RV camping near Nisswa, Minnesota offers options ranging from spacious concrete pads to wooded sites nestled among pine trees. Located in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes region at an elevation of approximately 1,250 feet, this area experiences warm summers with average July temperatures in the mid-70s°F. Seasonal operation affects availability across the region, with many campgrounds operating between May and October due to Minnesota's cold winters.
What to do
Golfing at Minnesota National: Camp at Minnesota National RV Park where you can access a challenging 27-hole golf course directly from your campsite. "The 18 hole course is quite challenging where the 9 hole Savannah is shorter and a little bit easier. The golf course restaurant has decent food and a good deal on draft beer during their Sunday to Thursday Happy Hours," notes a camper.
Biking the Paul Bunyan Trail: Multiple RV parks offer easy access to this popular paved trail. "Rode our bikes on the Paul Bunyan Trail to Nisswa and had some ice cream at The Chocolate Ox. Did a little shopping and got a beer at the brewery," shares a camper at Wildwedge Golf and RV Park.
Water activities: Many campgrounds provide water access or are near lakes. At Trails RV Park, "Just realize that the campground IS NOT on Leach Lake but the boat launch is very close," explains one reviewer. The area has numerous lakes for fishing, boating and swimming within short driving distances.
What campers like
Spacious sites: RV campers appreciate the generous site spacing in many parks. At RV There Yet Campground, "Each site has tons of space and lots of trees between sites. No looking into your neighbors site. Plenty of space for hammocks! Each site has a plentiful pile of pine to burn."
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. At Trails RV Park, "Bathroom and showers are very nice and clean. This is mostly a seasonal site campground with 20 or so regular use sites. Camp store very nice and receptionist is very nice."
Family amenities: Pools and playgrounds enhance family camping experiences. "We have stayed at Trails RV park for the past 4 years. We love it. Great for kids, very nice playground and great pool," reports one visitor. Another notes that Birch Bay RV Resort offers a "huge kiddy play area on water, free kayak and paddle board use, nice little onsite store."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most RV parks in the area operate between May and October. Big Pines RV Park specifically notes its season runs "May 1 to Sep 30," while Minnesota National typically closes for winter.
Site orientation challenges: Some parks have utility placement that may require extra equipment. At Hardy's Lake in the Woods RV Resort, "The sites are very large and it is nicely wooded. They have a few areas where the sites are more in the open but not many. The owners are very nice and were great to work with."
Visitor policies: Some resorts have strict visitor regulations. At Birch Bay RV Resort, "We give this resort 5 stars because, despite it not being visitor friendly, they are up front in their policies about visitors and the place is great in all other respects. If you want to have visitors while staying here it is best to consider these policy before visiting as they are strictly enforced."
Tips for camping with families
Free water equipment: Some resorts offer complimentary watercraft. At Birch Bay RV Resort, families appreciate the "free kayak and paddle board use" and the "huge kiddy play area on water."
Mini-golf options: Children enjoy nearby activities. "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained," notes a camper at Wildwedge Golf and RV Park.
Bike-friendly locations: Parks near bike trails offer safe family riding. At Crow Wing Inn Motel and RV Park, "Within easy walking distance, there is a small grocery, two gas stations, a laundry, bar, bank and bakery. As well as a walking trail and a small park." This accessibility makes it easy for families to access supplies and activities.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Be prepared with extension cords and hoses. At Minnesota National RV Park, "The utilities are in the far back of the site. I needed about 20' of sewer, electric, and water hose to reach my rig."
Road conditions: Access roads at some campgrounds may be challenging. At RV There Yet Campground, "The road was very bumpy. This time of year it is fairly frozen, but could be messy in wet weather. Class 5 or gravel would be an awesome addition. The current road is primitive and might be difficult with RVs."
Water pressure variations: Monitor incoming water pressure at your site. At Minnesota National RV Park, "The water pressure is very good at 60+ psi, so suggest a reducer."
