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.

98% (1.6K) 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Minnesota

The Edge

1. The Edge

96%
(308)
Rochester, MN · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This 160 acre farm used to be a sod farm, and then a Christmas tree farm. Camping provided is in the remnants of the uncut Christmas tree forest which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Prairie Creek Campground

2. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
Nerstrand, MN · 7 sites
Booking for 2026 is open. We are open beginning April 1st, no foolin'! 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. Thank you and we look forward to 2026! 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 outside your tent; this campground truly offers a large amount of remote forest for recreation right on site. 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). Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
New Hartford trout camp

3. New Hartford trout camp

99%
(92)
New Hartford, MN · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
large flat Site . walking path along the creek. lots of wildlife, like Bald eagles Secluded valley site located where two trout streams come together. There is a large section of private access, as well as 1 mile of public access to the trout stream.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$27
 / night
Ranch Retreat Camping

4. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%
(406)
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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Winding Woods on Pine River

5. Winding Woods on Pine River

97%
(18)
Crosby, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html 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/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake & Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ 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.com/ 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/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, Minnesota. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
East Lake Ranch

6. East Lake Ranch

96%
(57)
Palisade, MN · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Our land is very special with positive energy vibes. If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies flutter about in the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax. Learn more about this land: We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak which you drive right up to! Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in this site. Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Campfire ring in this site. From Meadow and OAK, you have easy access [5-minute walk] to the outhouse called the "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers.  Bring your container sto fill up. Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. Do NOT peel the birch bark from live trees! You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up. You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals.  We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank and Randy", five sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, and Princess Mary Margaret just to name a few! We have 9 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods.  We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land.  The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch.  Great first time experience for kids. Learn about our protected shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites

7. Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites

94%
(211)
Crosby, MN · 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
Stadings Farm & Ranch

8. Stadings Farm & Ranch

97%
(43)
Lake Crystal, MN · 3 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. Pick your own veggies, please place payment in our donation box. With a mile of lake shore, you can camp in secluded Grass fields, to Oak Savanna.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

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.

98% (1.6K) 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Minnesota

The Edge

1. The Edge

96%
(308)
Rochester, MN · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This 160 acre farm used to be a sod farm, and then a Christmas tree farm. Camping provided is in the remnants of the uncut Christmas tree forest which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Prairie Creek Campground

2. Prairie Creek Campground

99%
(855)
Nerstrand, MN · 7 sites
Booking for 2026 is open. We are open beginning April 1st, no foolin'! 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. Thank you and we look forward to 2026! 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 outside your tent; this campground truly offers a large amount of remote forest for recreation right on site. 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). Kids under 16 camping with their parents do not count in pricing. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
New Hartford trout camp

3. New Hartford trout camp

99%
(92)
New Hartford, MN · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
large flat Site . walking path along the creek. lots of wildlife, like Bald eagles Secluded valley site located where two trout streams come together. There is a large section of private access, as well as 1 mile of public access to the trout stream.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$27
 / night
Ranch Retreat Camping

4. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%
(406)
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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Winding Woods on Pine River

5. Winding Woods on Pine River

97%
(18)
Crosby, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html 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/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake & Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ 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.com/ 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/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, Minnesota. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
East Lake Ranch

6. East Lake Ranch

96%
(57)
Palisade, MN · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Our land is very special with positive energy vibes. If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies flutter about in the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax. Learn more about this land: We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak which you drive right up to! Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in this site. Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Campfire ring in this site. From Meadow and OAK, you have easy access [5-minute walk] to the outhouse called the "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers.  Bring your container sto fill up. Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. Do NOT peel the birch bark from live trees! You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up. You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals.  We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank and Randy", five sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, and Princess Mary Margaret just to name a few! We have 9 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods.  We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land.  The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch.  Great first time experience for kids. Learn about our protected shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites

7. Cuyuna Crossing | Campsites

94%
(211)
Crosby, MN · 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
Stadings Farm & Ranch

8. Stadings Farm & Ranch

97%
(43)
Lake Crystal, MN · 3 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. Pick your own veggies, please place payment in our donation box. With a mile of lake shore, you can camp in secluded Grass fields, to Oak Savanna.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

The best great views camping in Minnesota 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.