Best Campgrounds near Grantsburg, WI

Camping options around Grantsburg, Wisconsin include both developed sites and dispersed opportunities along the St. Croix River. The James N McNally City Campground offers full hookups for RV campers within city limits, while Sandrock Cliffs at the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway provides primitive camping options for those seeking a more natural experience. Several public lands including Governor Knowles State Forest provide additional camping areas. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with a few offering cabin rentals for those preferring solid shelter.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in the Grantsburg area, particularly for water-based recreation. Spring through fall constitutes the primary camping season, with most established campgrounds operating from May through October. A camper noted that "the river seemed lovely but we didn't have a chance to really explore," highlighting how water levels can affect activities. Mosquitoes present a common challenge during summer months, especially near waterways. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with most remote sites offering limited connectivity. Several campgrounds maintain vault toilets but few provide shower facilities outside of the more developed sites.

The St. Croix River provides the backdrop for many camping experiences in the region, offering fishing, swimming and paddling opportunities. Several campers reported high satisfaction with riverside sites, particularly those offering water access. Reviews consistently mention the scenic quality of the sandstone cliffs along the river. One reviewer described the Sandrock Cliffs area as having "beautiful scenery" and "good location" for river access. However, visitor experiences vary widely at dispersed sites like Sandrock Cliffs, with some reviews indicating issues with trash and noise during peak summer weekends. The small town atmosphere of Grantsburg provides convenient access to supplies, with the city campground offering a central location near Memory Lake Park and local amenities within walking distance.

Best Camping Sites Near Grantsburg, Wisconsin (180)

    1. Wild River State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 583-2125

    $35 / 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."

    2. Snake River County Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Grantsburg, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 583-2125

    $17 / night

    "Just a mile or so walk to the Saint Croix River. Camp grounds have restrooms, water (have to boil or purify it) Camp ground manager comes around and has firewood for sale."

    "State Forest Campground with some sites close to the shoreline of the Snake River. Firewood can be gathered from the forest.  It's a nice small campground, first come first served."

    3. Old Logging Trail — St. Croix State Park

    10 Reviews
    Danbury, WI
    13 miles
    Website

    "The drive into the park was absolutely beautiful!! Stayed at old logging trail campground."

    "The trail near by was nice, but driving into the park and finding a trail were better. The fire tower was also cool!"

    4. Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    52 Reviews
    Taylors Falls, MN
    27 miles
    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"

    "Interstate State Park is situated along the St Croix River just outside the small town of Taylor Falls, MN."

    5. St. Croix Family Campground — Governor Knowles State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Grantsburg, WI
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 936-7463

    "This was a very fun trip for us because there was almost nobody else at the campsite that day, there are lots of trails to explore (some down by the river), and the fire watch tower added a little something"

    6. Sandrock Cliffs — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

    3 Reviews
    Grantsburg, WI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 483-2274

    "You have to walk upstairs to get to it, but there were quite a few campsites as you walk along the hiking trail."

    "Good location"

    7. Riverview Campground — St. Croix State Park

    7 Reviews
    Danbury, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 280-7880

    $25 - $35 / night

    "This is one of my favorite state parks for last minute camping trips due to its proximity to home."

    "There is a modern restroom and shower, it is also located near a nature store."

    8. Paint Rock Springs Campground — St. Croix State Park

    6 Reviews
    Danbury, WI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 280-7880

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Some of the campsite around the very outer edge have some coverage, which is helpful in the hot summer sun."

    "Felt nice to spend a weekend without cell service about an hour away from home. Forgot to take my usual photos and video of the site all set up but had a few random to share. Nice campground."

    9. James N McNally City Campground

    2 Reviews
    Grantsburg, WI
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 463-5832

    $25 - $30 / night

    "Beautiful campgrounds near the heart of town. Crex Meadows is near by with phenomenal bird watching. the campground is located on a small river that is good for swimming and fishing."

    10. Banning State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Sandstone, MN
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 245-2668

    $24 - $34 / night

    "There are miles of trails to hike, including along the river and to a waterfall, all kinds of paddling and rafting possibilities(bring your own, or join a trip sponsored by a local outfitter), or go bouldering"

    "Park is close to Sandstone for any last minute needs. Campground is off and a bit sequestered from the rest of the hiking and kayaking, which is nice."

