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Best Campgrounds in Minnesota

4,248 Reviews

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 (1,231)

    1. Cart-In Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

    70 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7625

    $25 / night

    "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."

    "Minnesota state parks are very clean. Friendly staff. Amazing views."

    2. Jay Cooke State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Carlton, MN
    Website
    +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

    68 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +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

    53 Reviews
    Illgen City, MN
    Website

    $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. "

    "You fill with water near the restroom in the campground next to the bath house across from the dumpsters. From our site you can here the river flowing it’s so peaceful."

    5. Blue Mounds State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Hardwick, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Schroeder, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Apple Valley, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +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."

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Recent Reviews in Minnesota

4248 Reviews of 1231 Minnesota Campgrounds

  • S
    Jun. 14, 2026

    Memorial Park

    Memorial Park - Olivia, MN

    Nice city campground in the shadow of the world's largest corn cob! 6 sites each feature a large, mostly level gravel drive. Most have 50 and 30 amp electrical service available. Some large trees for shade. There was only 1 picnic table in the campground area and it was too heavy for us to move to our site for use while we were there. We were the only campers there for most of our stay. There are only 2 fire pits so,if having a campground is important to you, choose one of the sites near the bathrooms. The are large, single stall restrooms for both men and women, and a wide circle drive makes maneuvering thru the park easy, even with a big rig. Sewer dump and potable water is available. Olivia has a nice, small grocery store with an excellent bakery, a Dollar General, a Macs Farm Supply/Hardware store and multiple gas stations. There is a decent sit down restaurant (Max's) on the west side of town, as well as a small diner in that area, and a Subway and Dairy Queen. Overall, for $20 per night ($10 if you don't need electricity) it's a clean, convenient stop.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2026

    Big Island Campground — Myre-Big Island State Park

    Beautiful but watch out for raccoons

    I have stayed here 3 or 4 times and have enjoyed my time for the most part. Except the last time I was there (last summer) the raccoons were absolutely out of control. I didn't even have food unpacked out of my car yet and they were rummaging through my stuff while I was standing right there. They had no fear. I had a giant duffel bag full of tarps (not any food at all in it) and around 1am I hear the racoon trying to steal it. So I get up and put it in my trunk. The raccoon climbs into my trunk! While I'm standing right there, I've never seen anything like it.

    Honestly everything else about this park is great. The island is gorgeous with beautiful sunsets, the hiking is great, the sites are nice, etc. But I probably will not come back just because of raccoons. Because keeping a clean campsite doesn't seem to matter for these critters.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground

    Cute campground

    I've stayed here twice now. I love that it's close to home. The park has a cute little waterfall that's fairly close to the main campground. They also have a whole different section of the park with hike in and cart in sites.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Lebanon Hills Regional Park

    Close to the cities and reasonably priced

    It's definitely not my favorite campground because it doesn't feel like you are in the woods. But I like it because it's close to the cities and I love the regional park for hiking, swimming, boating, etc.

    There are three sections... First is the main rv section. The sites are very close together, like a lot of rv parks. Then there is the primitive camping loop which is where I stay. The sites are further apart and separated by trees and bushes. I don't love that recently they added a ton of mulch to each site, basically like a playground. It just doesn't fit the camping vibe.

    There's another loop that's for both tents and rvs that also has a little more space and a playground in the center.

    The staff is generally very friendly but they do have a lot of rules so beware.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Jay Cooke State Park Campground

    Great park! Will come again!

    This is a favorite of mine. I have been here tent camping twice and will be staying at a camper cabin later this summer!

    My favorite part of this park is the swinging bridge. I'm in awe of the view every time I come. I sometimes stop here on my way up to the north shore just to sit out on the rocks and enjoy the view.

    The campground is huge. There's multiple loops for both primitive and electric hook up. There's a very nice shower building located very centrally. There's camper cabins too.

    Beware last year there was a bear that frequented the campgrounds, but we didn't really have any major issues with him. Just keep your food secure.

    Lots of great hiking. The superior hiking trail runs through this park as well. Close to Duluth where there are so many fantastic recreational activities. I had great cell service everywhere in the campgrounds too.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Moose Lake State Park Campground

    Cozy little campground!

    I stayed here last minute because on my previous camping trip my gear was soaked, and I can't dry out my gear in my apartment. So I chose to come here and I'm so glad I did!

    The park itself is smaller. The campground only has three loops. There's one loop that is primitive, while the other two have electric hook up.

