Alysia B.
Scout
ScoutMont du Lac Resort
Nice paved spots
Nice campground with flat paved spots and good facilities. Water park for extra charge, but a great free playground for non-swimmers
Camping near Finlayson, MN
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The forested areas surrounding Finlayson, Minnesota feature a mix of state park, private, and county-managed campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Banning State Park Campground near Askov offers tent, RV, and cabin options along the Kettle River, known for its Class V rapids and rock formations. Closer to town, Banning RV Park and Campground provides full hookup sites with 50-amp service for larger rigs. Robinson Park Camping offers a more intimate riverside experience with basic amenities, while Willow River in General C.C. Andrews State Forest provides year-round primitive camping opportunities. The region balances developed facilities with more secluded options, many situated along rivers or near recreational trails.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this part of Minnesota. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited winter options. Reservations are essential during summer weekends, particularly at Banning State Park where demand regularly exceeds availability. As one visitor noted, "The problem for campers at this location is that the number of campsites available is exceeded by demand, especially in summer and on weekends. Reserve early if you would like to stay here!" Mosquitoes and mud can be problematic in lowland areas, even during dry periods. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with spotty coverage in more remote locations. Winter camping requires four-wheel drive vehicles and additional preparation for snow conditions.
Waterfront sites receive consistently high ratings from campers visiting the area. The Kettle River corridor offers opportunities for whitewater paddling, with Banning State Park serving as a hub for kayakers and rock climbers. According to one reviewer, "This is a beautiful state park along the Kettle River, famous for its rock formations, the whitewater Kettle River, and beautiful oak-ash forests." Fall camping is particularly recommended for hikers, with one visitor reporting, "We decided to try to extend the camping season by staying here in the first weekend of October, and we were rewarded greatly! The colors were near peak and the water was really high." Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, birds, and occasionally bears or wolves in more remote areas. Campers frequently mention the privacy of sites, with vegetation providing natural screening during summer months.
Best Campgrounds near Finlayson (168)
1. Banning State Park Campground
"Bawning park is a walk through the history of the area the self guided tour is both informative and entertaining and the hike along the river is one to remember featuring the only class 5 rapids in Minnesota"
"There are miles of trails to hike, including along the river and to a waterfall, all kinds of paddling and rafting possibilities(bring your own, or join a trip sponsored by a local outfitter), or go bouldering"
from $24 - $80 / night
Check Availability2. Banning RV Park and Campground
"And, actually, it may be your go-to option even if campsites at Banning are available, because this RV campground is located only½ mile from the Banning State Park entrance, and because it is at a higher"
"Close to stores and town but surrounded by enough of the outdoors to feel secluded. Would highly recommend this campground."
from $25 - $60 / night
Check Availability3. Willow River Campground — General C.C. Andrews State Forest
"Kind of off the beaten path. You have to take the Willow River exit and go through the town a little bit. There's a small sign next to the Squirrel Cage restaurant and bar."
"Located a few miles from the soo line trail. A little bit smaller of a location and traffic. Offers outhouses and water. In town amenities close by."
from $50 / night
Check Availability4. Robinson Park Camping
"I wanted to be close to Banning State Park without the reservations. Early spring in Minnesota left us little cover between sites, but we were the only ones there."
"Ropinion park is a historic walk through time with year around activities your bound to find something to interest you from hiking and rock climbing to fishing and boating this little park has something"
from $10 - $30 / night
Check Availability5. Grand Casino RV Resort
"We booked our stay at the RV Resort so we wouldn't have to drive two and a half hours back and forth during the two day Grand RockTember Music Festival."
"Adjacent to a large casino with hotels and restaurants. Less than two miles from I35. Best thing is that when we arrived at our spot, there was a tree that needed trimming."
6. Moose Lake State Park Campground
"The trails are nice walking trails with picturesque views of the lake. Campsite fee was $23, vehicle registration $7 for the day, firewood $6 for the day."
"Unbelievable AGATE MUSEUM at the main entrance. Men’s bathroom was very clean and showers worked great. Nice well groomed trails, well maintained campsites and campgrounds."
from $24 - $75 / night
Check Availability7. North Country Campground
"Close to the highway so a lot of traffic noise until about midnight. People fly down the road even though the speed limit is 20mph. 3 minutes from Willow River, 45 minutes to Cloquet & Pine City."
