Best Campgrounds near Saint Cloud, MN

Camping near Saint Cloud, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful trails at Crow Wing State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails."
• Fishing and Swimming: Head to Lake Maria State Park Campground for some fishing or a swim. One camper noted, "The park ranger at check-in was not helpful... but we still enjoyed our time."
• Bird Watching: If you're into birding, Mille Lacs Kathio Petaga Campground is a great spot. A reviewer shared, "The trails are probably not maintained... but they were almost impossible to hike on simply because of the amount of mosquitoes."

What campers like:

• Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve. One happy camper said, "Peaceful, quiet, with spacious sites that are situated in a staggered way."
• Clean Facilities: Many visitors enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park. A reviewer mentioned, "Very Clean men’s bathroom."
• Helpful Staff: Campers often rave about the friendly staff at Father Hennepin State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "Everyone here at Baker is so helpful and accommodating."

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the warmer months. A camper at Mille Lacs Kathio Petaga Campground warned, "The trails are probably not maintained... but they were almost impossible to hike on simply because of the amount of mosquitoes."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Ann Lake, have fewer amenities. A visitor shared, "Camping here is primitive with few amenities."
• Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Bunker Hills Regional Park can fill up quickly, so it's best to book ahead. One camper mentioned, "Went early in the season... had no problems getting a good spot."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds and swimming areas. Oak Ridge Campground — Sibley State Park has a nice swimming beach, as noted by a visitor: "Nice beach for swimming."
• Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Lake Maria State Park Campground suggested, "We enjoy walking the grounds down to the lake."
• Pack Bug Spray: Don’t forget the bug spray! A family camping at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground noted, "Mosquitos so thick we had to wear nets over our faces."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Ann Lake mentioned, "The road is gravel and dirt with wear and tear, which might make it difficult for large motorhomes."
• Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve, offer electric hookups. A camper shared, "The grounds are absolutely gorgeous, with huge hardwoods that provide lots of shaded sites."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Crow Wing State Park Campground mentioned, "Dump station on site."

Camping around Saint Cloud, Minnesota, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway.