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Best Campgrounds near Osakis, MN

302 Reviews

Camping near Osakis, Minnesota centers around Lake Osakis, a popular fishing destination surrounded by several lakeside campgrounds and resorts. The area includes established facilities like Head of the Lakes Resort and Linwood Resort & Campgrounds, both situated directly on Lake Osakis with boat access. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can also find Lake Carlos State Park near Alexandria, which provides year-round camping with both lakeside and wooded sites. Birch Lake in Birch Lakes State Forest offers more primitive camping for those seeking a less developed experience. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate tents, RVs, and many offer cabin rentals for those who prefer more shelter.

Most campgrounds in the Osakis area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited winter camping available only at Lake Carlos State Park. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, while spring and fall can be considerably cooler. Mosquitoes are abundant during summer months, particularly in wooded areas. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day, as lakefront sites fill quickly. Minnesota state law requires campers to use only approved local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species. Cell service is generally reliable near town but can be spotty in more remote forest locations.

The camping experience varies significantly between the different options near Osakis. Lakeside resorts like Linwood offer numerous amenities including boat rentals, fish cleaning facilities, and recreational activities. According to reviews, "Lake Osakis is usually pretty good for fishing," making it popular with anglers. State park campgrounds provide more natural settings with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. RV campers will find full hookup sites at several locations, while tent campers have options ranging from developed sites with shower facilities to more rustic spots in Birch Lakes State Forest. The town of Osakis provides convenient access to groceries, restaurants, and other supplies, making it a practical base for exploring central Minnesota's lakes region.

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Best Camping Sites Near Osakis, Minnesota (111)

    1. Lake Carlos State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Carlos, MN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 852-7200

    "Lots of screaming kids the weekend we were here, but we found the quiet trails. Lower campground offers no privacy, but a newer shower house and views and access to the lake."

    "The lower campground has electric sites and is situated along Lake Carlos but there is little privacy between sites (126 and 127)."

    2. Sinclair Lewis City Campground

    14 Reviews
    Melrose, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 352-2203

    "My extended family has gatherings here a couple times a year as it is close to everybody and a great location! "

    "There is a boat launch right next to the campground. A fish cleaning house is provided at the campground. Bathrooms are also located within the campground."

    3. Linwood Resort & Campgrounds

    1 Review
    Osakis, MN
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 859-2175

    "Amenities I remember when we had a seasonal spot here: cabins with beautiful lake view, boathouse lodge and game room, sunbathing dock on the water, large picnic grounds, sand-filled playground, paddleboard"

    4. Birch Lake

    10 Reviews
    Melrose, MN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 616-2525

    $12 / night

    "Birch Lake is Lake Wobegon personified. Fish, swim, canoe, jet ski, you name it. The campsite is located in the Burch State Forest with tons of trees around each site."

    "If you like quiet/off the beaten path sites, this one is awesome. Walk in sites as well as drive in. Great (but small) swimming beach, large lake with great fishing available."

    5. Alexandria Shooting Park and RV Campground

    2 Reviews
    Alexandria, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 763-5315

    6. Head Of The Lakes Resort

    1 Review
    Osakis, MN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 859-4252

    "Right on Lake osakis, which usually has good fishing."

    7. Camp S'more Campground

    5 Reviews
    Osakis, MN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 732-2517

    $15 - $40 / night

    "This is a quiet and fairly small but impeccably maintained campground located near the town of Long Prairie. It would be a nice family friendly destination for an easy lical get away."

    "And it’s less than 1/8 mile from the Long Drive in. A great family experience and one of the few left in the state. We went to the Scott co fair during the day and the drive in that night."

    8. Canary Beach Resort

    2 Reviews
    Glenwood, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 554-2471

    $78 - $1090 / night

    "Only 4 stars we we stayed in their overflow which was asked for but it’s down the road outside of the park. It is within walking distance."

    9. Saukinac Campground

    2 Reviews
    Osakis, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 352-0037

    10. Oak Park Kampground

    5 Reviews
    Garfield, MN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 834-2345

    $32 - $48 / night

    "We found this campground on a Google search looking for something near my Grandma’s house and have now visited twice! The staff is great and very welcoming."

    "Additionally, there are horseshoe pits, paddle boats, and hiking/biking trails."

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Recent Camping Photos near Osakis, MN

64 Photos of 111 Osakis Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Osakis, MN

302 Reviews of 111 Osakis Campgrounds

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Two Rivers Campground

    Great place to camp.

    Two Rivers Campground is the perfect spot for a fun and relaxing getaway. They have a lazy river, a splash pool for little ones, and another pool for all ages. Kids will love the giant inflatable bouncy house, mini golf, and the many activities offered. The general store has all your camping essentials, plus they make great pizza and other food—delivered right to your campsite along with firewood and ice, just by calling or texting. The campground also features a beautiful beach area on the river that’s perfect for swimming. A few nice spots to shower and restrooms. Quiet beaches one is 1100 to 0900. It’s well maintained and taken care of. We will come back again.

  • The Rolling Panda ..
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground

    Small quiet park

    This park is very small, minimal vegetation between sites. It was buggy, but manageable. Clean facilities, easy to navigate. If you're looking for a quiet small park this is a good place to start.

  • Cassie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Lucky Acres Campgrounds

    Great spot!

    Friendly caretakers, spots right on the beach and a clean shower house!

