The best forest campgrounds near Alexandria, Minnesota

Looking to immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 150 options near Alexandria, Minnesota, you can find the perfect forest camping experience. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Dancing the Land Farm Camp (98 reviews), Pearsons Century Farm (73 reviews), or Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land (47 reviews) for tried-and-true options. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, trash services, and potable water. Plus, you can indulge in favorite activities like off-roading, fishing, and hiking. Prices start as low as $15, with an average price per night of $49. Get ready to experience the great outdoors!

95% (174)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 150 options near Alexandria, Minnesota, you can find the perfect forest camping experience. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Dancing the Land Farm Camp (98 reviews), Pearsons Century Farm (73 reviews), or Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land (47 reviews) for tried-and-true options. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, trash services, and potable water. Plus, you can indulge in favorite activities like off-roading, fishing, and hiking. Prices start as low as $15, with an average price per night of $49. Get ready to experience the great outdoors!

95% (174)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Alexandria Lakes Area Camp

99%

(42)

4.2mi from Alexandria · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Alexandria, MN

Escape the noise and discover a hidden gem just 10 minutes from Alexandria. Nestled off a quiet gravel road, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect blend of seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by trees and wide-open skies, it's an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being off the beaten path. Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for cozy evenings and shared meals under the stars. A clean, well-maintained toilet is available on-site for your convenience. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a relaxing overnight stop on a road trip, or a base for exploring the lakes area, this tranquil spot offers a peaceful, no-fuss experience in nature.

2. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

97%

(15)

30mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent · Battle Lake, MN

Unwind on the shores of Stalker Lake with unforgettable sunsets, great fishing, and laid-back lake vibes. Whether you’re paddling out in the provided canoe, floating under the sun, or relaxing by the firepit as the sky turns gold, this peaceful spot is perfect for recharging. Please read the description for the property and the site. It provides key details on this beautiful and unique property. Note that the Peak Sunset campsite is hike-in (short, but uphill). Our lakeside beach features a sandy area, shady trees, beach chairs, and a picnic table just steps from the water. A clean porta potty is located near the parking area (at the bottom of the hill). The beach is shared with your hosts. Note: the beach and camping area are separated by Stalker Lake Road. Canoe and life jackets (2) are included with your stay. Pontoon use is not included or available for rent. Dock space for your boat is available as an add-on. You’re just one mile from Stalker Lake Golf Course & Bar and close to local gems like Glendalough State Park and the charming town of Battle Lake. Nearby Activities: message us for a PDF with weblinks :) Hiking & Biking: Glendalough State Park (14 mi): trails, swimming beaches, creek tubing, and rentals for kayaks, bikes, and paddleboards (Galloping Goose Rentals) (https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/glendalough-trail/4992) Inspiration Peak County Park (15 mi) Phelps Mill County Park (20 mi) Maplewood State Park (36 mi) More trails: Otter Tail Lakes Country Guide Fishing & Boating: Fish from our dock or launch your boat at the Stalker Lake access (¼ mile south) or Long Lake (1 mile). Both are great for recreation and fishing. Boat/pontoon rentals: Enclave Marine, G3 Rentals Tubing: ask us for details! Otter Tail River - Otter Tail Lake to Deer Lake Glenadalough State Park - Battle Lake Golf: Stalker Lake Golf Course Balmoral Golf Course

3. The Grove Glamping

97%

(17)

33mi from Alexandria · 8 sites · Lodging · Battle Lake, MN

Escape to The Grove Glamping, a hidden gem on the edge of Glendalough State Park, MN. Nestled on 5 wooded acres, our luxury glamping tents and campsites offer the perfect blend of comfort and nature. Each site features a cozy queen bed, fire pit, and thoughtful amenities to make your stay unforgettable. Explore pristine lakes, paddle serene waters, and unwind in the beauty of untouched wilderness. With nearby Battle Lake for dining and adventure, this is your chance to reconnect with nature—without sacrificing comfort. Book your stay today and experience Minnesota’s best-kept secret!

4. The Woods

99%

(60)

34mi from Alexandria · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenwald, MN

Welcome to our hidden gem in the Minnesota woods—perfect for campers looking to unplug and enjoy the simple beauty of the outdoors. Our property offers a peaceful, rustic setting with towering trees, quiet walking trails, and plenty of wildlife. You might spot deer wandering through, hear wild turkeys gobbling in the distance, or catch a glimpse of an eagle soaring overhead. This is a primitive property, so you won’t find modern amenities like bathrooms or running water. But what you will find is space to breathe, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're here to hike, stargaze, cook over the fire, or just relax, this is your spot to slow down and enjoy the natural world.

5. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%

(52)

38mi from Alexandria · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fergus Falls, MN

⛺️ Since 1949, we've been a family-operated resort & campground on Swan Lake in Fergus Falls, MN. We offer lakeside cabins, tent camping, and full hook-up, pull-through RV sites. Here, there is time to slow down, room to breathe, and lots to explore. 🏖️ Soak up the sun on the sandy beach, hike through the hidden trails, and take the pontoon out for a cruise. Be sure to turn the tech off and challenge a rival to ping pong, crack a cold one, and explore the water on stand-up paddleboard. 🍦 Bring the little ones and get messy at the arts & crafts table, catch a sunfish off the docks, and indulge in s’mores around the campfire. Don’t forget to show us what you got on the volleyball court and savor an ice cream at the camp store. Curl up in a hammock and get lost in a good book, smile at the flowers and gaze in awe at the night sky. Just be.

6. Clitheral Lake Hideaway

29mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent · Clitherall, MN

Escape to the end of the road—literally—and find your slice of Minnesota lake life on beautiful Clitheral Lake. This peaceful, private campsite is the last property on a quiet dead-end road, nestled behind a scenic pine forest that opens up into a spacious clearing perfect for tenting or parking your RV. Enjoy all-day lake fun with direct access to a sandy beach that stays shallow for a long stretch—perfect for kids, lounging, or just soaking in the sun. Toss in a line for some of the area’s best fishing, or head out on the dock with your morning coffee or evening beverage of choice. As the day winds down, take in some of the most stunning sunsets around while gathered around the campfire pit perched right over the water. It’s a postcard-perfect view every night. With access to electricity, a peaceful setting with only one neighbor nearby, and nature all around you, this is the kind of spot that makes you want to stay an extra night or two. Whether you're looking to unplug, reconnect, or just catch a few fish and some serious sunset vibes, this hidden gem has you covered. Note there are two campers on the property that stay parked there but will not be in use during renting.

7. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

41mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent · Wadena, MN

Green Island is an unexpected pine forest located actually inside a small town in northcentral Minnesota. The camping area is incredibly private and surrounds a small pond. It is primitive with minimal amenities beyond an outhouse and hand pump for water. Accessibility is only for tenting or truly tiny camper vehicles. The campground is a huge semi-shaded space for up to 20 tents, still, we prefer 1 or 2 at a time. However, larger group retreats are possible. We are serious environmentalists and we offer this opportunity just for true nature lovers as singles or couples, who totally take care of themselves, leave absolutely no trace, and are solid environmental stewards. In other words, its no place for a party. Separate from the campground there are: apple orchards, outdoor sculptures, wildlife, a meditation kuti, and perfect spaces for forest therapy. Yet almost unbelieveably, you can walk to a Pizza Hut or Walmart in 5 minutes. This is an excellent staging point for outdoors people en route to Itasca State Park, The Lost Fourty, and the state and national forests of the north.

8. Private secluded camp

100%

(3)

44mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent, RV · New London, MN

Learn more about this land:Next to the slough with open water. Lots of wildlife especially in the spring. There are three spots to choose from, two are more secluded and not really meant for large campers. But the bigger spot is really large.

9. Fish Trap Oasis

82%

(11)

44mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cushing, MN

Come relax and restore at a quiet lakeside camp spot on Fish Trap Lake! The property is perfect for any small group fishermen, campers or RVers who want private lake views. The property is next to a government nature preserve and located near various cabins. Fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and swimming can all be enjoyed on Fish Trap Lake. We are less than a mile from the boat launch on Lake Alexander which is great for fishing. A dock is also on the property for lake access.

10. Maplewood RV Park and Camp

84%

(25)

48mi from Alexandria · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Erhard, MN

Located SE of Maplewood State Park, this region is known for the distinct landscape formed from glacial till. Framed by natural forest, rolling hills, wetlands, and mature pines, this site provides the feeling of seclusion. Centrally located just minutes from large bodies of water such as Heilberg, Star, Lida, and Dead Lake.

11. Lake Placid Family Reunion Camp

100%

(7)

50mi from Alexandria · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Pillager, MN

Beautiful 8 acre campground on Lake Placid 10 miles west of Brainerd MN. The Campground has 4 full RV hook ups with power, water and sewer. 1 RV site with power and water. The water comes from a low flow well that has been tested and is potable. It is great to fill your RV tanks. There is also several level areas for tents. There are 2 fire rings for camp fires a propane and charcoal grill. The campground has a dock to access the lake and Crow Wing river. There is approximately 25 steps down the bank to the dock. The steps are newer but steep, If you choose to use them you do so at your own risk.

