91% (375) • 39 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Brainerd
The Camps at the Vineyards
1. The Camps at the Vineyards
97%
(339)
46mi from Brainerd · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a 10-acre part of a larger 110-acre property. This section is reserved for tents, camping vans, and small trailers 20' or less. The river is great for small children to wade and swim in during the summer. During spring, the water is up higher for kayaks and canoes.
Your hosts live at 1010 205th Ave. It is just a vineyard for now. the winery we hope will be built in 2025.
Pets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
The Hamlet Lake Homestead
2. The Hamlet Lake Homestead
94%
(32)
17mi from Brainerd · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. The Hamlet Lake Bunkhouse is located to the west of our home in its own secluded parcel next to the lake. The Camp on Hamlet Hill is to the north of our home, on a remote flat hill at the top of our property, on a hill over Cedar brook. with 300-acre, (private) Hamlet Lake in front, and the wide portion of the 20-mile Cedar brook in the back. We are a large "homesteading" family, with chickens, ducks, and a garden. The campsite is a private 1/2 acre clearing, surrounded by woods with a firepit, grill, cooking utensils, and an outhouse. (Tents are available for a small additional cost). There is an outdoor water pump below the hill. Guests can access the waterfront and beach in front, with the use of the swim raft, lily pad, fishing dock, canoe, kayak, and paddle boards included. At nearly 100 feet deep, Hamlet lake also boasts excellent fishing. Our home is located 6 miles from Crosby, with the world-class Cuyuna Lakes 50-mile mountain bike trail system. Crosby is a growing tourist town with many new and unique restaurants, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities. The paved bike trail begins 3.5 north of us. Milacs lake is 10 miles to the south.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$69
/ night
The Forest Container
3. The Forest Container
86%
(37)
16mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Lodging
Tree house, tiny home, shipping container, luxury hotel - the Forest Container is a bit of each 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
Showers
Campfires
from
$120
/ night
Crow Wing State Park
4. Crow Wing State Park
100%
(1)
60 sites · Baxter, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pillsbury State Forest
5. Pillsbury State Forest
100%
(1)
123 sites · East Gull Lake, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
6. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
45mi from Brainerd · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$10
/ night
Fish Trap Oasis
7. Fish Trap Oasis
82%
(11)
21mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$24
/ night
Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land
8. Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land
94%
(211)
17mi from Brainerd · 5 sites · Tents
21 acres of land with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. It's mostly undeveloped and a great place to get back into nature. Close to town and amenities, but far enough into the woods to feel like you're Up North.
200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar
5 miles to Yawkey Unit Mountain Bike trails
5 miles to downtown Crosby shopping and restaurants
5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center
5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton
6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead in Ironton
6 miles to Super One Foods in Crosby
10.1 miles to Sagamore Unite Mountain Bike Trails
www.cuyuna.com
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
9. Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
97%
(106)
48mi from Brainerd · 2 sites · RVs
Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake.
- NOTE: This is now (2023) a single site with two (2) power stands.
Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV's in or pitch a tent and stay as long as you like. 8 miles south of Nevis in the Heartland Lakes area. Adjacent 8 acres of 'Common Use' woods and picnic area with dock for fishing. Or bring a canoe/Kayak to launch. 4th Crow is NOT a recreational lake, but great for fishing, waterfowl and wildlife spotting. Fire pit, picnic table and swing on site. 9 miles from Heartland Biking Trail and within 3 miles of OHV/Snowmobile trails access.
Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
10. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
100%
(5)
63 sites · Vineland, Minnesota
Discover Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
11. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
100%
(2)
39 sites · Little Falls, Minnesota
Discover the natural charm of Charles A. Lindbergh State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Land O'Lakes State Forest
12. Land O'Lakes State Forest
100%
(1)
33 sites · Remer, Minnesota
Discover the natural charm of Land O'Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park
13. Father Hennepin State Park
90%
(5)
109 sites · Wahkon, Minnesota
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
14. Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
90%
(5)
7.9mi from Brainerd · 2 sites · Tents
Turtle site offers a safe place to lay one's head Semi-secluded campsite with easy access. This is a cleared, raked, and mowed spot behind the shop in the woods on one acre of backland. Hand pump sand well and porta potty. There is a walking trail to the end of the road that leads you to the Sailing Club. Lots of wildlife and chirping birds. Bring your own drinking or cooking water and come with all you need. Leave nothing behind! Ideal for the minimalist.
Love Lake Hacienda and Camp is located in a lake's community with larger lots. Close to several lakes, biking and hiking trails and much more. Turtle camp is just the beginning of a dream to offer more camping sites in the future.
