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Wildwedge Golf and RV Park welcomes pets at spacious sites throughout their Pequot Lakes property, featuring full hookups for RVers and pet-friendly cabin options for those without camping equipment. Dogs remain on leash throughout the campground, with designated dog exercise areas available for pets to stretch their legs. Cross Lake Recreation Area and Birch Bay RV Resort also accommodate pets, with both offering water access points where well-behaved dogs can cool off during summer months. Sites at these pet-friendly locations typically include picnic tables and fire rings where campers can relax with their four-legged companions after a day of outdoor activities. The grounds at most area campgrounds are kept immaculately clean with trash pickup and pet waste disposal stations readily available. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Pequot Lakes, Minnesota.
Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite provides a unique primitive camping experience for dogs and their owners, accessible by foot, bike or paddle along the scenic Pine River. This free campsite includes two separate areas with fire rings, picnic tables, and cleared tent spots where pets can accompany their owners without reservation requirements. The trail itself offers excellent pet exercise opportunities, with many campers reporting their dogs enjoyed swimming in the Pine River's sandy areas. Trail etiquette dictates that site sharing is expected when other campers arrive with pets. Local campgrounds enforce strict leash policies even within individual campsites, particularly at Cross Lake where rangers regularly patrol the grounds. Temperature fluctuations in the region can affect pets, with summer highs requiring adequate water supplies and shade areas where dogs can rest during peak afternoon heat.
"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."
from $32 - $50 / night
Check Availability"We loved the group camp site except for the fact the people would walk through it. There was a main hiking trail and lots of people came through. Our dogs did not care for that surprise."
"Just kidding, our dogs hate camping but we definitely enjoyed Crow Wing. The park ranger was super helpful on our first visit to the park."
from $24 - $80 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $24 - $40 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"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. "
"The campground was tucked away from the highway, so it was very quiet and peaceful. The grounds were beautifully landscaped with full grass."
"My dogs loved exploring the woods. The other campers were fun and social. And, this campground is close to the fun downtown in Crosby and the great bike trails and parks there."
"It’s clean, well-maintained, and close to town for groceries and restaurants. Would stay here again."
from $57 - $65 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"The Lake is actually part of a string of lakes friendly to high speed motor boats as well as canoeing/kayaking. Like all other COE campgrounds, it honors campground passes, cutting the fees by half."
"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."
LegendFun for the whole family. Amenities include: playground, pool, lake, dog park, and store. Each site has a table and fire pit. Keep an eye on your account. We noticed goggles charged to ours even though none of the 3 of us bought any. Somebody must've given them the wrong site number to charge to. Overall great campground, but a little spendy.
TravelerA 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. The bathrooms were always clean. Situated right on a quarry with fun fishing and kayaking opportunities. Connects to the mountain bike trails too! They do charge for pets.
TravelerFirst the negatives. No internet, medium phone signal. The campsites are too small and too crowded. The adults let their young kids drive their cold carts and atvs back and forth from the campground to the beach all day long. I counted one particular one make 34 trips in less than 6 hours. I used to golf and I occasionally used a cart but usually I walked. Kids and young parents are way too lazy now, because it's a small campground and short walk to the beach from the farthest site. I think they do it for 2 reasons, they are bored, and they can. There is only one road in and out so there is constant traffic, and the road is gravel so prepare to eat dust. The sites aren't paved or even gravel, you park on the grass. Now for the positives. Some sites have 50 amp, most just 30 amp or less. Water hookups at most. No full hookups or dump site. There is a beach and swim area on Skunk Creek. A playground by the bathroom and showers. That building is clean, showers are free. Lots of shade from all the trees. Mosquitoes are few, flies plentiful. It is a quiet park after 10pm, but although they say closed after 8pm there was traffic all night long. Ask for a site in the back to avoid headlights shining on you all night long. Rates are $40/night for the pull through site we had w50 amp service. It has a few seasonal sites, all located at the rear. There is a golf course right next door across the creek. That is where the office is located. The town is small, only a gas station and small grocery store, so bring what you need. A Subway and nice drive-in are close by. Oh, the water is in me/my dogs opinion not for drinking. I wouldn't suggest weekends here unless you're into hearing every conversation your neighbors have or want to sleep in. Maybe the week days are better? They do allow leashed pets.
ScoutAmazing, Family-owned campground, just far enough from “the cities” to get away for the weekend, without spending too much time in the car. Clean bathrooms, nice sized park for kids, pool (not open in Sept), lake with ample docks for fishing or you can rent boats. The “general store” has everything you need from souvenirs to wood, to marshmallows for s’mores, and all at reasonable prices. Each campsite has electrical hookup, picnic table and fire pit. Pets welcome.