Camper favorites near Alexandria

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

41mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent · Wadena, MN

Green Island is an unexpected pine forest located actually inside a small town in northcentral Minnesota. The camping area is incredibly private and surrounds a small pond. It is primitive with minimal amenities beyond an outhouse and hand pump for water. Accessibility is only for tenting or truly tiny camper vehicles. The campground is a huge semi-shaded space for up to 20 tents, still, we prefer 1 or 2 at a time. However, larger group retreats are possible. We are serious environmentalists and we offer this opportunity just for true nature lovers as singles or couples, who totally take care of themselves, leave absolutely no trace, and are solid environmental stewards. In other words, its no place for a party. Separate from the campground there are: apple orchards, outdoor sculptures, wildlife, a meditation kuti, and perfect spaces for forest therapy. Yet almost unbelieveably, you can walk to a Pizza Hut or Walmart in 5 minutes. This is an excellent staging point for outdoors people en route to Itasca State Park, The Lost Fourty, and the state and national forests of the north.

Private secluded camp

100%

(3)

44mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent, RV · New London, MN

Learn more about this land:Next to the slough with open water. Lots of wildlife especially in the spring. There are three spots to choose from, two are more secluded and not really meant for large campers. But the bigger spot is really large.

Fish Trap Oasis

82%

(11)

44mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cushing, MN

Come relax and restore at a quiet lakeside camp spot on Fish Trap Lake! The property is perfect for any small group fishermen, campers or RVers who want private lake views. The property is next to a government nature preserve and located near various cabins. Fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and swimming can all be enjoyed on Fish Trap Lake. We are less than a mile from the boat launch on Lake Alexander which is great for fishing. A dock is also on the property for lake access.

Maplewood RV Park and Camp

84%

(25)

48mi from Alexandria · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Erhard, MN

Located SE of Maplewood State Park, this region is known for the distinct landscape formed from glacial till. Framed by natural forest, rolling hills, wetlands, and mature pines, this site provides the feeling of seclusion. Centrally located just minutes from large bodies of water such as Heilberg, Star, Lida, and Dead Lake.

Lake Placid Family Reunion Camp

100%

(7)

50mi from Alexandria · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Pillager, MN

Beautiful 8 acre campground on Lake Placid 10 miles west of Brainerd MN. The Campground has 4 full RV hook ups with power, water and sewer. 1 RV site with power and water. The water comes from a low flow well that has been tested and is potable. It is great to fill your RV tanks. There is also several level areas for tents. There are 2 fire rings for camp fires a propane and charcoal grill. The campground has a dock to access the lake and Crow Wing river. There is approximately 25 steps down the bank to the dock. The steps are newer but steep, If you choose to use them you do so at your own risk.

Public campgrounds near Alexandria

100%

(2)

Lower Campground

8.6mi from Alexandria · 74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Carlos State Park

100%

(1)

Upper Campground

8.9mi from Alexandria · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Carlos State Park

Horse Riders Campground

9mi from Alexandria · 7 sites · in Lake Carlos State Park

Birch Lakes Campground

30mi from Alexandria · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Birch Lakes State Forest

Monson Lake Campground

39mi from Alexandria · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monson Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Oakridge Campground

42mi from Alexandria · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sibley State Park

Lakeview Campground

42mi from Alexandria · 74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sibley State Park

100%

(2)

Lindbergh Campground

48mi from Alexandria · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Charles A. Lindbergh State Park

Stories from the community

Heidi

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

I stayed at the Peak in May 2025 and couldn’t think of a better place to close out my camping season. The site was even more beautiful with fall colors emerging. Mindy is attentive and helpful, and the farm eggs are amazing. Highly recommend this Hipcamp.

D

Derek

September 2025

32 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Swan Lake Resort and Campground was the perfect escape for our family. From the moment we arrived, the peaceful atmosphere wrapped around us — quiet mornings with birdsong, calm lake breezes, and spacious campsites that gave everyone room to breathe. One of the best parts was the uninterrupted stillness during the day and especially in the evenings. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and generously sized slots, there was very little noise or commotion from neighboring campers, which made it easy to truly relax. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive — when my son crashed his bike, they didn’t hesitate to help with his wounds, showing genuine care that meant a lot to us. Their flexibility with boat rentals was also a gift; they rolled with our shifting plans and even a last-minute cancellation when the kids hit a moody streak on our final day. We loved the honor-system store, where you could grab a snack or drink from the fridge or shelves and simply jot it down for later billing. It felt like a place built on trust and community. And scattered throughout the grounds were these amazing tree carvings — almost like totem poles — that added a touch of rustic artistry and whimsy to the landscape. This wasn’t just a campground — it was a place where we felt cared for, connected, and free to enjoy the simple joy. We will definitely be going back.