With sustainability and natural environment in mind.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Huntersville State Forest
15. Huntersville State Forest
78 sites · Nimrod, Minnesota
Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chippewa National Forest
16. Chippewa National Forest
83%
(6)
537 sites · Cass Lake, Minnesota
The Chippewa National Forest could easily be renamed to Chippewa National Lakes! The serene waters produce more wetlands and lakes than any other National Forest in the country. The Chippewa is a place of baptismal beauty and has been heralded in folk song classics for decades. Meander rivers, hike over 290 miles of trails, and cast away for a chance at muskie, walleye, northern pike, bass or sunfish. Rough-it-out in style at over 20 campgrounds that are located on lakeshores. At the end your day raise a cold one to Minnesota, she never disappoints!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Birch Lakes State Forest
17. Birch Lakes State Forest
30 sites · Grey Eagle, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
91% (375) • 39 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Brainerd
The Camps at the Vineyards
1. The Camps at the Vineyards
97%
(339)
46mi from Brainerd · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a 10-acre part of a larger 110-acre property. This section is reserved for tents, camping vans, and small trailers 20' or less. The river is great for small children to wade and swim in during the summer. During spring, the water is up higher for kayaks and canoes.
Your hosts live at 1010 205th Ave. It is just a vineyard for now. the winery we hope will be built in 2025.
Pets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
The Hamlet Lake Homestead
2. The Hamlet Lake Homestead
94%
(32)
17mi from Brainerd · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. The Hamlet Lake Bunkhouse is located to the west of our home in its own secluded parcel next to the lake. The Camp on Hamlet Hill is to the north of our home, on a remote flat hill at the top of our property, on a hill over Cedar brook. with 300-acre, (private) Hamlet Lake in front, and the wide portion of the 20-mile Cedar brook in the back. We are a large "homesteading" family, with chickens, ducks, and a garden. The campsite is a private 1/2 acre clearing, surrounded by woods with a firepit, grill, cooking utensils, and an outhouse. (Tents are available for a small additional cost). There is an outdoor water pump below the hill. Guests can access the waterfront and beach in front, with the use of the swim raft, lily pad, fishing dock, canoe, kayak, and paddle boards included. At nearly 100 feet deep, Hamlet lake also boasts excellent fishing. Our home is located 6 miles from Crosby, with the world-class Cuyuna Lakes 50-mile mountain bike trail system. Crosby is a growing tourist town with many new and unique restaurants, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities. The paved bike trail begins 3.5 north of us. Milacs lake is 10 miles to the south.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$69
/ night
The Forest Container
3. The Forest Container
86%
(37)
16mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Lodging
Tree house, tiny home, shipping container, luxury hotel - the Forest Container is a bit of each 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
Showers
Campfires
from
$120
/ night
Crow Wing State Park
4. Crow Wing State Park
100%
(1)
60 sites · Baxter, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pillsbury State Forest
5. Pillsbury State Forest
100%
(1)
123 sites · East Gull Lake, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
6. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
45mi from Brainerd · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$10
/ night
Fish Trap Oasis
7. Fish Trap Oasis
82%
(11)
21mi from Brainerd · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$24
/ night
Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land
8. Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land
94%
(211)
17mi from Brainerd · 5 sites · Tents
21 acres of land with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. It's mostly undeveloped and a great place to get back into nature. Close to town and amenities, but far enough into the woods to feel like you're Up North.
200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar
5 miles to Yawkey Unit Mountain Bike trails
5 miles to downtown Crosby shopping and restaurants
5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center
5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton
6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead in Ironton
6 miles to Super One Foods in Crosby
10.1 miles to Sagamore Unite Mountain Bike Trails
www.cuyuna.com
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
9. Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
97%
(106)
48mi from Brainerd · 2 sites · RVs
Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake.
- NOTE: This is now (2023) a single site with two (2) power stands.
Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV's in or pitch a tent and stay as long as you like. 8 miles south of Nevis in the Heartland Lakes area. Adjacent 8 acres of 'Common Use' woods and picnic area with dock for fishing. Or bring a canoe/Kayak to launch. 4th Crow is NOT a recreational lake, but great for fishing, waterfowl and wildlife spotting. Fire pit, picnic table and swing on site. 9 miles from Heartland Biking Trail and within 3 miles of OHV/Snowmobile trails access.
Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
10. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
100%
(5)
63 sites · Vineland, Minnesota
Discover Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
11. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
100%
(2)
39 sites · Little Falls, Minnesota
Discover the natural charm of Charles A. Lindbergh State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Land O'Lakes State Forest
12. Land O'Lakes State Forest
100%
(1)
33 sites · Remer, Minnesota
Discover the natural charm of Land O'Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park
13. Father Hennepin State Park
90%
(5)
109 sites · Wahkon, Minnesota
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
14. Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
90%
(5)
7.9mi from Brainerd · 2 sites · Tents
Turtle site offers a safe place to lay one's head Semi-secluded campsite with easy access. This is a cleared, raked, and mowed spot behind the shop in the woods on one acre of backland. Hand pump sand well and porta potty. There is a walking trail to the end of the road that leads you to the Sailing Club. Lots of wildlife and chirping birds. Bring your own drinking or cooking water and come with all you need. Leave nothing behind! Ideal for the minimalist.
Love Lake Hacienda and Camp is located in a lake's community with larger lots. Close to several lakes, biking and hiking trails and much more. Turtle camp is just the beginning of a dream to offer more camping sites in the future.