8. Dago Lake
"Free dispersed camping off Dago Lake Road between Willow River & Sturgeon Lake. Quiet aside from the occasional car. Pitch black at night."
9. Snake River Campground
"Their are mosquitoes this year and I don't think the four wheeler trails are highly used I was hoping there would be hiking trails we'll probably just stay one night because the limited walking and I won't"
"Nice calm place, nice trails. Good location"
from $17 - $22 / night
Check Availability10. Father Hennepin State Park Campground
"Right on Lake Mille Lacs, one of Minnesota’s largest. Walking distance from the bakery and bar! Newer, updated facilities. Boat access. Lake side sites (if you book early enough)."
"Smaller sites and a little privacy in the lake campground. The ones next to the waters edge have a nice view and are more completely in the shade. The inner sites have more sun."
from $24 - $68 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 55 min from Duluth, MN
- 1 hr 22 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 1 hr 36 min from St. Cloud, MN
- 2 hrs 29 min from Eau Claire, WI
Recent Camping Photos near Finlayson, MN
167 Photos of 168 Finlayson Campgrounds
Janet R.
Banning RV Park and Campground
Lindsay T.
Banning State Park Campground
Lindsey H.
Robinson Park Camping
Tia H.
Willow River Campground — General C.C. Andrews State Forest
Deb M.
Grand Casino RV Resort
Casie S.
Snake River Campground
Karla J. B.
Moose Lake State Park Campground
Josh S.
Bent Trout Lake Campground
Tori K.
Old Logging Trail Campground — St. Croix State Park
Lily M.
Paint Rock Springs Campground — St. Croix State Park
Mike P.
Riverview Campground — St. Croix State Park
Johnny R.
South Isle Family Campground
Recent Reviews near Finlayson, MN
544 Reviews of 168 Finlayson Campgrounds
Cari E.
RangerJay Cooke State Park Campground
Everything is convenient
I stayed at two sites, the second being 41E, which has electric. This loop is perhaps the most central to the bath house, but all are conveniently located nearby and the dump station isn’t too far (but far enough to stay out of sight, out of mind). The bath house is fully handicap friendly and the shower heads can all the raised and lowered, and there are wheelchair ramps up to the facility. The dirt roads are miraculously pothole free and the drinking water spigots are blissfully cold if you’re here during a heatwave. Site 41E, like quite a few actually, has the fire pit behind/on the wrong side of your rv door, but no biggie. The biggest downside is that the site is rather unlevel, but if you are able to scoot all the way to the right (closest to the electrical tower), it’s not so bad. The bridge/park office/store is a quick 7 min walk, and the bath house is less than a 2 min walk.
When I was staying, we were hit with hazardous levels of wildfire smoke, and I was so impressed that the park staff opened visitor’s center early so that campers would have a place to escape the smoke. I’ve never stayed at any park where the staff goes so far above and beyond.
- Cari E.Ranger
Jay Cooke State Park Campground
Woodsy Perfection
Every site is nestled into the woods, which is cozy and adds the added benefit of privacy. That said, the extra big rigs wouldn’t be a good fit—one loop only allows for rigs under 25’ in length due to a tight corner. Another oddity is that some fire pits are on the opposite side of your doors, but no biggie.
The bathrooms are wonderfully new and central to all the camping loops. There are men’s and women’s sides for toilets/sinks and independent shower rooms—all handicap friendly. The park really outdid themselves here, even the building is beautifully designed.
Firewood is for sale at the camp office along with your typical camping goods and souvenirs, and the park staff is wonderful to interact with. There are black bears, but no bear boxes, so be smart with your food. I had 1-2 bars of LTE on Verizon, and if you need Starlink access, try to find a site that runs north/south more than east/west because there are obviously trees everywhere.
Site 5 is near a small dumpster, which turned out to be rather convenient—there is a line of trees/brush for privacy, so don’t let that stop you. There is also an ice cold water spigot behind the site, which was even better—again, trees/brush for privacy. Mostly level, with just the smallest tilt toward the fire pit. 2 minute walk to the bathrooms, conveniently located near a walking path to the park office/bridge.
- Stina M.
