The Virginia, Minnesota area offers diverse camping options across state forests, parks, and city campgrounds. The region sits within the Laurentian Mixed Forest at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, creating a transitional zone between coniferous and deciduous forests. Winter temperatures regularly drop below -30°F, limiting camping opportunities to the main season from May through October, with some locations closing earlier due to maintenance schedules.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: West Two River in Mountain Iron provides excellent water access with varied fishing opportunities. "The lake is large enough for some long and interesting kayaking, and there are multiple kinds of fish from bullheads to northern pike," notes Frank G., who appreciated the reservoir's islands and calm waters.
Hiking on paved trails: The Fisherman's Point City Campground features accessible walking options. "Beautiful campground! Owners are super great and helpful, beautiful campsite and nice paved path for biking!!! Great for the family," shares Sarah A., highlighting the versatility of the trails for different activities.
Frisbee golf: Recreation options extend beyond water activities at some campgrounds. West Two River offers an on-site frisbee golf course that provides entertainment without leaving the grounds, making it convenient for campers wanting activity options without driving to other locations.
What campers like
Beach access: Eveleth Veterans Park Campground gets high marks for its waterfront amenities. "This campground is a great place for anyone and is especially great for those with young children. Direct access to a great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in," writes Cassandra F., emphasizing the family-friendly setup.
Private campsites: At Pfeiffer Lake, the natural setting creates separation between sites. "The sites all offer lots of privacy and space. Highly recommend!!" shares Jennifer R., pointing out that the campground maintains a true camping feel without too many modern amenities.
Clean facilities: Vermilion Trail Campground maintains well-kept shower buildings and restrooms. "The bath house/showers were clean and well maintained," notes a camper, which can be particularly important for those staying multiple nights or camping with children.
What you should know
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups but not full services. At Bear Head Lake State Park Campground, "Sites leaning towards more of an rv type of site with the gravel and lots of large rocks in the ground but an amazing location," reports Stephanie K., indicating the mix of amenities and natural terrain.
Mosquito conditions: Bug activity varies by location and season. At Big Rice Lake, a camper noted, "Medium amounts of mosquitoes," while fall camping generally sees reduced insect activity throughout the region.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others remain first-come, first-served. Fisherman's Point City Campground offers flexibility: "Easy to checkin online either on-site or before you get there," according to James W.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Sherwood Forest Campground in Gilbert provides child-friendly amenities. "Cool view looking over a nice lake, has a playground for the kids," mentions Louis S., highlighting the built-in entertainment options.
Consider cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, alternatives exist. At Bear Head Lake State Park, "Camper cabins are nice. They have bunk type beds. The beds on bottom are FULL size (can sleep 2 each) and the ones on top are singles. So 6 could sleep here," explains Amy G.
Choose sites near beaches: Pfeiffer Lake offers family-friendly swimming areas. "Excellent swimming areas and playground for kids, caught a few fish as well," shares a camper who visited during a busy Labor Day weekend but still found the experience enjoyable.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At West Two River, prepare for uneven terrain. "Leveling took me a bit, but I found just the right angle to jack up the front of my RV for leveling," Frank G. notes, suggesting RVers bring adequate leveling blocks.
Limited dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. West 40 RV Park provides full hookups including sewer connections, while others like West Two River have "no tank dump available," requiring planning for longer stays.
Power options: Electric service varies between campgrounds. Eveleth Veterans Park Campground offers 50-amp service for larger RVs, while other locations may only provide 30-amp connections, requiring adapters for some camping setups.
