RV sites near Esko, Minnesota are positioned in the St. Louis River watershed at approximately 1,280 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with average summer temperatures reaching 75-80°F during peak camping months from May through September. Campgrounds in this area typically see seasonal closures by mid-October due to northern Minnesota's early frost dates.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Oak Lake Campground provides boat rentals for anglers visiting the 180-acre lake. "Great fishing lake! This campground provides boat rental and a swimming beach," notes a camper who enjoyed the fishing opportunities at Oak Lake Campground.
Explore Banning State Park: Located just half a mile from the state park entrance, Banning RV Park offers convenient access to hiking trails and the Kettle River. "Great proximity to Banning State Park. Enjoyed a great day of hiking around this state park and enjoying the water and ruins of old buildings," shares a visitor who used Banning RV Park as their base camp.
Downtown Duluth activities: When staying at urban camping options, visitors can explore Duluth without moving their RV. "Lots to do in this cute town, lots of walking around and hanging out with tourists. These types of places are always a treat for me, since we don't tow a car," mentions a reviewer who stayed at DECC/Amsoil Arena RV Parking.
What campers like
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds feature private lakes or ponds for swimming and fishing. "We were traveling with friends and the staff made it work out for us to have sites next to each other. Walked the grounds and had fun looking for agates in a rock pile. The small lakes or ponds around the campground were a nice touch," explains a guest at Red Pine Campground.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Pet owners appreciate dedicated spaces for their animals. "The fenced in dog park was a big bonus for our pup. The grounds hosted outdoor games and volleyball/basketball courts," reports a visitor about their experience at Banning RV Park.
Spacious sites at certain campgrounds: Not all RV parks have cramped quarters. "Ogston RV Park is a great campground, it's like a little slice of heaven with wide open spaces. The space between campsites is impressive, lots of room to walk, roam, stretch, or whatever strikes your fancy," shares a camper about Red Pine Campground.
What you should know
Railroad proximity: Train noise affects multiple camping areas near Esko. "Cons: Noisy highway and train nearby," warns a camper who stayed at Northland Camping & RV Park.
Water hookup logistics: Some parks have unusual water connection setups. "Water hookups were shared with other sites and required 'y' connections at the spigots. Our water source ended up being 75' plus from our RV," explains a guest about their experience at Banning RV Park.
Limited amenities at urban locations: City-adjacent RV parking offers location benefits but fewer amenities. "This spot is basically a convenient place to park an RV while visiting Duluth. Close to the interstate, real close, and within 1/2 mile of the most visited tourist attraction in Minnesota. Nothing fancy, a place to park with electricity if you want it," notes a DECC/Amsoil Arena RV Parking visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreation facilities: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. "There are a couple of ponds at which people fish and a couple of small playground areas," mentions a visitor to Red Pine Campground.
Consider seasonal campgrounds with activities: Organized events can enhance family stays. "The campground host was very helpful. Office and store was clean and well cared for," reports a visitor to Minnesota National RV Park.
Check beach conditions: Water access varies between campgrounds. "Sites were right by the lake and the lake was awesome," shares a visitor at Oak Lake Campground, while another notes "The beach was ok."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional preparation for level parking. "Most sites were level except for the occasional pot hole and mud puddle. Some trees were planted in the RV spot areas," reports a camper who stayed at Spirit Lake RV and Marina.
Bring extra water hose: Water connections at some campgrounds require long hoses. "The water hookup was so far away that I needed to buy another hose to reach it," warns a visitor to Banning RV Park.
Check utility positioning: Hookup locations vary significantly between campgrounds. "The utilities are in the far back of the site. I needed about 20' of sewer, electric, and water hose to reach my rig," explains a visitor to Minnesota National RV Park.
