Cabin camping near Fort Ripley, Minnesota offers access to the Mississippi River basin with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below 0°F and summer highs averaging 80°F. Most camper cabins in this region remain open year-round, though amenities vary significantly by season.
What to Do
Paddling opportunities: The Mississippi River at Crow Wing State Park Campground provides excellent water access. "Great access for canoeing and kayaking the Mississippi water trail. If you start at Kiwanis Park in Brainerd- you can make it to crow wing in four hours leisurely, or three fairly easily," notes one visitor.
Historical exploration: Learn about early settlements at Crow Wing State Park. "Historic signs describing the old town are along the beginning part of the trail near the picnic area. Kinda fun to read about and feel what old settlements were like!"
Sunset hiking: Many trails offer spectacular evening views. "Love doing a sunset hike, this trail is just over two miles, all along the river, with pretty much continual sunset views if you take the trail East to West."
Mountain biking: Red Rider Resort offers direct trail access to the Cuyuna trail system. A visitor mentions, "MTB access to the Yawkey section was nice and will be even better after more trail is added to the zone."
Winter recreation: Several parks maintain winter activities. "We headed to Lake Carlos for their candlelight ski, this was our first visit to this state park... At dark we headed to the candlelight event. We hiked 1.2 miles and then snowshoed 2.4 miles."
What Campers Like
Lakeside accommodations: Fritz's Resort & Campground and other properties offer direct water access. At Camp Holiday, a camper described their experience: "We had site 1 which was right on the lake. We were able to park the camper parallel to the lake which was amazing. Such a beautiful view!"
Clean shower facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. A visitor at Red Rider Resort mentioned, "The bathrooms are spotless and come with real flush toilets and sinks. There is even showers in both of them."
Rustic seclusion: Some cabins offer more private settings. "The site was amazing, with a dock to the lake. Has a picnic table with a lean to shelter, and a fire ring. Was quiet and peaceful."
Seasonal variety: Each season brings different experiences. "Stayed in a camper cabin that was just perfect. Lots of hiking to be done and the fire towers are one of my favorite!"
What You Should Know
Winter availability: Lake Carlos State Park Campground offers limited winter camping. "They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter. We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access. At True North Basecamp, "While driving to the group campsite the road is dirt and very rutted. Be mindful if you have a car."
Reservation timelines: Book well in advance for summer stays, especially for cabins. Weekends from May through September typically fill 3-6 months ahead.
Cabin variations: Basic cabins typically include beds, electricity, and heat but no plumbing. "We stayed in one of the walk-in sites. It was great, not too too buggy. Mostly quiet."
Insect preparedness: Several areas report heavy insects during peak summer. "If you visit in the summertime, expect hellish mosquitoes and pack accordingly!"
Tips for Camping with Families
Family-friendly amenities: Camp Holiday Resort and Campground offers multiple activities for children. One reviewer states, "Nice campground for a family experience. Camping with two toddlers can be a lot, it helps when there are two nice playgrounds here, a slide, water trampoline, nice beach."
Educational programs: Several state parks offer ranger-led activities. A visitor to Mille Lacs Kathio noted, "The park hosts various seminars throughout the week."
Swimming locations: Look for lakes with designated swimming areas. "Lake Carlos State Park has a large beach area for swimming and pylons to tie up boats."
Space considerations: Some cabin layouts accommodate families better than others. "Lake Carlos State Park Campground includes camper cabins that sleep up to six people with heat and electricity."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some waterfront sites. "Most of the lake side sites were pretty uneven, bring plenty of leveling blocks. That was really the only negative we had, but it wasn't really a big deal because we came prepared with just enough leveling blocks."
Off-season camping: True North Basecamp offers extended season options. "Camp Sites were open early (March), if not year round. Other campgrounds don't open until mid-April."
Hookup availability: Full hookups can be limited. At Camp Holiday, "Most have water and electric. Full hookups are very limited. Only 4 site near the back."
Site selection: Consider your privacy needs when booking. "The electric site area isn't super awesome, as it gets crowded and is more like a huge group camp. But the rest are way more private."