    My favorite part of this campground is the gorgeous trees.

    I saw lots of deer and a turtle laying eggs!

    It has a small beach and a fishing pier (i think a spot to launch boats too but I could be remembering wrong).

    Campground host was super friendly and came by to say hi. At one point, there was a tornado warning and she literally drove to my campsite to let me know and made sure I got to the shelter. (there didn't end up being a tornado, just a gnarly storm).

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Father Hennepin State Park Campground

    Cozy little state park right on the water!

    I stayed here last summer (2025)and am planning on staying here this summer as well.

    The park is smaller than it's sister park Mille Lacs Kathio, but it definitely has some things that are better about it!

    I stayed in the Maplewood campground, which I recommend if you like quiet and privacy. The sites are further apart and give you a more "in the woods" feel. The other campground (lake view) is more traditional RV style camping where the sites are fairly close. However they have some sites (small and close together) that have views directly of the lake, if that's your thing.

    I stayed at site 96 which was verrrrry deep and felt pretty private. It's backed up to the woods so you don't have anyone behind you. It has a nice tent pad, and plenty of space for canopies or other equipment. It's a short walk down to the water too, where there's a fishing pier really close by, and a large beach a little further down. I went in very early June and the mosquitoes honestly weren't terrible yet, but the caterpillars were everywhere! There were caterpillars all over my tent, in my sandals I left outside my tent, on my car, etc. When I found one I just relocated them to a safer area in the woods. Lots of deer, you can hear owls at night, squirrels etc. It is bear country, but I didn't see any bears. I kept my food locked up in my car.

    One night it was kind if windy and you could hear the waves on the lake from the tent, so that was kinda cool.

    I have t mobile and had decent service here as well.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Camper Cabins — Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

    Beautiful cabins, excellent staff!

    I had a very...interesting experience at the camper cabins this week! I stayed at the cabin #3 this week, Monday through Thursday (3 nights). Monday and Tuesday were awesome. I was the only one there on the whole side of the road, and it was soooo peaceful.

    Early Wednesday morning (around 3am)is where things stopped being peaceful. A really bad storm developed (that I had no idea was coming). It was probably the worst storm I had ever experienced in my life. Five trees fell in the yard, one small one hitting the cabin. One tree even fell a couple of feet behind my car, blocking me in. After taking a short walk when the sun came up, I realized the damage was everywhere in the park. I was seeing downed trees all over every single trial and road. I emailed the park office which opened at 8 that I was trapped, and they cleared all the trees from the office to where I was (almost three miles away) and was getting me out by 9:30. I was so impressed with how fast they worked. Amazing job! They offered to give me a refund if I wanted to go home early (I didn't, because I was still really enjoying my time there). I will definitely be back!

    Without the whole storm fiasco, here are some pros and cons:

    Pro *the cabins are gorgeous and cozy. *they have electric and heat (a gas burning stove heats the cabin, how cute!) *there's a screened in porch allowing you to enjoy the weather without bugs. *the vault toilet is really close, but there is also flush toilets with a shower in the campground, which is like a five minute walk, or a very short drive. *the mattresses on the bunk beds appear to be newer than some cabins I stayed in, that being said, a foam mattress topper isn't a bad idea if you struggle to sleep *the trails are gorgeous. The cabins aren't far from the lake either. There's a visitor center that's currently closed for renovations (2026) but I think will be open next year. There's a short interpretive trail behind it too. *there's a fire ring and picnic table outside.

    Cons (there aren't many!) *I think being separated from the main campground is both a pro and a con, depending on your personality. If you like solitude then it's perfect. If you enjoy being where everyone else is, then it's a con.

    • the cabins are kinda close together, but there's trees and shrubs between (although several fewer than there were earlier this week 😭) so it does kinda feel private. But the noise can travel (there were people two cabins down my first night and I did hear them just a little bit).
    • there's not much cell service. I heard Verizon does best. I had t mobile and depending on where I was standing I either got zero bars or occasionally up to 2bars (usually I didn't really get much though). That's kinda annoying especially during situations like the storm that happened (thankfully I was not harmed, my car wasn't harmed, and the cabin didn't get damaged from the tiny tree that fell right on it).
  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Everett Park

    Quiet and Serene

    The spot was stunning, private, and well-maintained. The host was curt and cold. My husband: “What a beautiful spot!” Host: “Yeah. Keep it that way.” So much for hospitality.

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

Keep Exploring

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