The Rum River forms the backbone of the Isle, Minnesota region, branching through the surrounding woodlands at 1,200 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with high humidity levels that contribute to mosquito activity from May through August. Winter camping options remain available at select campgrounds when temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking historic quarry ruins: At Banning State Park Campground, visitors can explore remnants of a 130-year-old sandstone quarry along the Kettle River. "The Quarry Loop along the Kettle River has a ton of history, allowing you to explore the remains of the 130+ year old sandstone quarry. Seeing the drill holes in the cliffs was really cool and the remains of the old buildings were a highlight even to our small children," notes Jennifer H.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and evening hours offer optimal wildlife viewing opportunities in the dense forests. "We did encounter a lot of birds as well as deer," shares Art S. about the Rum River State Forest Dispersed area. Some campers have even reported hearing wolves after sunset.
Fishing access: Lake Mille Lacs provides year-round fishing opportunities with winter ice fishing being particularly popular. "I'm talking winter camping on the lake on the Ice in an 'Ice castle' catching walleye. My largest walleye here was a slot fish, actually caught a lot of slot fish here," reports Michael V. about his experience at Hidden Bay RV Resort.
What campers like
Lakeside campsites: Father Hennepin State Park Campground offers sites with direct lake views. "Right on Lake Mille Lacs, one of Minnesota's largest. Walking distance from the bakery and bar! Newer, updated facilities. Boat access. Lake side sites (if you book early enough)," says Andrea S.
Observation tower views: The fire tower at Mille Lacs Kathio Petaga Campground provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. "There is a fire tower you can climb and see all of the surrounding area. Definitely recommend, but in the spring or fall months," suggests Jen H.
Free dispersed camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the cost-free options in Rum River State Forest. "Dispersed camping along the forest roads. Areas are cleared away that are quite separate giving some privacy," explains Art S. These sites require no reservations but offer minimal amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Mosquitoes and ticks can be problematic, particularly during summer months. "One thing to note is this park gets a ton of black flies so beware. They bite and are gross," warns Amber S. about Father Hennepin State Park.
Winter camping accessibility: Some areas require four-wheel drive vehicles during winter months. "The roads aren't really kept up for the winter. So, you'll want 4 wheel drive and slow and mindful driving," advises Johnny H. about Rum River State Forest.
Wildlife encounters: Mille Lacs Kathio State Park has documented bear activity. "We loved this camp site. Very clean. The only downside depending on your view are the bears. There was a black bear in our camp 15 minutes after we went to sleep. Then the 2nd a little guy was hanging around our site all day," reports Daniel R.
Tips for camping with families
Family-oriented activities: South Isle Family Campground offers structured programming for children. "Family campground is accurate. They have many activities on the weekends designed for children and family. Other nightly activities also such as hay wagon rides, train rides, etc..." notes Brandon L.
Swimming options: Heated pools provide alternatives to lake swimming at some campgrounds. "In ground heated pool makes lots of fun. Great showers. Trees and lots of shade," shares Donna P. about South Isle Family Campground.
Pet-friendly sites for family dogs: Multiple campgrounds in the Isle area welcome dogs with some providing designated exercise areas. "Take the stress out of camping and RV'ing if you are just getting started like we did. Very nice sites and friendly staff! Everyone was so helpful," explains Johnny R.
Tips from RVers
Winter hookups availability: Limited electrical sites remain available during winter at select parks. "This is one campground in Minnesota that offers a handful of electric hookups for winter camping. The beauty of this campground, is that while the campsites available are in a row, there's plenty of space between sites and some of them are even pulled through," explains Amy G. about Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.
Full hookup options: RVers seeking all utilities should target private campgrounds. "Our utilities were at the back of the site, and we needed about 35' of electric and water hose. The sewer was more central, and I needed about 18' of sewer hose for our rig," shares MickandKarla W. about Fiddlestix RV and Golf Resort.
Pull-through accessibility: Several campgrounds offer pull-through sites for easier RV parking. "We were at site 7, which was the last one in this campground that sits and faces the lake. And while we've been to this site before, it's the first time we've been in our Teardrop Trailer at this park," notes Amy G. about Father Hennepin State Park.
