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The best camping near Savanna State Forest

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

Discover the natural allure of Savanna State Forest.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Savanna State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Savanna State Forest

93%
(27)

East Lake Ranch

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents174 acres ¡ Palisade, MN
Our land is very special with positive energy vibes. If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies dance around n the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax. Learn more about this land: We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak. Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in both sites. Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Access [5-minute walk] to outhouse "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers.  Bring your container to fill up for the freshest Wasser!  Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up. You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals.  We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank & Randy", five sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, April, Lynn and Princess Mary Margaret. As of March 2024, we have 6 lambs! We have 3 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods.  We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land.  The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch.  Great first time experience for kids. Learn about our shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html
Pets
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from 
$35
 / night
Booked 1 time

RR Ranches

1 site ¡ RV300 acres ¡ Warba, MN
RR Ranch is settled on Bruce creek with expanses of wetland and boreal forest to explore we have several ponds and a creek that flows through the heart of the ranch connecting pastures and meadows we are located next to a bar and a fuel station that are accessible by atv or car we have several large camping spots that are accessible by all types of rvs.
Trash
from 
$25
 / night

Rollheiser Family Farms

2 sites ¡ RVs300 acres ¡ Warba, MN
Come pitch a tent or back in your second home! We have a 300 acre farm that used to be the town of Swan River. Bruce creek runs through the heart of the farm and connects all the pastures and meadows that expand back into the northern wilderness. Depending on the time of year you might see the northern lights or beautiful fall colors right outside your camper. You may also see wildlife roaming around like deer, owls, eagles, and many others. We are located close to ATV and snowmobile trails. There is a fuel station and a bar nearby to fuel your needs. Many lakes are close by to be able to explore. Our campsites have plenty of space for privacy and all your toys to enjoy your vacation. This is a working farm and we do live here to keep things running. We have livestock and we ask that you treat the land and animals with respect.
Pets
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from 
$15
 / night
100%
(22)

Wise Woods on Fool Lake

1 site ¡ RV, Tent2 acres ¡ MN
Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf.com/ Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com/ Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity
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$44
 / night
100%
(22)

Wildlife Orchard

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents32 acres ¡ Grand Rapids, MN
Come stay at our peaceful farm in the forest! We are passionate about the natural world and cultivating our own food. Our farm is focused on a diversity of crops and animals while maintaining the beautiful wild setting we live in. We want to share the knowledge we are gaining as well as welcome interested people to experience the beauty of Northern Minnesota's woods, wilderness, and waters. Come to explore, relax, have fun, and recharge in a quiet natural setting. Learn more about this land: Rural old growth forest campsite connected to 7,287 acre state forest with hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing trails. Small diverse farm to visit- chickens, sheep and bees. Orchards and gardens with countless flowers, fruit trees and bushes, and vegetables. Greenhouse to tour. Beach 5 miles away- large beautiful lake for swimming. 6 person sauna, outhouse, fire pit, and walking trails on property.
Pets
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from 
$50
 / night
100%
(13)

The Forest Container

1 site ¡ Lodging4 acres ¡ Deerwood, MN
Tree house, tiny home, shipping container, luxury hotel - the Forest Container is all of these things. Set in a lush forest valley, this is an incredible and unique place to stay. The property is within the Cuyuna mountain bike area, between the Yawkey and the Cruser's Kettle trailheads. There is a fire ring as well as a great deck upon which you can camp or otherwise relax and enjoy the view of the forested valley. The container is heated and cooled, and the container has a luxurious warm tiled shower, sink, toilet (cassette style), power and of course, as pictured, a beautiful small bedroom and living room. Coffee machine and mini fridge included on the deck. 👍🏼
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$150
 / night

Palisade On Mississippi River

7 sites ¡ Tents6 acres ¡ Palisade, MN
4 tent spots located 1.5 miles east of Palisade, MN on the Mississippi River. 2000' of river bank. Area: Scenic Great River Road (RR) MRT - Mississippi River Trail Long Lake Conservation Camp 15 minute downstream canoe trip to Palisade. New Orleans is 69 days by Kayak. Wold's Ferry Crossing, which 5 miles north on RR (9 miles by river). Has a trailer parking and boat ramps. On North Soo Line ATV access to 400+ miles of trail. 9 miles by trail to McGregor Gravel Pit Training and Track ATV area.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(7)

Moosehorn Campground

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents330 acres ¡ Kettle River, MN
A nice wooded campground, miles of beautiful trails wide enough for Trucks and RVs, traversable by 2WD cars and fit for ATVs, Biking and Hiking. 4 pads available for RVs and Campers There is plenty of space for you and your friends. Bring your Kayak or Canoe to nearby Kettle River and don’t forget your ATV, this property has access to a great ATV trail with access located on the back of the park. Use the south entrance for the campground, this has a nice wide gravel road for your vehicles. The entrance is locked, send a text for the code. The north entrance grants access to the wide amount of roads and trails available for biking, hiking & ATVs.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$29
 / night
Booked 1 time

Pondside Clayworks

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents14 acres ¡ Esko, MN
Discover our private property in Esko, MN, offering a peaceful retreat. Please note that there are no water or electric hookups, and there is no onsite public restroom or facilities. Situated near Jay Cooke Park, Lake Superior, and the Lake Superior Hiking Trail, you'll find an abundance of outdoor activities nearby. The city of Cloquet, where you can access essentials like Walmart and grocery stores, is conveniently close. As this is our family's home and property, we kindly ask for quiet and respectful behavior. Be aware of a nearby train track, and be prepared for occasional train sounds. Feel free to share the space with our two friendly dogs – Bernice, a large Bernedoodle, and her sister/sidekick, Selena, a small Yorkie Bichon. They roam freely on our property, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. We look forward to hosting you in our family-friendly environment!
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(7)