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Recent Reviews near Grantsburg, WI

504 Reviews of 180 Grantsburg Campgrounds


  • Sarah D.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Wild River State Park Campground

    Secluded Backpack/Canoe Site with Sunrise Views

    I was looking for a secluded backpack in site where I could have a peaceful 48 hours of prayer and solitude, and this site was perfect! I also wanted one that wasn't too far remote, since I hadn't been on a proper backpacking trip since the pandemic hit. And as a solo female camper, I wanted a reserved site so that there would be a record of my location for safety reasons. I'm so glad I chose the Deer Creek site, and will almost definitely stay here again at some point!

    This site is accessible by either hiking or canoe. It took me about 30 minutes to hike in from the visitor center parking lot. There is easy access to river water to boil or filter from the canoe landing.

    This site was incredibly spacious. It includes a fire ring and picnic table overlooking the creek and river. It also includes 2 large tent pads (look out for widow makers, one of the tent pads is under a dead tree!). It also has a spot nestled in some pine trees that could fit a smaller tent, canoe storage, or I found it to be the perfect spot to hang my hammock! (This would be a great site for hammock camping.) So if you're camping with a small group of people this would be a great site. It also includes a trail to a fairly private latrine, and a bear box (the park ranger warned me that there are bears in the park although I did not see any.) I also found plenty of dead down and dry wood and birch bark on the ground for building fires.

    This site is great for a one nigjt stay on a longer backpacking or canoeing trip, but also great for camping out at for a couple of nights. I stayed for two, and it connects to all the major trails in the park, so I was able to use it as a great base for hiking and seeing the beautiful changing leaves. In the morning I hiked North to do the Riverside trail and looped back through the woods. Then in the afternoon I did the Deer Creek loop, which is a shared horse and hiking trail. It was so nice to he able to hike out to some of the best trails in the park directly from my site.

    This site felt remarkably remote for being only an hour from the twin cities and a mile from the parking lot! I stayed there Thursday -Saturday, and after leaving the parking lot on Thursday did not see another human being for the rest of the day, and Friday not until I hit the main trails! There was no one else staying within at least a mile of me. I was even able to see fantastic stars Friday night. There was amazing wildlife - a blue heron frequented the site, and I heard all types of owls. Two bald eagles had a nest across the river so I got to see and hear them the whole trip, too- it was absolutely magical!

    This site has a great view of both sunrise and sunset. Thursday night there was a gorgeous sunset over the woods reflected in deer Creek. Both mornings I woke up to watch the sunrise while drinking my coffee next to the fire (it was freezing!!!). Watching the sun rise over the river and fog roll over th water and evaporate while eagles soared was truly magical. Having an easy backpack in site surrounded by water on two sides and with views of the sunrise and sunset like this was so incredible!!!

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Barnum City Park

    This entire section of the dirt needs to be cleaned up

    There's a sign that says no camping, and there are no rv spots. Or camp spots at this park. Some things in this area are listed twice the g. PS takes you to the wrong place. And something like the city park doesn't allow camping.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Carlton County Bear Lake Campground

    Very small park on freeway

    I believe I only saw 3 full R. V electric spots. It is literally right beside the freeway. I would not personally feel comfortable camping here as a female traveler alone. I also think this is listed twice and I will try to correct that.

  • Maria D.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Interstate State Park — Interstate State Park

    Lovely River, Too Much Hustle

    Interstate State Park has some nice features, but overall it wasn’t my favorite. Many of the exterior loop sites have river access, which was a highlight, and we didn’t have to deal with mosquitoes thanks to being right on the water. The nearby towns are also very charming and worth exploring.

    That said, the campground is small and very crowded, likely because it’s so close to the Cities and popular with canoe rentals. Expect a lot of traffic noise, and in the fall, migrating geese can be very loud (which didn’t bother me, but might for some). The ranger office had limited hours, and since firewood is locked up, there’s no self-serve option. Another downside: a riverboat cruises by frequently, blasting music in the evenings and giving tours during the day.

