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The best camping near St. Croix State Forest

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

Discover the natural splendor of St. Croix State Forest.  

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Community favorites near St. Croix State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near St. Croix State Forest

97%
(72)

The Wooded Retreat

4 sites ¡ Lodging8 acres ¡ Pine City, MN
Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility of a state park while being conveniently accessible. 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 8 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent!
from 
$58
 / night
100%
(106)

Bundo's Forest

2 sites ¡ Lodging10 acres ¡ Finlayson, MN
This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was cut and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and outdoor activities and wildlife viewing abound throughout 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 bathroom, 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 via a pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps south of the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a very 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.
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$135
 / night
100%
(17)

Meadow Cabin

2 sites ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Pine City, MN
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.
from 
$125
 / night
99%
(67)

Medicine Creek Farm

2 sites ¡ Lodging160 acres ¡ Finlayson, MN
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.
from 
$100
 / night
67%
(3)

Northern Nights Pop-Up Paradise

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Askov, MN
Welcome to Northern Nights Pop-Up Paradise located at the Countryside Campground! Our camper is situated on a beautiful reservoir and has everything you need for a relaxing and fun-filled getaway. Our amenities are numerous and include paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, and an adult-only hot tub. There is also a kitchen and bar on site, as well as a liquor store and camp store for all your camping needs. Our indoor pool and kiddy pool are perfect for families with young children, while the campgrounds scenic walking paths offer a peaceful way to explore the surrounding area. For those looking for more competitive activities, we offer volleyball, badminton, basketball, bean bag and horseshoe, with varying tournaments and events hosted throughout the summer. We also have a game room and activity center for rainy days. WiFi, bathroom, shower, and laundry facilities are also provided. Our pop-up camper can comfortably sleep up to five guests with one king, one queen, and one fold-out twin bed. It comes equipped with a mini-fridge, sink, electric and water hookup, and a campfire pit with a table for outdoor dining. We are conveniently located within 20 minutes of several state forests and parks, including Solana State Forest, St. Croix State Park and Forest, and Banning State Park. The Mill Lacs Casino and Mill Lacs Lake are also nearby. We are just 30 minutes south of Duluth and an hour and a half from the Twin Cities. We also have a dog park on site for those traveling with their furry friends. Come stay at our pop-up camper and experience all the beauty and excitement that Northern Minnesota has to offer!
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$65
 / night
100%
(9)

Reflections- Unique Modern A Frame

1 site ¡ Lodging4 acres ¡ Brook Park, MN
This modern A Frame cabin was completely remodeled. Located on 4 acres of woods on a quiet gravel road, you'll love the peace and serenity. Whether you want to wander the paths, listen to the birds, or start a fire on a starry night, this is the place. Fully furnished with kitchen, full bathroom, laundry and a loft to look out at the stars from the skylights. Pull out couch on main level to comfortably sleep 4. You'll enjoy the front and back decks to hang out- drink your morning coffee, look for the owls or throw dinner on the grill. Firepit for long nights and unlimited firewood.
from 
$125
 / night
100%
(12)

Crooked Creek Retreat

1 site ¡ Lodging20 acres ¡ Hinckley, MN
Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a log 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.Learn more about this land: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).
from 
$250
 / night
88%
(4)

Cloverdale Cabins

5 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Hinckley, MN
Cabin is shared with 2 other tiny home options on the same property. Contact me to host up to 16 guests. Cabin hosts 8 guests and the other 2 tiny homes host up to 4 guests each. Inquire about booking your large party group as our calendar is filling up for the summer and into the fall. Charcoal Grill available for your use on site. Guests supply the charcoal. There is a fire pit on site as well. Guests supply the firewood.
from 
$35
 / night
92%
(30)

Off Grid Lakeside Yurt

1 site ¡ Lodging24 acres ¡ Sandstone, MN
Your yurt overlooks Tamarack Lake. You will have privacy tucked away in the pines with your own setup of kitchen, picnic area, fire pit, and wood fire tub. A hand pump well with delicious clean water is available as well as a personal composting toilet within view of your yurt, through the trees. Our cabin is about 80 yards away and we are always happy to answer questions and lend a hand. Your yurt comes with a small kitchen that includes a two burner stove, grey water sink, pots, pans, dish ware, and utensils. French press, kettle, coffee and tea are provided. You are also welcome to use the outdoor wood fired cooking set up. The yurt has a wood fire stove that keeps the space toasty year round. Firewood is included for your stay. There is no electricity or running water but we provide a lantern and water inside the cabin. We have a small cast iron wood fired tub that overlooks the lake just outside your yurt! If interested let us know and we can assist. This is a great location for each season. With your booking you will have access to the canoes and our dock. Tamarack Lake is wonderful for fishing panfish, pike, and smallmouth. Come fish any season! You can enjoy yourself exploring via canoe or relaxing with a book at our dock! With nearly 10,000 acres of state land out the backdoor and many trails, adventuring can always be done no matter the season. We enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, backcountry xxsking, and hunting depending on the time of year. It is a big property, but sometimes there are crafting classes, such as basketry, wild food education, hide tanning, etc. While most weekends are quiet around here if you’re looking for privacy feel free to check in with us to make sure we are not hosting classes during your stay. We are looking forward to having you at the lake! Also there are more pics on Instagram @hex_and_strand Thanks =)
from 
$100
 / night
96%
(57)

