Beach Camping Near Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Looking for beach camping near Detroit Lakes? You’ll find over 490 options, from sandy waterfronts to tucked-away lake spots. Average nightly rates hover around $101, but you can grab a site for as little as $30 if you plan ahead. Campfires are allowed at most sites, showers keep things civilized, and pets are welcome almost everywhere. Fishing and swimming draw crowds in summer, while snow sports take over when temperatures drop. Top picks include Swan Lake Resort & Campground (28 reviews), Northland Paradise (5 reviews), and Hilltop Camp on the Lake (2 reviews). You’ll see families grilling lakeside, anglers pulling up walleye, and the occasional dog splashing in the shallows. Bring your own firewood, and don’t forget a towel—the fishing dock is just as inviting as the beach itself.

98% (71)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for beach camping near Detroit Lakes? You’ll find over 490 options, from sandy waterfronts to tucked-away lake spots. Average nightly rates hover around $101, but you can grab a site for as little as $30 if you plan ahead. Campfires are allowed at most sites, showers keep things civilized, and pets are welcome almost everywhere. Fishing and swimming draw crowds in summer, while snow sports take over when temperatures drop. Top picks include Swan Lake Resort & Campground (28 reviews), Northland Paradise (5 reviews), and Hilltop Camp on the Lake (2 reviews). You’ll see families grilling lakeside, anglers pulling up walleye, and the occasional dog splashing in the shallows. Bring your own firewood, and don’t forget a towel—the fishing dock is just as inviting as the beach itself.

98% (71)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%

(52)

42mi from Detroit Lakes · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fergus Falls, MN

⛺️ 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.

2. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

97%

(15)

42mi from Detroit Lakes · 1 site · Tent · Battle Lake, MN

Unwind on the shores of Stalker Lake with unforgettable sunsets, great fishing, and laid-back lake vibes. Whether you’re paddling out in the provided canoe, floating under the sun, or relaxing by the firepit as the sky turns gold, this peaceful spot is perfect for recharging. Please read the description for the property and the site. It provides key details on this beautiful and unique property. Note that the Peak Sunset campsite is hike-in (short, but uphill). Our lakeside beach features a sandy area, shady trees, beach chairs, and a picnic table just steps from the water. A clean porta potty is located near the parking area (at the bottom of the hill). The beach is shared with your hosts. Note: the beach and camping area are separated by Stalker Lake Road. Canoe and life jackets (2) are included with your stay. Pontoon use is not included or available for rent. Dock space for your boat is available as an add-on. You’re just one mile from Stalker Lake Golf Course & Bar and close to local gems like Glendalough State Park and the charming town of Battle Lake. Nearby Activities: message us for a PDF with weblinks :) Hiking & Biking: Glendalough State Park (14 mi): trails, swimming beaches, creek tubing, and rentals for kayaks, bikes, and paddleboards (Galloping Goose Rentals) (https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/glendalough-trail/4992) Inspiration Peak County Park (15 mi) Phelps Mill County Park (20 mi) Maplewood State Park (36 mi) More trails: Otter Tail Lakes Country Guide Fishing & Boating: Fish from our dock or launch your boat at the Stalker Lake access (¼ mile south) or Long Lake (1 mile). Both are great for recreation and fishing. Boat/pontoon rentals: Enclave Marine, G3 Rentals Tubing: ask us for details! Otter Tail River - Otter Tail Lake to Deer Lake Glenadalough State Park - Battle Lake Golf: Stalker Lake Golf Course Balmoral Golf Course

3. Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

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(27)

47mi from Detroit Lakes · 1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN

Goldie is closed for the season - she will reopen again in the spring! Goldie is an original early 1900's wooden caboose that ran on the DMIR railroad. She was re-designed in 1912 to be safer on the railroad (and her length extended so she wouldn't fall over). She ran the tracks of the Iron Range until retirement in 1968. It's been fully renovated with a few modern conveniences. We've re-used as much of the original wood as possible, and repurposed many things into other things so that we could keep the history alive. My husband is the carpenter that brought her to life and I'm the one that gave her some paint and design. Now, she's ready for people again, and to keep telling her story to others. Please...be our guest...and let Goldie be your host. Goldie has a max occupancy of 2 people due to space constraints. She also offers: ~ 1 very generous bundle of firewood included with stay ~ Hot and cold running water ~ A shower ~A/C and heat ~Hot water kettle for coffee, tea and cocoa (or oatmeal, etc) ~Paper dishes, plastic utensils and ceramic mugs ~Microwave ~Mini fridge ~One queen sized memory foam bed ~ Bath Towels, hand towel and wash towels ~Flush Toilet ~Fire ring, picnic table and lake access (kayaks available to use for free) ~Wifi access ** There is no cable TV, but we have a DVD player and some movies to choose from. Also there are some games to play. We do have pets and they do run around the yard freely. There are two dogs that love to romp and say hi (a female Golden Retriever and a female Griffon mix) and a female cat that does the same. They are super friendly, but they will come to visit you at the lake. Our lake is an "environmental lake" so while we keep a small beach area that you are welcome to use, it is not free of lily pads or weeds. It's simple, but fully swimm-able (the Golden Retriever keeps the first 8 feet of water weed free with her swimming!). You are welcome to use the dock and chairs we keep there for breezy evenings or to take a dip to cool off. We are only 2ish miles from town with gas, food, ice cream and a donut shop. There is a paved rail trail just down our street that runs both directions for many miles. Bikes are welcome! (please leave ATVs at home).

