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The best camping near Itasca State Park

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

100% (15 reviews)
100% (15 reviews)

Explore the wild headwaters of the Mississippi River at Minnesota’s oldest state park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Itasca State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Itasca State Park

100%
(4)

Fire Tower Pond

1 site ¡ Tent40 acres ¡ Pine Point, MN
Campsite is set next to a large pond, deep in the woods on 40 private acres. The pond is accessible for swimming/kayaking/canoeing. Beautiful Itasca State Park is directly across the road from the property with biking, hiking, nature drives, boating, fishing, equipment rentals, dining and more. Within a few miles are several local eateries. The area has many miles of ATV trails and the Heartland Bike Trail.
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$39
 / night
98%
(25)

I Live in the Country

4 sites ¡ Tents200 acres ¡ Becida, MN
This is home, a realization of a lifelong dream of living in the country.  The land is magical.  Our animals are our family.  Learn more about this land:If you like privacy you'll love our 200 acre haven.  Come up the long driveway the spacious view of the open hay field.  Camp in the open or tucked away in the trees.  You choose the spot as long as it's not in the horse pasture, cow pasture when cows are in, or in the hay field when hay is long before it's cut.  Hay field would be off limits roughly late June to Mid July during optimal growth time and cutting.    We are a 20 minute drive from the North Entrance to Itasca State Park and the Headwaters of the Mississippi.  Also LaSalle Lake Recreation Area is only about six or seven miles down the road.  
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$10
 / night
100%
(4)

Wolf Lake Woods Rustic Retreat

1 site ¡ RV, Tent30 acres ¡ Frazee, MN
Secluded spacious tent or smaller RV/ camper campsite set way back on a private wooded road on our 30 acre property surrounded by farm land, woods, wetlands and a pond. Private pond borders campsite. Close access to nearby lakes and state forest lands provide ample fishing, swimming and off roading opportunities as well. Less than 1 mile from town of Wolf Lake for convenience while still offering seclusion and privacy!
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$18
 / night
96%
(12)

RV There Yet Campground

19 sites ¡ RVs80 acres ¡ Akeley, MN
The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site. More details at https://rvthereyetcampground.com/
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$20
 / night
100%
(6)

The Off Grid Oasis

4 sites ¡ Lodging50 acres ¡ Elbow Lake, MN
The Off Grid Oasis offers luxurious tents nestled on an old growth ridge overlooking a spring fed lake. Hike out to the island and enjoy a rest in the hammock or take a cruise on a paddle board. (Kayaks and Kennedy pedal pontoon also available) Take a hike on exclusive Oasis trails with the option of going as far as you want with the North Country trail intersecting ours. Tents are furnished with a queen sized bed, two chairs which make a long twin, dressers, and more. With our property being the only private on the lake it has extremely low traffic and can have it to yourself most of the time 😊! We have a total of four tents available. Inquire about weekly rate discounts!
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$189
 / night

Loon lodge

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents22 acres ¡ Elbow Lake, MN
Nestled on the shore of Bad Medicine Lake. Abundant activity opportunities, hiking biking swimming fishing the list is endless, use you adventure spirit. Just a few miles from Itaska State park and the headwaters of the Mississippi River. There are hiking trails including the Northland Trail system . Come and explore what nature has to offfer
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$40
 / night
96%
(12)

Forest Cleanse on 40 Acres!

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Nevis, MN
We are so excited to offer this very secluded property with nothing but wilderness all around you. Hike, Bike, visit the Mississippi Headwaters, shop in Park Rapids, or hit the famous Iron Horse Smoke House in Nevis! This place will remind you of the finer things and refresh your soul! You get 40 Acres all to yourself!Learn more about this land:You will not find a place like this! Ducks, Geese, Beaver, Deer and everything right out the front of your tent! Overlooking a huge Beaver Lodge with trails around the water to Hike. Raised enclose stands to sit and watch wildlife. Best of all, you get the entire 40 acres of Woods all to yourself! IMPORTANT NOTE - Rustic Seclusion is not for Everyone. This is for unplugging and enjoying the finer things in life. If thats you, this is your paradise. You must drive to Fishing and Swimming from here.  Under 10 minutes to Dorset, Nevis and Park Rapids. 
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$45
 / night
Saved 1 time

Timberlost at West Crooked

1 site ¡ Lodging20 acres ¡ Nevis, MN
West Crooked Lake Resort offers relaxation and enjoyment for the entire family on 20 acres of seclude woods. You can enjoy sun bathing on the sandy beach, swimming in the clear water, playing on the Rave Water Park, or reading a book in the shade. Listen to the loons calling, watch eagles soar overhead, glide through the clear waters in a canoe or paddleboat, or just bring a book, relax, and catch some rays on the sandy beach. Many area attractions are just minutes from the resort. Biking/walking trails, golf courses, casinos, challenge course, a local winery, horseback riding, shopping and restaurants are just a few of the attractions you will find. In addition, the Headwaters of the Mississippi in Itasca State Park is just 30 minutes from the resort. ATV riders enjoy hundreds of miles of trails in the Park Rapids Lakes Area, bringing them closer to nature's beauty in remote areas others often don't see. Local clubs maintain two primary trails in our area, which are connected with miles of trails along county highways/byways.  Drive your ATV directly to the trails from our resort. West and Middle Crooked Lakes are part of the famous Mantrap chain of lakes – the very heart of Northern Minnesota’s finest fishing country. Fish to catch in West Crooked Lake include Northern, Walleye, Bass and Panfish. You can fish right off the dock at the resort or venture out to the many inlets on this quiet lake. When on the lake, you will often find yourself enjoying the tranquil beauty of West Crooked Lake with no other boats in sight.
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$145
 / night
Booked 2 times

