The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Staples. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Staples, MN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Crow Wing State Park Campground, near Brainerd, MN, offers a solid camping experience with a mix of history and nature. The campground is set in a wooded area, providing a decent amount of privacy between sites. It's a great spot for both tent and RV campers, with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and a sanitary dump station.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of hiking and biking trails. You can explore the park's rich history through various trails that wind along the Mississippi and Crow Wing Rivers. Historical markers give you a glimpse into the past, making your hike more than just a walk in the woods. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, so you can hit the water if you’re feeling adventurous.
Visitors have noted that the campground is pretty rustic, but it has all the basics covered. Drinking water is available, though some mentioned it has a high iron content. Firewood can be purchased at the registration building, which is convenient for those evening campfires. And yes, bring bug spray—mosquitoes can be relentless, especially in the summer.
The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, no alcohol is allowed on the premises. If you’re looking for a place with a bit of history, plenty of outdoor activities, and a straightforward camping experience, Crow Wing State Park Campground is worth checking out.
$21 / night
Welcome to Lake Carlos State Park Campground, a gem nestled near Alexandria, MN. This place is perfect for those who love a mix of comfort and nature. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in a cabin, this campground has got you covered.
One of the standout features here is the clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities. Visitors have raved about the hot water and cleanliness, which can make a big difference after a day of hiking or swimming. Speaking of swimming, the campground is right on the lakefront, offering easy access to the beach and water activities. If you're into hiking, there are trails that wind through the woods, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to spot some wildlife.
The campground is divided into upper and lower loops. The lower loop is closer to the lake, providing beautiful views and easy access to the water, but the sites are a bit closer together. The upper loop, on the other hand, offers more privacy with plenty of tree coverage, making it a great spot if you prefer a quieter, more secluded experience.
Fire pits and picnic tables are available at each site, and you can buy firewood on-site, which is super convenient. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Overall, Lake Carlos State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're here for the lake, the trails, or just to unwind in nature, you'll find what you need. Just remember to reserve your spot online, as this place can get pretty busy, especially in the summer. Enjoy your stay!
Gull Lake Recreation Area offers something for everyone with boating, hiking, fishing and swimming at Minnesota's famous Gull Lake, the largest of the 10 lakes on the Gull Chain of Lakes. Visitors have the opportunity to see and hear an abundance of watchable wildlife like bald eagles, white-tailed deer, river otters, a variety of songbirds, and the legendary call of the loon.
Anglers will delight in the large population of fish including stocked walleye, northern pike, bass and a variety of panfish. Boaters can access crystal clear waters throughout the chain of lakes and enjoy the peaceful sunsets overlooking the woods. Hit the self-guided interpretive trail for a short hike with wildlife watching and scenic overlooks along the lake. Hop on your bike on the City of East Gull Lake's paved multi-use trail that starts by the dam, or head out to join up with the Paul Bunyan State Trail with trailheads located in Baxter and Nisswa. Got a kayak, canoe, or intertube? Try heading down the Gull River from the lower canoe launch. Ask the Park Rangers about river safety with current water flow and check-out a life jacket before you go.__
Anglers will delight in the large population of fish including stocked walleye, northern pike, bass and a variety of panfish. Boaters can access crystal clear waters throughout the chain of lakes and enjoy the peaceful sunsets overlooking the woods. Hit the self-guided interpretive trail for a short hike with wildlife watching and scenic overlooks along the lake. Hop on your bike on the City of East Gull Lake's paved multi-use trail that starts by the dam, or head out to join up with the Paul Bunyan State Trail with trailheads located in Baxter and Nisswa. Got a kayak, canoe, or intertube? Try heading down the Gull River from the lower canoe launch. Ask the Park Rangers about river safety with current water flow and check-out a life jacket before you go.__
The campground sits on the Gull River at the outlet of Gull Lake. The area was formed by a receding glacier that moved southward from Canada and carved the landscape. Gull Lake is one of the six Mississippi Headwaters Projects of the Mississippi River Watershed operated by The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Gull Lake is located minutes from 520 holes of golf, the 100-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail, amusement parks, a zoo, and numerous shopping opportunities in Brainerd, Baxter, and Nisswa.
$40 / night
Family memories to be made just 2 hours from the Twin Cities! It is located just 10 miles south of Brainerd/Baxter, and 20 miles north of Little Falls on Highway 371.
Crow Wing Lake Campground lies on 30 wooded acres of mature trees, on the shores of 400 acre - Crow Wing Lake. We have 80 full hook up sites (some seasonal) and 20 electric/water sites. Each site comes with its own picnic table and fire ring. Our full hook up and electrical sites also have a 7’ X 20’ cement patio for a more enjoyable camping adventure. Most of our sites offer shade for those hot summer days.
The campground also offers full service restrooms, laundry facilities, fish cleaning house, boat launch, docks, slips and an on-site store.
Our camp store has a variety of things that you might need, or forgot to pack! We have groceries and bait, a variety of beverages, snacks, pizzas, souvenirs, camping equipment and a whole slew of other things! You can also rent pontoons, canoes, funyaks, paddleboat, and paddleboards here.
$15 / night
McGivern Park marks the end of the designated Crow Wing River Canoe Trail that winds its way through Wadena County. This quaint little park with its mix of hardwoods and pine is also the home of the Staples Sportsmen’s Club and Shooting Range. With its close proximity to the City of Staples, McGivern Park is used often for picnicking and other small gatherings.