4. Clitheral Lake Hideaway

39mi from Detroit Lakes · 1 site · Tent · Clitherall, MN

Escape to the end of the road—literally—and find your slice of Minnesota lake life on beautiful Clitheral Lake. This peaceful, private campsite is the last property on a quiet dead-end road, nestled behind a scenic pine forest that opens up into a spacious clearing perfect for tenting or parking your RV. Enjoy all-day lake fun with direct access to a sandy beach that stays shallow for a long stretch—perfect for kids, lounging, or just soaking in the sun. Toss in a line for some of the area’s best fishing, or head out on the dock with your morning coffee or evening beverage of choice. As the day winds down, take in some of the most stunning sunsets around while gathered around the campfire pit perched right over the water. It’s a postcard-perfect view every night. With access to electricity, a peaceful setting with only one neighbor nearby, and nature all around you, this is the kind of spot that makes you want to stay an extra night or two. Whether you're looking to unplug, reconnect, or just catch a few fish and some serious sunset vibes, this hidden gem has you covered. Note there are two campers on the property that stay parked there but will not be in use during renting.

5. Timberlost at West Crooked

49mi from Detroit Lakes · 1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN

West Crooked Lake Resort offers relaxation and enjoyment for the entire family on 20 acres of seclude woods. You can enjoy sun bathing on the sandy beach, swimming in the clear water, playing on the Rave Water Park, or reading a book in the shade. Listen to the loons calling, watch eagles soar overhead, glide through the clear waters in a canoe or paddleboat, or just bring a book, relax, and catch some rays on the sandy beach. Many area attractions are just minutes from the resort. Biking/walking trails, golf courses, casinos, challenge course, a local winery, horseback riding, shopping and restaurants are just a few of the attractions you will find. In addition, the Headwaters of the Mississippi in Itasca State Park is just 30 minutes from the resort. ATV riders enjoy hundreds of miles of trails in the Park Rapids Lakes Area, bringing them closer to nature's beauty in remote areas others often don't see. Local clubs maintain two primary trails in our area, which are connected with miles of trails along county highways/byways. Drive your ATV directly to the trails from our resort. West and Middle Crooked Lakes are part of the famous Mantrap chain of lakes – the very heart of Northern Minnesota’s finest fishing country. Fish to catch in West Crooked Lake include Northern, Walleye, Bass and Panfish. You can fish right off the dock at the resort or venture out to the many inlets on this quiet lake. When on the lake, you will often find yourself enjoying the tranquil beauty of West Crooked Lake with no other boats in sight.

Public campgrounds near Detroit Lakes

Horseriders Campground

19mi from Detroit Lakes · 24 sites · in Maplewood State Park

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Lake Lida Campground

20mi from Detroit Lakes · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Maplewood State Park

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(1)

Grass Lake Campground

20mi from Detroit Lakes · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Maplewood State Park

100%

(2)

Buffalo River Campground

30mi from Detroit Lakes · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Buffalo River State Park

90%

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Glendalough Campground

34mi from Detroit Lakes · 26 sites · in Glendalough State Park

100%

(1)

Hungryman Lake Campground

36mi from Detroit Lakes · 14 sites · in Two Inlets State Forest

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(8)

Bear Paw Campground

42mi from Detroit Lakes · 81 sites · Tents, RVs · in Itasca State Park

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(7)

Pine Ridge Campground

43mi from Detroit Lakes · 158 sites · Tents, RVs · in Itasca State Park

100%

(1)

Mantrap Lake Campground

46mi from Detroit Lakes · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Paul Bunyan State Forest

LaSalle Lake Campground

49mi from Detroit Lakes · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in La Salle Lake State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

J

Jonathan

October 2025

3 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Amy’s place was beautiful and peaceful. The caboose sits on a quiet, wooded part of the property and feels totally private — you can’t even see her house from it. There’s a private trail that leads down to the lake, passing a picnic table and a fire pit with a built-in grill. It’s a perfect spot to relax, cook out, or just sit and enjoy the view. The whole setup has a cozy, tucked-away vibe that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy nature.

Heidi

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

I stayed at the Peak in May 2025 and couldn’t think of a better place to close out my camping season. The site was even more beautiful with fall colors emerging. Mindy is attentive and helpful, and the farm eggs are amazing. Highly recommend this Hipcamp.

