How much does camping cost at Minnesota state parks?

Camping fees at Minnesota state parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. On average, you can expect to pay the following rates for camping: Tent sites: $15 to $23 per night RV sites with electric hookups: $25 to $35 per night Group campsites: $50 to $300 per night, depending on the size of the group Cabins: $55 to $200 per night, depending on the size and amenities These rates are subject to change, and additional fees may apply for vehicle permits, reservation fees, or other services. To learn more about camping options and fees in Minnesota state parks, visit the Hipcamp Minnesota State Parks page.

Camping in Minnesota: Best Minnesota Campgrounds 2023

Q: Do you need a permit to camp in Minnesota?

In Minnesota , whether you need a permit to camp depends on the location and type of camping. For state parks, you will need to make a reservation and pay the appropriate fees. Reservations can be made through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reservation system. For camping in national forests, such as the Superior National Forest or the Chippewa National Forest , you may need a permit for certain areas, especially if you plan to camp in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Information on permits and reservations for the BWCAW can be found on the Recreation.gov website. For dispersed camping in national forests, you generally do not need a permit. However, it's essential to follow the guidelines and regulations for each specific forest. Always check with the local ranger district office for the area you plan to camp in for any specific rules or restrictions.

United States
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Minnesota

96% (5948 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Minnesota

Under $50

92%

(206)

Top camping destinations

Superior National Forest

202 campgrounds

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

194 campgrounds

Waterfall in the adjacent park is a 500 foot walk down the trail.

Minneiska

259 campgrounds

Tettegouche State Park

Gooseberry Falls State Park

284 campgrounds

Stillwater

259 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Minnesota

92%

(206)

River Road Campground Luverne

19 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Luverne, Rock

This is a new campground to Rock County near Luverne, MN. This property is known as the "boy scouts" by the locals. When we were kids we spent time on this property riding bike, horses, and exploring. We have turned this 13 acre property into 22 site campground that we are excited to share with you. We have also moved a house west of the campground that is available on Airbnb/VRBO (Sweet Retreat, 5 bedrooms, 2 bath) Nestled in a bed of trees just 2 miles from I-90 and 1/4 mile South of the Luverne City Park. This campground has 12 sites with rural water and 20,30&50 amp electric at every site. Dump Station. 8 Full Hook Up Sites (Sewer, Water, Electric) Two small ponds and shade trees. Wifi. New Shower House/Bathrooms in 2022. Campers can enjoy the quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife, a perfect place for bird watching. We also have a paved bike trial that connects to the campground that leads to miles of trials around Luverne and out to the State park.

The Camps at the Vineyard

18 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Ogilvie, Kanabec

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. Seasonal sites are 20' from the river, and a wonderful place to fall asleep and wake up to a babbling river. Learn more about this land: The camping area is ten acres alongside the Ground House River. There are fish in the river, and the water level fluctuates for tubing or kayaking. The property borders with state land used for horse riding, and great for biking

Camping on private lake

10 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Westbrook, Cottonwood

This property has 10 camp spots. Sites 1 and 10 have a boat landing. Sites 1,4,5, 6 and 10 have shades trees that can hold hammocks. All sites are right next to the lake. Site 6 has a dock that all can use. There is excellent swimming with a sandy bottom at the south end of the lake. The lake is stocked with walleye in the spring by the DNR and has other fish as well. It is also close to many lakes that are good for fishing. I have a 14' fishing boat with trolling motor, a paddle boat, a kayak, and canoe for campers to use for free. Firewood is available for $5/day. There is some hiking on the property and much near by. Biking is also good with small lakes nearby to visit. The camping here is very peaceful with wonderful views and the wildlife is awesome! 120 volt power is at all sites and 220 can reach sites 4 and 5. There is warm showers and flushing toilets. Also all sites are drive through on hard ground grass. Grates are provided for cooking over the fire. There is Wi-Fi internet that reaches sites 1-5.

