The best river, stream, or creek camping near Brainerd

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 100 options near Brainerd, Minnesota that offer river activities and terrains, you're bound to find the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the game, we've got you covered. Check out the top-rated campsites such as Stone Creek Farm (116 reviews), Camp Floodwood (130 reviews), and Woods and Meadows Farm (88 reviews) for some tried and true recommendations. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, potable water, and pet-friendly spaces, while engaging in activities like hiking, swimming, and climbing. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more accessible. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors like never before!

98% (350)

Top-rated campgrounds

Winding Woods on Pine River

1. Winding Woods on Pine River

97%
(18)
17mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crosby, MN
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** 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 & 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, Minnesota. 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
The Hoffman Hideaway

4. The Hoffman Hideaway

100%
(1)
48mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hill City, MN
Just 5 miles south of Hill City lies a rare and breathtaking escape—67 acres of pristine, private land nestled along the serene Willow River. Surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Hill River State Forest, this secluded haven offers direct access to miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking, ATVing, running the dogs, or simply soaking in the natural splendor. Positioned in the heart of ATV country, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you’re exploring the rugged backwoods, unwinding by the gentle sounds of the river, or catching a glimpse of northern Minnesota wildlife, this property is the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility. From the northwest corner, take in a stunning panoramic view of Quanda Mountain—a sight that transforms with the seasons and adds a majestic backdrop to your retreat. Though remote, the site is easily accessible by vehicle and camper, making it an ideal basecamp for extended getaways. Off-grid and untouched, it’s a true hideaway where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Just one mile away, enjoy the Sunday Meat Raffle at the Corner Club. 6 miles north is Sunny’s Convenience Store for ice cream. 6 miles away from Quanda Mountain Park. Feel free to message us with any questions! We’re happy to help. -Zach & Nicole Hoffman
Pets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

5. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
34mi from Brainerd · 71 sites · RVs, Lodging · Backus, MN
Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
Spirits of the Forest

6. Spirits of the Forest

100%
(66)
49mi from Brainerd · 13 sites · Lodging · Mora, MN
How we ended up in Knife Lake Township on 81 acres of forested land. We began looking for land in late fall of 1996. After several months of searching, we happened upon a tiny newspaper ad for 81 acres of land described as "Beautiful, secluded, mature hardwoods, tall pines w/creek & beaver pond, many gd bldg sites & great hunting". We toured the property, covered in almost two feet of snow, on a snowmobile in January 1997 and fell in love with it. We have been stewards of this piece of land for 25 years and are still enamored of its beauty and diversity. We are lulled to sleep by the sounds of owls and bullfrogs and the distant yipping of coyotes. Spring through fall we are often awakened by the rattling, honking of sandhill cranes and a wide variety of bird songs. Besides deer and lots of small critters, we've seen bear, bobcat, rafters of turkeys, quail, grouse, pheasant, owls, hawks and eagles. The sky, on a clear night, is breathtaking. We have always visualized sharing the land with others, so come and immerse yourself in this bountiful space.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Enjoy a fire by the shore of Littel Rabbit lake

7. Crosby-Rabbit River Retreat

92%
(6)
11mi from Brainerd · 1 site · RV · Riverton, MN
Come enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities that Crosby Mn and the Cuyuna Recreation area have to offer while enjoying your own private, wooded RV campsite with electric and wifi! We have a single RV gravel camping spot that includes electric 50/30/120. Spot is level for 24 foot Rvs but can fit up to 31 with some leveling. Private spot offers a view of the Rabbit River and a quiet bay of Littel Rabbit lake. There is access to Littel Rabbit Lake and the Mississippi river for kayakers via the river channel, water level permitting. Camping spot offers a private view, private seating area and use of fire ring to enjoy the peaceful quiet woods, water and wildlife around the property shoreline. Property is a short ride from the Cuyuna State bike trail, Sagamore Unit recreation area, Mahnomen unit, MRT trail system, mine lakes with excellent swimming, site is a 6 mile ride to Crosby and the Portsmouth unit area. Crow Wing Portage trail a 1/2 mile walk up the road. Crosby's restaurant, brewery and shops are 10 minutes away, Brainerd is 15 minutes approximately for even more entertainment and shopping opportunities. Please note this is an adults only site. This is a great option for a couple or single camper looking for a quiet, private RV camping spot to enjoy easy access to the area trails and mine lakes.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
River View Lodge

