The best camping near Alexandria with wildlife watching

12mi from Alexandria · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

(11)

Our new RV Park was opened in 2023 and features 45 full hook up spots, bath/shower house, kids play area, Pickle ball court (coming Mid July 2023), and over 800 acres of trails to enjoy. We have 2 small bodies of water accessible by our trail system that are great for kayaking and fishing. Come enjoy the outdoors with us today!

2. The Grove Glamping

97%

(17)

33mi from Alexandria · 8 sites · Lodging

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!

3. Wold Ranch

95%

(10)

36mi from Alexandria · 1 site · RV

Pause your travels for the night or spend a few days. Conveniently located right off US Hwy 71 or 20 miles from I-94. This is a level RV site able to accommodate big rigs, 50amp service and water. We are a working family farm. Enjoy the horses , cows, cats, and dog. Patio with shade and fire ring located next to site.

4. Lake Carlos State Park

129 sites · Carlos, Minnesota

(3)

Discover Lake Carlos State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

5. Glacial Lakes State Park

39 sites · Starbuck, Minnesota

(1)

Discover the serene beauty of Glacial Lakes State Park.

38mi from Alexandria · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

6. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%

(52)

⛺️ 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.

7. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

41mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent

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

(3)

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)

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. Birch Lakes State Forest

30 sites · Grey Eagle, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.

26 sites · Battle Lake, Minnesota

Campfires

11. Glendalough State Park

90%

(5)

Discover Glendalough State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Campfires

20 sites · Sunburg, Minnesota

12. Monson Lake State Park

Discover Monson Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

13. Sibley State Park

131 sites · New London, Minnesota

Discover Sibley State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

14. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park

39 sites · Little Falls, Minnesota

Discover the natural charm of Charles A. Lindbergh State Park.

38mi from Alexandria · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camper favorites near Alexandria

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%

(52)

⛺️ 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.

AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

41mi from Alexandria · 1 site · Tent

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

(3)

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)

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.

Public campgrounds near Alexandria

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

Lower Campground

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

(1)

Upper Campground

Horse Riders Campground

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

Lower Campground

24mi from Alexandria · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Glacial Lakes State Park

24mi from Alexandria · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Glacial Lakes State Park

(1)

Oak Ridge Campground

Birch Lakes Campground

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

90%

(5)

Glendalough Campground

34mi from Alexandria · 26 sites · in Glendalough State Park

Monson Lake Campground

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

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

Oakridge Campground

Lakeview Campground

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

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

Lindbergh Campground

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

Wonderful campground with amazing amenity and game room.

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!

Catherine

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

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.

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

M

Michele

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Andes RV Park

Sites are wide and level. Great fire pits. Clean and room toilets/showers.

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.

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

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! 🫶🏻

R

Richard

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

We loved the campsite very much it was lots of activities for the family. The host were very friendly and nice they answered all of our questions and made us feel very welcome. The site was very clean and family friendly the sites were very beautiful. My family loved it so much we are going planning on visiting the site again soon. Highly recommended spot

Willow

July 2025

22 ft Class B

1 night at Andes RV Park

Beautiful RV park nice and quiet. The bathrooms were clean and the location was fun!

B

Brooke

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

5 nights at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Swan Lake Campground & Resort was lovely! It’s perfect for families with a beach & swimming area, free canoe, kayak, and paddle board usage, an arcade area, bikes to borrow, hiking path, and more. We rented a pontoon from them for a very reasonable price and had two great days on the lake. They have bathrooms & a shower, but the water does have a sulfuric smell that grossed out our teenagers. 😉 There was a hiccup between our Hipcamp booking and their computer, but the campground managers were super accommodating trying to find another site we approved of. The staff are very friendly and they have a stocked store, with reasonable prices, in case you forgot something or just need an ice cream cone on a hot day. We were there the week leading up to Independence Day and they had a great list of activities to participate in—my kids had a blast at the kickball tournament! Finally, Fergus Falls is nearby if you need a day in town or a Walmart. You can’t go wrong with Swan Lake!

A

Alyssa

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Super cute, they have anything you could need, and lots of fun stuff to do!

R

Rick

June 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Wold Ranch

Lovely, serene, easily accessible location. Pleasant evening stop after a long drive.

L

Louis

May 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Andes RV Park

We made last minute plans to stop here while on a road trip and this place is so cool I wish we had more time here. The Spot was flat, the bathrooms were super clean. The staff were very nice and easy to work with. I would come back

G

Gregg

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Great Campground with lots of amenities. Supplies are stocked in Camp store to keep you from running to town for forgotten supplies. Great Showers and Bathroom. Host was great.

A

Allie

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

We booked our stay on the worst weather day imaginable, but the hosts went above and beyond to ensure we had a wonderful experience. This campground is incredibly charming and offers a large amount of exciting activities. We will definitely be returning in the future!

C

Cassie

May 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With kids