TravelerThis campground is in Paul Bunyan State Forest. First come, first serve. No ATVs are allowed, perfect if you have young kids on bikes. There are no hook ups at all. Must have a generator for power. Water is available but not at every site. Pets are allowed. Outside toilets are clean. This is a quiet camp ground. The site includes a table and fire ring. There is no place to dock your boat over night. Keep in mind these sites are only $14 a night. There is a host but no security. There are signs up warning about bears.
LegendWhile this seems to be mainly an "RV" campground, but there were a few cabins on the lake and two gorgeous tent sites that would be the envy of many other camps. They were ideal, especially for the family that wanted the "tent" experience without having to huff it through the woods with toddlers in tow.
Sleeping Fawn is very clearly marked from the road, and although they don't say "campground" on the sign, there are a few tent sites available. It's about a 3/4 mile drive off the main road, but signage is apparent the entire way, and it's super easy to find once you get there. There is an office for check in, cabins to rent and lots of RV sites available too. Even though RV's seem to dominate here, the roadway through the woods and past them is peaceful and serene. Pine needles cover the ground and create a softness to the scenery. The posts that mark each site are wooden, tall, and are clearly numbered. Close to the entrance is a "tent parking" area, a cart for hauling your things, and 2 tent pads, just across the drive and down a little path about 20 yards. Perfect!
The tent sites are far enough apart to be "separate", but close enough that if you had family or friends, they are close by. Garbage cans are at the split in the path between #1 and #2 and each site has a fire ring, picnic table, gorgeous, flat tent pad and a view of the lake. And again, if you needed something from the car, it's a 50 yard walk. Not a 3 mile trudge through the woods.
Camping in tents May 18 - Oct 1
Camping rates were a bit steep for my liking, but I like primitive sites in the woods. So if you were a family trying to introduce wee ones to camping, it would still be worth it. $28 for a site as of 2018. Or a weekly rate of $170. Showers and laundry available, as well as free coffee in the morning. They also have a beach, nature trail, small store and other amenities.
NOTE: Pets are not allowed at this resort
GuideThe thing about State Parks is that they don't always know what they want to be.
Are they here to celebrate nature, and provide a moments breath away from the pace of urban life? Are they here for historical facts? Are they for revenue?
Crow Wing State Park suffers from this dilemma. While the tent sites are nice and spacious, the RV sites are stacked one on top of another, with no illusion of privacy. The weekend we were there, they were pretty full, but noise coming from other campers was acceptable.
There are plenty of water spigots, and toilet/shower facilities. The facilities are clean, but old.
There is an almost constant booming, however, coming from Fort Ripley, just down the river. The Fort serves as training for everything from the national guard, to state police, to the DNR. At one point, we could clearly hear live rounds being fired.
The walks and paths were well maintained, except that some were flooded out due to recent heavy rains. The area dedicated to the Old Crow Wing Village was well done.
What causes me the most confusion though, is that someone made the call to cover the roads with sand, instead of the traditional crushed stone. So, never mind that the sand made it harder to walk up hill to the water and showers, it got everywhere. When we tore down camp, I emptied enough sand from my tent, that I could have added a fresh layer to a cat's litter box.
I am very conflicted about this park. It is very pretty, but when you get right down to it, the little quirks that surround it add up. I'm not sure if we will be back. Not that we won't, it's just that we won't be rushing back.
ScoutMinnesota in the summer the parks are very full of large RVs. Our teardrop fits inside one. Nice clean campground. Friendly rangers. Nice showers. Beach area is small and no where the dogs can get in. Great charity that sells and delivers firewood.
RangerOur family just returned from a 9 day stay at Leech Lake Receeation Area, and wish we could have stayed 9 more!! The Campground is located in north central Minnesota (Federal Dam) about 30 minutes southeast of Bemidji or a 3 & 1/2 hour drive from Minnneapolis/St. Paul, MN area, and is run by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Volunteers. The park is located in the Leech Lake Reservation and Chippewa National Forest.
The park has 77 sites available that you can make reservations online at: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/leech-lake-rec-area/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=73246
**Note: We reserved our spot 6 months in advance as they book up super fast in the short Minnesota summer months.
There are 73 sites with electric hook ups (5 are full hook ups) or if you want to tent in a private setting, they have 4 primitive walk to sites. Each site has a large picnic table and fire ring with adjustable grill.
When you check in they give you a code that allows you access to the comfort building (flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities) We took advantage of the boat mooring area (just a few steps down from the campground) that includes a plug in area to recharge our boat batteries, and we really appreciated the fish cleaning station building!! (Super clean!!!)**See pics of the awesome fish we caught-Note all Walleye in the 20-26 inch slot size must be released.
We spent the majority of the time enjoying Leech Lake, but we also spent time hiking the trails (Check out the 400 year old Cedar Tree!!), we played horseshoes, and shuffle board (a new game to us!!), and relaxing by the campfire. **NOTE Only certified & approved firewood can be used in the park. There is a general store just outside the park that sells it for $20.00 a wheelbarrow full.