Yurt on the River

1 site ¡ Lodging14 acres ¡ Saginaw, MN
Our camp sits on the banks of the Cloquet River, or Gaa-biitootigweyaag-ziibi in Ojibwe. It is the main tributary of the St. Louis River which flows into Lake Superior. Part of our 13 acre property is a forest restoration project currently in process, and the rest is untouched wild lands giving way to 100+ undeveloped state-owned acres to the North. We are committed to the restoration and preservation of the wild and are grateful and excited to share this singular and deeply grounding experience. Learn more about this land: Our yurt sits on the edge of a wild woods overlooking a meadow that is an active forest restoration project currently in process. From your door, access trails that wind through the woods and lead to the banks of the Cloquet River and to 100+ undeveloped public acres to the North.  There is no electricity or running water in the yurt for a real rustic experience. Camp lanterns and solar lights are provided as is refillable fresh water and a propane camp stove/oven. The yurt is heated solely by a wood stove and there is plenty of firewood a short distance away as is a sled to use for hauling. A detached outhouse is a short walk from the yurt and is for your use alone. The yurt contains a queen bed with a single cot available on request. This is an opportunity to get back to basics, really unplug, connect with nature and unwind. As a safety to keep your phone charged, a remote charger is available on request.  Two pairs of snowshoes are included for long quiet walks through the woods and along the river where winter wildlife sightings are frequent!
Potable water
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Campfires
from 
$125
 / night

Trails Inn Quadna Motel & RV Park

27 sites ¡ RVs20 acres ¡ Hill City, MN
Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel and RV Park offers guests a rustic retreat nestled in the natural beauty of Hill City, Minnesota. Here's what guests can expect: 1. **Scenic Surroundings**: Guests can immerse themselves in the picturesque surroundings of Quadna Mountain, with its lush forests, area lakes, and breathtaking views. 2. **Accommodations**: The motel offers comfortable and cozy rooms, while the RV park provides spaces for those traveling with their own accommodation. Whether staying in a room or an RV, guests can expect clean, well-maintained facilities. 3. **Outdoor Activities**: There's no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and biking along scenic trails to fishing and boating on nearby lakes. The terrain also offers opportunities for ATV, hiking, Mountain Biking and snowmobiling in the winter months. 4. **Relaxation**: For those seeking relaxation, guests can unwind by a campfire in the evenings to share stories and stargaze. 5. **Community Atmosphere**: Trails Inn fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where guests can connect with fellow travelers and exchange tips and recommendations for exploring the area. Overall, Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel and RV Park provides a perfect getaway for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Pets
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from 
$55
 / night
99%
(51)

Harvest Loon Camp

1 site ¡ Lodging24 acres ¡ Outing, MN
👷: Re-Opening early June. Currently under construction to build new bathhouse 🚽! Stay Tuned! 🌲 Picturesque lakeshore property located on 24 acres, with almost 2000 feet of lake access right in front of the cabin. 🏕 Serene, peaceful and unrivaled privacy. Water sports and trails for hiking make Harvest Loon Camp the perfect spot to relaxation and fun. 🪵 Wood burning stove for heat, with wood available for use. Harvest any wood you want to use. 🔌 Power now available: refrigerator, AC, stove and lights DO work. 🛌 Campers WILL NEED to provide own bedding, (pillows and linens) for bunk and queen sized bed. 🍳 Kitchen has antique pots, pans, utensils, coffeepot, etc. for your use. 🚽 Port-o-let provided on site and cleaned after each visit. 🌟 Gorgeous furnished porch to watch wildlife. Grocery store within 5 miles. 🦆 George Lake is well known for duck hunting and there are quad trails all over the area. This location is also perfect for horseback riding. 🐎 Horse campers welcome! Please pack out all garbage and take it with you when you go. Kayaking State Land surrounds Harvest Loon Camp for peace and relaxation.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night

The best camping near Savanna State Forest guide

Overview

About

You think the Oregon Trail was tough? Centuries before folks were traversing the country for gold, Native American tribes in Minnesota were using the Savanna Portage to get between the Mississippi River and Lake Superior. This northern Minnesota taste of history is in Savanna State Forest, just outside the coastal town of Duluth. The gnarly path was nearly impossible to travel before a wooden boardwalk was built over the peat bogs and foggy marshes, a trail that’s now on the National Register of Historic Places and open for walking.

There’s also all sorts of water recreation to be had at the forest’s Big Sandy Lake, where cranes and swans roam free. At the end of the day, fall asleep to the gentle hooting of owls at the private, dispersed campsites at Hay Lake Campground, where you and your friends can pretend you’re resting along your journey to Lake Superior!

Notable campgrounds

  • The Walter Stark Horse Campground – A serene getaway for equestrian lovers and campers alike.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as the Walter Stark Horse Campground is a sought-after destination.
  • Keep an eye on the official website for updates on campground improvements and the best time to visit.
  • Consider visiting during weekdays for better chances of availability.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Savanna State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, while winter offers a quiet, frosty escape. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.

Know before you go

  • Check the latest updates on road and campsite improvements before your trip.
  • Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife by reviewing safety guidelines.
  • Accessibility may vary across different areas of the forest; inquire ahead for specific needs.
  • Ensure you have the necessary permits for activities like fishing or hunting.
  • Remember to pack out your trash and respect the forest's pristine environment.

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