F
Fue X.
Scout
ScoutRV and ATV Campground
Perfect for atv & rv
Good to use ATV on trails and perfect for RV camping.
First come first serve.
Best Campgrounds in Minnesota
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Minnesota campgrounds feature diverse options for outdoor experiences, from lakeside retreats to wooded settings. State parks like Split Rock Lighthouse and Jay Cooke offer established campgrounds with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables. Many Minnesota campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with sites at places like Gooseberry Falls State Park providing drive-in access. Cabins and glamping options exist at select locations such as Jay Cooke State Park and Blue Mounds State Park, expanding lodging possibilities beyond traditional tent sites.
Reservation requirements vary across the state, with most developed campgrounds accepting bookings several months in advance. "Clean bathrooms and water stations are available at many state parks, though campground services often close by 6pm," noted one visitor to Gooseberry Falls. Seasonal operation affects accessibility, with some campgrounds like Split Rock Lighthouse open only from April to October, while others such as Gooseberry Falls and Wild River remain accessible year-round. Winter camping requires additional preparation for snow and freezing temperatures. Minnesota's abundant lakes and rivers create mosquito-heavy environments during summer months, particularly after rainfall, making insect protection essential gear.
Campers consistently praise Minnesota's water-adjacent camping opportunities. Sites near lakes, waterfalls, and rivers receive particular mention in reviews, with water features enhancing the camping experience. "The park has several different biomes - oak forests, lakeshore, bog, pine forests with lovely hike-walks that can be as long or short as you need," reported one visitor about Lake Bemidji State Park. Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with some offering secluded, wooded sites while others position campsites in closer proximity. Several reviewers note increasing RV and generator use at state parks creating noise concerns at more densely arranged campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout Minnesota campgrounds, with birds, deer, and small mammals commonly sighted from campsites.
Best Camping Sites in Minnesota (1,245)
1. Cart-In Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
71 ReviewsBeaver Bay, MNWebsite+1 (218) 595-7625$25 / night
"Minnesota state parks are very clean. Friendly staff. Amazing views."
"There are plenty of trees to cool things down and the lake is in sight of all parts of the campground. Trees for hammocks and fire pit for s'mores."
2. Jay Cooke State Park Campground
71 ReviewsCarlton, MNWebsite+1 (218) 384-4610$23 - $90 / night
"Jay Cooke is really a must experience state park within easy driving distance to other parks in Minnesota and Wisconsin."
"North east Minnesota has some very beautiful country. Highly recommend this spot. "
3. Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground
70 ReviewsBeaver Bay, MNWebsite+1 (218) 595-7100$25 - $75 / night
"Well-spaced, secluded sites with convenient access to restrooms, water access, and hiking trails Steps away from the magnificent lake."
"Stopped at Gooseberry on our way up the coast of Lake Superior on a long weekend."
4. Baptism River Campground — Tettegouche State Park
54 ReviewsIllgen City, MNWebsite$25 - $35 / night
"This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds in northern Minnesota along the glorious shores of Lake Superior. The campsites are surrounded by plenty of wilderness to allow some privacy. "
"The north shore of Minnesota is beautiful. Granite cliffs line the drive north of Duluth Mn. This is where you will find Tettagouche State park."
5. Blue Mounds State Park Campground
53 ReviewsHardwick, MNWebsite+1 (507) 283-1307$24 - $50 / night
"Quiet place with nice bike and walking paths. Electric only 30amp water close by. Full dump station."
"Amazing remnant of Minnesota prairie set among the farm country."
6. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park
51 ReviewsElba, MNWebsite+1 (507) 932-3007$25 - $250 / night
"Whitewater is by far one of the top state parks in Minnesota. Their camping facilities are clean with running water and free showers. The campsites are quite spacious but not too wooded."
"Easy access to hiking trails. My site was close in distance to adjacent ones, but was on the edge by the creek, so it was pretty quiet."
7. Interstate State Park Campground
52 ReviewsTaylors Falls, MNWebsite+1 (715) 483-3747$24 - $50 / night
"This is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic"
"Now that I live in Minnesota, I find myself frequenting the Taylors Falls side. Here you have the amazing "Pot Holes" from glacial waters and some pretty spectacular rock climbing."
8. Temperance River State Park Campground
47 ReviewsSchroeder, MNWebsite+1 (218) 626-4300$24 - $34 / night
"Campground Review Temperance River State Park is just off of scenic Highway 61 north of Duluth, Minnesota about 60 miles."
"We LOVE this campground, as it's an awesome place to to call home base for a bit and take day trips around the North Shore."
9. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
44 ReviewsApple Valley, MNWebsite+1 (651) 480-7773$24 - $42 / night
"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
10. Wild River State Park Campground
45 ReviewsTaylors Falls, MNWebsite+1 (651) 583-2125$23 - $90 / night
"Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."
