Best Dog-Friendly Camping in Minnesota

The Land of 10,000 Lakes is also notable for its likewise numerous assortment of trails and campgrounds for avid lovers of the great outdoors. Minnesota has many diverse natural environments to explore all across the state. While there are lots of spots to choose from, here are a couple especially neat sites to consider for your next foray when camping in Minnesota.

Part of the massive Dulux Complex rock formation, Eagle Mountain stands at a whopping 2,301 feet, the highest point of elevation in the state. Isolated from higher ground for hundreds of miles and overlooking several different lakes and a vast forest, the peak offers excellent opportunities to take a bird’s eye view of Minnesota’s rich natural beauty.

In addition to the campsites adjacent to Whale Lake, there are also many trails that run along the mountain, through the woods, and beside the lakes. Just keep in mind that Eagle Mountain’s trails overlap with the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, so be sure to get a BWCAW permit if you plan to cross over. Plus, you need an overnight permit from the Forest Service in nearby Tofte, MN.

The starting point for the grand Mississippi River, Lake Itasca, rests within Itasca State Park. The park hosts a variety of camping amenities such as lodges and internet access. You can also stop at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center to learn more about the lake and its link to the Mississippi. Or you can check out the University of Minnesota’s Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories campus.

In addition to excellent camping facilities, Lake Itasca has many other outdoor sights and activities for visitors to explore. Multiple trails snake by the shores of the lake and into the adjacent wilderness, and it’s definitely a great place to experience the beauty of Minnesota’s northern ecosystems. Plus, you can go fishing at the lake, assuming you have the necessary permits.

With so many different campsites and trails throughout Minnesota’s diverse natural environments, there’s bound to be one that’s just right for you. Whatever you’re looking for in your camping experience, whether it’s finding deluxe accommodations or exploring unique trails or getting a great view of the landscape, you’re sure to have a blast camping in Minnesota.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites in Minnesota (820)

    1. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7625

    "First, the cart in sites are just far enough away from the parking lot that there is very little noise, but close enough you can get to your car easily (1/4 mile maybe)."

    "Minnesota state parks are very clean. Friendly staff. Amazing views."

    2. Jay Cooke State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Carlton, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 384-4610

    "We stopped here on our way to north Minnesota. Originally we planned 2 days but really needed to rest so extended it to 4 days."

    "Jay Cooke is really a must experience state park within easy driving distance to other parks in Minnesota and Wisconsin."

    3. Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Beaver Bay, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 595-7100

    "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

    52 Reviews
    Illgen City, MN
    Website

    $25 / 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. "

    "You fill with water near the restroom in the campground next to the bath house across from the dumpsters. From our site you can here the river flowing it’s so peaceful."

    5. Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    51 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +1 (715) 483-3747

    $24 - $34 / 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."

    6. Minneiska Campground — Whitewater State Park

    50 Reviews
    Elba, MN
    Website
    +1 (507) 932-3007

    "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. Blue Mounds State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Hardwick, MN
    Website
    +1 (507) 283-1307

    $20 - $35 / night

    "Park has nice trails and bluffs. Bison are within the park but did not see. Rangers and staff very friendly. Would be great for overnighter."

    "Quiet place with nice bike and walking paths. Electric only 30amp water close by. Full dump station."

    8. Temperance River State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Schroeder, MN
    Website
    +1 (218) 626-4300

    "The sites are generously sized, well spaced, wooded and private. short walk to get to Lake Superior shoreline."

    "Campground Review

    Temperance River State Park is just off of scenic Highway 61 north of Duluth, Minnesota about 60 miles."

    9. Lebanon Hills Regional Park

    42 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"

    "It has nice clean bathrooms and it's a great place to walk your pets, they do have 3 different areas to camp but we always use the full hook-ups

    The people at check-in are always so friendly, and very"

    10. Wild River State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    Website
    +1 (651) 583-2125

    $35 / night

    "We stayed in campsite 29 in the drive in campsite over Labor Day weekend."

    "Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."

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Showing results 1-10 of 820 campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews in Minnesota

3955 Reviews of 820 Minnesota Campgrounds



Guide to Minnesota

Discovering the great outdoors with your furry friends is a rewarding experience in Minnesota, where many campgrounds welcome pets. From scenic views to well-maintained facilities, pet-friendly camping options abound.

Pet owners like spacious sites and amenities

Tips for camping with dogs near scenic trails

Dog owners appreciate the welcoming atmosphere