The best forest campgrounds near Ellsworth, Minnesota

Looking to go camping near Ellsworth, Minnesota? With over 108 available options, Hipcamp has got you covered. Whether you're looking for a cozy campsite, a rustic cabin, or a unique camping experience, Hipcamp has it all. Get the scoop on the top campsites in the area, like Uncle B's Produce Farm (451 reviews), Solace Farm (321 reviews), and Camping on private lake (83 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly sites, and trash disposal. And if you're in the mood for some adventure, indulge in activities like horseback riding, exploring historic sites, or off-roading (OHV). With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $10, camping near Ellsworth, Minnesota has never been easier.

99% (76)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Ellsworth, Minnesota? With over 108 available options, Hipcamp has got you covered. Whether you're looking for a cozy campsite, a rustic cabin, or a unique camping experience, Hipcamp has it all. Get the scoop on the top campsites in the area, like Uncle B's Produce Farm (451 reviews), Solace Farm (321 reviews), and Camping on private lake (83 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly sites, and trash disposal. And if you're in the mood for some adventure, indulge in activities like horseback riding, exploring historic sites, or off-roading (OHV). With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $10, camping near Ellsworth, Minnesota has never been easier.

99% (76)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Downhome Country Farm

100%

(19)

42mi from Ellsworth · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lennox, SD

Downhome Country Farm is 10 acres of woods and prairie with a large garden, chickens, wild turkeys, guinea fowl, mules, horses, a dog, and bee hives in the pasture. We have two restored vintage campers that sleep 4 people and multiple tent sites. The bathroom and solar shower are shared by all guests. There are 2 sites for self-contained RV's with 20A electric available and water at some sites. 2 tent sites are available until the hay season (August) then the pasture is wide open tent camping. Horse boarding and camping available too. Each site can request individual fire rings. We have an outdoor community area that has a large fire pit, covered shelter and a woodfired pizza oven that will be in use on some weekends and by request. Local and national touring musicians are known to provide pop up private concerts some weekends and impromptu jam sessions. On occasion, we have outdoor movies and morning yoga along with great activities in the surrounding community too. Or just hang out in the hammocks and soak in that downhome country feeling. Come and enjoy the great outdoors on our farm!

2. Lutheran Lakeside Camp

98%

(21)

47mi from Ellsworth · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Spirit Lake, IA

Our mission is to be a place of belonging for all people to find joy and purpose in God's creation. We have a beautiful property with lots of activities and amenities to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. All the income we receive through campers and guests goes towards Camp for ALL Kids, where we allow foster children to attend camp at no cost. Learn more about this land:Park your RV and enjoy WiFi, endless activities onsite as well as peace and serenity while only being a few miles from the Okoboji excitement. Back in, hook up to 30 or 50 amp, Dump Station, short walk or drive to the waterfront. All guests get a picnic table and fire ring. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, basketball, sand volleyball, gaga ball, human foosball, 9 square, soccer filed, playground, and open fields.

3. The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%

(42)

39mi from Ellsworth · 1 site · Tent · Baltic, SD

The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge is located on 21 acres along the Big Sioux River, a place of quiet and natural beauty intended to foster social interaction and creative pursuits between artists and community in SE South Dakota, 10 miles north of Sioux Falls. Property updates at The Retreat happen constantly; we get better and better! The 100′ x 40′ main hall is perfect for larger workshops, concerts, poetry readings, small theatrical productions, classes, and other social gatherings and rentals in April through November. The A-Frame is a unique space for recitals, presentations, meetings, or a sleeping space for up to 6 people. There is a Woodworking Shop; Artist Studio; screened-in outdoor patio; playground; huge bonfire pit; and room to camp or explore. The Retreat is a space to work in quiet solitude or to collaborate on creative projects with others. The setting is inspiring; possibilities for your stay are endless. Learn more about this land: This site is a sandy spot along the Big Sioux River on a ridge well above the water line. View out over the river to a farm on the opposite bank. Spend your time with wild turkeys, geese, and an occasional deer. Site is on the far edge of an artist retreat, but still private. Spend time hiking the river bank or gravel country roads, fish in the river, take part in any Retreat activities if available, photography opportunities, enjoy an evening campfire under the stars.

4. Blue Mounds State Park

100%

(7)

88 sites · Luverne, Minnesota

Discover quartzite cliffs, bison herds, and wildflower-blanketed prairies.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Newton Hills State Park

67%

(4)

139 sites · Fairview, South Dakota

Discover the serene beauty of Newton Hills State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Painted Prairie Vineyard

45mi from Ellsworth · 2 sites · Lodging · Currie, MN

Nestled in the rolling prairies of southwest Minnesota, Painted Prairie offers a serene escape surrounded by scenic farmland and vineyard views. Just minutes from Lake Shetek State Park and the historic home of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the property is ideally located for exploring natural beauty, history, and charming local attractions. Guests can enjoy peaceful strolls through the vines, romantic sunsets, and easy access to nearby state parks, shopping, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or a destination filled with discovery, Painted Prairie is a place worth visiting.