90%

(385)

Camp Floodwood

9 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Floodwood, St. Louis

Camp Floodwood is the best kept secret in the north woods of Minnesota. Located on the outskirts of town in a quiet residential neighborhood but on the bank of the scenic St. Louis River, Camp Floodwood is publically owned and operated by friendly City of Floodwood staff. The property was secured by the City of Floodwood in the 1970's to secure recreation activities for ages to come. Hipcamper's of all types welcome. Make us your go-to camping, hunting, fishing, boating destination.

RV There Yet Campground

19 sites · RVs80 acres · Akeley, Hubbard

The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site. More details at https://rvthereyetcampground.com/

83%

(127)

Harbor Bar

12 sites · RVs, TentsHager City, Pierce

Located at Harbor Bar across from Red Wing MN. said to be on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river. Fish from shore in one of the best fisheries in the country. Full restaurant & bar with live music on weekends.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent along the banks of the mighty Mississippi river. bar, restaurant, outdoor music festivals, fishing. View pretty Red Wing from across the river. Located on one of the prettiest spots on the Mississippi river.

96%

(28)

Willow Acres an RV Resort

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Park Rapids, Hubbard

Being in the resort business my whole life, I had a dream of developing this one of a kind property into something I could share with vacationers. To build something that has never been done. Travelers that experience these sites agree they are truly exceptional!Learn more about this land:Check out the web site for Willow Acres in Park Rapids! parkrapidsrvpark. comDo you want to get off the beaten path and get away from the crowds? Then this Park is for you! Sit under the stars by you fire with no one else around!All sites are PULL THROUGH, level and wooded, which offers great privacy. Full hook ups with 50 amp service, water and sewer. Easily accessible. Great camper setup area.There are many local amenities near by and tourist attractions nearby. 5 minutes from town and approximately 20 minutes from Itasca State Park. Rental opportunities are available by Weekly $175, Monthly $550.

97%

(29)

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Fergus Falls, Otter Tail

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.

North Haven

10 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Mountain Iron, St. Louis

Quiet country living at its best! We are near many lakes with great fishing opportunities (several within 10 miles/10 minutes), hiking, biking (10 minutes away from Redhead Mountain Bike Park and less than 5 minutes from the Mesabi Bike Trail System) and snowmobile trails (less than 4 miles/5 minutes), ski lodge and resorts are within a one-hour drive. We are near big box stores for convenient shopping (they offer order ahead and pick up; no delivery at this time [willing to pick up your orders if prepaid/arranged] ), restaurants (delivery not available but order ahead/pickup is always an option), grocery stores, major pharmacy for convenient medication orders and pickups. Nearby to several local vets and dog boarding is one road over if you are heading out for a vacation. Our local dog groomer information and recommendation upon request. We offer sites with some sun as well as sites with some shade available (FCFS). We live on site and are often available for questions or recommendations, but we always respect your privacy and want/need to be left alone. Perfect for travelers with pets, big yard to run and play. Limited kennel space, available upon request and reserved; FCFS. Pontoon, SUP, kayak and canoe rentals nearby as well as jet skis and fishing boats. WE are also near some beautiful ski resorts. Fishing guide recommendations upon request. Close to four golf courses and several swimming beaches. Close to main highways but just far enough away for a peaceful night’s sleep with Minnesota wildlife often visiting our backyard; deer, bluebirds, robins and occasionally an eagle. We are also able to accommodate those that travel together, i.e.; more than one RV, trailer, tent...etc.

75%

(4)

Goldmine Resort

8 sites · Lodging45 acres · Orr, St. Louis

Remote fishing camp in Northern Minnesota, on Vermilion River only place on river, private inexpensive and very relaxing! Great times had by all!!!!Learn more about this land:Remote fishing camp in Northern Minnesota. If you want to get away, this is the place for you! Featuring unmatched fishing and scenery, the Gold Mine Camp is located on the Vermilion River and is nestled between two portage "waterfalls" in the wilderness. Private and inexpensive, Gold Mine Camp is a great place for fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching!

Booked 2 times

RV There Yet?

