C
Colin 
Traveler
TravelerSailors and Soldiers Memorial Park Campground
Quiet city park with a stream
Empty when I arrived. Clean spacious sites.
Best Campgrounds in Minnesota
Minnesota campgrounds feature diverse options for outdoor experiences, from lakeside retreats to wooded settings. State parks like Split Rock Lighthouse and Jay Cooke offer established campgrounds with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables. Many Minnesota campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with sites at places like Gooseberry Falls State Park providing drive-in access. Cabins and glamping options exist at select locations such as Jay Cooke State Park and Blue Mounds State Park, expanding lodging possibilities beyond traditional tent sites.
Reservation requirements vary across the state, with most developed campgrounds accepting bookings several months in advance. "Clean bathrooms and water stations are available at many state parks, though campground services often close by 6pm," noted one visitor to Gooseberry Falls. Seasonal operation affects accessibility, with some campgrounds like Split Rock Lighthouse open only from April to October, while others such as Gooseberry Falls and Wild River remain accessible year-round. Winter camping requires additional preparation for snow and freezing temperatures. Minnesota's abundant lakes and rivers create mosquito-heavy environments during summer months, particularly after rainfall, making insect protection essential gear.
Campers consistently praise Minnesota's water-adjacent camping opportunities. Sites near lakes, waterfalls, and rivers receive particular mention in reviews, with water features enhancing the camping experience. "The park has several different biomes - oak forests, lakeshore, bog, pine forests with lovely hike-walks that can be as long or short as you need," reported one visitor about Lake Bemidji State Park. Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with some offering secluded, wooded sites while others position campsites in closer proximity. Several reviewers note increasing RV and generator use at state parks creating noise concerns at more densely arranged campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout Minnesota campgrounds, with birds, deer, and small mammals commonly sighted from campsites.
Best Camping Sites in Minnesota (1,230)
1. Cart-In Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
70 ReviewsBeaver Bay, MNWebsite+1 (218) 595-7625$25 / night
"Minnesota state parks are very clean. Friendly staff. Amazing views."
"There are plenty of trees to cool things down and the lake is in sight of all parts of the campground. Trees for hammocks and fire pit for s'mores."
2. Jay Cooke State Park Campground
68 ReviewsCarlton, MNWebsite+1 (218) 384-4610$23 - $90 / night
"Jay Cooke is really a must experience state park within easy driving distance to other parks in Minnesota and Wisconsin."
"North east Minnesota has some very beautiful country. Highly recommend this spot. "
3. Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground
68 ReviewsBeaver Bay, MNWebsite+1 (218) 595-7100$25 - $75 / night
"Well-spaced, secluded sites with convenient access to restrooms, water access, and hiking trails Steps away from the magnificent lake."
"Stopped at Gooseberry on our way up the coast of Lake Superior on a long weekend."
4. Baptism River Campground — Tettegouche State Park
53 ReviewsIllgen City, MNWebsite$25 - $35 / night
"This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds in northern Minnesota along the glorious shores of Lake Superior. The campsites are surrounded by plenty of wilderness to allow some privacy. "
"The north shore of Minnesota is beautiful. Granite cliffs line the drive north of Duluth Mn. This is where you will find Tettagouche State park."
5. Blue Mounds State Park Campground
53 ReviewsHardwick, MNWebsite+1 (507) 283-1307$24 - $50 / night
"Quiet place with nice bike and walking paths. Electric only 30amp water close by. Full dump station."
"Amazing remnant of Minnesota prairie set among the farm country."
6. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park
51 ReviewsElba, MNWebsite+1 (507) 932-3007$25 - $250 / night
"Whitewater is by far one of the top state parks in Minnesota. Their camping facilities are clean with running water and free showers. The campsites are quite spacious but not too wooded."
"Easy access to hiking trails. My site was close in distance to adjacent ones, but was on the edge by the creek, so it was pretty quiet."
7. Interstate State Park Campground
52 ReviewsTaylors Falls, MNWebsite+1 (715) 483-3747$24 - $50 / night
"This is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic"
"Now that I live in Minnesota, I find myself frequenting the Taylors Falls side. Here you have the amazing "Pot Holes" from glacial waters and some pretty spectacular rock climbing."
8. Temperance River State Park Campground
47 ReviewsSchroeder, MNWebsite+1 (218) 626-4300$24 - $34 / night
"Campground Review Temperance River State Park is just off of scenic Highway 61 north of Duluth, Minnesota about 60 miles."
"We LOVE this campground, as it's an awesome place to to call home base for a bit and take day trips around the North Shore."
9. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
43 ReviewsApple Valley, MNWebsite+1 (651) 480-7773$24 - $42 / night
"Professional built mtn bike trails for adventure. Camping in Minnesota suburbs. Miles of hiking, horseback riding, cross country ski trails. . perfect for my family's weekend Stay-cation"
"We live about 15 mins. away from this campground. We stayed in the East Loop which is for smaller RVs and tents. it has electricity but no water hookups, however there are water pumps."
10. Wild River State Park Campground
45 ReviewsTaylors Falls, MNWebsite+1 (651) 583-2125$23 - $90 / night
"Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."
"We stayed in campsite 29 in the drive in campsite over Labor Day weekend."
Recent Camping Photos in Minnesota
1299 Photos of 1230 Minnesota Campgrounds
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Yellow Medicine River Campground — Upper Sioux Agency State Park - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Recent Reviews in Minnesota
4234 Reviews of 1230 Minnesota Campgrounds
Tina P.TravelerBeaver Falls County Park
Peaceful + Secluded
My family and I have camped at beaver a few times now and have made some really great memories there! We recently went and stayed at campsite 20 (our favorite creekside spot). The kids and dog did lots of swimming and floating in the creek. We also did a handful of different hiking trails and each one gave us a different beautiful and experience. The paths are not super well marked in all places, but you can find your way through. The campsite was clean, pre ready to go with fire wood and had an extremely clean out house. The campsite had a nice fire/cook ring, a garbage can, and a nice picnic table. There’s even a bungee in the tree for extra hanging/storage. REALLY great stay! And the forest/creek/hillside vibes are awesome here! The kids had a blast and we’ll definitely be going back!
- A
Ashley C.
ScoutVeterans Campground On Big Marine Lake
Veterans Campground
The Veterans Campground is by far the best campground we have ever been to! The people are amazing The grounds are well kept, very clean. This is our home away from home. It's the perfect place for your kids to be kids like we did in the 90's home by the time the street lights come on. Us parents can finally relax!
- BBri S.Traveler
East Seelye Bay Campground
A couple nights in Chippewa National Forest
If you go on mn dnr we found this spot for FREE! We’re staying a couple nights lots of hiking to do around here and lots of boating and fishing as well! They have a well maintained area and the free sites are secluded by trees but still easily accessible!
Nicholas S.
GuideTemperance River State Park Campground
Cozy, lakeside, convenience
Super well looked after campsite!
First of all - Temperance says ‘no more than 6 ppl’ ‘no alcohol’ etc. but these are very lightly enforced. I communicated with them ahead of time about our 8 person group, and they had no issue - just make sure that your tents and cars at the site are no more than 3 total. The lower campground is right on superior, but the upper campground has great views of it too, and is only a few minutes hike down a paved path away.
This place has private WARM shower cubicles, firewood available at the rangers office, and plenty of water spouts. Overall great amenities, and a very nice shoreline area where you can do a little polar plunge into the lake (which I strongly endorse !! ).
Site 12 at the upper campground was plenty big enough for three tents and all 8 of us. Lower campgrounds really cool too, but right on the rivers edge so I imagine it can get pretty windy.
- BBonnie H.Traveler
Albert Lea-Austin KOA
Nice Overnight Spot
This is a smaller KOA campground under new ownership. The owner and his children are very nice and welcoming. There were other reviews about it being overgrown but everything was nicely mowed when we arrived and I really enjoyed the peaceful setting. Easy off freeway, little freeway noise but not a problem. A bit rustic but clean campground. There are some piles of tree branches as there was a beetle problem and trees had to be removed. I’m sure it is temporary and will be gone soon. All in all a lovely quiet evening in our travels East. Site 53 is at the end of a row and very private location.
- wwilliamTraveler
Big River Resort
Very clean well taken care of campground
The owners where very accommodating and it shows they take pride in there campground. Site where level Lawn was manicured and the bathrooms where phenomenal
Amanda S.ScoutPlum Creek Park Campground
Although We didn't find any of the free campsites here, we love the one we ended up at. #2. The stars to ight are just incredible. place is well kept. we shall return.
LOVE IT! we will be back. secluded. quiet. water access. potable water. rocks to throw for my kid. the stars! oh my lanta! immaculate.
- IIvey T.Traveler
Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park
Beautiful spot
People and park rangers friendly. Spread out spots.
Guide to Minnesota
Camping in Minnesota offers a unique blend of beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there's something for everyone in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
What to do
- Explore the Trails: Many campgrounds, like Crow Wing State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “Nice trails along the Mississippi River, easy to walk, good signage on trails.”
- Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground, offer boating and fishing. A visitor said, “Great campground right on Leech Lake... Plenty of options for getting firewood nearby.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot wildlife. One reviewer at Father Hennepin State Park Campground shared, “Hiking was great, we saw an albino deer on the hiking club trail!”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake Carlos State Park Campground noted, “Very clean restroom/shower house.”
- Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Savanna Portage State Park Campground are loved for their beautiful surroundings. One camper said, “Savanna portage is gorgeous with serene lakes and some nice hiking!”
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds such as Crow Wing Lake Campground offer playgrounds and pools. A family shared, “This campground is fun for the whole family!”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park warned, “The trails are... almost impossible to hike on simply because of the amount of mosquitoes.”
- Reservation Systems: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Crow Wing State Park Campground mentioned, “Need to reserve online.”
- Limited Services Off-Season: Some campgrounds may have limited services during the off-season. A camper at Sinclair Lewis City Campground noted, “The office was closed for the season with the water & electric turned off.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A parent at Crow Wing Lake Campground said, “There is a public beach, skate park, splash pad, and bike trail all located within walking distance of the campground.”
- Pack Bug Spray: Protect your family from mosquitoes. One camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground advised, “Mosquitoes are brutal here, especially on the hiking club trail.”
- Plan Activities: Keep kids engaged with planned activities. A family at Lake Carlos State Park Campground enjoyed, “Easy access to the beach. Hiking trail.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Leech Lake Recreation Area & Campground mentioned, “My site was spacious for my 28-foot TT.”
- Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A camper at Crow Wing Lake Campground noted, “RV site had 30amp with FHU’s.”
- Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Sinclair Lewis City Campground said, “In town campground so it can be a little noisy at times.”
Camping in Minnesota is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the most scenic camping spots in Minnesota?
Where are the most scenic camping spots in Minnesota?
Minnesota's landscape offers breathtaking scenic camping spots throughout the state. Jay Cooke State Park Campground features dramatic river gorges, swinging bridges, and photogenic landscapes that make it a must-visit destination. The park provides both open and private campsites with excellent facilities. For lakeside views, Winnie Campground offers peaceful settings with huge lakeside campsites overlooking Lake Winnibigoshish, providing cool breezes and stunning vistas. Other scenic options include Split Rock Lighthouse State Park with its iconic lighthouse and Lake Superior shoreline, Temperance River State Park with its gorgeous river gorges and Lake Superior access, and Frontenac State Park, which provides sweeping views of the Mississippi River valley with excellent hiking opportunities.
What are the best campgrounds in Minnesota for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds in Minnesota for tent camping?
Minnesota offers exceptional tent camping experiences across the state. Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground in southern Minnesota provides wooded sites with ample privacy, making it perfect for tent campers seeking a peaceful retreat. Located on Lake Pepin, it offers beautiful water views and swimming opportunities just 1.5 hours from the Twin Cities. For a more wilderness experience, Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite in Itasca State Park provides secluded tent camping near the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Other excellent options include Sylvan City Park with its easy access to downtown amenities and the Root River Trail, and Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which combines tent camping with extensive recreational opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, and swimming, all within the suburbs.
When is the best season for camping in Minnesota?
When is the best season for camping in Minnesota?
The optimal camping season in Minnesota typically runs from late May through early October, with each period offering unique experiences. Summer (June-August) provides warm temperatures ideal for water activities, with Savanna Portage State Park Campground offering excellent swimming at Loon Lake's beach area and access to four lakes for fishing and paddling. Fall (September-early October) brings spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds, making it perfect for hiking at Sibley State Park, where you can experience the transition zones between hardwood forest, savannah, and prairie with vibrant autumn colors. Spring camping (May-early June) offers wildflowers and bird watching but can be wet. While some hardy campers enjoy winter camping, most campgrounds close or offer limited facilities during the snow season, with state parks that remain open providing a serene winter wilderness experience.
Which Minnesota state parks offer the best camping facilities?
Which Minnesota state parks offer the best camping facilities?
Bear Head Lake State Park Campground stands out with its varied campsite types and layouts that accommodate everything from tents to travel trailers, with electrical hookups available. The park features clean shower facilities and access to excellent canoeing on the adjacent lake, plus proximity to the Taconite Trail. Frontenac State Park offers spacious cart-in sites that provide a good balance of convenience and seclusion. Other state parks with exceptional facilities include Gooseberry Falls with its iconic waterfalls and Lake Superior access, Whitewater State Park with well-maintained campgrounds and excellent fishing opportunities, and Itasca State Park, which provides multiple camping options from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites, plus historic lodges and cabins for those seeking additional comfort.
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