Camper/RV Usage Smaller camper units but limited campsites available - no hookups provided
$14 / night
Crow Wing State Park Campground, near Brainerd, MN, offers a solid camping experience with a mix of history and nature. The campground is set in a wooded area, providing a decent amount of privacy between sites. It's a great spot for both tent and RV campers, with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and a sanitary dump station.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of hiking and biking trails. You can explore the park's rich history through various trails that wind along the Mississippi and Crow Wing Rivers. Historical markers give you a glimpse into the past, making your hike more than just a walk in the woods. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, so you can hit the water if you’re feeling adventurous.
Visitors have noted that the campground is pretty rustic, but it has all the basics covered. Drinking water is available, though some mentioned it has a high iron content. Firewood can be purchased at the registration building, which is convenient for those evening campfires. And yes, bring bug spray—mosquitoes can be relentless, especially in the summer.
The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, no alcohol is allowed on the premises. If you’re looking for a place with a bit of history, plenty of outdoor activities, and a straightforward camping experience, Crow Wing State Park Campground is worth checking out.
$21 / night
Welcome to Lake Carlos State Park Campground, a gem nestled near Alexandria, MN. This place is perfect for those who love a mix of comfort and nature. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in a cabin, this campground has got you covered.
One of the standout features here is the clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities. Visitors have raved about the hot water and cleanliness, which can make a big difference after a day of hiking or swimming. Speaking of swimming, the campground is right on the lakefront, offering easy access to the beach and water activities. If you're into hiking, there are trails that wind through the woods, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to spot some wildlife.
The campground is divided into upper and lower loops. The lower loop is closer to the lake, providing beautiful views and easy access to the water, but the sites are a bit closer together. The upper loop, on the other hand, offers more privacy with plenty of tree coverage, making it a great spot if you prefer a quieter, more secluded experience.
Fire pits and picnic tables are available at each site, and you can buy firewood on-site, which is super convenient. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Overall, Lake Carlos State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're here for the lake, the trails, or just to unwind in nature, you'll find what you need. Just remember to reserve your spot online, as this place can get pretty busy, especially in the summer. Enjoy your stay!
Gull Lake Recreation Area offers something for everyone with boating, hiking, fishing and swimming at Minnesota's famous Gull Lake, the largest of the 10 lakes on the Gull Chain of Lakes. Visitors have the opportunity to see and hear an abundance of watchable wildlife like bald eagles, white-tailed deer, river otters, a variety of songbirds, and the legendary call of the loon.
Anglers will delight in the large population of fish including stocked walleye, northern pike, bass and a variety of panfish. Boaters can access crystal clear waters throughout the chain of lakes and enjoy the peaceful sunsets overlooking the woods. Hit the self-guided interpretive trail for a short hike with wildlife watching and scenic overlooks along the lake. Hop on your bike on the City of East Gull Lake's paved multi-use trail that starts by the dam, or head out to join up with the Paul Bunyan State Trail with trailheads located in Baxter and Nisswa. Got a kayak, canoe, or intertube? Try heading down the Gull River from the lower canoe launch. Ask the Park Rangers about river safety with current water flow and check-out a life jacket before you go.__
Anglers will delight in the large population of fish including stocked walleye, northern pike, bass and a variety of panfish. Boaters can access crystal clear waters throughout the chain of lakes and enjoy the peaceful sunsets overlooking the woods. Hit the self-guided interpretive trail for a short hike with wildlife watching and scenic overlooks along the lake. Hop on your bike on the City of East Gull Lake's paved multi-use trail that starts by the dam, or head out to join up with the Paul Bunyan State Trail with trailheads located in Baxter and Nisswa. Got a kayak, canoe, or intertube? Try heading down the Gull River from the lower canoe launch. Ask the Park Rangers about river safety with current water flow and check-out a life jacket before you go.__
The campground sits on the Gull River at the outlet of Gull Lake. The area was formed by a receding glacier that moved southward from Canada and carved the landscape. Gull Lake is one of the six Mississippi Headwaters Projects of the Mississippi River Watershed operated by The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Gull Lake is located minutes from 520 holes of golf, the 100-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail, amusement parks, a zoo, and numerous shopping opportunities in Brainerd, Baxter, and Nisswa.
$40 / night
Family memories to be made just 2 hours from the Twin Cities! It is located just 10 miles south of Brainerd/Baxter, and 20 miles north of Little Falls on Highway 371.
Crow Wing Lake Campground lies on 30 wooded acres of mature trees, on the shores of 400 acre - Crow Wing Lake. We have 80 full hook up sites (some seasonal) and 20 electric/water sites. Each site comes with its own picnic table and fire ring. Our full hook up and electrical sites also have a 7’ X 20’ cement patio for a more enjoyable camping adventure. Most of our sites offer shade for those hot summer days.
The campground also offers full service restrooms, laundry facilities, fish cleaning house, boat launch, docks, slips and an on-site store.
Our camp store has a variety of things that you might need, or forgot to pack! We have groceries and bait, a variety of beverages, snacks, pizzas, souvenirs, camping equipment and a whole slew of other things! You can also rent pontoons, canoes, funyaks, paddleboat, and paddleboards here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Staples, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Staples, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 171 campgrounds and RV parks near Staples, MN and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Staples, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Staples, MN is Crow Wing State Park Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Staples, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Staples, MN.
What parks are near Staples, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Staples, MN that allow camping, notably Crooked Creek Lake and Chippewa National Forest.
