Camping options near Staples, Minnesota include both rustic and developed sites surrounding the Mississippi River headwaters region. The area sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the Staples region remain open from May through October, with several state parks offering year-round glamping accommodations for visitors seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping.
What to do
Biking trails access: The Paul Bunyan Bike Trail passes through Crow Wing State Park Campground, connecting to 120 miles of cycling routes. "Great state campground, good hiking trails, Paul Bunyan Bike Trail passes through park(120 miles long). Crow Wing town site interesting," notes camper Big Craig.
Historic site exploration: Walk through remnants of 1800s settlements with educational markers. "There is an old town site with informational plaques along the way that depict what life was like here in the 1890s. Excellent map signage on the hiking trails too," shares Lindsey R. from Crow Wing State Park.
Paddling opportunities: Navigate the Mississippi River or lake waters at True North Basecamp, which offers shoreline access to quiet waters. "We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake," reports Stacy M., who appreciated the calm water conditions.
What campers like
River views: Campsites along the Mississippi provide scenic water landscapes and wildlife watching. A camper at Crow Wing State Park reports, "Nice trails along the river, easy to walk... Just an awesome sunset walk and a bit of moonlight!"
Beach access: Campers' Paradise features lakefront sites with private water access points. "The lake front sites have their own sandy walk in to the water. The sites are separated by trees/brush so you feel that they are really private," notes Melissa H.
Trail connectivity: Many glamping sites in Staples connect directly to hiking and biking paths, eliminating the need to drive. "The campground is nice but only has a primitive toilet adjacent to the campsites. Great stargazing at both the cabins and the tent sites," mentions Makayla B. about True North Basecamp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping facilities near Staples operate from May through October, with limited winter options. "If you visit in the summertime, expect hellish mosquitoes and pack accordingly!" warns Sarah D. from Crow Wing State Park.
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites fill quickly, especially on summer weekends and holidays. According to one camper at Campers' Paradise, "We loved our one week there so much that we've asked to be put onto a permanent renewal because we will be going back over and over."
Facility variations: Bathhouse and toilet quality varies significantly between locations. One camper at Crow Wing State Park noted, "There was only 1 shower/toilet building and 7 water spigots for 48 camp sites - most of which were for tents. Of the 2 women's shower stalls, only one worked properly."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Carlos State Park Campground provides swimming beaches with designated areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "Sites have beautiful lake views. You can apparently drive your boat right into a sandy shore and dock it. They also have a swimming beach."
Nature programs: Several glamping facilities near Staples offer ranger-led activities focused on local ecology. "Nature center is really good and all of the staff are great and friendly. Definitely worth checking out," shares Jay H. from Lake Carlos State Park.
Safety considerations: Staff presence provides security for families, especially at state parks. Sarah D. notes, "I noticed that the rangers stopped and talked to me night one, and remembered me- which made me feel very safe as a solo female camper."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Some glamping sites near Staples have size restrictions for RVs and campers. At Glendalough State Park Campground, one visitor explained, "All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites. That being said, the trip from the (assigned) parking spot to your site is very short and very flat."
Hookup availability: Sunset Pines Campground provides full RV services including electric and sewer connections. "The sites are clean and level. They have a pool and playground for kids among other activities," shares Brent G., highlighting the campground's amenities.
Road conditions: Access roads to some glamping sites can be challenging for larger vehicles. One camper noted, "While driving to the group campsite the road is dirt and very rutted. Be mindful if you have a car."
