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The best camping in Nemadji State Forest, MN

100% (1)

Discover Nemadji State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The best camping in Nemadji State Forest, MN

Gafvert Campground

1. Gafvert Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Nemadji State Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Interested in exploring the swamplands, hills, valleys, and forests of eastern Minnesota? Can we get a “don’tcha know!?” Gafvert Campground sits along the banks of Pickerel Lake—there is also a boat-in campsite here

Public campgrounds in Nemadji State Forest are often sold-out.

Hidden Pines

2. Hidden Pines

96%

(167)

11mi from Nemadji State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Come get away in our grove of balsam pine trees in a rural area with lots of wildlife to see and hear. We have 5 primitive campsites, one for large groups and three for smaller more private camping and one drive in site for camping out of vehicle or tent . We offer un mapped hiking trails onsite and there is plenty of activities to do within 10 to 15  miles from camp. Activities include swimming at local beaches, Nemadji State Forest, General CC Andrews State Forest, ATV riding, lots of great fishing lakes, several rivers for kayaking and canoeing, local restaurants, coffee houses, movie theater, general store, shopping, antiques/craft, grocery, gas, local brewery, agate center, fire museum. The land was purchased by the Sway family in the late 70's from a farmer and has been in the family since. We are one of the 4 current land owners of this property and plan to keep the land in the family as long as we can. Our home was built in 2011 on part of the property. Since living here we have used the land for hiking, gardening, wood harvesting, selling Christmas trees, and now we are excited for our new adventure of opening a small part of our land for camping. We are excited for you to enjoy our land as much as we do.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Woods and Meadows Farm

3. Woods and Meadows Farm

100%

(156)

17mi from Nemadji State Forest · 3 sites

"All are welcome here." We love sharing our beautiful space, and want you to feel safe and secure. Explore woods, trails, meadows. Peaceful, private, close to bike trails, Jay Cooke State Park and Duluth. Both cabins have their own special ambiance. These are comfortable, rustic cabins with NO running water (drinking water supplied). “Not "ADA" *Well-behaved, house-broken, supervised dogs, and older children welcome. *It helps us to know your ETA in advance and to update us so that we can plan our day as well! Once you are in the area, message us a bit before your arrival so we can meet you and set you up properly! If we miss you, follow the arrow on the wheelbarrow down the hill. Park at Dragon Loft at 1st right, and Raven Watch at very end of drive. *We have free range chickens and friendly border collie. Sometimes there's a dog staying at the other cabin. Wildlife is also in the area, so we require that dogs be supervised and leashed, for their safety, and our wild animal neighbors. No dogs may be left unattended in our cabins while you go out! Take your canine pal with you! Quiet hours: dusk to 7am. Also consider your dog's inclination for barking. We keep the peace and quiet of all of our guests in mind. *DRAGON LOFT has one double bed in a loft with steep ladder. Great for two people. Room for dog bed or kennel below the loft. Has a nice reading/coffee room, fridge, oil radiator, hot plate, WiFi, deck with table and chairs, patio with fire ring., grill outside. You have full use of the trails in our woods! *RAVEN WATCH is larger and comfortable for up to four people. Solar power, off grid (no WiFi). Double bed upstairs overlooking the pond, and another downstairs by the cozy wood stove. A cute little kitchen with a nice gas stove and wash area. Fire ring outside. Wood supply. Price based on two adults. Small fee for up to two more people +pets. Next to pond, creek and woods! Private porta-potty, no shower. We raised our children here, and over 45 yrs have planted trees and pollinator acres. We always enjoy meeting other travelers. While living and teaching internationally we looked for adventure, staying in a wide range of hostels in developing countries around the globe. We are now retired but still traveling and exploring off-season.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$95

/ night

Crooked Creek Retreat

4. Crooked Creek Retreat

100%

(24)

24mi from Nemadji State Forest · 3 sites

Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness. Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another. We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people. A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland). The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight! The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$80

/ night

Moosehorn Campground

5. Moosehorn Campground

91%

(39)