9. River View Lodge

100%
(1)
26mi from Brainerd · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Aitkin, MN
Settle into the RV space at River View Lodge, where every spot offers a great view of the river. With water and electric hookups, you'll have everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable stay. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, this is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature at its best. The space To fully enjoy your vacation, we’ve compiled some of the best places to visit, eat and drink, and things to do. We hope these will make your Sevierville experience more memorable. → Aitkin City Park | 0.6 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Aitkin County Historical Society Depot Museum | 0.7 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Rialto Theatre | 0.8 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Block North's Locker room | 0.9 Miles | 3 Minutes Drive → Ripple River Gallery | 12.3 Miles | 14 Minutes Drive → Soo Line Depot Museum | 15.0 Miles | 20 Minutes Drive → Crosby Memorial Park | 15.2 Miles | 20 Minutes Drive → Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area | 16.1 Miles | 22 Minutes Drive → Sibley Lake Park | 37.3 Miles | 47 Minutes Drive Other things to note ⋆ Check-out is at 11am ⋆ If smoking at your RV site, please do not dispose of cigarette butts on the grounds, we appreciate your help in keeping our sites clean. ⋆ We do allow pets at all RV sites. Please keep pets on leashes and clean up any waste. ⋆ No more than one RV at each site. ⋆ Please let us know if you will have an extra vehicle, and we can let you know where to park. ⋆ Please be respectful of your neighbors, noise ordinance is enforced from 10pm-7am. ⋆ We do have the right to ask you to leave at any time if these items are not being followed, you are being disruptive or disrespectful of others.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
woodland seating circle

11. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

45mi from Brainerd · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$10
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 100 options near Brainerd, Minnesota that offer river activities and terrains, you're bound to find the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the game, we've got you covered. Check out the top-rated campsites such as Stone Creek Farm (116 reviews), Camp Floodwood (130 reviews), and Woods and Meadows Farm (88 reviews) for some tried and true recommendations. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, potable water, and pet-friendly spaces, while engaging in activities like hiking, swimming, and climbing. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more accessible. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors like never before!

98% (350)

Top-rated campgrounds

Winding Woods on Pine River

1. Winding Woods on Pine River

97%
(18)
17mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crosby, MN
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** 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 & 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, Minnesota. 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
The Hoffman Hideaway

4. The Hoffman Hideaway

100%
(1)
48mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hill City, MN
Just 5 miles south of Hill City lies a rare and breathtaking escape—67 acres of pristine, private land nestled along the serene Willow River. Surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Hill River State Forest, this secluded haven offers direct access to miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking, ATVing, running the dogs, or simply soaking in the natural splendor. Positioned in the heart of ATV country, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you’re exploring the rugged backwoods, unwinding by the gentle sounds of the river, or catching a glimpse of northern Minnesota wildlife, this property is the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility. From the northwest corner, take in a stunning panoramic view of Quanda Mountain—a sight that transforms with the seasons and adds a majestic backdrop to your retreat. Though remote, the site is easily accessible by vehicle and camper, making it an ideal basecamp for extended getaways. Off-grid and untouched, it’s a true hideaway where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Just one mile away, enjoy the Sunday Meat Raffle at the Corner Club. 6 miles north is Sunny’s Convenience Store for ice cream. 6 miles away from Quanda Mountain Park. Feel free to message us with any questions! We’re happy to help. -Zach & Nicole Hoffman
Pets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

5. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
34mi from Brainerd · 71 sites · RVs, Lodging · Backus, MN
Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
Spirits of the Forest

