Glamping opportunities near Turner, Minnesota offer a variety of experiences from lakeside cabins to rustic yurts. These sites are located in Minnesota's northern forests, with elevation ranging between 1,200-1,400 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer camping season brings 70-85°F days with cooler nights around 50-60°F.
What to do
Hiking at state parks: Jay Cooke State Park provides varied terrain for hikers of all abilities. "There's always a lot of people, but if you get far enough from parking it drops off dramatically," notes Jared S. Another visitor recommends: "Make sure you do some climbing on the craggy rocks near the river!"
Four-wheeling opportunities: General Andrews State Forest offers accessible trails for off-road enthusiasts. "Decent four wheeling campsite for a weekend trip. Located a few miles from the soo line trail," shares Josh M. The forest provides a less crowded alternative to more popular destinations.
Fishing in crystal waters: Camp Holiday Resort offers excellent fishing access with convenient amenities. "Right on the lake with private dock. Sites are close by. Most have water and electric," explains Katherine O. The natural lakes in this region contain various fish species, though one camper noted: "The fish meat was speckled in parasites."
Paddle sports on mine pits: The former mining pits throughout Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area provide unusual paddling opportunities. "The lake was super clear and the small beach was wonderful. The fishing was productive for small mouth bass and rock bass, but snorkelers told of huge pike in the nearby drop off," reports Dave T.
What campers like
Private sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options despite generally open layouts. At Minnesota National RV Park, "Our site (33) was tucked way back in the woods, had a nice bit of privacy," according to Bret S. This park uniquely sits within a golf course layout.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained facilities receive positive feedback. "The bathrooms were always clean. Situated right on a quarry with fun fishing and kayaking opportunities," writes Lacey F. about True North Basecamp.
Varied site options: Jay Cooke State Park offers multiple camping styles including backpacking sites. "Such a fun backpack site! The hike in was muddy and buggy as there was quite a bit of rain in the weeks prior to our camping trip. Picnic table, fire ring, and bear locker provided," shares Tori K. about the Lost Lake Backpack Site.
Pet-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds go beyond just allowing pets. According to Janet R., Banning RV Park includes "a huge dog walking and play area that was grassy and beautifully clean—and, of special interest, included a complete 'dog playground' with all the standard elements of a dog agility course!"
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment for comfortable setup. At Banning RV Park and Campground, "Our sites were grass that was a little long and rutted from what seemed from previous tenants. This made getting leveling a little difficult," reports Sam C.
Water hookup distances: Water connections at some campgrounds may require extra equipment. "Our source ended up being 75' plus from our RV. Thankfully I just happened to be carrying the extra hose for several years but never had to use it before," warns a Banning RV Park visitor.
Train noise disruptions: Some areas experience significant railway activity. At Jay Cooke State Park, "One of the only things that was obnoxious about this park is that there is a frequently used train track nearby—and the trains really lay on whistle. I slept with earplugs in because of this, but I was still woken up around 4 times that night," cautions Krista T.
Limited bathroom facilities: In some cases, campground facilities may be unexpectedly limited. "We stayed at campground. Nice and well maintained. Family camping," reports Nichole K. about Jay Cooke, while another visitor noted, "There was one Biffy for the whole campsite and made it kind of difficult."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Camp Holiday Resort and Campground offers amenities specifically for children. "Nice campground for a family experience. Camping with two toddlers can be a lot, it helps when there are two nice playgrounds here, a slide, water trampoline, nice beach," says Lexie.
Easy trail access: Some parks feature family-friendly hiking options. "Nice hiking trails. Not too difficult. Family friendly," comments Joe N. about Jay Cooke State Park, providing alternatives to more challenging outdoor activities.
Camping alternatives: For families seeking glamping close to Turner, Minnesota without full camping equipment, several options exist. "We always stay in the cabin. It's a remote paradise! The price is right. Refrigerator, microwave, queen bed along side a bunk; double on the bottom bunk and a twin up top," shares Ashley T. about Big Lake Shores & The Lounge.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for hot summer days. "We had site 4, lake side access. The site was amazing, with a dock to the lake," explains Angela J., describing Camp Holiday's water access options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When booking at Minnesota National RV Park, "The loop we were in had quite a few trees along with the first loop as you come into the CG from the clubhouse area. The 44-50 loop more towards the golf course had fewer trees to block satellite," advises MickandKarla W., noting considerations for those requiring connectivity.
Water pressure variations: RVers should come prepared for high pressure systems. "The water pressure is very good at 60+ psi, so suggest a reducer," notes MickandKarla W. about Minnesota National RV Park.
Utility placement challenges: At several campgrounds, hookup locations may present difficulties. "The utilities are in the far back of the site. I needed about 20' of sewer, electric, and water hose to reach my rig," shares an RVer about Minnesota National.
Parking configurations: RVers should research site orientations before arrival. 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," explains Mary F.
