Alysia B.
Scout
ScoutMont du Lac Resort
Nice paved spots
Nice campground with flat paved spots and good facilities. Water park for extra charge, but a great free playground for non-swimmers
Camping near McGregor, MN
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near McGregor, Minnesota range from state-operated facilities to county parks and privately managed sites, with several options available for tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Savanna Portage State Park Campground offers both electric and non-electric sites, along with cabins and hiking trails. Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area provides waterfront access with boat-in capabilities and full hookup options for RVs. The Minnesota National RV Park caters specifically to golf enthusiasts with sites situated adjacent to a 27-hole course. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several locations featuring cabin rentals for visitors seeking more shelter.
Most campgrounds in the McGregor region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter access. The region experiences significant mosquito activity during summer months, particularly in wooded or marshy areas. "The mosquitoes are brutal here, especially on the hiking club trail and to a somewhat lesser degree in the campground. We were thankful to have a screen tent for this visit," noted one visitor to Savanna Portage. Cell service varies considerably between locations, with some campgrounds reporting no coverage while others maintain reliable connections. Water quality can be inconsistent across campgrounds, with some visitors noting high iron content in drinking water. Reservations are recommended during peak summer weekends, especially for sites with lake access or electrical hookups.
Campers consistently rate waterfront locations highest among McGregor area campgrounds. Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area receives particular praise for its water access and boat docking options. "We were in spot 12 and it was right on the water. You can park your boat on the dock in front of your spot," shared one reviewer. The Minnesota National campground attracts golfers specifically, with its integration into the golf course layout. Savanna Portage State Park offers more seclusion and nature immersion but receives mixed reviews regarding site privacy and bug pressure. Several campgrounds feature fishing opportunities, playground equipment for families, and shower facilities. Visitors seeking quieter experiences typically prefer the more remote sites at Savanna Portage, while those desiring more amenities gravitate toward the developed facilities at Sandy Lake.
Best Campgrounds near McGregor (147)
1. Savanna Portage State Park Campground
"It’s situated near four lakes and loads of biking/hiking. There is a lot to do in the area from fishing, hiking, biking, and nature watching."
"There are several trails near the area and some connected to the campsite. I tried to hike around the lake but ran into several impassable spots bc of a recent rain."
from $22 - $120 / night
Check Availability2. Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area
"This campground is in a sweet location on the banks of hisotric and beautiful Big Sandy lake. There are standard tent and RV sites, as well as camper cabin options."
"Tip - drinking water in the North Campground is not at the dump station, but on the other end near the boat launch."
from $16 - $60 / night
Check Availability3. Minnesota National RV Park
"As this was our second time here at Minnesota National, we had no problem finding the course or RV park. The RV navigation in our new Ford 450 was also spot on."
"campground built right next to the Minnesota National Golf Course clubhouse, and in the corner surrounded by Savannah holes 8 and 9. It’s literally inside the golf course."
from $39 - $59 / night
Check Availability4. Sandy Lake
"Nice sites but surrounded by swampy areas so mosquitoes are thick. Very clean, pay attention to north or south entrance. Have to drive on either end can’t cross the dam with a vehicle."
from $16 - $60 / night
Check Availability5. Bergland County Park
"It provides easy access to recreational activities such as fishing and boating on the Mississippi River, and hiking, cycling or riding ATV’s on the nearby the Soo-Line Trail which stretches from Moose"
"Near town. On the Mississippi River. Self service with self registration."
from $20 / night
Check Availability6. Whispering Pines Campground
7. Jay Cooke State Park Campground
"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. "
from $23 - $90 / night
Check Availability8. Aitkin County Campground
"Central located water spigot for drinking also a dump station with water. Now the bad if the wind is blowing wrong you smell the waste water treatment plant next door."
9. Banning State Park Campground
"Bawning park is a walk through the history of the area the self guided tour is both informative and entertaining and the hike along the river is one to remember featuring the only class 5 rapids in Minnesota"
"There are miles of trails to hike, including along the river and to a waterfall, all kinds of paddling and rafting possibilities(bring your own, or join a trip sponsored by a local outfitter), or go bouldering"
from $24 - $80 / night
Check Availability10. Old Stag Inn Campground #1
from $15 / night
Drive Time
- 57 min from Duluth, MN
- 1 hr 50 min from St. Cloud, MN
- 1 hr 56 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 3 hrs 10 min from Eau Claire, WI
Recent Camping Photos near McGregor, MN
114 Photos of 147 McGregor Campgrounds
MickandKarla W.
