Best Campgrounds near Grand Rapids, MN

Camping options around Grand Rapids, Minnesota range from waterfront spots to forest sites. Pokegama Dam Campground sits just three miles from town, with tall pines shading sites where campers can easily launch canoes and kayaks into the river. Families often head to Trout Lake Campground for its community beach and well-kept facilities. If you're looking to camp without spending money, Schoolcraft State Park Campground along the river has free sites that the DNR maintains, though amenities are basic. The local wildlife can be active, so proper food storage is important at all these places. Campground facilities vary widely - some have simple outhouses and picnic tables while others provide more services. Some campsites give you more privacy than others, but most have good shade from the thick forest overhead. Sites work for different setups, fitting both tents and smaller RVs. Most people camp here during warm months when the weather's good for outdoor activities. Be ready for Minnesota's summer mosquitoes by bringing bug spray and covering up in the evenings. Since some campgrounds don't take reservations and operate first-come, first-served, it's smart to check availability before you go.

Best Camping Sites Near Grand Rapids, Minnesota (148)

    1. Pokegama Dam Campground

    9 Reviews
    Cohasset, MN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 326-6128

    $14 - $35 / night

    "The Pokegama Dam & Recreation Area is a small but comfortable campground just minutes from Grand Rapids, Minnesota."

    "You can walk over the dam to a short walking path along the river.

    Lots of choices to eat, drink and be merry in Grand Rapids!

    Forestry History Center was great!"

    2. Trout Lake Campground

    8 Reviews
    Bovey, MN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 969-3493

    $25 - $3000 / night

    "As are most of the campsites in upper Minnesota this time of year, the owner told me they were closed. But he was happy to let me stay overnight for a reduced off-season fee."

    "Beautiful spot, kind of secluded away from the rest of the campers but not tucked away by any means. Right on the lake. Grills are at all the tent sites but we used the fire."

    3. Schoolcraft State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Cohasset, MN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 247-7215

    "About a 25 minute drive west of Grand Rapids, MN, Schoolcraft State Park is a less-often visited park that makes up for its lack of hiking trails and in-park amenities with cozy, quiet charm."

    "Along the river, there are many "free" sites that are maintained by the DNR in Minnesota."

    4. Prairie Lake Campground

    2 Reviews
    Grand Rapids, MN
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 326-8486

    "This park is beautiful and right next to a lake. Very green and full of trees. Park is clean. The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the long-term residence aren't very friendly."

    "Very nice owners and they helped us get situated in our sites making sure we had everything we needed! Very laid back campground with a great area for both boats and swimming! I loved the vibe here!"

    5. Grand Rapids Library Park Watertrail Watercraft Campsite

    1 Review
    Grand Rapids, MN
    0 miles
    Website

    "For paddlers on the Mississippi Headwaters Water Trail

    it is a welcome addition to the area campsite options, especially as paddling through Grand Rapids is slow due to having to portage around two dams"

    6. Itasca County Fairgrounds

    1 Review
    Grand Rapids, MN
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (218) 326-6470

    7. Blackberry Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Grand Rapids, MN
    10 miles
    Website

    "That said, this one is a canoe campsite, so in order to get to this one, you have to be on the Mississippi River in Minnesota."

    8. Marcell Area

    1 Review
    Deer River, MN
    11 miles

    $20 / night

    "Popular backcountry sites in the Marcell area of the Chippewa National Forest include Spider Lake, the birch forest of the Suomi Hills and Trout Lake."

    9. American Legion Park

    2 Reviews
    Bovey, MN
    13 miles

    "They take good care of the park, which includes playground and picnic shelter for day use, a campground with hookups and large grassy drive-in campsites , and an area of walk-in tent sites right by the"

    10. Sal's Campground

    1 Review
    Bovey, MN
    12 miles
    +1 (218) 492-4297

    "On a beautiful lake and free beach and paddle boats! Lots of road noise, and lots of permanent campers, otherwise a five star!!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 148 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Grand Rapids, MN

278 Reviews of 148 Grand Rapids Campgrounds



Guide to Grand Rapids

Camping near Grand Rapids, 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:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campers enjoy the calm waters for paddling. One visitor at Scenic State Park Campground mentioned, "No big boats allowed, makes it ideal for paddling, kayaking, and calm water."
  • Fishing: The area is known for great fishing spots. A reviewer at Pokegama Dam Campground said, "Fishing in the rapids below the dam, or in the still river water above it, camping and relaxing under the tall pines."
  • Hiking: Trails abound for those who love to explore. A camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground noted, "There are several trails near the area and some connected to the campsite."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground said, "Clean bathrooms, hot showers, manicured grass - this place has it all."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A reviewer at Stony Point mentioned, "A huge site... no issues with neighbors being noisy."
  • Natural Beauty: The scenic views are a big draw. One camper at McCarthy Beach State Park remarked, "The site was lovely! I stayed at #48 and it was nice and level."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground warned, "Mosquitoes are brutal here, especially on the hiking club trail."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Gulch Lake noted, "There is no actual bathroom facilities, but it does have a group site."
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Pokegama Dam Campground mentioned, "Road noise from Hwy 2 is a downside."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with play areas. A camper at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground said, "For the kids, there’s a great play area."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring gear for fishing or hiking. A visitor at True North Basecamp shared, "We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Protect your family from mosquitoes. A camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground advised, "Mosquitoes are terrible - come prepared!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Red Pine Campground mentioned, "The site included: picnic table on grass and fire ring."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric. A camper at Stony Point noted, "Some sites are first come first serve and about 10 or so by the water you can reserve."
  • Be Mindful of Road Access: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at True North Basecamp said, "The road is dirt and very rutted. Be mindful if you have a car."

Camping around Grand Rapids, MN, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to adventurous trails. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Grand Rapids, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Grand Rapids, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 148 campgrounds and RV parks near Grand Rapids, MN and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Grand Rapids, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grand Rapids, MN is Pokegama Dam Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grand Rapids, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Grand Rapids, MN.

What parks are near Grand Rapids, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Grand Rapids, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.