With sustainability and natural environment in mind.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Huntersville State Forest
15. Huntersville State Forest
78 sites · Nimrod, Minnesota
Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chippewa National Forest
16. Chippewa National Forest
83%
(6)
537 sites · Cass Lake, Minnesota
The Chippewa National Forest could easily be renamed to Chippewa National Lakes! The serene waters produce more wetlands and lakes than any other National Forest in the country. The Chippewa is a place of baptismal beauty and has been heralded in folk song classics for decades. Meander rivers, hike over 290 miles of trails, and cast away for a chance at muskie, walleye, northern pike, bass or sunfish. Rough-it-out in style at over 20 campgrounds that are located on lakeshores. At the end your day raise a cold one to Minnesota, she never disappoints!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Birch Lakes State Forest
17. Birch Lakes State Forest
30 sites · Grey Eagle, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Evan
November 2025
Tent
Nice quiet spot. I stayed at site 9 and it was visible from the road, but that probably wouldn’t be the case in the spring and summer. I came specifically to see the northern lights because it was the closest area to the Twin Cities with low light pollution, and it was perfect for that. Fairly tucked away with a big open field down the trail.
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D
Damian
October 2025
Tent
Clean and quiet, beautiful ambience with the birds and the creek.
See more
C
Cassidy
October 2025
Tent
Campsite 1 was an awesome camping spot on the River. The road to get there wasn’t bad at all. I was able to drive my fwd sedan down there easily.
See more
J
Jordan
October 2025
Tent
We wanted to find somewhere last minute to camp and it was a really cool spot. Plenty of firewood, nice view of the river. We didn’t face any issues driving to the site, off roading but a clear path. The fire pit was awesome and our fire was still smoking when we woke up!
See more
M
Michael
October 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Mike was so accommodating. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Mikko camp. Plenty of room for the dog to run. Everything way beyond expectations.
See moreC
Cheryl
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very serene and rustic sites. A great place to go and unplug! Nice area for walks in the woods and not seeing others. The camp host is very helpful when needed.
See more
S
Samantha
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Love this site! Remote enough that the dogs can be off leash, nice trails, firewood is provided. We will definitely be back!
See more
I
Isaac
September 2025
Tent
With pets
What a fantastic spot! As the host recommends, definitely plan to walk. We drove out there in a very small AWD car and we got out and in in mostly one piece, but it is very tight. That said, site 3 is stunning. The stars were out and it was the perfect site to stargaze. We managed to get a couple walleye off of the bank in front of the camp. Definitely bring your rod and some heavy lures to get across the wide Mississippi if you like fishing. They are out there!
-Tons of wood
-good views
-well kept
-very dog friendly
-no bugs (when we went)
See more
C
Cheryl
September 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
It was a very private rustic campsite. Carl's a very good host and will help out with whatever you need. The campground is right next to the Rum River State Forest with lots of hiking and trails to explore. The night skies are fantastic! I was able to have my dogs off leash, they loved exploring and taking a little dip in the river!
See moreT
Troy
September 2025
16 ft car
With kids
This is a great spot. Mike was a wonderful host. We will be back.
See more
G
Gloria
September 2025
Tent
The site was private and groomed. There is no cell service but the host was available up the road. Carl, his wife and his daughter stopped by our site and were very welcoming and enjoyable. It was a wonderful visit and I plan to return and check out the mini cabin he has😁
See more
C
Cay
September 2025
Tent
My friends and I loved our experience at site #3. The view by the river was beautiful and the bugs weren't bad at all! The host was super easy to contact and quick to get back with any questions we had! Overall, it was the perfect weekend.
See moreC
Clara
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great communication and beautiful site! I was surprised to see my cell service did not work for the last few hundred feet of the drive but that concern was completely quelled by the beautiful river a few yards from my campsite. I am absolutely going to come back here.
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M
Miguel
September 2025
Tent
The site was secluded, which we love. Private and virtually quiet, with the occasional car in the far distance. The campsite was right by the river which is a great view early in the morning.
See moreC
Custet
September 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
This was a great spot for privacy and letting your dog be free. It was awesome to have firwood. Would highly recommend and we are keeping this in mind for a return visit. Host, Mike, was exceptional.
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Nicole
September 2025
Tent
Great view, private and all around lovely spot to camp.
See moreN
Noah
August 2025
Tent
It was great tent camping here. The site was well maintained and had an amazing view. They gave amazing instructions for navigating the trails and some recommendations for touring the area. Would love to visit again!
See moreK
Kareem
August 2025
Tent
Amazing stop on the trip! The vineyard was beautiful and the site was easy to find and had everything we needed. Can’t wait to get back.
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B
Benjamin
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Love the view and the privacy! Caught some fish and and had some peaceful nights by the fire! Trails are a bit tight but they were dry. I made it back there with a 2wd f150 no problem! I would highly recommend the stay!
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Riley
August 2025
Tent
With pets
One of the BEST hipcamps we've ever been at. Amazing hosts, location, and sites. Will keep coming back as long as we can :)
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