"We stayed in campsite 29 in the drive in campsite over Labor Day weekend."
Recent Camping Photos in Minnesota
1311 Photos of 1245 Minnesota Campgrounds
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Recent Reviews in Minnesota
4349 Reviews of 1245 Minnesota Campgrounds
- FFue X.Scout
Snake Creek Campground
No one around
Good for friends and family to camp. No one around, but it's first come first serve.
elizabeth B.
GuideGrygla Camping Area
Nice place
Nice no frills campsite with hookups, $25/night to use hookups, $15 without. Back in spots only, all on grass. Note that the park has two separate RV sights; one next to the playground and one next to the airport. There's also a parking area further toward the airport and I'm not sure if they charge to spend the night
Cari E.
RangerRice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park
Top notch for a county park
I’m still a little miffed that this was a county campground—it’s better than some state (non-MN) campgrounds I’ve been to. Unfortunately I only had one quick night here, but it was a quiet, relaxing stay.
There is a dump station and playground, but I didn’t come across a bathhouse when walking the inner campground loop—it’s likely I just missed it. I had poor cell service with Verizon, but it was good enough to text although web browsing was a bit slow. Be aware there is also an additional $7/day vehicle fee required upon entry, which is not included in the price of your campsite. It can be paid at the visitors center and I believe there is a kiosk if you arrive after hours.
My only complaint was the 5 piles of very large dog excrement in my campsite, which says more about the previous campers, but it was prevalent enough that I found myself wishing the park staff had cleaned it up.
- Cari E.Ranger
Baptism River Campground — Tettegouche State Park
Instant classic
This is what I’d consider a classic campground—it just has that classic camp vibe where you just know you’re going to have a great time.
The sites are gloriously private yet spacious, and offer lots of options for shade or sun depending on your needs. I had very, very minimal cell service (Verizon), but was able to get a decent starlink signal by placing my tripod on my picnic table.
The bathrooms are a bit older, which means they can become a pretty crowded in the evening as there are only two showers in the men’s and women’s, but they were clean and fully functional.
The campground is set back from the visitor’s center and beach by quite a ways, but there is a trailhead at the campground that leads to the falls and can be tied into other trails that will take you to the visitor’s center (which is a stunning building) and beyond to Shovel Point if you’re up for a 6mi round trip trek.
My only gripe was the state of the road to/through the campground as it had a large number of potholes/ruts that made for a bit of a bumpy (but easily manageable) ride, but the park will be repaving it in 2027.
- Cari E.Ranger
Shipwreck Creek Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
A summer beauty
This is still a fairly new campground, having opened in 2022, but the crews did such a great job of ensuring the campground stays rooted in nature—the grounds are STUNNING in the summer months. The bathhouse is in pristine condition and one of the nicest I’ve ever been to (finally, someone installed numerous hooks for bags/towels!)
The only real downside to the campground is that it’s a bit of a trek to literally everything else—the beach, lighthouse, and trailheads. If you don’t want to drive, there is a very nice paved bike path leading to the main areas of the park—getting to the beach takes less than 5 minutes as it’s mostly downhill, but be prepared for the uphill battle on your way back.
There is also a dishwashing station behind the bathhouse, if needed. Currently the dump station is still being installed, but appears to be in the final stages and should certainly be available for the upcoming spring.
Some sites are a bit close together, but there are also more private options—I was at 311 and while it was the furthest from the bathhouse, it had an extraordinary amount of privacy. It also had slightly less cell service (Verizon) as that end of the campground dips lower (also a smidge cooler temp wise), but there are great options for Starlink placement if needed.
- AAnita L.
TravelerKOA Kampgrounds of America
Albert Lea/Austin KOA
Would have been OK for one night, but we decided ahead of time to spend 4 nights. The entry needs a lot of work.(Several potholes that need to be filled in along the whole driveway both sides. Laundry room was nice although 3 washers and 2 dryers seem odd. Only $2 to wash and /or dry. We didn't use the RR/showers but went in and looked at it and it looked nice. They had a small enclosed dog run. There was a very small playground. No activities for adults or kids while we were there. Just a camp site. They did have a few newer cabins. There was a sign that it was under new management, but no one introduced themselves as the new owners. When asked if we could check out an hour late, the young guy in the office said we don't usually allow that, but I suppose it would be OK if you donate to the children's fund that we sponsor.
- TTom R.Scout
Oak Park Kampground
Great Location
Nice privately owned Campground with swimming pool. The owners and staff are very friendly. Close to Alexandria which has a Super Walmart and amenities.
- JJeremy J.Scout
Crosby Memorial City Park
Ugh, don’t know why I was expecting
In town campground near in a busy park. Wasn’t to bad during the day but was awful at night. More street lights than I had anticipated but the worst was how many people drove through parking area of park late at night with loud music or the police using bright search lights after midnight or pulling people over in the parking lot. Only one shower in a public restroom with prison style equipment. If you want to be in town this is your spot otherwise I would look into other campgrounds.
