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The best great views camping in Minnesota

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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.

99% (1.8K) 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Minnesota

The Double J

1. The Double J

99%
(392)
Zumbrota, MN · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the Double J! Of the 71 acres we own, about half is tillable and the other half is woods and pastures for our horses. Within that, there is a beautiful secluded 3-acre meadow nestled down along along a beautiful 1,200 foot stretch of the Zumbro River where we have 5 spacious tent/RV campsites. While the campsites are all adjacent to each other along the river, they are each very spacious (the smallest being 100' wide and 75' deep), with some mature trees scattered around. Each sites (except Site #1) is able to accommodate up to 8 people and more than one tent or RV. There is a small meadow above all the sites where campers can play catch or other games. We provide and maintain a centrally located outhouse and keep the entire area mowed throughout the year. All sites offer great shade trees (perfectly spaced for hanging up a hammock) and access to the river - great for those hot summer days! Water activities to be enjoyed include fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and tubing (equipment not included). Some campers will drop in upstream at the Covered Bridge Park and float down to their campsite. The Zumbro River, especially in the fishing hole, offers great fishing including Trout, Small-mouth, Red-horse, and an occasional Northern or Sauger. Campers are welcome to to meander out into our pastures to pet our two horses, Shiloh and Champ. Also, we are just over a mile from town where you can visit Covered Bridge Park which has a Frisbee golf course and a nice play area for younger kids. Reserving adjacent sites, or all of the sites, makes for the ideal setting for a large family or group camp-out. In order to prevent overcrowding, we do reserve the right to limit number of sites, or campers per site based on overall parties/campers in the camping area. We will notify you if there are any limits at the time of your booking. We enjoy being able to share our property with others, and it is our desire to promote a safe, peaceful, family-friendly environment, therefore, be sure to note, we do have a NO ALCOHOL policy. PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to read the "RV Details" on the site information page as the road to the camping area may limit the type or size of RV due to a couple dips, a sharper curve, and it's steeper slope. Also, keep in mind, we reserve the right to cancel any reservations due to heavy rains or floods that may require our sites some additional time to dry out sufficiently. For updates and notice of last minute cancellations be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DoubleJCamping As is customary for most campgrounds, we ask that if you bring in your own firewood that it be kiln dried. Dry firewood can be purchased for $5.00/bundle. TIP - Being we do not reimburse campers in the event of rain (unless campground is flooded or too muddy), we highly recommend campers take advantage of Hipcamp’s Weather Guarantee option when booking. With Minnesota’s unpredictable weather it allows you to get reimbursed for any days it rains over a specified amount, even if you choose to stick out the rain! The cost is very reasonable making it almost a no-brainer! Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! We look forward to being able to serve you!
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Prairie Creek Campground

2. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(912)
Nerstrand, MN · 4 sites
Pitch your tent at one of our walk-In forest campsites on 60 acres along Prairie Creek in Rice County, MN. Explore the creeks, trails, forest, our enormous granite "split rock" erratic, a 60 acre county park featuring waterfalls and trails, including a single track mountain bike trail. That's 120 acres of exploring right outside your tent; our campground truly offers a large amount of recreation right on site with remote forest, many trails, plus waterfalls and creeks to enjoy. Thank you for a great 2025 camping season! We hosted more Hipcampers than any year before and are excited to have been honored again with a Best in Minnesota award. Every year we have more and more returning campers; we are honored that you make us part of your memories. Big Woods State Park is less than 2 miles away. Faribault is 8 miles and Northfield is 9 miles from our driveway; they offer dining, boutiques, and all other amenities. Nerstrand is 4.5 miles east and has a gas station and a fantastic meat market. Numerous Cannon River put-ins are within 10 miles. We do not have firewood available at the campground; please plan ahead to bring firewood with you. A map of the land is in the photos and shows locations of sites, parking and more. All Sites are Walk-In! We have a cart you may use to haul gear in. Vehicles: Our main parking area by sites 1, 2, & 3 is easily accessible. The road to the secondary parking area beside our hilltop site 4 is up an adventurous gravel road (but is very accessible). This campground is managed by Stephen and Molly on land owned by them and their father Ted. In 1961, Stephen's grandparents bought this farm. In addition to farming they also operated a trail riding stable here. Over the years, the arable land has been sold, but we retained the wooded areas which are twice crossed by creeks. About 30 years ago, a 60 acre county park bordering the south and west sides of our land was created. We are very excited to host campers as a way to preserve and share this beautiful property.
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Ranch Retreat Camping

3. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%
(445)
Winona, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our ranch has been in our family for 16 years and, before that, belonged to one family for over 200 years. Jolene (me, - owner) and my two sons, Riley and Logan, put a lot of time and dedication into our ranch. Our ranch is located on 40 acres where anyone can find their little piece of “peace.” We pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our guests and making them feel at home when they step onto our land. We will do our best to accommodate your needs in any way possible. Our WIFI is not always 100% reliable. If you need WIFI during your stay, please bring another option with you, such as a hotspot on your cell phone, in case ours is not dependable. From the crew who loves to share a little piece of our life on Stone Roller Road, – Jolene, Riley, Logan, Scotch (the yellow lab), Hops (the chocolate lab), and Scrappy (the late ranch dog)
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O'Dalaigh Hideaway