    The sites are close together, with RVs and tents mixed on one loop, so generator noise is common. It wasn’t a terrible stay, but just too small and busy for my preference—I don’t think I’d return.

    Best sites seemed to be 21 (great river views, less private), 23 (fun detached tent pad), and 18 (most private). Sites 4–5 were also lovely but close to the bathrooms and camp host, so expect more foot traffic.

  • Christine H.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Dago Lake

    God's Country

    Free dispersed camping off Dago Lake Road between Willow River & Sturgeon Lake. Quiet aside from the occasional car. Pitch black at night.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Rum River State Forest

    Free parking in solitude.

    No potable water, grey dump, nor trash cans, but it's rugged wilderness along a gravel road with plenty of space to park.

  • Christine H.
    Sep. 11, 2025

    North Country Campground

    Expensive but nice

    Owners are very nice, greet you upon arrival, very helpful. Bathroom/shower is very nice. Trampoline & playground on site. Close to the highway so a lot of traffic noise until about midnight. People fly down the road even though the speed limit is 20mph. 3 minutes from Willow River, 45 minutes to Cloquet & Pine City.

  • Krista T.
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park

    Nice metro get away

    This is a beautiful park and the campsites for the most part all seem spacious, and the loop we were in (whichever one site 52 is in) all had decent tree cover.

    The bathroom facility has seen better days. The nature center is nice and a great place to spend some time if it is raining during their open hours.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Eagle Point Park

    Quiet lake campground

    I stayed here one night while traveling. The bathrooms seemed fire. I could not find a dumper on site. There is a dump station. Plenty of tent only camping areas. All sites require some leveling. Some of the sites have water hookups. Lots of people use the park during the day. It was very quiet at night.

    There is a coffee shop about a 20 minute walk from the park. There is a public swimming beach less than a 10 minute walk from the park.

    You might be able to get a large rig into the first few spots. But if you try to drive the loop around to the other sites, you might not make it. But I did not have trouble in my 25 foot motor home.

    I had great 5G signals from Verizon and T-mobile here.


Guide to Grantsburg

Camping near Grantsburg, Wisconsin, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are campgrounds that cater to all types of campers.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area."
  • Water Activities: Enjoy the water at Interstate State Park. A reviewer shared, "The glacial pothole trail was worth it! There’s a day-use area that was relatively empty as well with a lot of space to spread out."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Wild River State Park Campground, you might spot deer and other wildlife. One camper noted, "The woods surrounding dense enough to obscure others while still feeling open."

What campers like

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the secluded sites at William O'Brien State Park Campground. A visitor said, "The sites are spacious and worked great."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Banning State Park Campground stated, "The vault toilets were in great shape."
  • Convenient Location: The proximity to the Twin Cities makes it easy for quick getaways. One camper at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve remarked, "Great for a quick weekend camping trip."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Ann Lake, have fewer amenities. A camper mentioned, "Camping here is primitive with few amenities."
  • Noise Levels: Campgrounds near urban areas can be noisy. A review for Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park noted, "You can hear the interstate highway in the park during the night."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife visits, especially at campgrounds like Father Hennepin State Park. One camper humorously shared, "I was visited by a skunk... they left when they felt like it."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Wild River State Park Campground. A family shared, "It's a large site with plenty of room for a huge tent or a few tents."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One reviewer at Pattison State Park Campground said, "Hiking trails were great!! Very picturesque."
  • Pack for Bugs: Be ready for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. A camper at William O'Brien State Park Campground mentioned, "We went through a lot of bug spray and coils."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Banning State Park Campground noted, "Some sites are hard to back a trailer into because the main road is VERY NARROW."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Lake Elmo County Park Reserve. A visitor said, "Clean restrooms and showers. Electric, water and dump station."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Keep noise levels down, especially in family-friendly areas. A camper at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park mentioned, "They have staff making rounds to enforce the shortest list of rules I've seen."

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Grantsburg, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, Grantsburg, WI offers a wide range of camping options, with 180 campgrounds and RV parks near Grantsburg, WI and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Grantsburg, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grantsburg, WI is Wild River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 45 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grantsburg, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Grantsburg, WI.

What parks are near Grantsburg, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Grantsburg, WI that allow camping, notably Saint Croix National Scenic River and St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.