40 sites · RVs3 acres · Alexandria, Douglas

RV There Yet is located in the gorgeous town of Alexandria, Minnesota. Campers come here every year to escape the busyness of life; visitors can look forward to clean and well-managed facilities, friendly and helpful staff, and of course, plenty of peace and quiet. There's tonnes to do around the park, so expect excellent golf courses, bowling alleys, local museums and antique shops. There's also a plethora of great dining options, so if you're from out of town, be sure to dine out as much as you can to experience Alexandria through its cuisine. Near the campground, campers can also enjoy tastings at the Carlos Creek Winery or take the kids to the Erickson Petting Zoo.

IdylwoodEquestrianCenter.com

10 sites · TentsStillwater, Washington

idylwoodequestriancenter.comLearn more about this land:$1,300 per night price includes hour-long lessons for 10 people and overnight camping.Idylwood Equestrian Center offers full equine services to riders of all ages and levels.

Star Hosts in Minnesota

99%

(277)

Camping on private lake

10 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Westbrook, Cottonwood

This property has 10 camp spots. Sites 1 and 10 have a boat landing. Sites 1,4,5, 6 and 10 have shades trees that can hold hammocks. All sites are right next to the lake. Site 6 has a dock that all can use. There is excellent swimming with a sandy bottom at the south end of the lake. The lake is stocked with walleye in the spring by the DNR and has other fish as well. It is also close to many lakes that are good for fishing. I have a 14' fishing boat with trolling motor, a paddle boat, a kayak, and canoe for campers to use for free. Firewood is available for $5/day. There is some hiking on the property and much near by. Biking is also good with small lakes nearby to visit. The camping here is very peaceful with wonderful views and the wildlife is awesome! 120 volt power is at all sites and 220 can reach sites 4 and 5. There is warm showers and flushing toilets. Also all sites are drive through on hard ground grass. Grates are provided for cooking over the fire. There is Wi-Fi internet that reaches sites 1-5.

100%

(6)

Aefintyr

13 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Altura, Winona

Aefintyr is a campground located on Whiskey Hill in the Whitewater River Valley near the town of Elba, MN. The land was used for personal recreation for several years. I've spent countless hours hiking and enjoying observing the seasons, plants, fungus and animals. The vision of a campground was inspired by many camping and backcountry spots throughout the United States, all of the amazing things in the woods, the beautiful blufftop valley views, proximity to a multitude of outdoor activities and adventures. Camps are spacious, secluded and designed to immerse guests in the surrounding woodland.

The Camps at the Vineyard

18 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Ogilvie, Kanabec

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. Seasonal sites are 20' from the river, and a wonderful place to fall asleep and wake up to a babbling river. Learn more about this land: The camping area is ten acres alongside the Ground House River. There are fish in the river, and the water level fluctuates for tubing or kayaking. The property borders with state land used for horse riding, and great for biking

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Fergus Falls, Otter Tail

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.

Balsam Ridge Retreat

8 sites · Lodging5 acres · Duluth, St. Louis

Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'. We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth. It was once an abandoned house that sat for years, until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale. We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here! Just down the road is a trout stream and just beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired it's horses and closed it's doors to make room for new homes, but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun. This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.

Dog-friendly getaways

97%

(29)

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Fergus Falls, Otter Tail

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.

River Road Campground Luverne

19 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Luverne, Rock

This is a new campground to Rock County near Luverne, MN. This property is known as the "boy scouts" by the locals. When we were kids we spent time on this property riding bike, horses, and exploring. We have turned this 13 acre property into 22 site campground that we are excited to share with you. We have also moved a house west of the campground that is available on Airbnb/VRBO (Sweet Retreat, 5 bedrooms, 2 bath) Nestled in a bed of trees just 2 miles from I-90 and 1/4 mile South of the Luverne City Park. This campground has 12 sites with rural water and 20,30&50 amp electric at every site. Dump Station. 8 Full Hook Up Sites (Sewer, Water, Electric) Two small ponds and shade trees. Wifi. New Shower House/Bathrooms in 2022. Campers can enjoy the quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife, a perfect place for bird watching. We also have a paved bike trial that connects to the campground that leads to miles of trials around Luverne and out to the State park.

