Camping near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake, MN

Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Minnesota camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake (131)

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Recent Reviews near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake

391 Reviews of 131 Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake

Camping near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "I have hiked several of the trails and always see lots of wildlife. It is a great place to go and get lost in the woods...on some trails of course."
  • Fishing: Head to Pokegama Dam Campground for some fishing fun. A reviewer mentioned, "Highlights include fishing in the rapids below the dam, or in the still river water above it."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area is perfect for paddlers. One camper shared, "This campground is in a sweet location on the banks of historic and beautiful Big Sandy lake."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Lovely sites with plenty of trees so most sites are quite private."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained amenities at Pokegama Dam Campground. One review highlighted, "Super clean bathrooms. Level sites and great views of the Mississippi."
  • Nature Watching: The wildlife is a big draw. A camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground remarked, "We saw a bear while hiking the continental divide trail so nature is out there."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. One camper warned, "Mosquitos are terrible—come prepared!!!"
  • Water Quality: At Savanna Portage State Park Campground, some campers noted issues with water quality. A review mentioned, "My main complaint was the water was full of iron—it was a little brown and didn’t taste very good."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Pokegama Dam Campground, may lack certain amenities. A visitor noted, "There are no showers, but the restrooms are nice."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Moose Lake State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The trails are nice walking trails with picturesque views of the lake."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. One camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground mentioned, "There are several trails near the area and some connected to the campsite."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Given the mosquito situation, a camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground advised, "We were thankful to have a screen tent for this visit."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should pay attention to site sizes at places like Pokegama Dam Campground. A review noted, "Sites are level gravel pads. On the water sites have no beach shoreline lots of cattails."
  • Be Ready for Noise: Some campgrounds, like Pokegama Dam Campground, are near highways. One visitor mentioned, "Road noise from Hwy 2 is a downside."
  • Use a Senior Pass: If you're a senior, take advantage of discounts at campgrounds like Pokegama Dam Campground. A camper shared, "We used our Senior National Park pass for 1/2 of $26. Sweet deal!!"

Camping near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake, Minnesota, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake offers a wide range of camping options, with 131 campgrounds and RV parks near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake is Savanna Portage State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 13 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake.

  • What parks are near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.