Minnesota National RV Park
Janet R.
Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area
Branden W.
Savanna Portage State Park Campground
Ed W.
Aitkin County Campground
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Hill River State Forest
C G.
Jacobson County Campground
Karla J. B.
Moose Lake State Park Campground
Tia H.
Willow River Campground — General C.C. Andrews State Forest
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Snake River Campground
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Bent Trout Lake Campground
Recent Reviews near McGregor, MN
453 Reviews of 147 McGregor Campgrounds
Cari E.
RangerJay Cooke State Park Campground
Everything is convenient
I stayed at two sites, the second being 41E, which has electric. This loop is perhaps the most central to the bath house, but all are conveniently located nearby and the dump station isn’t too far (but far enough to stay out of sight, out of mind). The bath house is fully handicap friendly and the shower heads can all the raised and lowered, and there are wheelchair ramps up to the facility. The dirt roads are miraculously pothole free and the drinking water spigots are blissfully cold if you’re here during a heatwave. Site 41E, like quite a few actually, has the fire pit behind/on the wrong side of your rv door, but no biggie. The biggest downside is that the site is rather unlevel, but if you are able to scoot all the way to the right (closest to the electrical tower), it’s not so bad. The bridge/park office/store is a quick 7 min walk, and the bath house is less than a 2 min walk.
When I was staying, we were hit with hazardous levels of wildfire smoke, and I was so impressed that the park staff opened visitor’s center early so that campers would have a place to escape the smoke. I’ve never stayed at any park where the staff goes so far above and beyond.
- Cari E.Ranger
Jay Cooke State Park Campground
Woodsy Perfection
Every site is nestled into the woods, which is cozy and adds the added benefit of privacy. That said, the extra big rigs wouldn’t be a good fit—one loop only allows for rigs under 25’ in length due to a tight corner. Another oddity is that some fire pits are on the opposite side of your doors, but no biggie.
The bathrooms are wonderfully new and central to all the camping loops. There are men’s and women’s sides for toilets/sinks and independent shower rooms—all handicap friendly. The park really outdid themselves here, even the building is beautifully designed.
Firewood is for sale at the camp office along with your typical camping goods and souvenirs, and the park staff is wonderful to interact with. There are black bears, but no bear boxes, so be smart with your food. I had 1-2 bars of LTE on Verizon, and if you need Starlink access, try to find a site that runs north/south more than east/west because there are obviously trees everywhere.
Site 5 is near a small dumpster, which turned out to be rather convenient—there is a line of trees/brush for privacy, so don’t let that stop you. There is also an ice cold water spigot behind the site, which was even better—again, trees/brush for privacy. Mostly level, with just the smallest tilt toward the fire pit. 2 minute walk to the bathrooms, conveniently located near a walking path to the park office/bridge.
- AAimee S.Scout
Off Grid Star Gazing
Private, secluded, perfect view of Stars!
Each site is completely private & secluded. Complete darkness to view the sky. Being able to drive right to campsite is a plus. Firepits are fully loaded with wood, such a nice perk.
Jacquie B.
TravelerPokegama Dam Campground
Small campground
This a small campground on the Mississippi River. Sitting outside you really hear the Hwy noise. It’s a beautiful spot.
- KKat H.Scout
Camp Holiday Resort and Campground
Wonderful Place!
We have been going up to Camp Holiday for about 5 years now and staying in the same campsite. We just love this place. We have the same neighbors every year so it is like having a family reunion each time. It is so clean and quiet and the sunsets are absolutely beautiful. It is so nice just sitting by the lake listening to the loons. It is hard to leave at the end of the week! Thank you Camp Holiday for giving us such a great week every year!
- Crystal R.
GuideJay 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.Guide
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.Guide
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.
Guide to McGregor
McGregor, Minnesota camping offers a mix of forested sites and waterfront locations across its state parks, county facilities, and private campgrounds. The region sits at an elevation of about 1,240 feet with humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and very cold winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, making tents comfortable with appropriate sleeping gear.
What to do
Paddling on Big Sandy Lake: Launch from Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area for boating access to this large body of water. "The spots are very small and no privacy between the sites but having a water view made up for it and you can park your boat on the dock in front of your spot," notes Melissa A.