25mi from Nemadji State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Discover a serene woodland campsite with hookups for RVs and expansive trails perfect for ATVs, Side by Sides, biking, and hiking adventures. With ample space for you and your companions, relish breathtaking stargazing views and seize the opportunity to paddle in the nearby Kettle River with your kayak or canoe. Access the campground via the southern entrance, where you'll find a spacious gravel road tailored for your vehicles' convenience, complete with a secure gate to ensure your privacy. Upon arrival, you'll receive a lockbox code for added security.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Bundo's Cabin

6. Bundo's Cabin

99%

(161)

25mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was harvested and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and out, there are so many ways to relax and connect with loved ones during all seasons at Bundo's Cabin. Learn more about this land: Where the forest meets the field. Unplug and relax at Bundo's Cabin with extraordinary views of wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities. The modern yet cozy cabin has electricity and features a front patio, an external outhouse and outdoor rainwater bucket shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a sleeping loft with a reading nook. No matter the season, this cabin is a wonderful, cozy, and clean, place to relax and unwind. Feel free to roam around the 10-acre property and explore the 80 acres of state land to the north. Deer, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, owls, eagles and more are likely to be seen or heard. Explore, Banning, Moose Lake, and Father Hennepin State Parks which are all within 30 minutes, and return to the cabin to read, play games, listen to records, have a fire, and relax. The kitchen provides you with everything you need to prepare your meals including a refrigerator, small freezer, stove, oven, cookware, cutting boards, sink, seasonings, oil, and coffee. Water for washing is available from an electric pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps from the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a user-friendly heat pump and gets the cabin to your desired temperature very quickly. We are grateful to honor the Dakota and Anishinaabe people whose land we occupy by donating $10 from every booking to the Makoce Ikikcupi Land Recovery Project. This project is actively working to return the land to the indigenous people from whom it was stolen. You can learn more about this project in reparative justice at www.makoceikikcupi.com.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$123

/ night

Medicine Creek Farm

7. Medicine Creek Farm

100%

(107)

26mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

At Medicine Creek Farm, we raise grass fed beef and lamb and pastured pork and eggs. We direct-market our food to customers in the Twin Cities and Duluth, primarily through our website. We have been moved and inspired by soil health and what we've learned of regenerative agriculture's ability to heal the land. Hannah manages the daily farm operations, taking care of the animals and moving fences and flocks through the pastures to improve the soil. Meanwhile Jason has been hard at work building our farm infrastructure including our house, shed, remodeled camper trailer, and rebuilding an 1880s timber frame barn where we host our farm stay.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$80

/ night

Fish Lake Getaway

8. Fish Lake Getaway

94%

(33)

28mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: There is a fire pit and firewood,  access to a basicly private lake. 14’ aluminum boat and a canoe is available There is no place to put your own boat in. There is an outhouse and a shed with many yard games.  There is a park model camper available to use with no hook ups other than gas stove. Theirs is a twin bed, a queen bed and a couch. The max for the site would be 8 people and that’s only if a few sleep in tents.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$45

/ night

KJ|eventyr

9. KJ|eventyr

100%

(71)

30mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

Located 14 miles outside of Duluth’s Canal Park area, we have the perfect location for privacy, as well as, being close enough to enjoy Duluth’s many tourist attractions. We are also near multiple popular hiking, biking and skiing areas and state parks, such as Jay Cooke State Park and Spirit Mt. Our private apartment offers a deck overlooking our pond and forest area, with all the amenities of home and the natural atmosphere of camping. Our Forest Camper also offers many amenities in a smaller package.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$90

/ night

Superior Beach Camp

10. Superior Beach Camp

99%

(204)

32mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to Superior Beach Camp and immerse yourself in the beauty and privacy of a cleared camping area situated above 500' feet of sand and pebble beach on the world’s greatest lake. Agate campsite is very generously sized and is all yours. Surrounded by a mix of poplar and birch with a few white pine sprinkled in, the main camp area is set back from the lake atop a 70' bluff with peekaboo views of Lake Superior. A short walk down a private path from your campsite gives you access to a beautiful Lake Superior beach to swim, skip rocks, search for agates, or just enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the town of Duluth on the opposite shore. Agate campsite previously featured a "look out point" that has been altered by the natural erosion of the red clay banks that comprise much of Lake Superior's south shore. While you can still access this area, doing so will require more effort and care, and we no longer allow camping on the point. Superior Beach Camp located is 2.5 hours north of the Twin Cities and perfectly positions you to discover all the wonders of the Twin Ports. Explore this amazing area or stay at camp, set up your chair in the sand and take in the many moods of Mother Superior. Watch the ships come and go to the sparkly backdrop of Duluth’s city lights. The crackle of a driftwood fire on the beach provides the perfect soundtrack as you watch for shooting stars and the aurora. Stock up on supplies and explore the charming industrial town of Superior, WI – 15 minutes from your campsite. Spend a day mountain biking the Duluth Traverse and touring the the wonderful local dining and tap room scenes of Duluth and Superior. Canal Park, downtown Duluth, is a 25 minute drive. If you’d like to venture further, you could meander up the North Shore. Or keep it local and check out Bayfield and the Apostle Islands – only 75 minutes East. Stop through the charming lakeside village of Cornucopia on your way. Or perhaps you’d like to experience world class trout fishing on the Brule River a half hour from Superior Beach Camp. Maybe Parks are your thing: Amnicon Falls, one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful State Parks, is reachable in 10 minutes by car. Drive a half hour further to Pattison State Park and take in Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. On the Minnesota side, the magic of Jay Cooke State Park is 30 minutes west (and puts you on the doorstep of legit white water rafting). Whether you're looking for solace and relaxation in a blissful [great] lakeside setting or simply seeking a convenient place to rest your head while exploring the many adventures a stone’s throw from your campsite, there is something for everyone who camps here. Superior Beach Camp is a clean, quiet, peaceful, primitive setting. We appreciate that our campers help us keep it this way; remember to pack in any supplies or provisions you need, and leave no trace when you depart so our next guests can enjoy a clean campsite.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$68

/ night

Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

11. Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

91%

(95)

34mi from Nemadji State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Into The Woods

12. Into The Woods

100%

(20)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site

Glamping in a geodesic dome on 4 private tree-filled land. Though no electricity or water access, this unique property does have a 20ft diameter domed structure with a bed, compostable toilet and a solar powered ceiling fan. Sitting on the deck or around the fire, you will see nothing but birds and trees

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$59

/ night

Balsam Ridge Retreat

13. Balsam Ridge Retreat

100%

(981)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 9 sites

Hello friends! Thanks for your interest in Balsam Ridge Retreat! Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'. We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth. Our home was once an abandoned house that sat for years until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale. We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here! Just down the road is a trout stream and beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired its horses and closed its doors to make room for new homes, but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun. This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$69

/ night

Gabeshiwin Tipi Village

14. Gabeshiwin Tipi Village

100%

(18)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 9 sites

Gabeshiwin Tipis village is the result of a vision given to Minwewebenis (Kevin) as he gazed over the woods and fields of his land. His desire is to share the experience of living in a tipi like his ancestors did decades ago on the Great Plains. The tipis are situated in an intimate village erected around a central pond.

Toilets

Potable water

from

$64

/ night

Yurt on the River

15. Yurt on the River

95%

(11)

38mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site

Our yurt sits on the edge of a wild woods on the banks of the Cloquet River overlooking a meadow that is an active forest restoration project currently in process. From your door, you can access a loop of trails that wind through the woods, to the river and back to the yurt. Get back to basics. There is no electricity or running water in the yurt. Camp lanterns and solar lights are provided as is refillable fresh water and a propane camp stove/oven with pots/pans/utensils. The yurt is heated solely by a wood stove and there is plenty of firewood a short distance away with a sled or wagon to use for hauling. A campfire pit is just outside the yurt with a hanging grill and grilling tools. A detached outhouse is a short walk from the yurt and is for your use alone when you're here. In the winter, a Luggable Loo is available to bring to the yurt to eliminate trips at night in the cold to the outhouse. The yurt contains a queen bed with linens and a single camp cot available on request.  Dogs are welcome in the yurt! We charge a $25 pet fee per reservation. If you'd like to bring a dog or dogs (limit 2), please add the Pet Fee which is listed as an extra during the booking process. In the warm months, the river is great for swimming and fishing. (And Coming Soon: Kayaks, river tubes, and canoe availability pending the sorting of proper insurance.) In the winter, two pairs of snowshoes are included for quiet walks through the woods. *Note: Train sounds and some road noise can be heard from the yurt. The train has been described as "quite loud" by some guests and as sounding "off in the distance" and "pleasant" by others. The crossing is a half mile away. If you're sensitive to sounds, a light sleeper, or looking for complete and utter quiet, please take this into account. Ear plugs are also available in the yurt.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$125

/ night

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

16. The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

98%

(129)

39mi from Nemadji State Forest · 5 sites

Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$101

/ night

Trego Lake Lakefront Property

17. Trego Lake Lakefront Property

98%

(89)

40mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site

This was my father's favorite place to be in the summer. He loved watching the hummingbirds early in the season and the leaf turn in the fall. We hope you and your guests will enjoy staying here as much as our family has. Five acre private lakefront property surrounded by trees. Cement pad for your RV or trailer. 50-amp and full hookups. Bring your own converter if less than 30 amps. Large fire pit (supply your own firewood). Recently refurbished private dock. Four-wheel trails and rental companies nearby. Short drive from the Namekagon River which is great for tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Due to a recent review, I am also adding here that swimming from our property is not ideal. The lake tends to be weedy during warm summers. There are places to swim nearby, so if you are booking with the sole intent of being able to swim, please be aware that this is likely not the best site for you unless you are willing to drive to a nearby beach.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$60

/ night

Fairhaven Farm

18. Fairhaven Farm

100%

(18)

40mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Fairhaven Farm is located 18 miles north of Duluth, Minnesota on a beautiful patch of earth surrounded by forests, rivers and lakes. On our 27-acre organic farmstead we grow fresh vegetables, herbs, microgreens and flowers and serve the city of Duluth and its surrounding communities. We also host Pizza Nights and serve wood-fired pizzas at the farm on Wednesday and Friday evenings. We strive to create a happy, healthy community in an environment of shared abundance and beauty.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$52

/ night

O'Dalaigh Hideaway

19. O'Dalaigh Hideaway

100%

(44)

41mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site

Note: Site does not have an assigned address but the driveway is next to our cabin on the North side of the Snake River in Pine City MN, NOT Rock Creek MN. The site is a vacant lot and has the better river view and experience as its a small peninsula that juts out to the river with rapids. There is a swimming area right next to the campsite or feel free to jump into the rapids if you want a rush. River is not deep most of the year and there is fishing right there as well, mostly large and small mouth bass. There is parking off the road and a short walk to the campsite, just follow the sounds of the river. A small wagon is provided to help with getting gear down to the river tent site. New this year (2025) is a composting toilet along the trail to the tent site. It uses a "separator" where #1 goes back to the earth (as it is sterile and liquid) and #2 goes into a bucket and is covered with wood chips. There is also a standing urinal for men if desired. If you would prefer to use a pit toilet there is one on the property with directions marked with a sign. It is a farther walk however, about 100 yards from the tent site and on the cabin property near the driveway. If you want something even more convenient, feel free to bring your own. Firewood is available for sale onsite or feel free to clean up dead wood lying along the trail at no cost, note that it is more than likely freshly cut and wet but will burn if the fire is hot enough. The tent site is right next to rapids on the Snake river. If you struggle sleeping to the sound of rushing water, this may not be for you!

