Best Campgrounds near Pequot Lakes, MN

The Brainerd Lakes region surrounding Pequot Lakes, Minnesota features numerous campgrounds nestled among dense pine forests and pristine lakes. Wildwedge Golf and RV Park offers tent, RV, and cabin accommodations directly in Pequot Lakes, while RV Resort Village provides well-maintained sites with concrete pads and full hookups. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access Cross Lake Recreation Area, Gull Lake Recreation Area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Crow Wing State Park. The Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite offers more primitive options for those seeking a quieter experience. Most campgrounds in this area provide water access, with many sites situated directly on lakeshores.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in the Pequot Lakes area, with most campgrounds operating from May through October. Minnesota's notorious summer mosquitoes can be challenging, particularly in wooded sites. As one camper noted, "If you visit in the summertime, expect hellish mosquitoes and pack accordingly!" Popular lakeside sites often require reservations months in advance during peak summer weekends. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with more remote sites in Paul Bunyan State Forest having limited or no coverage. Minnesota's firewood transportation restrictions apply to all campgrounds to prevent the spread of invasive species, requiring campers to purchase certified wood locally.

Waterfront access represents the primary draw for many visitors to the area's campgrounds. Campers consistently mention the quality of fishing opportunities, particularly in Gull Lake and Cross Lake. Sites with lake views tend to fill quickly and command premium rates. The region offers a notable contrast between developed RV resorts with full amenities and more rustic state forest campgrounds. As one reviewer of Mantrap Lake Campground noted, "For the price of only $14 a night, you can't go wrong. Almost every site had a fair amount of space and privacy from neighboring sites." Proximity to recreational trails, particularly the Paul Bunyan Trail, provides additional activities beyond water sports, with several campgrounds offering direct trail access for hiking and biking.

Best Camping Sites Near Pequot Lakes, Minnesota (184)

    1. Gull Lake Recreation Area

    9 Reviews
    Baxter, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 290-5772

    $32 - $50 / night

    "Minnesota in the summer the parks are very full of large RVs. Our teardrop fits inside one. Nice clean campground. Friendly rangers. Nice showers."

    "We stayed in site 29 with electric and it was large but the only down fall is the firewood for purchase is next to the site, so there is a bit more foot traffic walking by."

    2. Crow Wing State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Baxter, MN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 825-3075

    $21 / night

    "Tent camp here once and a while, but finally got around to officially doing the hiking club trail."

    "Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails, and good information signs with history of each site along the trail.

    Very Clean men’s bathroom."

    3. Cross Lake Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Pequot Lakes, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 290-5793

    $24 - $40 / night

    "This is a great campground in the Brainerd lakes area of Minnesota.it is right in the middle of the town of Crosslake but when you’re in the campground you feel like you’re out in the woods."

    "Could just be the current political budget restraints but I tent camped Gull Lake RA for four nights never saw a Ranger."

    4. Wildwedge Golf and RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Pequot Lakes, MN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 568-5000

    "Lots of amenities in the surrounding area. Good golfing. Good times"

    "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. Great location for lots of activities."

    5. Crosslake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Crooked Creek Lake, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 290-5793

    "The lake is nice and offers a boat ramp.  It is a clean lake but does have zebra mussels.  Nice walk around the campsite.  There is a dam with a nice fishing pier. "

    "Lovely park on cross lake. Sites are large although not alway easy for bigger rigs to get into due to trees. But trees are part of the beauty. Camp amenities in good shape."

    6. RV Resort Village

    2 Reviews
    Pequot Lakes, MN
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 568-8009

    "The campground was tucked away from the highway, so it was very quiet and peaceful. The grounds were beautifully landscaped with full grass."

    7. True North Basecamp

    9 Reviews
    Crosby, MN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 833-2267

    "The cabins are my favorite because of the lake views, proximity to the bathhouse, and heat/AC units. Cabin #5 has the best unobstructed views of the lake. Cabins have WiFi."

    "A great little campground right near the town (easy to bike in for coffee or beer) but it feels like you're deep in the northwoods! Some sites are better than others in terms of privacy."

    8. Breezy Point Resort

    1 Review
    Pequot Lakes, MN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 562-7141

    "Beautiful spot with lakes all around."

    9. Cuyuna Range Campground

    7 Reviews
    Cuyuna, MN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 228-2991

    $57 - $65 / night

    "And, this campground is close to the fun downtown in Crosby and the great bike trails and parks there. The Ironwood spot I was in is also especially private, so highly recommend it!"

    "It’s clean, well-maintained, and close to town for groceries and restaurants. Would stay here again."

    10. Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Pequot Lakes, MN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 296-6157

    "My middle son and I did a bike packing trip on the Paul Bunyon Trail, we rode up from Crow Wing and stayed at this little gem for the night."

    "It is accessible only by foot, bike or paddle, for trekkers on the Paul Bunyan Bike Trail or the Pine River Water Trail."

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Recent Reviews near Pequot Lakes, MN

373 Reviews of 184 Pequot Lakes Campgrounds



Guide to Pequot Lakes

Camping near Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of options for outdoor fun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking Trails: Explore the many trails in the area. One camper mentioned, "Many bike and walking/hiking trails. Well maintained park," highlighting the great paths available for outdoor enthusiasts at Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park.
  • Fishing and Boating: Enjoy fishing or take your boat out on the water. A review noted, "Great campground right on Leech Lake," which is perfect for those looking to cast a line or paddle around at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor shared, "I saw an albino deer on the hiking club trail!" while hiking at Father Hennepin State Park Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review stated, "Men’s bathroom is cleaned twice a day! Showers are clean and water is hot!" at Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites. One camper said, "We were on site 23 and it was a huge site," praising the space at Stony Point.
  • Natural Beauty: The scenic views are a big hit. A review noted, "Beautiful wild flowers blooming along the trails," at Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park.

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One review highlighted, "Fun for the whole family. Amenities include: playground, pool, lake," at Crow Wing Lake Campground.
  • Pack Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, it's essential to bring bug spray. A camper noted, "Bring bug spray in the summer!" at Crow Wing State Park Campground.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. A visitor mentioned, "There are several trails near the area and some connected to the campsite," at Savanna Portage State Park Campground.

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Pequot Lakes, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pequot Lakes, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 184 campgrounds and RV parks near Pequot Lakes, MN and 13 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Pequot Lakes, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pequot Lakes, MN is Gull Lake Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pequot Lakes, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Pequot Lakes, MN.

What parks are near Pequot Lakes, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Pequot Lakes, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.