Guide to Minnesota
Camping in Minnesota offers a unique blend of beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there's something for everyone in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
What to do
- Explore the Trails: Many campgrounds, like Crow Wing State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails.”
- Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground, offer boating and fishing. A visitor said, “Great campground right on Leech Lake... Plenty of options for getting firewood nearby.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot wildlife. One reviewer at Father Hennepin State Park Campground shared, “Hiking was great, we saw an albino deer on the hiking club trail!”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake Carlos State Park Campground noted, “Very clean restroom/shower house.”
- Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Savanna Portage State Park Campground are loved for their beautiful surroundings. One camper said, “Savanna portage is gorgeous with serene lakes and some nice hiking!”
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds such as Crow Wing Lake Campground offer playgrounds and pools. A family shared, “This campground is fun for the whole family!”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park warned, “The trails are... almost impossible to hike on simply because of the amount of mosquitoes.”
- Reservation Systems: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Crow Wing State Park Campground mentioned, “Need to reserve online.”
- Limited Services Off-Season: Some campgrounds may have limited services during the off-season. A camper at Sinclair Lewis City Campground noted, “The office was closed for the season with the water & electric turned off.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A parent at Crow Wing Lake Campground said, “There is a public beach, skate park, splash pad, and bike trail all located within walking distance of the campground.”
- Pack Bug Spray: Protect your family from mosquitoes. One camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground advised, “Mosquitoes are brutal here, especially on the hiking club trail.”
- Plan Activities: Keep kids engaged with planned activities. A family at Lake Carlos State Park Campground enjoyed, “Easy access to the beach. Hiking trail.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground mentioned, “My site was spacious for my 28-foot TT.”
- Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A camper at Crow Wing Lake Campground noted, “RV site had 30amp with FHU’s.”
- Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Sinclair Lewis City Campground said, “In town campground so it can be a little noisy at times.”
Camping in Minnesota is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the most scenic camping spots in Minnesota?
Where are the most scenic camping spots in Minnesota?
Minnesota's landscape offers breathtaking scenic camping spots throughout the state. Jay Cooke State Park Campground features dramatic river gorges, swinging bridges, and photogenic landscapes that make it a must-visit destination. The park provides both open and private campsites with excellent facilities. For lakeside views, Winnie Campground offers peaceful settings with huge lakeside campsites overlooking Lake Winnibigoshish, providing cool breezes and stunning vistas. Other scenic options include Split Rock Lighthouse State Park with its iconic lighthouse and Lake Superior shoreline, Temperance River State Park with its gorgeous river gorges and Lake Superior access, and Frontenac State Park, which provides sweeping views of the Mississippi River valley with excellent hiking opportunities.
What are the best campgrounds in Minnesota for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds in Minnesota for tent camping?
Minnesota offers exceptional tent camping experiences across the state. Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground in southern Minnesota provides wooded sites with ample privacy, making it perfect for tent campers seeking a peaceful retreat. Located on Lake Pepin, it offers beautiful water views and swimming opportunities just 1.5 hours from the Twin Cities. For a more wilderness experience, Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite in Itasca State Park provides secluded tent camping near the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Other excellent options include Sylvan City Park with its easy access to downtown amenities and the Root River Trail, and Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which combines tent camping with extensive recreational opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, and swimming, all within the suburbs.
When is the best season for camping in Minnesota?
When is the best season for camping in Minnesota?
The optimal camping season in Minnesota typically runs from late May through early October, with each period offering unique experiences. Summer (June-August) provides warm temperatures ideal for water activities, with Savanna Portage State Park Campground offering excellent swimming at Loon Lake's beach area and access to four lakes for fishing and paddling. Fall (September-early October) brings spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds, making it perfect for hiking at Sibley State Park, where you can experience the transition zones between hardwood forest, savannah, and prairie with vibrant autumn colors. Spring camping (May-early June) offers wildflowers and bird watching but can be wet. While some hardy campers enjoy winter camping, most campgrounds close or offer limited facilities during the snow season, with state parks that remain open providing a serene winter wilderness experience.
Which Minnesota state parks offer the best camping facilities?
Which Minnesota state parks offer the best camping facilities?
Bear Head Lake State Park Campground stands out with its varied campsite types and layouts that accommodate everything from tents to travel trailers, with electrical hookups available. The park features clean shower facilities and access to excellent canoeing on the adjacent lake, plus proximity to the Taconite Trail. Frontenac State Park offers spacious cart-in sites that provide a good balance of convenience and seclusion. Other state parks with exceptional facilities include Gooseberry Falls with its iconic waterfalls and Lake Superior access, Whitewater State Park with well-maintained campgrounds and excellent fishing opportunities, and Itasca State Park, which provides multiple camping options from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites, plus historic lodges and cabins for those seeking additional comfort.
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