GuidePaint Rock Springs Campground — St. Croix State Park
Lots for kids to do, big place
Was a nice place. I didn’t see any truly private sites. All are stacked on top of each others. I didn’t look around too much, it was just a quick overnight stop.
- KKat H.Scout
Camp Holiday Resort and Campground
Wonderful Place!
We have been going up to Camp Holiday for about 5 years now and staying in the same campsite. We just love this place. We have the same neighbors every year so it is like having a family reunion each time. It is so clean and quiet and the sunsets are absolutely beautiful. It is so nice just sitting by the lake listening to the loons. It is hard to leave at the end of the week! Thank you Camp Holiday for giving us such a great week every year!
Mindy B.
TravelerBig Butternut Lake Campground
9 small grassy sites by lake, next to golf course
Very convenient location for users of the Gandy Dancer trail. This tiny campground is next to and is run by the Luck Municipal Golf Course, the clubhouse just up the road. Bathrooms are by the campground with hot water and toilets. Showers available when the clubhouse is open, one each in the restrooms. Clubhouse has a small pro shop with bar. Also small swimming beach, boat launch. Lake is right across the road, swimming beach a short walk away. Drawbacks: management seems to be minimal. No rules posted, no contact information posted. - The only trash cans were in the bathrooms, and were overflowing. The bathrooms had not been thoroughly cleaned in a long time. The young workers at the clubhouse seemed to know little about the campground. When we found someone set up in our sight, the girl told us "just camp anywhere." Registration is online.
- GGlen B.Ranger
County Road O Landing Dispersed River Camp — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Not much to offer
Geared towards fishing and tent camping. Space in the lot for my rig and a few cars.
- Crystal R.Guide
Jay Cooke State Park Campground
Great park! Will come again!
This is a favorite of mine. I have been here tent camping twice and will be staying at a camper cabin later this summer!
My favorite part of this park is the swinging bridge. I'm in awe of the view every time I come. I sometimes stop here on my way up to the north shore just to sit out on the rocks and enjoy the view.
The campground is huge. There's multiple loops for both primitive and electric hook up. There's a very nice shower building located very centrally. There's camper cabins too.
Beware last year there was a bear that frequented the campgrounds, but we didn't really have any major issues with him. Just keep your food secure.
Lots of great hiking. The superior hiking trail runs through this park as well. Close to Duluth where there are so many fantastic recreational activities. I had great cell service everywhere in the campgrounds too.
- Crystal R.Guide
Moose Lake State Park Campground
Cozy little campground!
I stayed here last minute because on my previous camping trip my gear was soaked, and I can't dry out my gear in my apartment. So I chose to come here and I'm so glad I did!
The park itself is smaller. The campground only has three loops. There's one loop that is primitive, while the other two have electric hook up.
My favorite part of this campground is the gorgeous trees.
I saw lots of deer and a turtle laying eggs!
It has a small beach and a fishing pier (i think a spot to launch boats too but I could be remembering wrong).
Campground host was super friendly and came by to say hi. At one point, there was a tornado warning and she literally drove to my campsite to let me know and made sure I got to the shelter. (there didn't end up being a tornado, just a gnarly storm).
Guide to Finlayson
Camping spots near Finlayson, Minnesota balance riverside environments with forested settings at elevations averaging 1,100 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasonal transitions with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and varying precipitation. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though access often requires four-wheel drive vehicles and additional preparation.
What to do
Explore winter camping options: General C.C. Andrews State Forest's Willow River campground offers year-round camping opportunities with basic facilities. "We spent a weekend at the park and had a great time. Lots of trails for hiking. Cool buildings from the CCC era as well as some signs talking about camp life. There is also a 100' fire tower you can climb up and get an epic view," notes one visitor who enjoyed the historical elements.
Try rock climbing: Robinson Park offers technical climbing routes for experienced climbers. "This campground is really great, the main downside is that in order to pay the fee you have to drive to City Hall which is about 2 miles away," writes one camper, who adds, "Rock climbing including the state's best 12a/b!!! Sigma lives up to the hype."
