Sandy Lake and the Mississippi River Headwaters region sits on the eastern edge of the continental divide, where water flows either east toward Lake Superior or south into the Mississippi River. The area contains diverse wetlands and forests, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Many campsites in this region are positioned near critical water control points, including the historic Sandy Lake Dam that regulates water flow between watersheds.
What to do
Continental divide hiking: Savanna Portage State Park Campground offers trails to the continental divide. "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," notes Branden W., who found the park less buggy than expected compared to warnings.
Water recreation: Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area provides multiple water access points. "We were in spot 12 and it was right on the 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," reports Melissa A. The recreation area includes multiple fishing areas and dedicated boat docks.
Historic site exploration: Several campgrounds feature educational displays about the region's fur trading past. "This location is family friendly with boat launch, picnicking, playground, and historical exhibits about the dam and its history, and about the old furpost that used to be here," explains Janet R. about the Sandy Lake area's historical significance.
What campers like
Secluded forest camping: Hill River State Forest offers free dispersed camping for those seeking solitude. "There were a good amount of spots, and I seemed to be the only person. Was good and secluded... It is your average dispersed site," reports Samuel C. The forest provides primitive camping with no amenities, ideal for experienced campers.
Well-maintained facilities: Bergland County Park earns praise for its upkeep. "This is a small but beautifully maintained city park in the charming village of Palisade. It provides easy access to recreational activities such as fishing and boating on the Mississippi River," notes Janet R. The park includes educational kiosks about the river.
Family-friendly amenities: Many Mississippi River Headwaters - Sandy Lake campgrounds have features for children. "We enjoyed renting canoes for a bit in the afternoon and borrowed a kids activity kit," shares Elissa W. about Savanna Portage State Park. Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds, swimming areas, and educational opportunities.
What you should know
Bug situation: Savanna Portage State Park Campground sits in wetland areas with substantial insect activity. "We were frustrated as a family with 2 young kids... The other thing that was extremely annoying is that the flies and mosquitoes are completely out of control. We literally couldn't sit outside. It was the RV or the gazebo. And this was all day, not just at night," warns Amy K.
Water access varies: Not all sites with "lake" in their name offer waterfront views. "A nice campground and a nice stay. It's pretty but no views of the lake except from the boat launch area," notes Debbie J. about Hay Lake, highlighting that researching specific site locations matters when water views are important.
Campground navigation: Some recreation areas have multiple entrances that can confuse first-time visitors. "We had no problem finding the course or RV park... When you turn in at the golf course, drive all the way to the club house/lodge parking lot and there's a road to the right that takes you into the campground," explains MickandKarla W. about Minnesota National RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Hay Lake Campground offers accessible recreation for children. "The campground is a good size, and all the sites seem private... The lake was very nearby, and some sites have access via stairs, if you like," reports Amy G., who appreciated the proximity to water activities.
Screen protection: Due to insect activity, portable screen shelters are essential. "We did one overnight at Savanna Portage State Park with my young children... 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.
Campsite selection: Look for sites with specific family amenities. "Great place to camp. The dedicated tent sites are limited, but lots of rv sites. Electrical at every site and everyone is friendly. There are even showers and plumbed bathrooms," recommends Brandon F. about the Sandy Lake recreation area, though he notes that holiday weekend bathroom maintenance could be improved.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Minnesota National RV Park has specific layout considerations. "Gravel pads, some a bit out of level. All 50 amp water and sewer. Some great options in here for group camping as there are several loops you could be placed in the have sites near one another," explains Bret S., who found the park convenient for a Big Sandy Lake family gathering.
Utility connections: Many campgrounds have utilities positioned at the far rear of sites. "The utilities are in the back of pad in this CG, so you may need 20+ feet of electric, sewer, or water cord/hose depending on your rig's configuration. The sewer grade is a bit up hill," advises MickandKarla W.
Water pressure awareness: Some campgrounds have unusually high pressure. "The water pressure is very good at 60+ psi, so suggest a reducer," notes MickandKarla W. in their detailed review about Minnesota National, emphasizing the need for pressure regulators to protect RV plumbing.
