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The best lakeside camping in Minnesota

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Minnesota isn't called the land of 10,000 lakes for nothing―in fact, the midwestern state boasts an incredible 11,842, so you’ll never be far from a lakeside campground, boat launch, or fishing pier. Fish or paddle the four lakes at Bear Head Lake State Park, enjoy waterfall hikes and rock climbing at Tettegouche State Park, or book a cabin, yurt, or RV site near the swimming beach at Afton State Park. Feeling adventurous? Rent a houseboat or cruise out to the island campsites of Voyageurs National Park, paddle to backcountry campsites in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, or pitch a tent right on the beach along Lake Superior. Summertime is the most popular time for lakeside camping, when the weather is ideal for swimming and watersports, but winter campers shouldn’t rule out a lakeside camping trip―the Lake of the Woods is a hotspot for snowmobiling and ice fishing.

96% (1.7K) 5,427 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Minnesota

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

1. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%
(56)
Fergus Falls, MN · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
⛺️ 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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Full hookups
Shady Rest Acres

2. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(324)
Brownsville, MN · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota. Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to the sixty-seven foot deep cave that once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only. Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond. The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by the Brew Master's wife. We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive. Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever in the Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals. The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species. Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving. Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.
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Camping on private lake

3. Camping on private lake

99%
(387)
Westbrook, MN · 4 sites
This property has 4 camp spots. Sites 1 and 4 have a boat landing. All sites have shades trees that can hold hammocks. All sites are right next to the lake. Site 3 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 perch in 2024 but has others 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, 2 kayaks, 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 2 and 3. 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 1-3
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Camden State Park

4. Camden State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Minnesota · 93 sites
Discover Camden State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Tettegouche State Park

5. Tettegouche State Park

100%
(17)
State park in Minnesota · 45 sites
You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!
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Jammers Retreat

6. Jammers Retreat

Bemidji, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come enjoy camping on seven peaceful acres, just 7 miles from Bemidji, 3 miles from the state park, and only 2.5 miles from a private wilderness lake. The property features a large building suitable for gatherings, plus hot and cold water available outdoors. Unique highlights include a clay pit and sand pit—perfect for grounding, healing, or simply letting your inner child play. You’ll also find plenty of nearby lakes, trails, and opportunities for foraging and nature exploration. Extras available: • Kayaks and bicycles for guest use • Alternative healing circles upon request Campsites are first come, first served—a simple yet special place to connect with nature, community, and yourself.
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Picnic table
North Shore Hermitage

7. North Shore Hermitage

100%
(18)
Duluth, MN · 2 sites
Relax on a secluded and beautiful hobby farm in the North Woods while you spend your days exploring Lake Superior's North Shore or popping into Duluth or Two Harbors for all they have to offer! 20 acres of woods, pasture, and trails greet you as you enjoy one of North Shore Hermitage's comfy accommodations as your basecamp. Walk or bike down the quiet gravel road, breathe in the woods and wildflowers, and feel the cool breeze from the largest freshwater lake in the world just down the hill. You're four minutes to Scenic highway 61, six minutes from the beaches of Lake Superior, ten minutes to the grocery store in Duluth, fifteen minutes to Two Harbors, and zero seconds to the relaxing getaway you're looking for! Our family loves welcoming people to the unending beauty of the North Shore and helping folks experience what we get to live every day! Whether you're here for a week to to take in the shore, hike, bike, swim, fish, sail, rock hunt, cross country ski, snowshoe, run the marathon, birdwatch, surf (yes, that's a thing), shop, watch the sled dog races, enjoy a music festival, see Bentleyville, and relax OR you need a short stopover on your way farther "up the shore," North Shore Hermitage is the perfect place for your trip! We're just far enough "up the shore" to feel on vacation, but close enough to Duluth to have it all. Check out each site for your level of comfort and get ready to enjoy the Hermitage.
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Wise Woods on Fool Lake

8. Wise Woods on Fool Lake

97%
(87)
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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Fish Lake Getaway

9. Fish Lake Getaway

94%
(33)
Finlayson, MN · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: The camper can sleep 4 comfortably so any more would need to sleep on floor or bring a tent. There is a fire pit and firewood,  access to a basicly private lake. 14’ aluminum boat and a canoe is available There is no place to put your own boat in. There is an outhouse and a shed with many yard games.  There is a park model camper available to use with no hook ups other than gas stove. Theirs is a twin bed, a queen bed and a couch. The max for the site would be 8 people and that’s only if a few sleep in tents.
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Itasca State Park

10. Itasca State Park

100%
(15)
State park in Minnesota · 239 sites
Explore the wild headwaters of the Mississippi River at Minnesota’s oldest state park.
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Cascade River State Park

11. Cascade River State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Minnesota · 47 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Cascade River State Park.
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Electrical hookup
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Jay Cooke State Park

12. Jay Cooke State Park

100%
(15)
State park in Minnesota · 79 sites
Hiking, rafting, and a swinging bridge provide the fun.
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Moose Lake State Park

13. Moose Lake State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Minnesota · 56 sites
Discover Moose Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
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Electrical hookup
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SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

14. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

99%
(65)
Isle, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
***Campers (tents not included) must back in from Vista Rd (the tar road). Many prefer to walk back and view the site before parking. Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over Lake Mille Lacs, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Step onto the sandy beach from your campsite and surround yourself with the soothing sounds of nature and the lapping of the lake's waves to help you unwind and connect with the outdoors. The campground is a tighter space but the 100 ft beach has plenty of room to spread out. There is a communal firepit on the beach, along with two portable fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis. Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, are two friendly dogs – Frank, a Goldendoodle, and his sister/sidekick, Lucy, a Mini Goldendoodle. They roam freely on part of our property with the help of an invisible fence. Feel free to shoo them away, or hush them if they bother you or if any other rogue neighborhood dog wanders over. When we camp, we value privacy, and we'll ensure the same for you. Upon arrival, please head directly to your campsite or cabin. We can communicate through messaging to assist you with anything you need. Guests will need to be self contained, take waste with them and leave no trace. The Loo (pit toilet): She works hard for the money! With lots of campers and hot weather, The Loo can get a little...fragrant. We have it regularly serviced and cleaned, but during peak heat and heavy use, odors can happen. Nature gonna nature. If you're sensitive to smells please feel free to bring your own portable loo setup! Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm - 8:00 am please do not disrupt other guests or you may be asked to leave. ***Attention Summer Guests*** ***Swimmer's Itch Prevention*** During the warmer summer months, please be aware of the potential for swimmer's itch in our lake. Please Google Swimmer's Itch Prevention for more information. ***Mayflies and Fish Fly Hatches*** These hatches can vary by date and location. Remember you are in an outdoor space and they are a natural part of the ecosystem. Although they are a nuisance they are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting.
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East Lake Ranch

15. East Lake Ranch

97%
(58)
Palisade, MN · 2 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 THREE campsites, Fern, Meadow and Oak which you drive right up to! Fern is a tent only site right on the shores of West Lake. Private. Drive right up to it. 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. 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
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Fire Tower Pond

16. Fire Tower Pond

100%
(31)
Pine Point, MN · 1 site
Campsite is set next to a large pond, deep in the woods on 40 private acres. The pond is accessible for swimming/kayaking/canoeing. Beautiful Itasca State Park is directly across the road from the property with biking, hiking, nature drives, boating, fishing, equipment rentals, dining and more. Within a few miles are several local eateries. The area has many miles of ATV trails and the Heartland Bike Trail.
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Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

17. Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

100%
(61)
Nevis, MN · 1 site
Very Quiet, Peaceful, Private, Off the Grid, Dark Sky, Wooded 36 acre+ homesteaded property with nice lakeshore guest cottage. Close to Itasca State Park- Headwaters of the Mississippi, Paul Bunyan State Forest, Nevis, Park Rapids, Dorset, Walker or Bemidji for Good Music, Food and Fun! Dock space for smaller fishing boats and close to many area lakes for good fishing. Close to the North Country National Scenic Trail for some great hiking. Or just stay put here in nature amongst its non-human inhabitants. We look forward to meeting YOU! ✌️Paul+Piper🐕
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The Hamlet Lake Homestead

18. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

93%
(35)
Deerwood, MN · 1 site
The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. We have both lakeshore (in front) and a hobby farm with cows, chickens and goats in our back lawn and woods. The Hamlet Lake Bunkhouse is located to the west of our home in its own secluded parcel next to the lake. The Camp on Hamlet Hill (closed for 2026) is to the north of our home, on a remote flat hill at the top of our property, on a hill over Cedar brook. with 300-acre, (private) Hamlet Lake in front, and the wide portion of the 20-mile Cedar brook in the back. We are a large "homesteading" family, with chickens, ducks, and a garden. The campsite is a private 1/2 acre clearing, surrounded by woods with a firepit, grill, cooking utensils, and an outhouse. (Tents are available for a small additional cost). There is an outdoor water pump below the hill, near which guests can view our fenced-in animals. Guests can also access the waterfront and beach in front, with the use of the swim raft, lily pad, fishing dock, canoe, kayak, and paddle boards included. At nearly 100 feet deep, Hamlet lake also boasts excellent fishing. Our home is located 6 miles from Crosby, with the world-class Cuyuna Lakes 50-mile mountain bike trail system. Crosby is a growing tourist town with many new and unique restaurants, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities. The paved bike trail begins 3.5 north of us. Milacs lake is 10 miles to the south.
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Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake

19. Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake

100%
(39)
Braham, MN · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Two campsites or our chalet which sleeps five are available. Campsites are near a fabulous 10 acre deep spring fed lake. One campsite is in the prairie with a expansive view where 5 or 6 tents are possible. 2nd campsite is for one tent and is lakeside. Quiet peaceful trails through the woods. Animals at the home base (outside only). The chalet (in the pictures) , has all the needed amenities; shower, fridge, etc. No food or oil or gas or soap in the lake. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, always on a leash or tether, and never indoors. We do have life jackets available, but no sizes appropriate for small children (bring your own). Contact us for pricing details. This place is perfect.
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Lakeside Wanderers Refuge-Private!

20. Lakeside Wanderers Refuge-Private!

100%
(14)
Eveleth, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy breathtaking views of Pleasant Lake right from your doorstep. The calming sounds of lapping waves and the stunning sunsets will create lasting memories. Private Sauna: Unwind and rejuvenate in our private sauna, nestled amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. A perfect way to relax after a day of outdoor activities. Outdoor Living Space: Take advantage of our spacious outdoor area, perfect for grilling, dining, or simply enjoying the fresh air. A fire pit is also available for cozy evenings under the stars. Wood also provided. Water Activities: The lake is your playground! Launch your kayak, paddleboard, or simply take a refreshing swim. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast a line and reel in the catch of the day. Boat launch just across the bay and dock available for tying up if you choose to boat in! Scenic Hiking and Snowmobiling Trails: Lace up your hiking boots, or rev up your snowmobile to explore the nearby trails, offering a chance to connect with nature. Nearby Attractions: Our location is conveniently close to Virginia and Eveleth where you can explore charming shops, dine in local restaurants, and experience the cultural offerings of the area. Giants Ridge is a popular spot (just a few miles down the road) for 4 wheeling, trails, or skiing!
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