4. O'Dalaigh Hideaway

100%
(71)
Rock Creek, MN · 1 site
Note: Site does not have an assigned address but the driveway is next to our cabin on the North side of the Snake River in Pine City MN, NOT Rock Creek MN. The site is a vacant lot and has the better river view and experience as its a small peninsula that juts out to the river with rapids. There is a swimming area right next to the campsite or feel free to jump into the rapids if you want a rush. There is fishing right there as well, mostly large and small mouth bass. There is parking off the road and a short walk to the campsite, just follow the sounds of the river. Small wagons are provided to help with getting gear down to the river tent site. There is a composting toilet, it uses a "separator" where #1 goes back to the earth (as it is sterile and liquid) and #2 goes into a bucket and is covered with wood chips. There is also a standing urinal for men if desired. If you would prefer to use a pit toilet there is one on the property with directions marked with a sign. It is a farther walk however, about 100 yards from the tent site and on the cabin property near the driveway. If you want something even more convenient, feel free to bring your own. Firewood is available for sale onsite or feel free to clean up dead wood lying along the trail at no cost. The tent site is right next to rapids on the Snake river. If you struggle sleeping to the sound of rushing water, this may not be for you!
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Cuyuna Crossing | Riverside Stays

5. Cuyuna Crossing | Riverside Stays

94%
(221)
Crosby, MN · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Cuyuna Crossing offers both private riverside domes and walk-in rustic campsites on 21 wooded acres with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage, just minutes from the Cuyuna Recreation Area. It also features a private professionally designed 18-hole disc golf course, available to guests only. Mirror Hypedomes (Glamping) Our insulated domes are designed for quiet, comfortable stays and are ideal for couples. Each includes a king bed, private bathroom with shower (in the main building), wood stove (firewood provided), electric heat and AC, fire ring, seating, and private river access. Included wood-fired, coil thermosiphon hot tubs are the ultimate camping luxury. Rustic Campsites Walk-in tent sites offer a simple, peaceful way to experience the land. The property includes one Riverside Group Site (up to four tents) and four individual tent sites along the river. Sites are bring-your-own-gear with no water or electricity. A porta potty serves the campsite area. Parking is in the main lot, with carts provided to transport gear. Optional add-on: shared private bathroom & shower access in the main building (limited availability, advance purchase required). Coming Soon Additional premium tents are planned for a future phase of the property. The Property Over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage 18-hole disc golf course (opening Spring 2026, for overnight guests) Wooded setting with space to relax Nearby: 200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar .3 miles to public Mississippi River water access 1.5 miles to the Milford Mine Memorial Park 4.7 miles to downtown Crosby shops and restaurants 5.1 miles to Yawkey Unit mountain bike trails 5.3 miles to emergency room and hospital 5.5 miles to Super One Foods 5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton 10.1 miles to Sagamore Unit mountain bike trails Good to Know This is a shared property with both domes and campsites. Campsites are walk-in only. Spring conditions may include mud or high water. Prior reviews referencing vehicle access reflect an earlier layout. Rustic campsites are walk-in only. Domes include parking at site.
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Lazy River Landing

6. Lazy River Landing

98%
(24)
Braham, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy a peaceful escape on our private 3.5-acre lot, perfect for tent camping or RVs. The upper site includes an electric hook-up, outhouse, and a dedicated fire pit for campfires under the stars. Surrounded by woods on either side, it offers a quiet, semi-secluded spot for nature lovers. A short trail (400 feet or a little over a football field) leads through the forest to the Snake River, where you’ll find a second fire pit with chairs, solar lighting, and a private dock that is shared with just our cabin and a campsite. If you are tenting, you can tent at the river but do not drive on the trail. The river is great for fishing, swimming, canoeing, or kayaking, and can accommodate small boats. Multiple public boat landings are located up and down the river for easy drop off and access points. The property lines are outlined in the overview picture. Please do not go to the east of the trail to provide ample space for privacy with our neighbors. The red on the map is the camping area with electricity and outhouse. Our personal log cabin is the blue dot but there is a significant tree line in between. If we are there, we are happy to give you a tour. The blue line is the trail. The white area is our property on the river and available for tent only or to hang out for the day if you choose to camp up top. The purple area is where the goats are busy eating. Come and visit them! While the site does not have running water, you’ll be camping right next to our family cabin, and we’re happy to help with anything you might need. We also have friendly goats on the property that guests are welcome to visit! There’s also plenty to explore nearby. Just minutes away, Braham offers a quirky “hole-in-the-wall” bowling alley and some charming local shops. Head north to Pine City for more options, including restaurants, a larger grocery store, and additional shopping. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Snake River Fur Trading Post, a Minnesota historical site. And if you’re in the mood for a local treat, Sapsucker Farms is a nearby cidery open on weekends, often hosting live music, food trucks, and hiking trails. There are 5 State Parks within an hour drive. Ask your hosts for even more ideas—they’re happy to share local favorites!
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Lanesboro Acres

