is still being installed, but appears to be in the final stages and should certainly be available for the upcoming spring.

    Some sites are a bit close together, but there are also more private options—I was at 311 and while it was the furthest from the bathhouse, it had an extraordinary amount of privacy. It also had slightly less cell service (Verizon) as that end of the campground dips lower (also a smidge cooler temp wise), but there are great options for Starlink placement if needed.

  • AThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 4, 2026

    KOA Kampgrounds of America

    Albert Lea/Austin KOA

    Would have been OK for one night, but we decided ahead of time to spend 4 nights. The entry needs a lot of work.(Several potholes that need to be filled in along the whole driveway both sides. Laundry room was nice although 3 washers and 2 dryers seem odd. Only $2 to wash and /or dry. We didn't use the RR/showers but went in and looked at it and it looked nice. They had a small enclosed dog run. There was a very small playground. No activities for adults or kids while we were there. Just a camp site. They did have a few newer cabins. There was a sign that it was under new management, but no one introduced themselves as the new owners. When asked if we could check out an hour late, the young guy in the office said we don't usually allow that, but I suppose it would be OK if you donate to the children's fund that we sponsor.

  • T
    Aug. 4, 2026

    Oak Park Kampground

    Great Location

    Nice privately owned Campground with swimming pool. The owners and staff are very friendly. Close to Alexandria which has a Super Walmart and amenities.

  • J
    Aug. 4, 2026

    Crosby Memorial City Park

    Ugh, don’t know why I was expecting

    In town campground near in a busy park. Wasn’t to bad during the day but was awful at night. More street lights than I had anticipated but the worst was how many people drove through parking area of park late at night with loud music or the police using bright search lights after midnight or pulling people over in the parking lot. Only one shower in a public restroom with prison style equipment. If you want to be in town this is your spot otherwise I would look into other campgrounds.

  • RThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 4, 2026

    Temperence River Crossing

    Great spot just off Sawbill Trail and overlooking the Temperance

    Nice little campsite with a latrine erm Stauber and water access. W

  • Patrick W.The Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 2, 2026

    Backpack Campsites — Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

    GLAR Glacier Ridge Site

    Great site. Has a good fire ring. Has a wilderness toilet off away from the site. Trail into the site is well marked. You’ll get plenty of animal sounds from the beaver dam lake that is right by the site. Has a picnic table. There is only one tent pad. Not a completely level place for a second tent so prepared if you have two tents that one of them will be on a slight angle.

  • K
    Aug. 2, 2026

    Cross Lake Recreation Area

    Nice developed campground

    This is a large and popular developed campground. With camping options for a variety of campers. There are sites with both water and electric, some with just electric, and some without either. Do not expect quiet or solitude. This is a busy place. There are 2 shower houses with restrooms. Only 1 vault toilet. There are water spigots. There was only one boat launch in operation. The only garbage is by the park entrance. The biggest fault is the lack of facilities for the size of the campground. That being said the sites are spacious, shaded, and well maintained. This is a great place for boating and the beaches are nice and one is dog friendly. Staff are friendly and helpful.

  • grant S.The Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 2, 2026

    Hoodoo Valley Farm

    poorly marked

    Never could find the campground, as the address provided by Dyrt led us to a private residence, same area.  Campground not marked from the road at all and people in town had not heard of it

  • Kayla J.The Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 1, 2026

    M44 Big Dick Lake

    Great campsite!

    Amazing private site right on the lake. It was difficult to find the turn off and the path down to the site was pretty overgrown but once we made it down it was well worth it! Spacious site with a fire pit and picnic table. Close to the shore and has lots of big trees for hammocking! Would recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful, private, and free site!

Guide to Minnesota

Camping in Minnesota offers a unique blend of beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there's something for everyone in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

What to do

  • Explore the Trails: Many campgrounds, like Crow Wing State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails.”
  • Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground, offer boating and fishing. A visitor said, “Great campground right on Leech Lake... Plenty of options for getting firewood nearby.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot wildlife. One reviewer at Father Hennepin State Park Campground shared, “Hiking was great, we saw an albino deer on the hiking club trail!”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake Carlos State Park Campground noted, “Very clean restroom/shower house.”
  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Savanna Portage State Park Campground are loved for their beautiful surroundings. One camper said, “Savanna portage is gorgeous with serene lakes and some nice hiking!”
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds such as Crow Wing Lake Campground offer playgrounds and pools. A family shared, “This campground is fun for the whole family!”