Golfing at Minnesota National: Minnesota National RV Park provides direct access to a 27-hole golf course. "This is a relatively new (2016?) campground built right next to the Minnesota National Golf Course clubhouse, and in the corner surrounded by Savannah holes 8 and 9. It's literally inside the golf course," explains Bret S.
Hiking the Continental Divide Trail: At Savanna Portage State Park, this historic trail offers both exercise and education. "The hike to see the continental divide was really cool. We saw a fox and a deer which was cool. Then spent the evening canoeing one of the lakes listening to Loons," shares Branden W.
Exploring quarry ruins: Banning State Park Campground features remnants of a 130-year-old sandstone quarry. "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," writes Jennifer H.
What campers like
Private backpacking sites: For those seeking solitude, Savanna Portage offers secluded options. "The back pack sites are GREAT! Totally private and there is a little shed on at the site that came stocked with fire wood! I couldn't believe it. The hike to the site was a relatively easy under 2 miles," reports Amber S.
Waterfront camping spots: Sandy Lake offers sites with direct water access. "They all had little docks that would be nice if you had a boat. The dam was cool to see and the playground was cute for the kids," notes Stacy M.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept amenities. "Showers and restrooms were super clean! Yes it is buggy but it's minnesota so you deal with it," mentions Scott M. about Savanna Portage State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's lakes and forests support diverse animal populations. "We saw a bear while hiking the continental divide trail so nature is out there," reports one camper about Savanna Portage.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most McGregor area campsites operate from May through October with limited winter availability. Jay Cooke State Park Campground is one exception that remains open year-round, offering winter camping options.
Insect preparation: Bugs are consistently mentioned as a challenge, particularly during peak summer months. "The bugs were pretty intense, a lot of mosquitoes, flies, and several wood ticks, so we recommend a screen tent for eating," advises Elissa W. about Savanna Portage.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between locations with some remote sites having no service. One camper notes about Savanna Portage: "This would be a great place for anyone wanting seclusion and to disconnect. No wi fi signal."
Campsite spacing concerns: At some locations, site privacy can be limited. "The spots are very small and no privacy between the sites," mentions one reviewer about Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated kid-friendly areas: Bergland County Park offers family amenities in Palisade. "There is a good quality boat landing and ramp, fishing piers, nice full service bathrooms, playground and picnic shelter, and easy walking access to the town center," notes Janet R.
Consider activities for varied ages: Some parks offer educational programs specifically for children. "We enjoyed renting canoes for a bit in the afternoon and borrowed a kids activity kit," mentions Elissa W. about Savanna Portage.
Verify playground availability: Check current amenities before booking. "We were frustrated as a family with 2 young kids to find that the 'playground' on the map is just a green (actually weed) space with no playground, no volleyball net, literally nothing," cautions Amy K. about Savanna Portage.
Choose sites near comfort facilities: With children, proximity to restrooms can be important. Look for campsites that mention "central location" to bathrooms and water sources, as noted in several reviews.
Tips from RVers
Confirm site dimensions: Many RV sites in the McGregor area have specific size limitations. "We had no issues backing our 40' Brinkley TH into the site and still had room to put our patio down and park our F-450," notes MickandKarla W. about Minnesota National RV Park.
Check utility hook-up locations: Placement varies by campground. "The utilities are in the far back of the site. I needed about 20' of sewer, electric, and water hose to reach my rig," advises Bret S. about Minnesota National.
Water pressure considerations: "The water pressure is very good at 60+ psi, so suggest a reducer," recommends MickandKarla W. about Minnesota National RV Park.
Look for level sites: Most campgrounds have gravel pads with varying degrees of levelness. "The sites were gravel with a picnic table and a nice fire pit. There were three 5th wheels in our group, and we parked in adjacent sites and did not need to use levelers," notes one RVer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near McGregor, MN?
What camping is available near McGregor, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, McGregor, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 147 campgrounds and RV parks near McGregor, MN and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near McGregor, MN?
Which is the most popular campground near McGregor, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near McGregor, MN is Savanna Portage State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 13 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near McGregor, MN?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near McGregor, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near McGregor, MN.
What parks are near McGregor, MN?
What parks are near McGregor, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near McGregor, MN that allow camping, notably Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake and Mississippi River Headwaters - Cross Lake.
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