98% (474) • 852 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Elbow Lake
Fire Tower Pond
1. Fire Tower Pond
100%
(26)
15mi from Elbow Lake · 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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Toilets
Tumbleweed Base Camp
2. Tumbleweed Base Camp
100%
(300)
25mi from Elbow Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This old homestead belonged to my belated brother Steve, and after he passed unexpectedly, we decided to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for those interested in sharing a peaceful and modest property.
The old barn is a work in progress to eventually become the base to accommodating more travelers and outdoor enthusiasts as finances permit.
My son Logan, after having worked in the service industry bartending for 14 years and hosting 100+ global travelers via CouchSurfing out in San Diego, is well-versed in creating an inviting space, enjoying the merits of hard work through the hospitality industry.
We look forward to meeting you and sharing/swapping stories around the campfire!
Learn more about this land:
Our property and profile are in constant change as we are in a stage of development, but we look to share our land with those seeking to enjoy a warm, welcome environment for those fellow wanderers, outdoor enthusiasts, vagabonds, and globetrotters. Logan is a well-traveled backpacker and together we share 5 1/2 acres here in a bustling little touristy town. We enjoy the company of those who endorse small footprint, sustainable practices and like to establish meaningful connections. All we ask is that you respect the property, our neighbors, and make an effort to add one more new friend before you depart.
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I Live in the Country
3. I Live in the Country
98%
(32)
27mi from Elbow Lake · 4 sites
This is home, a realization of a lifelong dream of living in the country.
The land is magical.
Our animals are our family.
Learn more about this land:
If you like privacy you'll love our 200 acre haven.
Come up the long driveway and experience the spacious view of the open hay field.
Camp in the open or tucked away in the trees. You choose the spot as long as it's not in the horse pasture, cow pasture when cows are in, or in the hay field when hay is long before it's cut. Hay field would be off limits roughly late June to Mid July during optimal growth time and cutting.
Note: This is a primitive camping experience. We offer no amenities, no toilets, no water.
We are a 20 minute drive from the North Entrance to Itasca State Park and the Headwaters of the Mississippi.
LaSalle Lake State Recreation Area is also just a few minutes down the road from us.
Also LaSalle Lake Recreation Area is only about six or seven miles down the road.
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Itasca State Park
4. Itasca State Park
100%
(15)
State park 16mi from Elbow Lake · 239 sites
Explore the wild headwaters of the Mississippi River at Minnesota’s oldest state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Two Inlets State Forest
5. Two Inlets State Forest
100%
(1)
State forest 16mi from Elbow Lake · 14 sites
Discover the natural charm of Two Inlets State Forest.
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Toilets
Campfires
Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
6. Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
100%
(52)
31mi from Elbow Lake · 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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Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
7. Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
100%
(27)
34mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site
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).
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Campfires
Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN
8. Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN
100%
(16)
35mi from Elbow Lake · 2 sites
Come enjoy a relaxing vacation in our two beautiful lakeside cabins! Each cabin can accommodate up to 4 people. Full descriptions of each cabin can be found on each listing.
Outside, enjoy a peaceful campfire in the fire pit, listen to the enchanting calls of loons, watch eagles and herons fishing, and relax while enjoying the vast variety of songbirds. At night, our dark skies let you see the Milky Way and countless stars and planets!
Full disclosure, there isn't a television or wifi, so just take a technology break and get back to nature or bring a good book. Your own data plan on your mobile device will likely get reception, but we can't guarantee it. If time and weather permits, we would even be happy to give you a pontoon ride.
Want to explore the area? Just a few miles away is the 49-mile multi-use Heartland Trail, where you can enjoy a quiet walk, run, or bike ride through a paved, wooded, level trail. Within ten miles are plentiful restaurants and stores in Park Rapids, Dorset, and Nevis. There are often music festivals throughout the summer, and several of the restaurants and bars host live music, some of which are played by Debbie, one of your two hosts! You can even take a 30-mile drive to Itasca State Park, home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where you can walk right across the headwaters!
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Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
9. Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
97%
(106)
37mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site
Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake.
- NOTE: This is now (2023) a single site with two (2) power stands.
Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV's in or pitch a tent and stay as long as you like. 8 miles south of Nevis in the Heartland Lakes area. Adjacent 8 acres of 'Common Use' woods and picnic area with dock for fishing. Or bring a canoe/Kayak to launch. 4th Crow is NOT a recreational lake, but great for fishing, waterfowl and wildlife spotting. Fire pit, picnic table and swing on site. 9 miles from Heartland Biking Trail and within 3 miles of OHV/Snowmobile trails access.
Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.
Electrical hookup
Pets
La Salle Lake State Recreation Area
10. La Salle Lake State Recreation Area
State park 23mi from Elbow Lake · 39 sites
Discover La Salle Lake State Recreation Area's natural splendor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Paul Bunyan State Forest
11. Paul Bunyan State Forest
100%
(2)
State forest 24mi from Elbow Lake · 46 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Paul Bunyan State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Huntersville State Forest
12. Huntersville State Forest
State forest 40mi from Elbow Lake · 78 sites
Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Bemidji State Park
13. Lake Bemidji State Park
100%
(1)
State park 43mi from Elbow Lake · 101 sites
Discover the natural charm of Lake Bemidji State Park.
