- Camping with Snow sport
The best camping near Brainerd with snow sports
90% (351) • 38 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Brainerd
Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites
1. Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites
94%
(211)
17mi from Brainerd · 7 sites
Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites
Cuyuna Crossing Campsites offer walk-in riverside camping on 21 wooded acres with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. What began as a simple drive-in camping property has grown into a quieter, more intentional setting designed to protect the land and preserve a peaceful guest experience.
Vehicles now park in the main lot, and carts are provided to transport gear to your campsite. This shift reduces road noise and keeps the riverfront calm for all guests.
The property includes one Riverside Group Site (accommodating up to four tents) and four individual rustic tent sites located along the river. Campsites are bring-your-own-gear, with no water or electricity at the individual sites. A conveniently located porta potty serves the campsite area.
Optional Add-On: Shower & Bathroom Access
Rustic campers may purchase access to a private bathroom and shower located in the main building. This facility is shared among campsite guests who have purchased the add-on and is available on a first-come basis. Advance purchase is required, availability is limited per night, and a door code will be provided prior to arrival.
An 18-hole professionally designed disc golf course (opening Spring 2026) winds through the wooded property and is available exclusively to overnight guests during their stay.
You’ll feel tucked into the Northwoods while still being close to town, trails, and local amenities.
Nearby:
200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar
1.5 miles to the Milford Mine Memorial Park
5 miles to Yawkey Unit mountain bike trails
6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead
5 miles to downtown Crosby shops and restaurants
6 miles to Super One Foods
5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton
5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center
10.1 miles to Sagamore Unit mountain bike trails
For guests seeking a more private glamping experience, Cuyuna Crossing also offers three insulated Hypedomes with private wood-fired hot tubs and dedicated bathrooms. You can find those accommodations under our separate listing, “Cuyuna Crossing | Domes.”
Please note: Prior reviews referencing vehicle access reflect an earlier layout of the property. Campsites are now walk-in only to preserve quiet and protect the land.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
The Camps at the Vineyards
2. 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
Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
3. Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
97%
(106)
48mi from Brainerd · 2 sites
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
Crow Wing State Park
4. Crow Wing State Park
100%
(1)
State park 8.5mi from Brainerd · 60 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pillsbury State Forest
5. Pillsbury State Forest
100%
(1)
State forest 12mi from Brainerd · 123 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
6. Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
90%
(5)
7.9mi from Brainerd · 2 sites
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
The Forest Container
7. The Forest Container
87%
(38)
16mi from Brainerd · 1 site
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
Fish Trap Oasis
8. 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
AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
9. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
45mi from Brainerd · 1 site
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
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
10. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
100%
(5)
State park 27mi from Brainerd · 63 sites
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)
State park 29mi from Brainerd · 39 sites
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)
State forest 42mi from Brainerd · 33 sites
Discover the natural charm of Land O'Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park
13. Father Hennepin State Park
90%
(5)
State park 36mi from Brainerd · 109 sites
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Huntersville State Forest
14. Huntersville State Forest
State forest 44mi from Brainerd · 78 sites
Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chippewa National Forest
15. Chippewa National Forest
83%
(6)
National forest 74mi from Brainerd · 537 sites
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
16. Birch Lakes State Forest
State forest 49mi from Brainerd · 30 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
90% (351) • 38 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Brainerd
Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites
1. Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites
94%
(211)
17mi from Brainerd · 7 sites
Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites
Cuyuna Crossing Campsites offer walk-in riverside camping on 21 wooded acres with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. What began as a simple drive-in camping property has grown into a quieter, more intentional setting designed to protect the land and preserve a peaceful guest experience.
Vehicles now park in the main lot, and carts are provided to transport gear to your campsite. This shift reduces road noise and keeps the riverfront calm for all guests.
The property includes one Riverside Group Site (accommodating up to four tents) and four individual rustic tent sites located along the river. Campsites are bring-your-own-gear, with no water or electricity at the individual sites. A conveniently located porta potty serves the campsite area.
Optional Add-On: Shower & Bathroom Access
Rustic campers may purchase access to a private bathroom and shower located in the main building. This facility is shared among campsite guests who have purchased the add-on and is available on a first-come basis. Advance purchase is required, availability is limited per night, and a door code will be provided prior to arrival.
An 18-hole professionally designed disc golf course (opening Spring 2026) winds through the wooded property and is available exclusively to overnight guests during their stay.
You’ll feel tucked into the Northwoods while still being close to town, trails, and local amenities.
Nearby:
200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar
1.5 miles to the Milford Mine Memorial Park
5 miles to Yawkey Unit mountain bike trails
6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead
5 miles to downtown Crosby shops and restaurants
6 miles to Super One Foods
5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton
5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center
10.1 miles to Sagamore Unit mountain bike trails
For guests seeking a more private glamping experience, Cuyuna Crossing also offers three insulated Hypedomes with private wood-fired hot tubs and dedicated bathrooms. You can find those accommodations under our separate listing, “Cuyuna Crossing | Domes.”
Please note: Prior reviews referencing vehicle access reflect an earlier layout of the property. Campsites are now walk-in only to preserve quiet and protect the land.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
The Camps at the Vineyards
2. 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
Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
3. Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
97%
(106)
48mi from Brainerd · 2 sites
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
Crow Wing State Park
4. Crow Wing State Park
100%
(1)
State park 8.5mi from Brainerd · 60 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pillsbury State Forest
5. Pillsbury State Forest
100%
(1)
State forest 12mi from Brainerd · 123 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
6. Love Lake Hacienda & Camp
90%
(5)
7.9mi from Brainerd · 2 sites
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
The Forest Container
7. The Forest Container
87%
(38)
16mi from Brainerd · 1 site
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
Fish Trap Oasis
8. 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
AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
9. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
45mi from Brainerd · 1 site
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
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
10. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
100%
(5)
State park 27mi from Brainerd · 63 sites
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)
State park 29mi from Brainerd · 39 sites
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)
State forest 42mi from Brainerd · 33 sites
Discover the natural charm of Land O'Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park
13. Father Hennepin State Park
90%
(5)
State park 36mi from Brainerd · 109 sites
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Huntersville State Forest
14. Huntersville State Forest
State forest 44mi from Brainerd · 78 sites
Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Chippewa National Forest
15. Chippewa National Forest
83%
(6)
National forest 74mi from Brainerd · 537 sites
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
16. Birch Lakes State Forest
State forest 49mi from Brainerd · 30 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Brandon
3 weeks ago
4 nights at The Forest Container
Had a great time. The container was nice and comfy and clean. The window from the bed to the woods was a nice romantic view.
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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.
See more
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😁
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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.
See moreM
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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