Camping on private lake

10 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Westbrook, Cottonwood

This property has 10 camp spots. Sites 1 and 10 have a boat landing. Sites 1,4,5, 6 and 10 have shades trees that can hold hammocks. All sites are right next to the lake. Site 6 has a dock that all can use. There is excellent swimming with a sandy bottom at the south end of the lake. The lake is stocked with walleye in the spring by the DNR and has other fish as well. It is also close to many lakes that are good for fishing. I have a 14' fishing boat with trolling motor, a paddle boat, a kayak, and canoe for campers to use for free. Firewood is available for $5/day. There is some hiking on the property and much near by. Biking is also good with small lakes nearby to visit. The camping here is very peaceful with wonderful views and the wildlife is awesome! 120 volt power is at all sites and 220 can reach sites 4 and 5. There is warm showers and flushing toilets. Also all sites are drive through on hard ground grass. Grates are provided for cooking over the fire. There is Wi-Fi internet that reaches sites 1-5.

The Camps at the Vineyard

18 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Ogilvie, Kanabec

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. Seasonal sites are 20' from the river, and a wonderful place to fall asleep and wake up to a babbling river. Learn more about this land: The camping area is ten acres alongside the Ground House River. There are fish in the river, and the water level fluctuates for tubing or kayaking. The property borders with state land used for horse riding, and great for biking

RV There Yet Campground

19 sites · RVs80 acres · Akeley, Hubbard

The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site. More details at https://rvthereyetcampground.com/

Available this weekend

98%

(262)

The Camps at the Vineyard

18 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Ogilvie, Kanabec

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. Seasonal sites are 20' from the river, and a wonderful place to fall asleep and wake up to a babbling river. Learn more about this land: The camping area is ten acres alongside the Ground House River. There are fish in the river, and the water level fluctuates for tubing or kayaking. The property borders with state land used for horse riding, and great for biking

Goldmine Resort

8 sites · Lodging45 acres · Orr, St. Louis

Remote fishing camp in Northern Minnesota, on Vermilion River only place on river, private inexpensive and very relaxing! Great times had by all!!!!Learn more about this land:Remote fishing camp in Northern Minnesota. If you want to get away, this is the place for you! Featuring unmatched fishing and scenery, the Gold Mine Camp is located on the Vermilion River and is nestled between two portage "waterfalls" in the wilderness. Private and inexpensive, Gold Mine Camp is a great place for fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching!

Camping on private lake

10 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Westbrook, Cottonwood

This property has 10 camp spots. Sites 1 and 10 have a boat landing. Sites 1,4,5, 6 and 10 have shades trees that can hold hammocks. All sites are right next to the lake. Site 6 has a dock that all can use. There is excellent swimming with a sandy bottom at the south end of the lake. The lake is stocked with walleye in the spring by the DNR and has other fish as well. It is also close to many lakes that are good for fishing. I have a 14' fishing boat with trolling motor, a paddle boat, a kayak, and canoe for campers to use for free. Firewood is available for $5/day. There is some hiking on the property and much near by. Biking is also good with small lakes nearby to visit. The camping here is very peaceful with wonderful views and the wildlife is awesome! 120 volt power is at all sites and 220 can reach sites 4 and 5. There is warm showers and flushing toilets. Also all sites are drive through on hard ground grass. Grates are provided for cooking over the fire. There is Wi-Fi internet that reaches sites 1-5.

River Road Campground Luverne

19 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Luverne, Rock

This is a new campground to Rock County near Luverne, MN. This property is known as the "boy scouts" by the locals. When we were kids we spent time on this property riding bike, horses, and exploring. We have turned this 13 acre property into 22 site campground that we are excited to share with you. We have also moved a house west of the campground that is available on Airbnb/VRBO (Sweet Retreat, 5 bedrooms, 2 bath) Nestled in a bed of trees just 2 miles from I-90 and 1/4 mile South of the Luverne City Park. This campground has 12 sites with rural water and 20,30&50 amp electric at every site. Dump Station. 8 Full Hook Up Sites (Sewer, Water, Electric) Two small ponds and shade trees. Wifi. New Shower House/Bathrooms in 2022. Campers can enjoy the quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife, a perfect place for bird watching. We also have a paved bike trial that connects to the campground that leads to miles of trials around Luverne and out to the State park.

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Fergus Falls, Otter Tail

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.

