The best great views camping in Minnesota

Name: Minnesota
Address: Minnesota
Rating: 4.9325

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%

(357)

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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Belle Creek Bluff

2. Belle Creek Bluff

99%

(376)

Welch, MN · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

Belle Creek Bluff is on 28 acres of prime land in Welch. Belle Creek runs through the middle of the property. Walk, swim, paddle, fish and explore the this beautiful spring fed trout stream. There are a number of hiking trails on the property. Bordering state lands to the east of the property provide endless exploration and hiking adventures. Hike to the top of the bluff for a spectacular view of Welch valley and the ski hill. Hiking NE along Belle Creek can you spot the old model A truck along the banks? There are eagles, falcons, finches, and many colorful birds to see.

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Ranch Retreat Camping

3. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(454)

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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Cuyuna Crossing | Riverside Stays

4. Cuyuna Crossing | Riverside Stays

95%

(148)

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. Our professionally designed 18-hole disc golf course winds through the woods and along the river. Overnight guests can play any time during their stay, and the course is also open to the public on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mirror Hypedomes (Glamping) Our insulated domes are designed for quiet, comfortable stays and are ideal for couples. Each includes a king bed, wood stove (firewood provided), electric heat, AC in the summer season, mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, outdoor seating, fire ring, and private river access. Included wood-fired, coil thermosiphon hot tubs are the ultimate camping luxury during the summer season. Private Bathroom & Shower: Each dome comes with its own private bathroom and shower, just for your party. It's in the main building, a short walk from the domes. Pets: Leashed pets are welcome everywhere outside on the property, but they can't stay inside the domes. Winter Season (Oct 19 – May 1) The domes stay open all year! During the winter season the wood-fired hot tubs are out of service (we shut them off once nights drop below freezing), and the rate is $179 a night with a 1-night minimum. The wood stove keeps things cozy, and firewood is provided. Plan to keep the fire going overnight on the coldest nights. 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. A porta potty serves the campsite area. Walk-In Access: All campsites are walk-in only, with no vehicles past the main lot. Park there and use one of our carts to haul your gear. The trail can be muddy or uneven after rain, so plan on two trips if you're bringing a lot. Water: The campsites don't have water or electrical hookups. You can fill up with drinking water at the main building by the parking lot, so bring a jug or refillable bottles to carry back to your site. 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 (guests any time; open to the public Tuesdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.) 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. Rustic campsites are walk-in only; domes include parking at site. Spring conditions may include mud or high water. Prior reviews referencing vehicle access reflect an earlier layout.

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Wise Woods on Fool Lake

5. Wise Woods on Fool Lake

97%

(96)

MN · 1 site · Tent, RV

Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/m... Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Mi... Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.co... Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf... Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com... Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/loc... North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.bus... Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.co... is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profi... Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-cal... Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.c... Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4Hil...

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Lazy River Landing

6. Lazy River Landing

98%

(31)

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. 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. 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 over 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 a 40-minute drive. Ask us for even more ideas—we're happy to share local favorites!

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Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

7. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

98%

(24)

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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Lanesboro Acres

8. Lanesboro Acres

100%

(13)

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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O'Dalaigh Hideaway

9. O'Dalaigh Hideaway

100%

(82)

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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Stadings Farm & Ranch

10. Stadings Farm & Ranch

96%

(57)

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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Daniel

3 days ago

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lazy River Landing

For a two-night camping trip, my experience was excellent. The campsite was clean, the outhouse was very tidy, and the site itself was level and comfortable to set up on. The location also felt private and quiet, which made the stay even more enjoyable. Overall, everything was well-maintained and easy to enjoy, and I would definitely stay again.

Ashley

3 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wise Woods on Fool Lake

We had a great time here! Its quiet and secluded, right on the lake, and there are provided kayaks and a canoe!

Teresa

5 days ago

Tent

1 night at O'Dalaigh Hideaway

Very peaceful. A bit of a challenge with the small hills at the end of trail but next time I'll put tent on 1st spot. There are actually 3 areas that you can put up your tent.

Teresa

6 days ago

Tent

2 nights at O'Dalaigh Hideaway

Beautiful little retreat

Rachel

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lazy River Landing

We had such a fabulous time on our mom’s weekend trip. The hosts were very attentive and responsive before, during and after our stay. They were extremely helpful at every stage & really went the extra mile. The campsite itself was clean, beautiful and perfect for a group of 4 women. It was a short walk to the portapotty , but it had a charging station and lights. The campfire didn’t have a grate, but we were provided with ample firewood. Canoeing was one of our favorite experiences. I read a book at the end of the dock in the morning and it was lovely. We heard owls and other animals and saw plenty stars. A wheel barrel was provided to bring our stuff up and was surprisingly easier than I thought. Would definitely give the hosts and the campsite 5 gold stars.

Transporter651

1 week ago

25 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wise Woods on Fool Lake

I spent two nights here. It was quiet and peaceful. Very beautiful camp and view. Jackie was super quick to respond if needed. Would love to go back.

Craig

1 week ago

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Serene sites with lots of room to enjoy without bothering anyone else. Stunningly beautiful area set back in a valley, a perfect spot to relax and leave everyday behind.

Tessa

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Lazy River Landing

Four of us had an absolutely amazing time. There was ample flat spaces for us to spread out and enjoy ourselves, along with plenty of firewood available. Listening to the barred owls at night was definitely a highlight. Highly recommend.

Bryana

2 weeks ago

41 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Stadings Farm & Ranch

Bryan and Natalie were wonderful hosts! It was duck hunting opener and we were made aware of that prior and it was no problem! It did rain so we weren’t able to explore the property but we did have a wonderful relaxing time. We will be back!

Elle

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lazy River Landing

We ended up carrying our gear to the area near the river, it was more private and further from the road than the main site. The bathroom was clean and well-lit, and both firepits were great. It was pretty noisy in the evenings and early mornings from hunters nearby.

Linda

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lanesboro Acres

Neil clearly takes pride in his spectacular property and goes above and beyond to be a phenomenal host. This is my second time camping here and it keeps getting even better! The privacy is so nice and the views are absolutely beautiful. The yurt is extremely nice- spacious, dry and super clean! Neil has added extra touches to make you feel welcome like fans, lanterns, nightstands, rugs, etc. He’s responsive and easy to communicate with. This is a favorite spot and I’m so grateful he’s willing to share it!

Jane

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Wise Woods on Fool Lake

What an amazing place to stay!! Best goat I’ve ever encountered… very accommodating and quick responses. Cheap, big bundles of firewood delivered to the site. Just a great experience overall!! Would definitely recommend staying here!!

tony

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at O'Dalaigh Hideaway

Really beautiful place to spend a few nights. Rick has done a great job to set up a cool little camp on the river for you. The only negative I have is that it's really not the most private of spaces with a few houses across the river, but he does tell yiu about that in the listing.

3 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at The Double J

This is exactly what you are hoping it is going to be. The perfect spots, private and spacious, the most wonderful riverside camping. Double Js is the place you’ve been looking for.

Group hanging out around lighted pergola

Ana

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Double J

Beautiful! When you turn onto the property owners house is first to your right and down a curvy hill. To the left through a gate and down a bit are the other sites. First is peninsula, which is a bit private from the other sites. Then if you continue following the curve to the left, further down on a very large field are all the remaining sites in a row along the river. Everything is just as the pictures show. Very green and well kept. We will be back. The hosts are very kind.

Christopher

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Belle Creek Bluff

I have stayed at the camp sites and the green cabin and highly recommend both. Beautiful area with good trout fishing and owners are extremely responsive. Will definitely be back

Dan

3 weeks ago

21 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Quiet getaway with wife and I sans kids. Despite the rain still a great spot.

CHRISTOPHER

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at The Double J

Quiet beautiful property. The host/property owner is friendly and welcoming.

Meg

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Ranch Retreat Camping

Sweet spot, easy access but felt remote. Immaculate with generous amenities. Thanks!

Jonathan

September 2026

Tent

1 night at O'Dalaigh Hideaway

Great spot to relax, catch a few fish and stargaze by the fire at night. 10/10

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. 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.