The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose

Jim

September 2025

2 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

The caboose was a unique experience to actually stay in a renovated railroad caboose with ties to the area. It was very relaxing setting and have campfire coffee and close access to the bike trails. The dogs were always happy to say hello and the yoga platform was a perfect place to watch the clear night sky.

D

Derek

September 2025

32 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Swan Lake Resort and Campground was the perfect escape for our family. From the moment we arrived, the peaceful atmosphere wrapped around us — quiet mornings with birdsong, calm lake breezes, and spacious campsites that gave everyone room to breathe. One of the best parts was the uninterrupted stillness during the day and especially in the evenings. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and generously sized slots, there was very little noise or commotion from neighboring campers, which made it easy to truly relax. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive — when my son crashed his bike, they didn’t hesitate to help with his wounds, showing genuine care that meant a lot to us. Their flexibility with boat rentals was also a gift; they rolled with our shifting plans and even a last-minute cancellation when the kids hit a moody streak on our final day. We loved the honor-system store, where you could grab a snack or drink from the fridge or shelves and simply jot it down for later billing. It felt like a place built on trust and community. And scattered throughout the grounds were these amazing tree carvings — almost like totem poles — that added a touch of rustic artistry and whimsy to the landscape. This wasn’t just a campground — it was a place where we felt cared for, connected, and free to enjoy the simple joy. We will definitely be going back.

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Nick

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Detail, very good information and easy to communicate. Gorgeous caboose and very relaxing

Mary and Dan

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

1 night at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Wonderful campground with amazing amenity and game room.

V

Vamsi

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Loved tent camping on the Site! And the view from the top was a reward after the short trek. Was able to take pretty much everything in two trips and the cart helped a lot!

N

Nickolis

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

It was nice and quite had a couple of very relaxing days. The bathrooms where always clean and plenty of activities to keep you busy if you wanted to be!

A

Alex

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Beautiful secluded site with incredible sunsets over the lake. The hill up to the site is very steep (to corroborate others), but the hosts provide a cart that makes carrying gear manageable. Once you’re up, it’s worth it: quiet, shaded mornings, breezes off the lake that keep bugs away, and plenty of privacy. The ground isn’t perfectly level, but fine for a small tent. Host was communicative, and the port-o-potty was very clean. Overall, a great stay — I’ll be back soon.

Catherine

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Don't attempt to stay here for one night. Stay for AT LEAST a week! It is a beautiful spot, so much attention to detail has been put into this place. A game room, a fitness path, a BEAUTIFUL beach! So much to do for everyone!

K

Krista

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

I camped for one night at Mindy’s hilltop camp site. It was so beautiful and peaceful and a great experience. If I hadn’t been on a road trip and needing to get back on the road, I would have loved to have gotten out on the lake. I saw Mindy coming back from kayaking and she was nice. It’s a bit of a work out going up the hill but it’s a short hill and I could bring everything up in two trips, and the view was worth it!

Toni

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Beautiful site, it is a trek to the top with gear but totally worth it!!!

View of Grasslands 3 Primitive Tent Camping Site

Z

Zackeriah

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Absolutely beautiful place and cant wait to return. Lagos is very friendly and charismatic with an easy going attitude. We maintain and highly recommend

A

Amanda

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Amazing resort! Owners are very friendly, kind, and accommodating. I was nervous booking the renting locations as photos looks like it’s far away and very primitive. However, they are in such a great location. Close to activities and the beach. Dog friendly was a plus for us and the amenities the resort had. I love how it has something for everyone- hikinf, natural gym, gaming room, bikes, water play. It’s all there! My son and I are looking forward to and already talking about our next camping trip back! Would HIGHLY recommend.

Paige

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

We ended up not being able to make it to the check in on time due to car issues. The hosts were great and were able to accommodate for us. We had a great sleep on our road trip out west from PA!

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Ryan

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Owners were very helpful and responsive, made it great experience for my 5yo son and I’s first camping trip together. The beach area was absolutely beautiful. Everything was as advertised. Nearby town of battle lake had everything we could ask for couldn’t recommend highly enough

View from Area 51 Electric Tent Camping Site

Tiffany

July 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Swan Lake Resort & Campground

We are driving cross country and last minute booked a stay for one night - extremely accommodating for our late arrival. Wish we could have stayed longer - so many activities and everything was clean and in great shape. Thanks for hosting us! 🫶🏻

R

Richard

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Swan Lake Resort & Campground

We loved the campsite very much it was lots of activities for the family. The host were very friendly and nice they answered all of our questions and made us feel very welcome. The site was very clean and family friendly the sites were very beautiful. My family loved it so much we are going planning on visiting the site again soon. Highly recommended spot

I

Isabelle

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake

Mindy and her husband were so kind and created a fun and clean environment to camp on. Also, the site had a beautiful view. Definitely recommending this place to future campers and plan to camp here again in future.

C

Chase

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Amy and her husband were amazing! They have such a peaceful property. From the time we arrived to the time we departed, we felt that we were treated as family. Beautiful people and property! Appreciate the time we spent with you.