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park warned, “The trails are... almost impossible to hike on simply because of the amount of mosquitoes.”
  • Reservation Systems: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Crow Wing State Park Campground mentioned, “Need to reserve online.”
  • Limited Services Off-Season: Some campgrounds may have limited services during the off-season. A camper at Sinclair Lewis City Campground noted, “The office was closed for the season with the water & electric turned off.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A parent at Crow Wing Lake Campground said, “There is a public beach, skate park, splash pad, and bike trail all located within walking distance of the campground.”
  • Pack Bug Spray: Protect your family from mosquitoes. One camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground advised, “Mosquitoes are brutal here, especially on the hiking club trail.”
  • Plan Activities: Keep kids engaged with planned activities. A family at Lake Carlos State Park Campground enjoyed, “Easy access to the beach. Hiking trail.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground mentioned, “My site was spacious for my 28-foot TT.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A camper at Crow Wing Lake Campground noted, “RV site had 30amp with FHU’s.”
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Sinclair Lewis City Campground said, “In town campground so it can be a little noisy at times.”

Camping in Minnesota is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the most scenic camping spots in Minnesota?

Minnesota's landscape offers breathtaking scenic camping spots throughout the state. Jay Cooke State Park Campground features dramatic river gorges, swinging bridges, and photogenic landscapes that make it a must-visit destination. The park provides both open and private campsites with excellent facilities. For lakeside views, Winnie Campground offers peaceful settings with huge lakeside campsites overlooking Lake Winnibigoshish, providing cool breezes and stunning vistas. Other scenic options include Split Rock Lighthouse State Park with its iconic lighthouse and Lake Superior shoreline, Temperance River State Park with its gorgeous river gorges and Lake Superior access, and Frontenac State Park, which provides sweeping views of the Mississippi River valley with excellent hiking opportunities.

What are the best campgrounds in Minnesota for tent camping?

Minnesota offers exceptional tent camping experiences across the state. Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground in southern Minnesota provides wooded sites with ample privacy, making it perfect for tent campers seeking a peaceful retreat. Located on Lake Pepin, it offers beautiful water views and swimming opportunities just 1.5 hours from the Twin Cities. For a more wilderness experience, Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite in Itasca State Park provides secluded tent camping near the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Other excellent options include Sylvan City Park with its easy access to downtown amenities and the Root River Trail, and Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which combines tent camping with extensive recreational opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, and swimming, all within the suburbs.

When is the best season for camping in Minnesota?

The optimal camping season in Minnesota typically runs from late May through early October, with each period offering unique experiences. Summer (June-August) provides warm temperatures ideal for water activities, with Savanna Portage State Park Campground offering excellent swimming at Loon Lake's beach area and access to four lakes for fishing and paddling. Fall (September-early October) brings spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds, making it perfect for hiking at Sibley State Park, where you can experience the transition zones between hardwood forest, savannah, and prairie with vibrant autumn colors. Spring camping (May-early June) offers wildflowers and bird watching but can be wet. While some hardy campers enjoy winter camping, most campgrounds close or offer limited facilities during the snow season, with state parks that remain open providing a serene winter wilderness experience.

Which Minnesota state parks offer the best camping facilities?

Bear Head Lake State Park Campground stands out with its varied campsite types and layouts that accommodate everything from tents to travel trailers, with electrical hookups available. The park features clean shower facilities and access to excellent canoeing on the adjacent lake, plus proximity to the Taconite Trail. Frontenac State Park offers spacious cart-in sites that provide a good balance of convenience and seclusion. Other state parks with exceptional facilities include Gooseberry Falls with its iconic waterfalls and Lake Superior access, Whitewater State Park with well-maintained campgrounds and excellent fishing opportunities, and Itasca State Park, which provides multiple camping options from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites, plus historic lodges and cabins for those seeking additional comfort.

Keep Exploring

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