7. Lanesboro Acres

100%
(11)
Lanesboro, MN · 1 site
This property is located in the South Branch Root River Valley, halfway between Lanesboro and Preston, MN. It features two main areas: the lower 10 acres and the upper 14 acres. The upper 14 acres, the location of the “Big Sky” bell tent includes a 5-acre agricultural field and a 9-acre campground area. While this area has no additional amenities, it provides the perfect opportunity for a fully rustic night under the stars. The large, spacious bell-style tent is set up for your use, so no need to bring or pitch your own. A fire globe and porta potty are also provided. The property itself is stunning and gorgeous, with a wildflower meadow and plenty of walking trails. Guests are welcome to explore the entire property at their leisure and enjoy the many scenic vantage points (including a south facing bluff overlook). It’s truly a special place with a splendor of variety. Nearby adventures : Root River State Trail & Harmony-Preston Valley Trail ---A smooth, paved, multi-use trail system spanning about 60 miles. Ideal for biking, walking, rollerblading in summer, and cross-country skiing in winter. It connects Lanesboro with Fountain, Preston, Harmony, and Houston. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center (~10 miles) ---An adventure-focused spot with hiking and mountain bike trails, zip-lining, a high ropes course, canoeing/kayaking, plus stunning views over the Root River valley. Sylvan Park & Bunny Trail (right in Lanesboro) ---A tranquil, family-friendly pocket of greenery with campgrounds, fishing ponds, a playground, and the charming Bunny Trail - perfect for an easy stroll with kids or dogs. Inspiration Point Wayside Rest (~2 miles southwest of Lanesboro) ---A historic roadside overlook built by the CCC in the 1930s, offering sweeping views of the Root River Valley and a taste of New Deal-era architecture.
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Stadings Farm & Ranch

8. Stadings Farm & Ranch

95%
(53)
Lake Crystal, MN · 2 sites
Enjoy a peaceful campsite alongside a prairie lake in Southern MN, where towering oaks shade and fill the landscape. Sit by the lake with a campfire as you watch for Bald Eagles and Swans. We have a paddle boat and canoe available to explore the lake or bring your kayak or paddle board. Our farm is designed for RV's, Campers, any thing that is self contained. Water and electricity are available for an additional $25 per day for both. We offer firewood to purchase $10, place payment donation box. With a mile of lake shore, you can camp in secluded Grass fields, to Oak Savanna.
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Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

9. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

98%
(21)
Battle Lake, MN · 1 site
Some campsites you drive up to. This one you earn and the lake is with you every step of the way. The Hilltop sits on 7.5 acres above Stalker Lake in Otter Tail County, offering something genuinely rare: a private hilltop campsite with panoramic lake views and direct access to a lakeside sandy area and dock below. The climb to the site is about 250 feet and steep, but the lake view opens up from the first step and only gets better as you go. There's a bench halfway up for good reason — stop, catch your breath, and take it in. By the time you reach the top, you'll understand why guests keep coming back. Below the hill, your lakeside area is set up for full days outside. A large, deep-sand terrace sits just above the water with Adirondack chairs, a picnic table, fire ring, and easy stair access down to the lake. The shoreline is riprap, but the lake bottom is firm sand — great for wading, swimming, and getting in and out of the canoe or paddle boards. It's the kind of spot where nobody moves for three hours and nobody apologizes for it. The lakeside area is shared with your hosts when we're around — friendly neighbors, not hoverers. The hilltop and lakeside area are separated by Stalker Lake Road, a low-traffic country road easy to cross on foot. Two fire rings — one at the hilltop, one at the lakeside area — mean the evening belongs to you wherever you want to spend it. Sunsets here are a nightly event, not just a backdrop. Well-behaved dogs welcome, off-leash. The Hilltop — Worth the climb. Every time. Please ensure to review and abide by our campsite rules. We offer to share our property with campers that appreciate and care for our site, leave no trace, and are considerate of our neighbors. Explore the Area You're well-positioned for a full Otter Tail County experience. Glendalough State Park (15 min) — trails, swimming beach, creek tubing, kayak/bike/SUP rentals. Inspiration Peak (15 min) for a scenic hike. Phelps Mill County Park and Maplewood State Park within 40 minutes. On the water: fish off the dock, launch at Stalker Lake public access (0.25 mi) or Long Lake (1 mi), rent a boat or pontoon through Enclave Marine or G3 Rentals, or ask us about the Otter Tail River float. Rent dock space from us as an addon. Battle Lake (10 min) for dining, groceries, and a lazy afternoon. Stalker Lake Golf Course & Bar is one mile away — walkable if you're feeling ambitious after the hill. Ask us for our local recommendations PDF with more info and links to everything above.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Minnesota camping guide

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. RochesterMankato, and Winona provide easy access to the south, where highlights include aptly named Great River Bluffs State ParkWhitewater 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.

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