Camp Robco

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Laporte, MN
Our 40 acres is mostly open, some is mowed short, some is a hay field, some is filled with wild flowers, butterflies abound! Camp overlooking our small private airport east-west or north-south runways. Catch the Paul Bunyan State Trail just a little over a mile north in Laporte, MN. Laporte's Grocery Store has the best meat market! Walker, MN (13 miles south) has some quaint boutiques and amazing coffee shops.
from 
$20
 / night
96%
(28)

Willow Acres an RV Resort

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents25 acres ¡ Park Rapids, MN
Being in the resort business my whole life, I had a dream of developing this one of a kind property into something I could share with vacationers. To build something that has never been done. Travelers that experience these sites agree they are truly exceptional!Learn more about this land:Check out the web site for Willow Acres in Park Rapids! parkrapidsrvpark. comDo you want to get off the beaten path and get away from the crowds? Then this Park is for you! Sit under the stars by you fire with no one else around!All sites are PULL THROUGH, level and wooded, which offers great privacy. Full hook ups with 50 amp service, water and sewer. Easily accessible. Great camper setup area.There are many local amenities near by and tourist attractions nearby. 5 minutes from town and approximately 20 minutes from Itasca State Park. Rental opportunities are available by Weekly $175, Monthly $550.
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$45
 / night
100%
(12)

The Heart of Paul Bunyan Forest

1 site ¡ RV2 acres ¡ Laporte, MN
This has been a special property for us, its 2 private acres in the heart of the forest. Make sure you have a compass! This is prime property, especially if you are an ATV or OHM enthusiast! This puts you in the heart of it all! 10 minutes from Stomping Grounds, Akeley and Fort Benedict Outpost!IMPORTANT NOTE - Rustic Seclusion is not for Everyone. This is for unplugging and enjoying the finer things in life. If that's you, this is your paradise. You must drive to Fishing and Swimming from here.  Under 15 minutes to Akeley or Walker. Learn more about this land:We are very excited to share this super Private 2 acre property in the heart of the Paul Bunyan forest within 200 yards of the ATV trailheads in both directions. Very Awesome camping for those that just want to get away! If you don't ride, that's ok, you will never find a better forest cleanse than planting yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of natural forest! Property has 3 cleared spots for Campers and multiple spots for tents. There is an AFrame on the property that you will not have access to. You get this spot all to yourself!
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$45
 / night
100%
(131)

Detroit Lakes

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Detroit Lakes, MN
This old homestead belonged to my belated uncle Steve, and after he passed unexpectedly, I had returned to Minnesota from California and wanted to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for those interested in sharing a peaceful and modest property.  The old barn is a work in progress to eventually become the base to accommodating more travelers and outdoor enthusiasts as finances permit.  After working in the service industry bartending for 14 years and hosting 100+ global travelers via CouchSurfing out of San Diego, I am well versed in creating an inviting space and intend to take the necessary precautions now with the added stresses of Covid-19.  We look forward to meeting you and sharing/swapping stories around the campfire!Learn more about this land:Our property and profile are in constant change as we are in a stage of development, but we look to share our land with those seeking to enjoy a warm, welcome environment for those fellow wanderers, outdoor enthusiasts, vagabonds, and globetrotters. I am a well-traveled backpacker myself and share 5 1/2 acres with my father here in a bustling little touristy town. We enjoy the company of those who endorse small footprint, sustainable practices and I eventually intend to create an eco-hostel from the conversion of our 100 year old barn.  All we ask is that you respect the property, our neighbors, and make an effort to add one more new friend before you depart.
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$30
 / night

The best camping near Itasca State Park guide

Overview

About

The crown jewel of the Minnesota state park system, Itasca State Park in northern Minnesota offers two main campgrounds, several cabins and lodges, and more than 32,000 acres of glacier-carved wilderness. A must-do is walking across the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River before it begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. But don’t miss the other park highlights, including towering old-growth white and red pines, historic sites, a scenic drive past a wilderness sanctuary, more than 100 lakes, and recreational opportunities that include hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and canoeing. In winter, explore groomed and ungroomed trails on skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for lake views: Bear Paw Campground offers 79 RV and tent camping sites, including the aptly named Lakeview Loop on the shores of Lake Itasca.
  • Best for convenience: Pine Ridge Campground offers 155 sites, and is the closest to the headwaters of the Mississippi and historic sites such as the Indian Cemetery.
  • Best for escaping the crowds: Eleven backcountry sites sit away from the crowds, each with a fire ring and pit toilet.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Plan ahead. Campsites can be reserved up to 120 days in advance, either by phone or online.
  2. All campsites, including backpacking sites in winter, require a reservation. Same-day reservations can be made with no fees.
  3. If your plans are flexible, plan for a less busy time, such as a weekday or non-holiday period. If you plan to camp in winter, be aware that options are limited.

When to go

Itasca State Park is busiest during July and August. Besides the crowds of people, you’ll also meet lots of bugs. Visit in spring and summer to see orchids in bloom, and fall to see the foliage change colors. Campsites are only open from May to October, with the exception of backpacking sites and select electric sites at the Pine Ridge Campground. Winter is a great time to visit to escape the crowds—just be sure to bundle up, as temperatures often drop below freezing.

Know before you go

  • Some campsites offer hookups and can accommodate RVs up to 60 feet. Both campgrounds have two ADA-accessible sites, restrooms with flush toilets, and hot showers. Find a dump station at the Bear Paw Campground.
  • Canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, and bikes can be rented within the park.
  • The park has several gift shops, plus a seasonal restaurant inside the Douglas Lodge. Groceries can be found near the north and east entrances.
  • Wifi is available at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center, the Visitor Center, the Pine Ridge Campground, and the Four-Season Suites.
  • Campers should only burn approved firewood, which is available at the Visitor Center and from camp hosts.

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