Wild Vines Campground

24 sites ¡ Tents6 acres ¡ Taylors Falls, MN
With some of the oldest vines in Minnesota, (1994) Wild Mountain Winery has been in operation since 2010 as a premier winery. Nestled on the second highest point in Chisago County, we offer picturesque views and quiet, natural setting. With both food, beer, cider and wine to sample, you will find something that makes you smile. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the setting you choose; in the vines of our 6 acres of vineyard, or in the woods next to the winery. Enjoy all the amenities of the winery with a short walk to your cot, hammock or sleeping bag. No "drive-in" sites available, but we provide pull carts or courtesy shuttle upon request. Close to Wild Mountain Ski & Water park. Each site offers a fire ring. On site bathrooms and potable water. Camp any day of the week. Check in- Friday 2:00, or by special request Sat/Sun 12:00 Weekdays 12:00 Check out- 11:00
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$40
 / night
100%
(4)

Gabeshiwin Tipi Village

9 sites ¡ Lodging10 acres ¡ Hinckley, MN
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.
from 
$75
 / night
98%
(198)

The Jubilee Homestead

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Stanchfield, MN
Our family at The Jubilee Homestead is looking forward to another great camping season in 2023! This small hobby farm is where I (Esther) grew up and now my husband Joel, our four children, and my parents, are developing it into a self-supporting farmstead and event venue as we raise chickens and Nigerian dwarf goats, and grow a pick-your-own elderberry field. Our oldest son loves to plant and manage a small market garden with our campers in mind, so depending on when in the season you come, you may find some garden treasures to take home! What you can expect when you camp at The Jubilee Homestead: Free firewood Free 20amp electricity hookup at all sites (not enough to run A/C, plenty for everything else) Free water Free farm fresh, free-range eggs to collect yourself in the mornings plus more for sale when available. Free access to broomball court and equipment in barn loft Rustic trail around back of property about 1/4 mile long Playground Dishwashing sink Campers are welcome to enjoy The Milk Room which is our Lounge and Farm Store. You'll find self-serve coffee, hot cocoa, and other options available for purchase, including fresh garden produce when available. There is a microwave, places to sit and visit, and even a game table. We have a nice, fully private outdoor shower with hot water available for $2.50/shower. Guests can pay on-site via our posted QR codes or cash box. We have Nigerian dwarf goats, chickens, geese, and rabbits. We also have several apple trees, cherries, and elderberries. As grateful as we are to be out of a drought, the mosquitoes are back! We have several zappers around the property but please come prepared in case they're bad while you're here. We're also available for other events like birthday parties, intimate weddings, and group gatherings at our gazebo. As a homeschooling, home business building family, there is usually a project or two always in the works to join in on if you feel so inclined or just sit back and enjoy the peace of clean air and loving goats! Several lakes in the area provide numerous options for fishing, boating, and hiking. And nothing beats those evening country road walks while agate hunting! Other area attractions include Mini golf in Cambridge, public aquatic center with water slides in Mora, and several state parks an hour or less away.
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near St. Croix State Forest guide

Overview

About

While there’s no shortage of fun to be had at St. Croix State Forest, one of its coolest features is its easy access to St. Croix State Canoe Route, a nationally designated wild and scenic river that's perfect for traversing Minnesota by boat. If you’re sticking around after all, though, be sure to check out the huge variety of trails this place has to offer—they’ve got paths suited for everything from dogsledding and snowmobiling to skiing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Located within the largest state park in Minnesota on nearly 34,000 acres, St. Croix also has the largest collection of New Deal projects in the state—great spots to bring your lunchtime picnics! You can also fish for trout in Lake Clayton, or visit in the fall to forage for wild mushrooms. Be sure to pack your heavy coats, though—this former fur trading post near Lake Superior gets a brisk northerly chill you’ll wanna be prepared for.

Notable campgrounds

  • The Walter Stark Horse Campground: A perfect retreat for equestrian lovers with scenic trails and serene campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as the Walter Stark Horse Campground is a popular destination for nature lovers.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect campsite.

When to go

The best time to visit St. Croix State Forest is during the summer and fall when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Winter can be harsh, making some areas less accessible, but it offers a pristine snowy landscape for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Know before you go

  • Check the forest's website for any road or campsite improvements that may affect your visit.
  • Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife by reviewing safety guidelines.
  • Accessibility may vary across different areas of the forest, so plan accordingly.
  • Heavy machinery may be operating during certain periods for maintenance, impacting the tranquility.
  • For any inquiries, the forest's contact information is readily available for potential visitors.

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