Visit nearby attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for regional exploration. "We discovered this campground while researching the area... If you are planning to explore the Kettle River and Banning State Park nearby, this is a good alternative to camping within the State Park itself. With easy access to both the Twin Cities metro area and Duluth, with desirable whitewater paddling and rockclimbing both available in the area," explains a visitor to Banning RV Park and Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Moose Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. "Nice campsites not too far from the lake. Not a ton of hiking but the trails that are there are nice. Good fishing right off shore," notes one visitor. Another mentions, "I came out of the BWCA near Grand Marais late in the day and so wanted to stop somewhere to camp as I headed south before dark. There were plenty of spots available online at this little park."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural environment supports diverse wildlife. "We also saw several different Warblers!" notes a visitor to Banning State Park Campground. Another camper at Moose Lake State Park mentioned, "We saw a Baltimore Oriole which is something we don't see often in Northern MN."
Historical sites: Several campgrounds feature preserved historical elements. "There are hiking trails with different points of interest. One leads to Wolf Creek Falls and is challenging and beautiful. Another goes along the Kettle River with beautiful views. You can also explore the sandstone quarry and do a self-guided tour to learn history of the ruins from the mining years," writes a camper who enjoyed the historical aspects of Banning State Park.
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially in peak season. "We would love to come back when the bugs aren't as bad!" notes a visitor to St. Croix State Park's Old Logging Trail, who cautions, "We had a terrible experience last year trying to camp here, BUT it's not the campgrounds fault! Unfortunately we chose the peak of mosquitos season and camping next to slow moving water is a recipe for disaster."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience noise disruption. "One of the only things that was obnoxious about this park is that there is a frequently used train track nearby—and the trains really lay on whistle. I slept with earplugs in because of this, but I was still woken up around 4 times that night," reports a camper at Jay Cooke State Park.
Water hookup considerations: RV sites may have unconventional water access. "We were quick to learn that water hookups were shared with other sites and required 'y' connections at the spigots. Our host(s) were prepared with the connectors in hand but seemed a bit surprised that we might need them," writes a visitor to Banning RV Park who adds, "Ours source ended up being 75' plus from our RV. Thankfully I just happened to be carrying the extra hose."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Father Hennepin State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "They do have playgrounds for children in different places around the campground," notes one visitor. Another mentions, "There is a nice big sandbox for the kids that has sand toys to play with."
Swimming opportunities: Several parks feature swim areas, though water quality varies. "The beach is long and rocky but ample enough to swim in," writes a camper at Father Hennepin State Park. Another visitor notes, "If you take a short walk from the main parking area towards the bathroom, and follow the trail alongside the bluff, you'll find awesome spots."
Educational features: Natural and historical exhibits enhance family experiences. "The park office has a wonderful display of agates set up in an interactive gallery," writes one visitor to Moose Lake State Park, while another calls it an "Unbelievable AGATE MUSEUM at the main entrance."
Tips from RVers
Campsite angles: Grand Casino RV Resort receives mixed reviews for site layouts. "The designers of this park have clearly never spent a night in an RV. This place pushes all of my buttons for things not to do when building an RV park. Virtually every site in the park is a blind back in from the driver seat," notes one experienced RVer who adds, "Number pedestals for all sites are also right against the road, limiting the amount that you can swing your tow vehicle."
Utility arrangements: Several campgrounds have unique utility setups. "Finally, one of my all-time favorites, all of the sewer connections are cut off about 12 inches above the ground. This means that even in a relatively tall fifth wheel, you are going to be trying to make sewage flow uphill," cautions the same reviewer about Grand Casino RV Resort.
Alternative options: Snake River Campground provides a simpler camping experience. "Friday afternoon 5:00 finished out my work day here. I've had great wireless I'm getting 5G Verizon believe it or not. We're the only ones here it is pretty rustic coming in so if your camper is very sensitive you need to take your time," shares one RVer who appreciated the connectivity despite the rustic setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Finlayson, MN?
What camping is available near Finlayson, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Finlayson, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 168 campgrounds and RV parks near Finlayson, MN and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Finlayson, MN?
Which is the most popular campground near Finlayson, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Finlayson, MN is Banning State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 34 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Finlayson, MN?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Finlayson, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Finlayson, MN.
What parks are near Finlayson, MN?
What parks are near Finlayson, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Finlayson, MN that allow camping, notably Saint Croix National Scenic River and St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
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