6. Spirits of the Forest

100%
(66)
49mi from Brainerd · 13 sites · Lodging · Mora, MN
How we ended up in Knife Lake Township on 81 acres of forested land. We began looking for land in late fall of 1996. After several months of searching, we happened upon a tiny newspaper ad for 81 acres of land described as "Beautiful, secluded, mature hardwoods, tall pines w/creek & beaver pond, many gd bldg sites & great hunting". We toured the property, covered in almost two feet of snow, on a snowmobile in January 1997 and fell in love with it. We have been stewards of this piece of land for 25 years and are still enamored of its beauty and diversity. We are lulled to sleep by the sounds of owls and bullfrogs and the distant yipping of coyotes. Spring through fall we are often awakened by the rattling, honking of sandhill cranes and a wide variety of bird songs. Besides deer and lots of small critters, we've seen bear, bobcat, rafters of turkeys, quail, grouse, pheasant, owls, hawks and eagles. The sky, on a clear night, is breathtaking. We have always visualized sharing the land with others, so come and immerse yourself in this bountiful space.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Enjoy a fire by the shore of Littel Rabbit lake

7. Crosby-Rabbit River Retreat

92%
(6)
11mi from Brainerd · 1 site · RV · Riverton, MN
Come enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities that Crosby Mn and the Cuyuna Recreation area have to offer while enjoying your own private, wooded RV campsite with electric and wifi! We have a single RV gravel camping spot that includes electric 50/30/120. Spot is level for 24 foot Rvs but can fit up to 31 with some leveling. Private spot offers a view of the Rabbit River and a quiet bay of Littel Rabbit lake. There is access to Littel Rabbit Lake and the Mississippi river for kayakers via the river channel, water level permitting. Camping spot offers a private view, private seating area and use of fire ring to enjoy the peaceful quiet woods, water and wildlife around the property shoreline. Property is a short ride from the Cuyuna State bike trail, Sagamore Unit recreation area, Mahnomen unit, MRT trail system, mine lakes with excellent swimming, site is a 6 mile ride to Crosby and the Portsmouth unit area. Crow Wing Portage trail a 1/2 mile walk up the road. Crosby's restaurant, brewery and shops are 10 minutes away, Brainerd is 15 minutes approximately for even more entertainment and shopping opportunities. Please note this is an adults only site. This is a great option for a couple or single camper looking for a quiet, private RV camping spot to enjoy easy access to the area trails and mine lakes.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
River View Lodge

9. River View Lodge

100%
(1)
26mi from Brainerd · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Aitkin, MN
Settle into the RV space at River View Lodge, where every spot offers a great view of the river. With water and electric hookups, you'll have everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable stay. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, this is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature at its best. The space To fully enjoy your vacation, we’ve compiled some of the best places to visit, eat and drink, and things to do. We hope these will make your Sevierville experience more memorable. → Aitkin City Park | 0.6 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Aitkin County Historical Society Depot Museum | 0.7 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Rialto Theatre | 0.8 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Block North's Locker room | 0.9 Miles | 3 Minutes Drive → Ripple River Gallery | 12.3 Miles | 14 Minutes Drive → Soo Line Depot Museum | 15.0 Miles | 20 Minutes Drive → Crosby Memorial Park | 15.2 Miles | 20 Minutes Drive → Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area | 16.1 Miles | 22 Minutes Drive → Sibley Lake Park | 37.3 Miles | 47 Minutes Drive Other things to note ⋆ Check-out is at 11am ⋆ If smoking at your RV site, please do not dispose of cigarette butts on the grounds, we appreciate your help in keeping our sites clean. ⋆ We do allow pets at all RV sites. Please keep pets on leashes and clean up any waste. ⋆ No more than one RV at each site. ⋆ Please let us know if you will have an extra vehicle, and we can let you know where to park. ⋆ Please be respectful of your neighbors, noise ordinance is enforced from 10pm-7am. ⋆ We do have the right to ask you to leave at any time if these items are not being followed, you are being disruptive or disrespectful of others.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
woodland seating circle

11. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

45mi from Brainerd · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$10
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field