We would give this campground 6 stars if we could, and know you would too!! Enjoy the pics!!
Primitive camping opportunities abound in the Pequot Lakes area of Minnesota, located in the heart of the Pine River watershed at an elevation of 1,300 feet. The region experiences hot summer days that can reach 85°F with cool evenings dropping to the 50s, creating varied conditions for outdoor recreation and dog exercise. Fall brings dramatic temperature shifts requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
Fishing on Cross Lake: Cross Lake Recreation Area provides access to one of the area's prime fishing spots. "It is a clean lake but does have zebra mussels. Nice walk around the campsite. There is a dam with a nice fishing pier," notes Josh M. at Cross Lake Campground.
Golfing near camp: The Paul Bunyan region offers several highly-rated courses within minutes of camping areas. "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained," reports Jesse J. about Wildwedge Golf and RV Park, making it a standout option among the pet-friendly campgrounds in Pequot Lakes.
Bike trail exploration: The region connects to extensive trail systems. "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," adds Jesse J., highlighting how the trails link camping to local towns.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Several lakes offer water recreation with equipment sometimes included. Mary F. explains at Birch Bay: "Cute little lake with gorgeous sunsets, huge kiddy play area on water, free kayak and paddle board use."
Spacious campsites: Campers consistently praise the ample room at dog-accepting campgrounds near Pequot Lakes. At Gull Lake Recreation Area, Scott G. reports: "The sites are huge and generally well separated. Plenty of room for even the biggest rigs. The sites are flat gravel (class5) no leveling blocks needed."
Clean facilities: The cleanliness of campground bathrooms and common areas receives frequent mention. "The bathrooms and vault toilets are the cleanest I've ever seen!" exclaims Jessi about Gull Lake Recreation Area, while Katie B. notes about Cuyuna Range: "The sites were amazingly large with nice privacy between the lots. Each lot has full hook-ups, that was a huge bonus!!"
Natural screening: Privacy between sites matters to many campers. "Our campsite did have electric, sewer and water hookups. There are many playgrounds here as well. The trees are mature and provide ample shade," explains Joe S. about Cross Lake Recreation Area.
Lake access options: Waterfront locations provide both recreation and scenic value. At Cuyuna Range Campground, Melanie F. shares: "We went to Brainerd one day. Spent a couple days kayaking, swimming and snorkeling the lakes that were made by the mines."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Book early on Recreation.gov - we reserved 6 months out for memorial weekend," advises Deb M. about Gull Lake.
Water availability: Not all sites offer hookups. Curt D. notes about Gull Lake: "There are no water hookups at the sites so be sure to fill up when you arrive."
Site accessibility: Some locations have challenging terrain for larger vehicles. Mary F. explains at Crosslake Campground: "Sites are large although not always easy for bigger rigs to get into due to trees. But trees are part of the beauty."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking no-cost camping, Janet R. details: "This is a beautiful deeply wooded double campsite along the scenic Pine River. It is accessible only by foot, bike or paddle, for trekkers on the Paul Bunyan Bike Trail or the Pine River Water Trail."
Playground access: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Pequot Lakes feature play areas. Joe S. at Cross Lake Recreation Area explains: "There is a very nice beach area and well maintained trails through the campground. Can't say enough good things about this place."
Swimming areas: Beaches offer cooling options during hot days. At True North Basecamp, Stacy M. reports: "It has a great swimming area, though it did get deep fast for little kids. We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake."
Educational opportunities: Historical features provide learning experiences. Janet R. shares about Crow Wing State Park: "This park boasts an amphitheater, trails along the river, a group center, an historic site, decent bathroom facility, and spacious camp sites."
Proximity to town: Easy access to supplies and treats matters with children. Kelsey S. notes about Cuyuna Range: "Great location just north of town, very easy to drive in and explore the fun shops and parks."
Hookup locations: Different campgrounds position utilities for specific RV types. Kelcey K. notes about RV Resort Village: "Biggest negative is that the utility hookups are designed for a Class A Motorhome so for my trailer, they were on the wrong side. Had to get a longer water hose and extension for sewer line...NOT IDEAL."
Leveling requirements: Site preparation varies across campgrounds. Scott G. appreciated Gull Lake's preparation: "The sites are flat gravel (class5) no leveling blocks needed."
Dumping facilities: Some locations charge extra for this service. "If I were to knock anything it would be the $5 dumping charge," mentions Scott G. about Gull Lake.
Site privacy: The balance between convenience and seclusion matters. Janae L. shares about Cuyuna Range Campground: "We parked two vehicles and our Airstream and still had plenty of space for relaxing. Even when the campground is full on weekends, it doesn't feel crowded or loud."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Pequot Lakes, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Pequot Lakes, MN is Gull Lake Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Pequot Lakes, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 134 dog-friendly camping locations near Pequot Lakes, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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