Tent campsites near Fort Ripley, Minnesota cluster along the Mississippi Headwaters Water Trail, which follows a historic trade route through central Minnesota. The region features sandy shorelines transitioning to pine forests with elevations ranging from 1,150 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Overnight sites typically remain accessible from April through October, though spring flooding can affect early-season availability along river shores.
What to do
Hiking trails at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park: Several miles of maintained paths wind through diverse terrain, with the park's fire tower providing panoramic views. "Lots of trails, close fishing, and an awesome lookout tower!" notes Anne G. at Ogechie Campground.
Paddling the Crow Wing River: This tributary joins the Mississippi near Fort Ripley, offering gentler currents suitable for beginners. "We canoed to the site down the Crowe Wing River. It is very unique and pretty!" reports Amy G. about Knob Hill campsite, which features upper and lower camping areas connected by a staircase.
Historical exploration: The region contains significant Indigenous and settler landmarks, including the Red River Oxcart Trail. Ogechie Campground offers access to "historic native village site and trail," according to MARY K., who adds, "We camped in the older Ochegie campground (site #1) near the historic native village site and trail."
What campers like
Easy water access: Most riverside sites feature designated landings for watercraft. Janet R. explains about Bullard Bluff Campsite: "This is the kind of location primitive campers might enjoy, and it is great that there are canoe launch sites and reasonably spaced Paddle-in campsites nearby along the river for canoe campers making a trip."
Secluded camping spots: Some sites offer greater privacy away from main campgrounds. "We chose one of the dispersed sites so had to walk aways but worth it! We had a pretty nice spot on bottom of hill away from everyone. It was nice and secluded," notes Jordan L. about his experience at Ogechie Campground.
Flat tent pads near water: Many sites feature level areas positioned specifically for tents. HollyRose M. describes Overlook Park Canoe Campsite: "There is a specific spot RIGHT on the river with a picnic table, fire ring, and nice high ground soft space for a tent... There is a nice canoe landing area with a few stairs to help give access up and down from the river bank."
What you should know
Maintenance varies between sites: County-managed sites may receive less attention than state park facilities. Janet notes at Bullard Bluff that "though there are picnic tables and outhouses at the campground, maintanence is needed and appears to be a bit lacking."
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other animals frequently visit campsites along the river. Amy G. shares her experience at Baxter Canoe Camp: "We did have a nighttime visitor in the form of something big and black and furry... It never approached the tent, we never had to yell, and it never threatened. Simply grunted and 'barked' a few times, and then wandered away."
Seasonal insects: Summer months bring heavy mosquito activity. "Beautiful state park, but WAY too many mosquitos in the summer. we had at least 100 bites after our trip," warns Jen H. about her stay at Ogechie Campground.
Map discrepancies: Some water trail sites may not match exactly with their published locations. Amy G. notes about Baxter Canoe Camp: "This camp is not located exactly where it shows on the map... it was about a 1/2 mile to a mile farther south of Brainerd than we were expecting."
Tips for camping with families
Scout for multi-level sites: Campgrounds with varied terrain offer natural play areas. John N. describes Knob Hill: "If you don't know the others camping there you will because it's close quarters." This compact layout makes it easier to monitor children.
Bring activities for rainy weather: The area receives approximately 28 inches of rainfall annually, with summer storms common. One visitor found alternative recreation when plans changed: "We were bike riding the Paul Bunyon Trail and rode into Crow Wing in the dark. I self registered because the office was closed," relates Brittany about her experience at Canoe Landing Campsite.
Consider specialized group sites: Several locations offer dedicated areas for youth organizations. Tori K. explains at Mississippi River County Park: "Group camp: Mississippi River County Park offers group camping for bona fide youth groups and educational groups (e.g. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Church youth groups, 4-H Clubs, etc.). There is no charge but reservations are required."
Tips from RVers
Check access roads carefully: Many water trail sites have challenging final approaches. John N. cautions about Knob Hill: "This place is off the beaten path for sure. It's more of a trail than a road for the last part and I was riding my Victory Motorcycle. 4 wheels is advised or a dirt bike."
Pack rodent deterrents: Mice problems affect vehicles at some sites. Annie V. shares this experience at Ogechie Campground: "I camped here in a 2006 Toyota Tacoma and mice essentially had their way with every part of my vehicle in one night!!! I have a topper and a built-out bed in the back... They got into plastic bins, duffel bags, backpacks, stuff sacks, etc."
Consider bicycle-specific sites: Some locations designate areas for cycle tourists. According to Tori K., "Bicycle campsite: Camping is allowed for those traveling through on bicycles and limited to one night of camping with no overnight vehicle. The bicycle campsite is located by the fire pit near the picnic shelter. First come-first serve; Register onsite."
