The best forest campgrounds near Cosmos, Minnesota

In Cosmos, forest camping means waking up to pine-scented air and bird calls instead of traffic. With over 190 options set among the trees, you’ll find sites where campfires are allowed, toilets and showers are close by, and the average night runs about $50—though you can snag a spot for as little as $25. Top picks like Dancing the Land Farm Camp (106 reviews), Pearsons Century Farm (104 reviews), and The Woods (44 reviews) come up in conversation for their quiet trails and easy access to snow sports, swimming, and wildlife-watching. This is real Minnesota forest—think thick stands of birch, deer tracks at sunrise, and the occasional owl after dark. Bring layers and your sense of adventure. You’re camping in the woods, after all.

99% (158)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Cosmos, forest camping means waking up to pine-scented air and bird calls instead of traffic. With over 190 options set among the trees, you’ll find sites where campfires are allowed, toilets and showers are close by, and the average night runs about $50—though you can snag a spot for as little as $25. Top picks like Dancing the Land Farm Camp (106 reviews), Pearsons Century Farm (104 reviews), and The Woods (44 reviews) come up in conversation for their quiet trails and easy access to snow sports, swimming, and wildlife-watching. This is real Minnesota forest—think thick stands of birch, deer tracks at sunrise, and the occasional owl after dark. Bring layers and your sense of adventure. You’re camping in the woods, after all.

99% (158)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Woods

99%

(60)

45mi from Cosmos · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenwald, MN

Welcome to our hidden gem in the Minnesota woods—perfect for campers looking to unplug and enjoy the simple beauty of the outdoors. Our property offers a peaceful, rustic setting with towering trees, quiet walking trails, and plenty of wildlife. You might spot deer wandering through, hear wild turkeys gobbling in the distance, or catch a glimpse of an eagle soaring overhead. This is a primitive property, so you won’t find modern amenities like bathrooms or running water. But what you will find is space to breathe, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're here to hike, stargaze, cook over the fire, or just relax, this is your spot to slow down and enjoy the natural world.

2. Pearsons Century Farm

98%

(132)

9.8mi from Cosmos · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Grove City, MN

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

3. Private secluded camp

100%

(3)

29mi from Cosmos · 1 site · Tent, RV · New London, MN

Learn more about this land:Next to the slough with open water. Lots of wildlife especially in the spring. There are three spots to choose from, two are more secluded and not really meant for large campers. But the bigger spot is really large.

4. Sibley State Park

100%

(2)

131 sites · New London, Minnesota

Discover Sibley State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Monson Lake State Park

20 sites · Sunburg, Minnesota

Discover Monson Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. Valhalla: A Rustic Cabin on Long Lake

12mi from Cosmos · 1 site · Lodging · Grove City, MN

This rustic cabin is tucked away on two acres along Long Lake. The original log structure dates back to 1858, with a newer addition built from repurposed barn wood. Enjoy a quiet retreat or a romantic getaway by the fireplace. Spend time by the lake taking in the fresh air and wildlife, or reconnect with family around the table playing games. Our cabin is the perfect place to relax, re-energize, and reconnect.

7. Lake Maria State Park

90%

(10)

19 sites · Silver Creek, Minnesota

Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Cosmos

Lakeview Campground

31mi from Cosmos · 74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sibley State Park

100%

(2)

Oakridge Campground

31mi from Cosmos · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sibley State Park

Monson Lake Campground

39mi from Cosmos · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Monson Lake State Park

90%

(10)

Lake Maria Campground

45mi from Cosmos · 19 sites · in Lake Maria State Park

Stories from the community

Samuel

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Woods

Always one of my favorite places to camp! Michael is the best host and the property is beautiful a secluded.

Doug

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Woods

It is secluded and peaceful. Had a nice time walking up the road between the corn fields. He was quick with response time and there was firewood available. The sight was also well taken care of. Great place to get away from everything.

Ted

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Private secluded camp

Very private, clean, and the dog enjoyed the freedom. We thought the price point was a little high, but all in all a great night. Very thankful for the spot.

J

Julia

August 2025

30 ft Class A

1 night at Pearsons Century Farm

We had a wonderful experience. Enjoyed the goats and the scenic view. They were friendly and helpful and accommodating on our visit.

J

J. Pierre

July 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Private secluded camp

Proximity to Sibley State Park and Glacial Lakes Trail is fantastic. The privacy and quiet is great… dark skies, bird sightings, dragonflies! Placement of our camper was important; when we arrived deer flies were out. We strategically positioned our camper to look across the meadow and sunset, and catch a constant breeze so no issues with flies. We were alone and privacy was amazing, but there is room to find level spots for several large campers. Site was far enough away from houses that we could run our generator. Site is ideal for one or a couple of campers that are completely self- contained. Owner was quick to drive us to the spot when we arrived, made sure we were satisfied, and directed us to the bike path.

M

Marissa

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Pearsons Century Farm

They were so kind and it was a great place to stay with beautiful views and funny goats!

J

Jeff

June 2025

12 ft travel trailer

1 night at The Woods

Great spot, very remote and quiet. Would definitely stay here again.

T

Trevor

June 2025

41 ft Class A

With kids

1 night at Pearsons Century Farm

Great spot, well off the beaten path. Travis was very informative and we had a great time. We will definitely camp here again if we're nearby.

B

Brad

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Woods

This is a great secluded site protected from wind and miles from anyone. Contrary to another review there are no porta potties, which is fine for me, but should be known. Nice paths through the woods. Excellent fire wood at the site with an honor box. Great directions and easy to find. Michael was super quick to respond to questions etc. 2 small towns 10 minutes away if you want to grab a beer and a burger at the local dive. Highly recommend checking this place out.

Samuel

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Woods

This is a beautiful, quiet and secluded spot with an excellent host.

Adam

June 2025

Tent

1 night at The Woods

Place is a gem. Nice and quiet, good walk. Awesome host!

T

Tammy

June 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pearsons Century Farm

What a great place to unplug from electronics. The animals were so cute and peaceful. Travis was very accommodating and answered any questions we had. Many acres to roam, weather was amazing as was our site that we had. Many to choose from. Goats were so funny and donkeys were cute and sweet, we wanted to take one home. My one pup thought she was a baby goat I think, she fit right in their pen and hung out several times. Brought home some farm fresh eggs and hamburger for a very inexpensive price. Thank you Travis! We enjoyed our relaxing weekend on your farm. Tammy, Makenna, Tootsie, and Duke

C

Christopher

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Woods

🔥 Perfect Vibes. Best spot I have found for a while, will be returning.