Camping options near Hillside Terrace Homes range from primitive sites to established campgrounds with modern amenities. Located in northeastern Minnesota's mixed pine-hardwood forest region, the area experiences summer highs around 75-80°F and winter lows that can drop below -20°F. Tent camping sites typically cost $16-30 per night depending on amenities, with most campgrounds operating from May through October.
What to do
Whitewater paddling on Kettle River: Half a mile from Banning RV Park and Campground, visitors can access Banning State Park's rapids. "If you are planning to explore the Kettle River and Banning State Park nearby, this is a good alternative to camping within the State Park itself," notes reviewer Janet R., who appreciated that the campground "is at a higher elevation further from the river" making it "remarkably less buggy" than the state park.
Mountain biking trail access: Spirit Mountain Campground serves as a base for mountain biking enthusiasts. "The best part was being able to bike down the trails right from the campground," shares Beth W., adding that "the trees were just starting to turn so it was beautiful!" Riders can access trails directly from their sites, saving transportation time.
Rock climbing at riverside formations: The rocky outcroppings near the St. Louis River provide natural climbing routes. "Make sure you do some climbing on the craggy rocks near the river!" recommends Joshua W. about his stay at Jay Cooke State Park. The sculpted granite formations create natural climbing challenges for various skill levels.
What campers like
Secluded yurt camping: Yurt camping near Hillside Terrace Homes offers a compromise between tent camping and cabin rentals. The Lost Lake backpacking site at Jay Cooke State Park Campground provides primitive camping with unexpected comforts. Lydia N. found it "very pretty and secluded" though "pretty buggy and ticks were bad," adding that the "bog/marsh was beautiful with some wildlife" and the site had "a bear box as well which was great!"
Private sites with waterfront access: Many campers appreciate waterfront camping options. "Our site was tucked into a more secluded area not far from the river," reports Anni O. about Fond du Lac City. The campground offers a "small playground and sandbox for kids" plus "horseshoes, ladder toss, and bag toss provided by campground," according to Justin, who also noted its proximity to "a nice city park across the street with short walking trail."
Dog-friendly accommodations: Several campgrounds cater specifically to dog owners. Matt P. was particularly impressed with Banning RV Park's pet facilities: "We absolutely loved the dog park. It was not just some small dog area it was top of the line dog park." For yurt camping near Hillside Terrace Homes, Minnesota, pet policies vary by location.
What you should know
Train noise disruptions: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise. At Jay Cooke State Park, one reviewer noted: "One of the only things that was obnoxious about this park is that there is a frequently used train track nearby - and the trains really lay on whistle. I slept with earplugs in because of this, but I was still woken up around 4 times that night."
Water hookup arrangements: Some RV parks have unusual utility setups. At Banning RV Park, Sam C. discovered "water hookups were shared with other sites and required 'y' connections at the spigots." Their water source "ended up being 75' plus from our RV" requiring extra hose length. Fortunately, they "just happened to be carrying the extra hose for several years."
Seasonal bug conditions: Willow River can have significant insect activity. "It's very nice with beautiful views of the water. I will say that ticks have been an issue on my dogs," reports Silas P. Other campgrounds report similar challenges, particularly in June.
Tips for camping with families
Seek shaded sites during summer: The Paint Rock Springs Campground at St. Croix State Park has varying levels of shade. Amanda R. warns that "there is no shade in most sites and was very hot in a tent. Everyone is right on top of one another and because of no site borders was quite loud." Select sites on the perimeter for more privacy.
Look for multi-activity campgrounds: Families benefit from campgrounds with diverse amenities. At Cloquet-Duluth KOA, Jade K. found "everything you need to enjoy a weekend away. Pool, hot tub, WiFi, showers, arcade, laundry, c store, and lots more." This variety helps keep children engaged during downtime at camp.
Consider drive times to attractions: Location matters when planning family excursions. "Not too far from Duluth and other amazing North Shore locations," notes Sam C. about Cloquet-Duluth KOA. Many campgrounds offer convenient access to multiple attractions within 30-minute drives.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Setting up in daylight makes a significant difference. Sam C. noted at Banning RV Park that the "campground was very dark in the area of campsites which made setting up a bit difficult." Arriving before sunset allows for easier identification of hookups and site boundaries.
Verify hookup distances: At several campgrounds, utility connections may be surprisingly far from parking pads. Josh H. reported at Banning RV Park that "the water hookup was so far away that I needed to buy another hose to reach it." RVers should pack extension hoses and cords as a precaution.
Consider seasonal availability: Most area campgrounds operate with limited seasons. Minnesota National RV Park offers full hookups but has limited facilities. MickandKarla W. found that "there is only a vault toilet/out house in the CG" but the "utilities are in the back of pad in this CG, so you may need 20+ feet of electric, sewer, or water cord/hose depending on your rig's configuration."