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$20

/ night

Meadow Cabin

20. Meadow Cabin

97%

(37)

42mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

The first time I drove up and saw the river, I knew it was a magical spot. Fishing, kayaking, swimming. Relax by the firepit, play games in the cabin. Put your feet up by the fireplace on cool evenings. Located close to Chengwatana State Forest. Kayak down to the St. Croix river.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$120

/ night

100% (1)

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Top-rated campgrounds near Nemadji State Forest

Hidden Pines

96%

(167)

11mi from Nemadji State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Woods and Meadows Farm

100%

(156)

17mi from Nemadji State Forest · 3 sites

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$95

/ night

Crooked Creek Retreat

100%

(24)

24mi from Nemadji State Forest · 3 sites

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$80

/ night

Moosehorn Campground

91%

(39)

25mi from Nemadji State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Bundo's Cabin

99%

(161)

25mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$123

/ night

Medicine Creek Farm

100%

(107)

26mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$80

/ night

Fish Lake Getaway

94%

(33)

28mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$45

/ night

KJ|eventyr

100%

(71)

30mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$90

/ night

Superior Beach Camp

99%

(204)

32mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$68

/ night

Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

91%

(95)

34mi from Nemadji State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Into The Woods

100%

(20)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$59

/ night

Balsam Ridge Retreat

100%

(981)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 9 sites

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$69

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Tanner

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Couldn't have asked for a better experience. The picturesque property is tucked into the woods a stones throw from the amenities of the town. We skied on secluded trails right from the front door of the cabin. Chris and Linda are true stewards of their domain. If you want to slow down and immerse yourself comfortably into nature stay here!

Ethan

2 weeks ago

1 night at Medicine Creek Farm

So great to see someone respecting and improving the earth while providing delicious food for their community!

Katie

3 weeks ago

With kids

3 nights at Balsam Ridge Retreat

As always the Stuga did not disappoint. We have been here multiple times and we find the wonder and adventure every time. Chris and Linda are attentive hosts adding details throughout the property and cabin. Groomed trails and twinkle lights at night made for great night sledding with the kids. The cabin is comfortable and so nice that it had a fridge and cook top. We love the proximity to the city but feel like we are far from it in the woods.

Sarah

January 2026

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This was my third visit to Balsam Ridge Retreat, and it was, as always, an absolute joy to stay with Linda and Chris. I came to town to watch the start of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, and it was a quick and easy drive from Balsam Ridge to the race shuttle pick-up point on the UMD campus. I slept soundly in the Mini Coop, which was warm and snug on consecutive nights of extreme cold temperatures (down to -25°F on January 24!). The snowy trails at the Retreat are well-groomed, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. Chris and Linda are excellent hosts and some of my very favorite people in Duluth. I'm already planning my next trip to town, and you can be sure I'll be staying at Balsam Ridge!

Draek

January 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bundo's Cabin

We had an incredible weekend at Bundo’s Cabin. It was exactly what we needed. The heater works great! If anything, at night, we were almost too warm in the loft. Super dog friendly property, and it’s very private. We loved off-leash snow shoeing with our pups and did tons of exploring.

Nick

January 2026

2 nights at Crooked Creek Retreat

This is such a perfect getaway! It was cozy (once we got the fire going which didn't take long), quiet, beautiful, and invitational. It was perfect for lying low and enjoying simplicity. The decor was also fun and meeting Naomi gave some added appreciation for the history of this place. I'm excited to visit again!

Anders

January 2026

1 night at The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

Such an adorable little cabin :) we really enjoyed our evening there! Host is very helpful and accommodating, quick to respond with any questions/needs!

Aaron

December 2025

3 nights at Bundo's Cabin

Great stay at Jon’s cabin. Cozy little cabin with the essentials and an amazing piece of property.

Emily

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Amazing stay as always. Can’t wait to come back in January. Perfect hosts, perfect location, and perfect stuga. We love this place!!

Mirtha

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

My stay was amazing. I love Duluth and wanted to go to Bentleyville and it was a short drive from that plus down town duluth and canal park. Amazing location. It is a wooded area away from the city and people and very quiet. There is beautiful lights lighting the pathways thru out the entire area. Kris and Linda were the nicest hosts I have met, they gave us a lovely tour of all of the sites showed us where everything was and told us to just text if they needed anything. They were both so so nice, welcoming and bubbly. Just the kind of people I like to be around. We had a stove, fridge and heaters to keep us warm as it was really cold but we slept like babies nice and warm with plenty of extra blankets provided by Kris and Linda. They even have a awesome community tent with many chairs and a piano and guitar. They have compost outhouses close by each site and they were easy to use and worked great. They also provided water. It was very magical and peaceful there. I can’t wait to visit again. The entire stay was calm, relaxed and magical during the night time with all of the lights. The swings there are also an absolute blast. If you are considering coming here. I encourage you to go for it. They are wondering hosts and I don’t have a single complaint. Everything was perfect. - Kristian and Mirtha.

Jason

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Unfortunately, I had a dear friend take a turn for the worse at Mayo and he is no longer with us. But my interactions with Linda via Hipcamp chat was wonderful. Linda is a great, pleaseant, understanding, and compassionate person. I truly believe had I been able to make my stay that she would have made sure that it was a wonderful one. I will have to rebook in the near future.

Geoffrey

December 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Meadow Cabin

Great space along the river. Cosy cabin with all the amenities.

Marta

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Linda made our winter camping experience magical and enjoyable. The basics like the furniture and chopped wood were solid, and the string lights around the property add something special to winter nights. I really enjoyed meeting Linda and staying at her site.

Paul

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Bundo's Cabin

Bundo’s cabin is delightful. It’s super well designed, cozy, and has a biffy fit for an outhouse coffee table book.

Anaiah

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Retreat

Crooked Creek was a perfect oasis away from the city. We really enjoyed the cozy vibes of the cabin, and the walking paths for us to enjoy. We were even provided orange beanies for hunting season, which we greatly appreciated as we went on our hikes! Naomi did a great job of making us feel comfortable and at home, and we would absolutely return.

Jonah

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

My wife and I came up for the weekend and stayed in the roost. It was a lovely rustic cabin that kept it's warm during the cold nights. The property was a nice to walk through the trails. The trails are lit at night for comfort. The host were welcoming and wonderful to us during our stay. We tried out the swing and that was a delight. Overall great experience.

Baron

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Linda and Chris are two of the most welcoming and caring people. They take the time to make sure your stay is as enjoyable as it possibly could be. From little things like clearly lit trails at night to a very warm cabin to wake up refreshed in. We will definitely come again.

josh

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This place is amazing and has so much charm. I have been here twice and it keeps getting better. The host are wonderful people and great to meet. This is a magical place and I would recommend to anyone.

John

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Superior Beach Camp

Great spot and private beach area with lots to explore.

Austin

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This was one of the most magical places to stay and we hope to be back again and again. The hosts Linda and Chris are the key holders for the magic that this place holds. Meeting you upon arrival and making sure you know the ins and outs of the place and any little tricks that may come in handy along the way, truly some of the best hosts out there. One of our favorite things about Danny’s tent was using the little wood stove to warm up the place and cook on top of. I’ve never stayed in a tent so cozy it made you never want to leave. The whole experience in itself will leave you wanting more , from booking a weekend to dreaming of booking a week even in the cold months. Thank you Linda and Chris for having us and we hope to see you again!

The best camping in Nemadji State Forest, MN guide

Overview

About

The Nemadji State Forest sounds like something out of Lord of the Rings, and it kind of is! Vast swamplands blanket the south, leading to gently rolling uplands that are broken by steep stream valleys, while dense forests extend to the northeast. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a hobbit hiding out in some hole deep in the woods?

With about 100 miles of trails dedicated to ATV and OHM riding, you’re more likely to see people on their off-road toys. There are amazing hiking trails here as well. Your trusty hiking staff will go a long way in this forest. So go find Samwise Gamgee (aka a friend) and set off on an epic adventure!

When to go

The best times to visit Nemadji State Forest are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for busier trails and potential heat. Winters are harsh, with heavy snowfall limiting access to certain areas.

Know before you go

Check the latest park updates for any road or campsite improvements that may affect your visit.
Always adhere to safety guidelines, especially when heavy machinery is operating in the area.
Be mindful of the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
For any inquiries, the park can be reached at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.
Stay informed by signing up for email updates from the park's official website.

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