RV camping near Fort Ripley, Minnesota offers access to the Mississippi River and central Minnesota's lakes region. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally between April and October due to winter temperature averages that drop below 10°F in January. The region features extensive forest areas interspersed with lakes and rivers, providing varied terrain for different camping experiences.
What to do
Fishing excursions: Birch Bay RV Resort in Nisswa provides access to fishing opportunities with three docks and a small boat landing. "Cute little lake with gorgeous sunsets, huge kiddy play area on water, free kayak and paddle board use," notes Mary F., mentioning the resort's water recreation amenities.
Golfing options: Wildwedge Golf and RV Park offers well-maintained golf facilities right at the campground. A reviewer mentions, "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained." The campground combines outdoor recreation with camping convenience.
Trail biking: The Paul Bunyan Trail connects several campgrounds in the area, making it accessible for cyclists staying at various locations. One camper reported, "Rode our bikes on the Paul Bunyan Trail to Nisswa and had some ice cream at The Chocolate Ox. Did a little shopping and got a beer at the brewery."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Hardy's Lake in the Woods RV Resort receives positive feedback for site dimensions. "The sites are very large and it is nicely wooded. They have a few areas where the sites are more in the open but not many," states Josh H., who appreciated the generous spacing between camping areas.
Clean facilities: Cleanliness stands as a common positive point in reviews of Fort Ripley area campgrounds. At St. Cloud Campground & RV Park, a visitor noted, "This campground is well maintained. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The shower house was clean."
Water recreation: Access to lakes and water activities ranks highly among camper preferences. One camper at Birch Bay mentioned, "Free kayak and paddle board use, nice little onsite store," highlighting the included amenities that enhance water-based recreation without additional fees.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks near Fort Ripley close during winter months, typically operating from April through October. Wildwedge Golf and RV Park specifically lists its season as "May 1 to October 1," which matches the operational timeframe for several other facilities in the region.
Visitor policies: Some campgrounds maintain strict visitor policies that may affect your stay. "We give this resort 5 stars because, despite it not being visitor friendly, they are up front in their policies about visitors and the place is great in all other respects," reported one camper about the Birch Bay facility.
Wi-Fi limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds and can be affected by occupancy levels. At Riverview RV Park And Campground, technological amenities are minimal, with reviewers noting the emphasis on basic, clean facilities rather than connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Several RV campgrounds near Fort Ripley offer swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. A visitor to Hardy's Lake in the Woods RV Resort mentioned, "The pool wasn't ready yet but it is very large," indicating that pool availability may vary based on seasonal timing.
Playground access: RV Resort Village at Pequot Lakes offers family-friendly amenities. One reviewer noted, "The grounds were beautifully landscaped with full grass," creating safe play areas for children throughout the campground.
Indoor activities: For rainy days or breaks from outdoor recreation, look for campgrounds with indoor facilities. St. Cloud Campground & RV Park has "a lodge with games and a store, and a hall where they hold bingo and other events," according to Elizabeth W., providing options regardless of weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Consider the placement of utility connections when reserving sites. At RV Resort Village, one camper reported, "The utility hookups are designed for a Class A Motorhome so for my trailer, they were on the wrong side. Had to get a longer water hose and extension for sewer line."
Big rig accommodation: Several campgrounds advertise big-rig friendly spaces, but this varies significantly. Birch Bay RV Resort offers concrete pads that can accommodate larger vehicles, with one visitor confirming, "Sites are huge, very dog friendly, quiet."
Winter options: While most RV campgrounds close for winter, ice fishing enthusiasts can find specialized accommodations. At Hidden Bay RV Resort, an ice fisherman reported, "Had a great time fishing in the camper (Ice Castle) well plowed roads, nice showers. Lots of other ice fisherman in January and February."
