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Best Campgrounds in Minnesota

4,239 Reviews

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 (1,231)

    1. Cart-In Campground — Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

    70 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Carlton, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Illgen City, MN
    Website

    $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 Reviews
    Hardwick, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Schroeder, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Apple Valley, MN
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +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."

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Recent Reviews in Minnesota

4239 Reviews of 1231 Minnesota Campgrounds

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Bear Paw Campground — Itasca State Park

    Less private than pine ridge, seems better for rvs

    Note... For some reason instead of uploading the video I wanted, it uploaded a completely different video from a different camping trip at a different campground. I don't know how to remove it without taking down the entire review. Sorry!

    First of all I rate the state park in general the highest rating you can think of! My favorite state park by far!

    My friend and I stayed at one of the cart in campsites thinking it would be private and quiet... But it wasn't. Even in the cart in sites (at least the one we were at) you can see your neighbors right next to you. The site itself was fairly large. Bathrooms clean. There is access to the lake, which was great for watching sunsets.

    Overall, this campground isn't terrible, just like the other one better!

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2026

    Pine Ridge Campground — Itasca State Park

    Best camping!

    This campground is better than the bear paw one because they have sites that are bigger and more private.

    *pine loop and poplar loops are best if you want private camping sites.

    *site 211 is the biggest! That's where we stayed.

    *there are two bathroom buildings which have flush toilets and showers. It's less than a five minute walk from just about anywhere in the campgrounds. Also multiple vault toilets.

    *I had some cell coverage (t mobile) and so did my friend (Verizon). Usually when did, she didn't, and vice versa. I'd say a good portion of the campground doesn't have service, you may have to walk around a bit to get a bar or two. No wifi in the campgrounds (except where you purchase wood) but there's wifi in the visitor center.

    *we saw a bear sighting almost every night. He was not aggressive and pretty skittish, just making noise scared him off. But beware you'll need to keep a clean campsite.

    *lots of stuff to do here. The Mississippi headwaters is a must! There's a fire tower, museums, hiking, swimming, kayak rentals, and more! Also the park hosts events too. We went to one on the history of the headwaters and one for archery! Also the wilderness drive is a must!

    *there's places to eat in this park too! There's a restaurant (didn't get to try bc it was closed at the time) and a little cafe next to the headwaters. It was delicious, they had sandwiches, pastries, coffee, etc.

  • Crystal R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2026

    Devil Track Lake Campground

    Rustic off grid camping

    I thought it was a very nice campground! Be aware it's fairly rustic. No electric sites, no water, no flushing toilets. Just a vault toilet. Also I had no service anywhere in the campgrounds (t mobile) and my friend didn't either (Verizon). But many of the sites have views or even access to the lake. Most are fairly big. It's not reaervable, so first come, first serve. My only complaint is the ground was mainly rock. So putting in my tent stakes was very hard. My canopy ended up blowing over because I couldn't stake it down. So beware.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2026

    El Rancho Manana

    Run down with buildings in disrepair.

    Just spent 4 nights here with our popup and disappointed in how poor the place has been kept up. Only one shower worked out of 3 in the mens and womens bathroom and the light was out in the one that did work. Hardly any water came out as well. Same for the hand washing sinks in the mens, only one had water coming out. The laundry building mens bathroom had a faucet the wasn't even attached to the counter top so I had to hold it down to move the lever to turn the water on. The gravel roads have a lot of washed out areas so ruts and potholes everywhere. Definately not worth the price and won't be staying here again. The only two positives that I can say is that the staff is freindly and the lake is very clear for June compared to other lakes in MN. Caught quite a few nice sunfish off the dock and even a few sm bass. The old west show area does look nice but nothing went on there the weekend we were at the campground.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2026

    Lac qui Parle County Park

    Lower campground quiet and shaded. Upper campground great view.

    Good primitive sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Water tap available. Pit restrooms, one of which is is poorly maintained and to be avoided. Parked on wide expanse of grassy area. Trails to nearby river. Some gravel roads to get to site, but well-maintained. Suggested fee of $20/night. Ideal for one-night stay while en route.

  • Tina P.
    Jun. 9, 2026

    Beaver 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!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2026

    Veterans 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!

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2026

    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!

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

Keep Exploring

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