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RV There Yet Campground
14. RV There Yet Campground
98%
(31)
42mi from Elbow Lake · 6 sites
The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site.
Pets
Strawberry Lake Cabin
15. Strawberry Lake Cabin
100%
(4)
9.6mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site
A Minnesotan summer is a quintessential American summer.
And on the banks of crystal-clear Strawberry Lake in the far Up North, our one-bedroom, one-bath Strawberry Lake Cabin will entice even the most digitally connected guests to step away and enjoy the great outdoors like kids on summer vacation!
Built by local craftsmen in 2013, our Strawberry Lake Cabin sits at the edge of Strawberry Lake, which is beautiful in all seasons but holds a special charm in summertime. The air is warm, the sun shines bright and clear, and the deep green foliage dapples the glassy lake. Enjoy all this lush scenery from the spacious deck under the trees at Strawberry Lake Cabin—from morning coffee to evening glass of wine.
Inside, an open common area, including a fully stocked and gleaming new kitchen, faces cathedral windows overlooking the deck, the woods, and the lake. These windows span the width of the house, all the way up to the lofted sleeping area, which is perched just at the tree line.
Experience the easy romance of tucking into nature together and shaking off the stresses of everyday life. From the loft bedroom, views of an unpolluted Minnesota sky full of stars will lull you into a deep sleep, and the green woods filled with birdsong will greet you first thing in the morning.
No matter who you’re traveling with, we highly recommend a canoe trip out on Strawberry Lake. We will provide a complimentary canoe for you! And the water here is calm and peaceful, with less motorboat traffic than on many of the lakes in this area. Not to mention the water clarity: spring-fed Strawberry Lake is so clear; the DNR’s 2022 lake survey measured water clarity at 21 feet!
In summer, the Tamarac Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located just three miles away, comes alive and is a spectacular place for a hike or cycling. When you return from your outdoor adventure, heat up the gas or charcoal grill and get your energy back with a perfectly cooked lakeside burger.
We have the option of a boat and motor to help you explore and fish Strawberry Lake. Available for rent is our 14 ft. fishing boat and 9.9 hp motor at a flat rate.
If you’d like to capture the essence of that “feeling of premium,” let us help you experience our version of paradise.
Don & Cheryl Aamodt, Owners
Toilets
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Campfires
Breathtaking Lake Sunsets And Lots
16. Breathtaking Lake Sunsets And Lots
15mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site
If you are looking for seclusion & privacy, you've found it! Listen to the call of the loons or watch the sunset/sunrise from the dock.
This space is perfect for campers that want the comfort of a cozy bed, warm shower & air
conditioning but are comfortable using an outhouse, as the camper is not hooked up to septic.
I include two kayaks, a canoe & a paddle boat to explore the lake!
This 5 acre piece of heaven on scenic Shell lake is conveniently located between Detroit Lakes & Park
Rapids.
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Toilets
Showers
The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails
17. The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails
100%
(2)
16mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to The Hippie Hideaway.
This is a place to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect. My hope is that during your stay you feel free, relaxed, and completely re-energized.
You’ll have a large, private open space for you and your family to enjoy time together—no crowds, no strangers, just nature and quiet. At night, you can take in the northern lights and enjoy incredible stargazing under wide open skies.
The property features about a mile of walking trails that wind through peaceful sloughs and into open prairie, where you’ll see a variety of wildlife, butterflies, and beautiful native plants.
Shell Lake and Island Lake are both just a few miles away, and Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is nearby as well. For adventure lovers, the Smokey Hills and Two Inlets four-wheeling trails are close, and Itasca State Park is about a 45-minute drive.
Our land offers several unique landscapes, making it a perfect setting for photos and quiet moments alike. You may also spot wildlife passing through the property, including deer, bear, otters, and raccoons.
We’re so happy to share this special place with you—welcome to your hideaway.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Toad Creek Camping
18. Toad Creek Camping
22mi from Elbow Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A century farm located in the heart of Minnesota lakes country. The property features a hobby farm, abundant wildlife, woods, fields, pastures, and ponds.
My great-grandfather homesteaded this land in 1893. Today my four children are the fifth generation of our family to grow up on the farm. We are happy to share it with you during your stay and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Conveniently located near area lakes and trails. About 20 miles from the nearest town, there is an Amish general store nearby to purchase supplies.
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Secluded Oakwood Haven
19. Secluded Oakwood Haven
100%
(1)
31mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site
🌲 YOUR PRIVATE FAMILY OASIS – 2026 SEASON OPEN! 🌲
Skip the crowded campgrounds. Secure this rare, secluded double-RV site near Detroit Lakes today! Perfect for families or friends who want to camp together without the neighbors.
📍 Prime Location: Minutes from Lake Sallie, Fox Lake, and just 4 miles to Soo Pass Ranch.