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Camping in Minnesota guide

The land of 10,000 lakes―11,842 to be exact—is a water-logged paradise for anglers, paddlers, and campers. From the shores of Lake Superior to the banks of the Mississippi, you'll never be more than a short drive from a lake campground or a forest hiking trail. Minnesota's distinct seasons afford plenty of opportunities to get outdoors, whether you're hiking or horseback riding through autumnal woodlands, wild swimming in the lakes in summer, or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through the long winter months. The best weather for a camping trip is from May through October, but you'll find many Minnesota campgrounds open year-round.

Where to Go

Northwest Minnesota

Bordered by Canada to the north, and South Dakota and the Red River Valley to the west, northwest Minnesota is home to some of the state's biggest lakes. Grand Rapids and Bemidji are the gateways to the Leech Lake Recreation Area and the Chippewa National Forest, while nearby Itasca State Park lies at the headwaters of the Mississippi River. To the north, two Minnesota state parks border the Lake of the Woods, known for its walleye fishing and winter snowmobiling.

Northeast Minnesota

Lush state forests, wetlands, and island-studded lakes blanket the northeastern tip of Minnesota, stretching down from the Canadian border to the north shore of Lake Superior. Minnesota camping is at its wildest out here, whether paddling out to island campsites in Voyageurs National Park, RV camping with full hookups in Superior National Forest, or seeking out a tranquil lake campground in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Central Minnesota

On the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are launchpads for outdoor adventures in central Minnesota. Some of the region's best campgrounds are just a short drive from the city at Mille Lacs Lake, while Frontenac State Park has a mix of drive-in RV sites and cart-in tent sites along the Mississippi. Further north, there's kayak and canoe camping along the St. Croix River at Wild River State Park, or yurt and camper cabin rentals at Afton State Park.

Southern Minnesota

Glacial plains and scenic river valleys give way to the wooded bluffs of the Mississippi River in southern Minnesota. Rochester, Mankato, and Winona provide easy access to the south, where highlights include aptly named Great River Bluffs State Park, Whitewater State Park, and Minneopa State Park, home of Minnesota's tallest waterfall. In the far southwestern corner, Blue Mounds State Park is known for its soaring cliffs—a hotspot for rock climbing—and free-roaming bison.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere without restrictions in Minnesota. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, state forests, and national forests. In some cases, dispersed camping (primitive camping away from developed campgrounds) is allowed in specific areas of state and national forests. For instance, you can find dispersed camping sites in Minnesota's national forests such as the Chippewa National Forest and Superior National Forest. When camping in these areas, it's important to follow Leave No Trace principles and adhere to any posted regulations or restrictions.

For more information on camping options in Minnesota, you can visit Hipcamp.

Yes, there are several places to camp for free in Minnesota. You can find free camping in its national forests: Superior National Forest and Chippewa National Forest. These forests offer dispersed camping, which is primitive and has no facilities, so you'll need to come prepared. Additionally, some state forests and wildlife management areas in Minnesota also allow free camping. Please be aware of local rules and regulations when camping in these areas.

Camping fees at Minnesota state parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. On average, you can expect to pay the following rates for camping:

Tent sites: $15 to $23 per night
RV sites with electric hookups: $25 to $35 per night
Group campsites: $50 to $300 per night, depending on the size of the group
Cabins: $55 to $200 per night, depending on the size and amenities

These rates are subject to change, and additional fees may apply for vehicle permits, reservation fees, or other services. To learn more about camping options and fees in Minnesota state parks, visit the Hipcamp Minnesota State Parks page.

In Minnesota, whether you need a permit to camp depends on the location and type of camping. For state parks, you will need to make a reservation and pay the appropriate fees. Reservations can be made through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reservation system. For camping in national forests, such as the Superior National Forest or the Chippewa National Forest, you may need a permit for certain areas, especially if you plan to camp in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Information on permits and reservations for the BWCAW can be found on the Recreation.gov website. For dispersed camping in national forests, you generally do not need a permit. However, it's essential to follow the guidelines and regulations for each specific forest. Always check with the local ranger district office for the area you plan to camp in for any specific rules or restrictions.