The best lakeside camping in Minnesota

·

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) 5,425 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Minnesota

Camping on private lake

1. Camping on private lake

99%
(375)
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
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Pearsons Century Farm

2. Pearsons Century Farm

99%
(135)
Grove City, MN · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Homesteaded more than 100 years ago this farm is somewhat stuck in time. Once this was a prosperous dairy operation. Location location location, this place is my slice of heaven on earth. Located in the corner of 4 townships on an extremely quiet road. Our farm now raises grass fed beef and wooly pigs pastured along driveway along with the usual cast of a farm, dogs, cats, chickens, guineas and goats
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ham Lake Resort

3. Ham Lake Resort

90%
(5)
Ham Lake, MN · 5 sites
Ham Lake Resort in Minnesota, just a short drive from the Twin Cities, is an excellent choice for a camping getaway. The resort boasts over 100 RV sites with full hookup options, tent sites, and cabin rentals, providing a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. The amenities at Ham Lake are top-notch, including boat docks, laundry facilities, a picnic area, and a dedicated play area for dogs. For recreation, campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, horseshoes, a playground for kids, and numerous planned activities throughout the weekends. The beautiful lake offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. Beyond the resort, there are plenty of exciting activities to explore nearby. Nature lovers can go horseback riding or visit the stunning state parks in the area. Families can have a blast at Bunker Beach Water Park, while those looking for a more relaxed day can visit Willow Tree Winery for some wine tasting. The Mall of America, just a short drive away, offers endless entertainment with dining options, the Crayola Experience, Sea Life Aquarium, and Nickelodeon Universe. For a cultural outing, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden features over 50 unique sculptures perfect for a leisurely stroll and some great photos. The nearby Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is another fantastic spot, offering a chance to see a variety of animals and enjoy an amusement park.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Reset

6. The Reset

Atwater, MN · 1 site
Whether you’re looking for a women’s retreat, men’s group, backdrop for photo shoots or a place for team building events, this property has it all! It’s a very quiet lake, quiet property and will give you the perfect “Reset” you need. Everyone that’s stayed on this property says the same thing, that there’s something magical about this place. Come feel it for yourself!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

7. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

99%
(61)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wise Woods on Fool Lake

8. Wise Woods on Fool Lake

98%
(80)
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...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

9. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

97%
(15)
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. 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. 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. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shady Rest Acres

14. Shady Rest Acres

100%
(318)
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Stadings Farm & Ranch

15. Stadings Farm & Ranch

95%
(44)
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Fire Tower Pond

16. Fire Tower Pond

100%
(26)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake

17. Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake

100%
(35)
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. The chalet (in the pictures) , has all the needed amenities; shower, fridge, etc. Contact us for pricing details. Food and wine packages are available for the interested parties. This place is perfect.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Hamlet Lake Homestead

18. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

94%
(32)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Swan Lake Resort & Campground

19. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%
(52)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Tiger lake Ranch

20. Tiger lake Ranch

94%
(8)
Norwood Young America, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV
### Welcome to Tiger Lake Ranch Campsite Discover the ultimate escape at Tiger Lake Ranch, located just 30 minutes from Minneapolis. Nestled near the serene Tiger Lake, our remote campsite is surrounded by majestic generational oak trees, offering a peaceful retreat far from any buildings or other campsites. Enjoy evenings around the fire pit, with natural logs providing cozy seating under a canopy of stars. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a nature-filled adventure, Tiger Lake Ranch is the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with nature. 40 acres of our own and surrounded by hundreds of preserve acres and hunting. Book your stay and experience tranquility like never before!
Pets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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