✅ The Setup: Full hookups for TWO campers (Water, Sewer, 2x 30-Amp).
✅ The Perks: Private storage shed + massive parking for your boat and toys.
✅ The Vibe: Total privacy next to a vacant home. It’s just you and the great outdoors.
Don’t wait—This property is also open for monthly or seasonal rental.
Pets
Full hookups
Timberlost at West Crooked
20. Timberlost at West Crooked
32mi from Elbow Lake · 1 site
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.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Arasu
4 days ago
Tent
With kids
Wonderful experience, we have been here before but this time we had the campground to ourselves. David is an amazing host and took good care of us. The kids especially loved it because David gave them a free rein and they hung out with him by the campfire trading stories. We will be visiting again in a month and we cannot wait!
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J
JoAnn
1 week ago
20 ft travel trailer
Nice and peaceful... big campsites. Primative sites.. does have a porta potty, dump station, portable water, picnic table, fire ring and firewood available. Sites are beautiful among the pines. Allen met us there and escorted us to our site. Very great communication! Would highly recommend. We stayed on site 104. Thanks Allen for providing a great place to camp.
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G
Grace
1 week ago
With pets
We really enjoyed our stay here and would return. We loved using the wood burning stove in the cabin, letting our dog roam free on the land, and being on the water. The cabin is rustic yet comfortable. It had everything we needed. We loved being close to the headwaters and getting to know Paul and his pup Piper.
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Denise
1 week ago
13 ft travel trailer
What a great place to just get lost in the woods! Im new to Scamp camping and Allen was so patient with me and my son. He took time to make sure we had everything we needed and checked on us while there a couple of times. Very helpful and kind. Great wooded area. Nice solar lit portal potties, picnic bench, tons of firewood and lots of quiet! Definitely stop if going by or want to get away. Level areas and big paths to drive down to the spots. Water, and dump if you want. Perfect. Thank you Allen! 😃
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Maggie
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful property and David is so welcoming and kind :)
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Saulius
April 2026
With pets
Paul's spot is absolutely beautiful. A thoughtful and spacious cabin right on the lake . Super comfortable bed , a wood stove, everything you need including a view. The lake is a wildlife viewing haven and you can see a ton of creatures if you take the time to walk around. The dock is a nice addition, and I went out and had ana maxing night of stargazing there. Played guitar by the fireplace, what more could you ask for . Oh wait, yeah Paul is rad. He has a ton of awesome stories and is living g his dream of being off grid. His pal Piper is an awesome pup as well. There is nothing g negative i can say. This place is a gem, as is the host.
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W
William
March 2026
19 ft Class B
With pets
Private, and in a beautiful part of MN….Good communication with the host.
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S
Samuel
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Excellent place to hangout or base camp while exploring the area. Not far from everything you need. Paul was great to work with and even gave us a ride when the drive was soft and muddy.
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S
SwagOnTheTrail
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Super quiet, cozy and secluded. What else can you ask for? I’ll definitely be coming back!
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John
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Quiet, cozy place. Perfect place to retreat to recharge.
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Sarah
January 2026
With pets
Really nice little gem of a cabin on a lake. Location made it feel secluded. Paul the owner was very kind and lives in the house near the cabin. Lots of fun for the dogs off leash on the trails and frozen lake. Saw northern lights and had cozy times by the wood stove. Definitely coming back.
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Chris
January 2026
With pets
We had a wonderful winter stay at Paul's cabin. We enjoyed the frozen lakes by snowshoe with our dog and reading by the fireplace in the evening. Paul and his dog Piper were both great. Paul gave us good directions on places to snowshoe over coffee, Piper got along great with our dog and she even came along for a hike. We hope to make it back in another season. It's a beautiful spot.
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Elliette
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
We came here for our honeymoon and had an incredible experience. Paul was extremely kind and welcoming, and he took the time to show us his beautiful property. The cabin is amazing and has everything you need to enjoy a few days of rest and relaxation. We felt very comfortable and at peace during our stay. We will definitely be back and highly recommend this place.
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M
Michael
November 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
The campground has really nice and private spots. Really enjoyed our stay!
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Nancy
October 2025
23 ft travel trailer
Beautiful spot with a huge barn you can relax in the game room, very unique! David and Logan were great hosts, enjoyed the visit, the Info and the apple crisp. Don't forget to go see the Dambo Trolls, 2 are very close.
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T
Tami
October 2025
29 ft Class C
Owner helped us into our site.
Felt safe.
Quiet area which is nice.
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Thomas S
October 2025
With pets
Paul has a really comfortable place, beautiful location on a quiet shallow small lake. There is a canoe, and many other entertainment opportunities are there onsite or nearby. it is a quiet spot, enough room for small family and pet to shar with Paul and his dog Piper as i did. i wish I had a few more days to enjoy, but i'll be back!
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Max
October 2025
15 ft travel trailer
Awesome property, and they’re super nice and really went above and beyond to make it a great stay, would highly recommend
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C
Curtis
October 2025
Tent
It felt very private as I placed my tent toward the back of the field. The star viewing was great!
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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.
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