Best Campgrounds near Fort Ripley, MN

Camping near Fort Ripley, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Crow Wing State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails.” Another camper noted, “Lots of trails for hiking and biking. Bring bug spray in the summer!”
• Canoeing and Kayaking: Rent a canoe or kayak at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. A reviewer shared, “Came through on an evening in July to meet a buddy canoeing the Mississippi.”
• Fishing: The Gull Lake Recreation Area is a great spot for fishing. One camper said, “Good fishing lake,” making it a perfect place to cast a line.

What campers like:

• Secluded Sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at Crow Wing State Park Campground. A review highlighted, “Sites 40 to 45 are very nice and secluded.”
• Clean Facilities: Many visitors noted the cleanliness of the bathrooms. One camper at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground mentioned, “Bathrooms/showers were cleanish,” which is always a plus.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Crow Wing Lake Campground offers a playground and pool, making it fun for families. A reviewer said, “Fun for the whole family. Amenities include: playground, pool, lake, dog park, and store.”

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A visitor at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park warned, “The trails are probably not maintained because it was so wet but they were almost impossible to hike on simply because of the amount of mosquitoes.”
• Rustic Experience: Some campgrounds, like Birch Lake, offer a more primitive camping experience. A camper noted, “If you like a more primitive campsite you will like this!”
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Ogechie Campground lacks running water and toilets, but it’s a great spot for those who enjoy a rustic experience.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Crow Wing Lake Campground that have playgrounds and pools. A reviewer said, “This campground is fun for the whole family!”
• Pack Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, especially in summer, it’s essential to bring bug spray. One camper advised, “Bring bug spray in the summer!”
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at True North Basecamp mentioned, “We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Cuyuna Range Campground noted, “The sites were amazingly large with nice privacy between the lots.”
• Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Gull Lake Recreation Area offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A reviewer said, “Each lot has full hook-ups, that was a huge bonus!!”
• Book Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. One visitor at Cuyuna Range Campground recommended, “Book early on Recreation.gov.”

Camping near Fort Ripley, Minnesota, has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs.