🌝 2024 Solar eclipse: Book now for 4/8

The best camping near Emerson Bay State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Emerson Bay adventure.

Emerson Bay State Recreation Area: A Lakeside Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.  

Popular ways to camp

Top-rated campgrounds near Emerson Bay State Recreation Area

98%
(20)

Lutheran Lakeside Camp

20 sites ¡ RVs, Tents110 acres ¡ Spirit Lake, IA
Our mission is to be a place of belonging for all people to find joy and purpose in God's creation. We have a beautiful property with lots of activities and amenities to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. All the income we receive through campers and guests goes towards Camp for ALL Kids, where we allow foster children to attend camp at no cost. Learn more about this land:Park your RV and enjoy WiFi, endless activities onsite as well as peace and serenity while only being a few miles from the Okoboji excitement. Back in, hook up to 30 or 50 amp, Dump Station, short walk or drive to the waterfront. All guests get a picnic table and fire ring. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, basketball, sand volleyball, gaga ball, human foosball, 9 square, soccer filed, playground, and open fields. 
from 
$50
 / night
99%
(281)

Camping on private lake

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents8 acres ¡ Westbrook, MN
This property has 10 camp spots. Sites 1 and 10 have a boat landing. Sites 1,4,5, 6 and 10 have shades trees that can hold hammocks. All sites are right next to the lake. Site 6 has a dock that all can use. There is excellent swimming with a sandy bottom at the south end of the lake. The lake is stocked with walleye in the spring by the DNR and has other fish as well. It is also close to many lakes that are good for fishing. I have a 14' fishing boat with trolling motor, a paddle boat, a kayak, and canoe for campers to use for free. Firewood is available for $5/day. There is some hiking on the property and much near by. Biking is also good with small lakes nearby to visit. The camping here is very peaceful with wonderful views and the wildlife is awesome! 120 volt power is at all sites and 220 can reach sites 4 and 5. There is warm showers and flushing toilets. Also all sites are drive through on hard ground grass. Grates are provided for cooking over the fire. There is Wi-Fi internet that reaches sites 1-5.
from 
$40
 / night
Saved 18 times

Private Camping on a Farm

5 sites ¡ RVs7 acres ¡ Avoca, MN
Learn more about this land:We have grass fields and spots in our “forest” surrounded by trees. We have a small play ground on site. We have a fire ring to host bon fires. We have chickens, quails, ducks and bunnies.
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Emerson Bay State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Down by the bay, where the nature lovers grow. You’ll be humming your own sweet tune of satisfaction after a visit to Emerson Bay State Recreation Area. This popular spot offers shady camping with a sandy swimming beach and a nearby boat ramp for exploring and fishing Lake Okoboji. The clean and crystal clear waters are a gem of the Iowa great lakes region, and this spot is sure to please the whole fam. Whether you want to motorboat it, canoe it, or even sail it, you can find your happy place here on the water. Or just pack a picnic and head down to the shore for refreshment and relaxation. Simple pleasures everywhere and in any season. Sweet!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Emerson Bay State Recreation Area is during the warm summer months, from June to August, when the lake's waters are inviting and the trails are ripe for exploration. Spring and fall offer cooler, quieter visits, while winter's chill transforms the park into a snowy retreat, though some activities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check weather conditions before your visit, as the park's activities are best enjoyed in good weather.
  • Be mindful of park rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
  • Remember to pack sunscreen and insect repellent, especially during the summer months.
  • Accessibility varies across different areas of the park, so plan accordingly if you have specific needs.
  • While some amenities are available, it's wise to bring essential supplies, including water and snacks.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.