  • Mike O.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Glacial Lakes State Park Campground

    Beautiful, buggy

    Beautiful park with rolling prairies. Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground. Site 28 and 30 don’t have tree cover, but have beautiful views of the rolling hills. Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray- I was planning to hike 5 miles but had to stop after 2. Would be nice to have showers in the Oak Ridge campground as it’s a long walk to the Lower campground.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Andes RV Park

    Great camping spot!

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had an incredible stay at Andes RV Park! The facilities are top-notch, with brand-new, spacious bathrooms and showers that were really nice and clean! The park offers a fantastic range of activities, including golf cart rentals, volleyball, horseshoes, disc golf, pickle ball, etc…and in winter, cross-country skiing and tubing—there’s something for everyone! The laundry room, the firewood and the ice delivery service were a convenient touch, and easy as a quick phone call or text. The owners were exceptionally friendly and accommodating, making us feel right at home. Highly recommend this gem for a fun and relaxing RV camping experience!

    Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!

  • M
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Lake Carlos State Park Campground

    Absolutely Beautiful!

    We are camping/glamping in. 30’ fifth wheel. The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time. Feels like we are deep in the forest but civilization is close enough for WiFi! Get some firewood from the Ranger, the fire pits are great!!

  • C
    Jun. 18, 2025

    Smith Park Campground

    Great quiet campground

    It’s a great campground to stop at along your way. A few short blocks off Highway 10 and within walking distance to a bakery, pub and pizza restaurant and a grocery store. Bathrooms, sewer dump, and charcoal grills available. Also plenty of picnic table and a playground for the kids.

  • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2025

    Mississippi River County Park

    Quiet small park

    Group camp: Mississippi River County Park offers group camping for bona fide youth groups and educational groups (e.g. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Church youth groups, 4-H Clubs, etc.). There is no charge but reservations are required.

    Canoe campsite: The canoe campsite is accessible from the river. Camping is allowed for those traveling by canoe and limited to one night of camping with no overnight vehicle. First come-first serve; Register onsite.

    Bicycle campsite: Camping is allowed for those traveling through on bicycles and limited to one night of camping with no overnight vehicle. The bicycle campsite is located by the fire pit near the picnic shelter. First come-first serve; Register onsite.

Guide to Osakis

Camping near Osakis, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails at Crow Wing State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Nice wooded campground. Gravel sites, fairly level. Lots of trails for hiking and biking."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Gull Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A camper shared, "Good fishing lake," highlighting the area's appeal for anglers.
  • Swimming: The Oak Ridge Campground — Sibley State Park features a nice swimming beach. One reviewer noted, "Nice beach for swimming. Shower and bathrooms available in the campground."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake Carlos State Park Campground said, "Very clean restroom/shower house."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Crow Wing Lake Campground, offer spacious sites. One camper remarked, "What a beautiful, peaceful sight in the woods next to the lake."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. A review for Maplewood State Park Campground noted, "Nice hosts and park ranger."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground warned, "Mosquitos so thick we had to wear nets over our faces."
  • Reservations Required: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Glendalough State Park Campground mentioned, "Campsites are reserved through an online system."
  • Limited Amenities Off-Season: Some campgrounds may have limited services during the off-season. A reviewer 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 campgrounds with amenities for kids, like playgrounds and swimming areas. Crow Wing Lake Campground has a playground and pool, making it fun for the whole family.
  • Pack Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, especially in summer, it's essential to bring bug spray. A camper at Maplewood State Park Campground advised, "Bring bug spray in the summer!"
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. A visitor at Gull Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "There are lots of things to do."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Crow Wing State Park Campground noted, "I stayed here with my kids. Now in a Class A RV it was a bit tight getting in."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A visitor at Lake Carlos State Park Campground appreciated the "electric hookups" available.
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially if they are near towns. A reviewer at Sinclair Lewis City Campground mentioned, "In town campground so it can be a little noisy at times."

Camping near Osakis, Minnesota, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds around Lake Osakis?

Lake Osakis offers excellent camping options right on the water. Linwood Resort & Campgrounds stands out with beautiful lake views, a boathouse lodge, game room, sunbathing dock, playground, and water equipment rentals. Another great choice is Head Of The Lakes Resort which provides cabins, camp sites, and an on-site restaurant/bar with direct access to the lake, making it perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Both locations offer the authentic Lake Osakis experience with various accommodation options and water-based activities.

When is the best season for camping in Osakis?

The prime camping season in Osakis runs from late May through early September when temperatures are comfortable and water activities are most enjoyable. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest conditions for swimming, fishing, and boating on Lake Osakis. Ashby Resort Campground is particularly popular during summer months, with its variety of site options from tent-only to full-hookup RV sites. For those who prefer fewer crowds and vibrant foliage, early fall (September) can be magical at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground with its mature trees and scenic creek views.

What camping amenities are available in Osakis, Minnesota?

Osakis area campgrounds offer diverse amenities to enhance your stay. Lake Carlos State Park Campground provides waterfront and wooded sites with varying privacy levels - lower area sites near water for social RV camping and forested upper area sites for more seclusion. For families, Chippewa Park features two swimming beaches and numerous amenities. Many campgrounds in the region provide electric hookups, water access, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some offer more extensive facilities like boat rentals, game rooms, and on-site restaurants, making Osakis a versatile camping destination for all preferences.

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