7. Secluded and Serene Tentground

100%

(6)

27mi from Ellsworth · 1 site · Tent · Garretson, SD

Welcome! If you’re looking for a quiet place to tent camp, look no further. We have tent camping available on 2 acres of land equipped with your own fire pit, surrounded by beautiful trees. We are a half mile walk from hiking at Palisades State Park and a two mile drive to 3 other parks. No restrooms onsite.

8. Tower Campground

38mi from Ellsworth · 153 sites · Soux Falls, SD

Tower Campground stands out as the only year-round urban campground in Sioux Falls, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking convenience and accessibility to local attractions. Situated just minutes away from the city's major points of interest, our campground offers an ideal base for exploring the vibrant surroundings. With over 120 available sites, we cater to a variety of camping preferences, from cozy tent spots to accommodations for larger RVs. Our rates are flexible, offering daily, weekly, and monthly options to suit your stay. Each site is equipped with essential amenities, including water, electricity, cable TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. In addition to our well-maintained sites, Tower Campground features convenient on-site facilities such as showers and laundry services. We are also pet-friendly, welcoming your furry companions to join in on the adventure. Whether you're looking to relax or explore the great outdoors, Tower Campground is the perfect choice for your Sioux Falls getaway.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

9. Lake Shetek State Park

100%

(3)

87 sites · The Lakes, Minnesota

Discover Lake Shetek's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

10. Gull Point State Park

112 sites · Wahpeton, Iowa

Discover the Serene Beauty of Gull Point State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

11. Kilen Woods State Park

37 sites · Lakefield, Minnesota

Discover Kilen Woods State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Ellsworth

100%

(7)

Blue Mounds Campground

16mi from Ellsworth · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Blue Mounds State Park

67%

(4)

Newton Hills Campground

35mi from Ellsworth · 139 sites · Tents, RVs · in Newton Hills State Park

We stayed here over Halloween weekend and had the whole campground to ourselves . While other Minnesotan's were preparing for hibernation , we were building tarp cities in the parks 😂

100%

(1)

Oak Woods Campground

43mi from Ellsworth · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shetek State Park

If you love a good rocky beach in Minnesota , Lake Shetek State Park is the place to go .

100%

(1)

Sunrise Campground

43mi from Ellsworth · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shetek State Park

The rocky sandbar leads you to Loon Island. Watch for deer !

100%

(1)

Prairie Campground

44mi from Ellsworth · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Shetek State Park

Gull Point Campground

44mi from Ellsworth · 112 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gull Point State Park

Kilen Woods State Park Campground

50mi from Ellsworth · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kilen Woods State Park

Stories from the community

Sydney

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Downhome Country Farm

Carole had beautiful and comfy spots for tent camping. She a had a beautiful property and her animals were pretty great. Carole herself was exceptional and went put of her way to ensure my entire family had a great time. Id highly recommend staying here and getting some fresh eggs!

G

Georgi

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

Highly recommend this retreat! Deb was a kind, generous host who accommodated our late arrival and immediately made us feel welcome. The property is secluded and feels very safe and peaceful. I would definitely stay here again!

D

Darin

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Secluded and Serene Tentground

Second time we've stayed here and was great. Would highly recommend!

S

Steve

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Downhome Country Farm

The property and sites are beautiful and the farm animals were a plus and no bother at all. A very pleasant and restful stay and the hosts could not have been more helpful. The cowboy shower was a first for me! Brisk but awesome, nonetheless. I would stay here again and would recommend it to anyone.

our view from our campsite, cute horses would walk right up to the fence!

M

Maggie

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Downhome Country Farm

We loved staying the night here! It was an unexpected find but it was the most magical stay! The campground was clean, fun, and lively. The farm animals were so cute and a nice touch to the land. Carole and her husband were so kind showing us around their property and made us feel right at home. The bathroom was very clean and the cowboy shower was so fun to use! 100% would recommend and 100% will be back!! Thank you Carole!

D

Darin

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Secluded and Serene Tentground

Was wonderful and secluded. Quiet area to rest and watch the stars in peace! The host was gracious and welcoming.

Tristan

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

Deb has a wonderful piece of property and is an incredible host! So peaceful and by the river. We were tent camping and bad weather rolled in so she offered that we could take shelter in the retreat’s big hall if needed. We decided to leave very early in the morning to avoid it instead, and only had one night. We are looking forward to being able to stay again some time and get to relax and enjoy the property a bit more and appreciate Deb’s hospitality!

T

Tawnya

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

Great stay, great facilities, would love to go back.

M

Michele

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Downhome Country Farm

We loved staying at Carole’s, beautiful property- little farm. Carole, and her husband are very welcoming and Super nice. We would definitely stay there again if we’re in the area.

J

John

May 2025

Tent

1 night at The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

A great experience. The river view is wonderful. Deb is a gracious host. If I’m that way again I will definitely stay again.