Mary and Dan

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

1 night at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Wonderful campground with amazing amenity and game room.

V

Vamsi

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Loved tent camping on the Site! And the view from the top was a reward after the short trek. Was able to take pretty much everything in two trips and the cart helped a lot!

Samuel

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Woods

Always one of my favorite places to camp! Michael is the best host and the property is beautiful a secluded.

Doug

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Woods

It is secluded and peaceful. Had a nice time walking up the road between the corn fields. He was quick with response time and there was firewood available. The sight was also well taken care of. Great place to get away from everything.

J

Jennifer

September 2025

30 ft Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lake Placid Family Reunion Camp

We lived camping on Randy’s land. It was so spacious and made the 4 campers plus the tents have plenty of space and kids loved fishing off the docks all day long. Tons of grass areas for the dogs to run and play.

N

Nickolis

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

It was nice and quite had a couple of very relaxing days. The bathrooms where always clean and plenty of activities to keep you busy if you wanted to be!

A

Alex

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Beautiful secluded site with incredible sunsets over the lake. The hill up to the site is very steep (to corroborate others), but the hosts provide a cart that makes carrying gear manageable. Once you’re up, it’s worth it: quiet, shaded mornings, breezes off the lake that keep bugs away, and plenty of privacy. The ground isn’t perfectly level, but fine for a small tent. Host was communicative, and the port-o-potty was very clean. Overall, a great stay — I’ll be back soon.

Catherine

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Don't attempt to stay here for one night. Stay for AT LEAST a week! It is a beautiful spot, so much attention to detail has been put into this place. A game room, a fitness path, a BEAUTIFUL beach! So much to do for everyone!

Ted

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Private secluded camp

Very private, clean, and the dog enjoyed the freedom. We thought the price point was a little high, but all in all a great night. Very thankful for the spot.

M

Melissa

August 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Lake Placid Family Reunion Camp

Randy’s land was the perfect spot for our group of 8 adults, 5 kids and 2 dogs! All 3 campers had full hook ups which was amazing! We put in our boat and were able to keep it in the water all weekend at the dock. We also enjoyed paddle boarding and fishing off the dock. Randy was incredibly kind and accommodating. 10/10 experience and we hope to stay here again someday

K

Krista

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

I camped for one night at Mindy’s hilltop camp site. It was so beautiful and peaceful and a great experience. If I hadn’t been on a road trip and needing to get back on the road, I would have loved to have gotten out on the lake. I saw Mindy coming back from kayaking and she was nice. It’s a bit of a work out going up the hill but it’s a short hill and I could bring everything up in two trips, and the view was worth it!

Toni

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Beautiful site, it is a trek to the top with gear but totally worth it!!!

View of Grasslands 3 Primitive Tent Camping Site

Z

Zackeriah

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Absolutely beautiful place and cant wait to return. Lagos is very friendly and charismatic with an easy going attitude. We maintain and highly recommend

A

Amanda

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Amazing resort! Owners are very friendly, kind, and accommodating. I was nervous booking the renting locations as photos looks like it’s far away and very primitive. However, they are in such a great location. Close to activities and the beach. Dog friendly was a plus for us and the amenities the resort had. I love how it has something for everyone- hikinf, natural gym, gaming room, bikes, water play. It’s all there! My son and I are looking forward to and already talking about our next camping trip back! Would HIGHLY recommend.

Paige

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

We ended up not being able to make it to the check in on time due to car issues. The hosts were great and were able to accommodate for us. We had a great sleep on our road trip out west from PA!

R

Ryan

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Owners were very helpful and responsive, made it great experience for my 5yo son and I’s first camping trip together. The beach area was absolutely beautiful. Everything was as advertised. Nearby town of battle lake had everything we could ask for couldn’t recommend highly enough

J

J. Pierre

July 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Private secluded camp

Proximity to Sibley State Park and Glacial Lakes Trail is fantastic. The privacy and quiet is great… dark skies, bird sightings, dragonflies! Placement of our camper was important; when we arrived deer flies were out. We strategically positioned our camper to look across the meadow and sunset, and catch a constant breeze so no issues with flies. We were alone and privacy was amazing, but there is room to find level spots for several large campers. Site was far enough away from houses that we could run our generator. Site is ideal for one or a couple of campers that are completely self- contained. Owner was quick to drive us to the spot when we arrived, made sure we were satisfied, and directed us to the bike path.

View from Area 51 Electric Tent Camping Site

Tiffany

July 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

We are driving cross country and last minute booked a stay for one night - extremely accommodating for our late arrival. Wish we could have stayed longer - so many activities and everything was clean and in great shape. Thanks for hosting us! 🫶🏻