The best beach camping near Fort Ripley

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Looking to go camping near Fort Ripley, Minnesota? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 210 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, Hipcamp has got you covered. Looking for reviews? Check out some of the top campsites like The Jubilee Homestead (76 reviews), The Camps at the Vineyard (66 reviews), and Rusty Star Ranch Riverview (48 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly sites, and toilets. And with activities like swimming, whitewater paddling, and paddling available, there's never a dull moment. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors at Hipcamp!

96% (116) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Ripley

Wise Lake Association

1. Wise Lake Association

91%
(11)
17mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site
RV lot with beach and lake access 100 feet away. Wise lake is a beautiful clean and clear lake_. Located in the heart of brainerd just minutes away from everything Brainerd has to offer. Fishing doc, swim raft and nice sandy beach to spend those warm summer days. Picnic table and room to put your own fire pit on the lot.
Full hookups
from 
$34
 / night
Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

2. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%
(35)
25mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site
Private campsite on the quaint Hay Lake, near Crosby/Ironton, MN! Within minutes of the Cuyuna State Recreation Area and all it has to offer. This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a 13 foot bell tent with a queen size air mattress and two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent comfortably accommodates 2-3 adults, or a family with up to three small children. Enjoy fishing and boating on Hay Lake off your private dock. Canoe and two kayaks available for your use on the site. There are some lifejackets available for your use, but feel free to bring your own fishing and boating gear.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$99
 / night
The Hamlet Lake Homestead

3. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

94%
(32)
31mi from Fort Ripley · 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
from 
$90
 / night
Pillsbury State Forest

4. Pillsbury State Forest

100%
(1)
State forest 18mi from Fort Ripley · 123 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

5. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

100%
(5)
State park 31mi from Fort Ripley · 63 sites
Discover Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

6. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

99%
(61)
42mi from Fort Ripley · 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
from 
$50
 / night
TriBirches Resort And Campground

7. TriBirches Resort And Campground

100%
(10)
50mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites
Set along a quiet Minnesota lakeshore, our family-owned resort blends classic Up North cabin stays with light agrotourism and wide-open space to explore. Guests can choose from cozy cabins, tent sites, or RV sites, then spend their days swimming and fishing from the dock, paddling the lake with complimentary kayaks and pedal boats, or renting a boat for a longer adventure. Wander the grounds, gather around evening campfires, and visit the working barn, where chickens, sheep, and goats are part of daily life—an authentic farm presence that adds charm without feeling like a petting zoo. When you’re ready to mix in some play, enjoy our game room, indoor golf simulator, or a friendly match on the outdoor giant chess board. Mornings start slow with coffee and birdsong, days unfold with water time and wandering, and nights end under star-filled skies—perfect for travelers seeking nature, comfort, and a genuine rural experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

8. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
44mi from Fort Ripley · 35 sites · RVs, Lodging
Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Crosby Memorial Park Campground

9. Crosby Memorial Park Campground

29mi from Fort Ripley
Experience the unique charm of camping along the stunning shores of Serpent Lake, where nature and adventure come together. Just two blocks from the main street, our campground offers easy access to a fantastic playground and a skateboard park, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The area has transformed since the closure of the mines, which are now filled with crystal-clear waters, while the surrounding hills are adorned with lush poplar and spruce trees. Over half of our city is nestled within the expansive 5,000-acre Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, a haven for outdoor activities. Here, you can explore more than 24 miles of pristine natural shoreline, enjoy seven miles of paved bike trails, and tackle nearly 25 miles of world-class mountain biking routes certified by IMBA. Whether you're looking to swim, bike, or simply relax in nature, our campground provides the perfect base for your adventures. With nearby restaurants and shops, you’ll find everything you need to make your stay enjoyable and memorable.
Birch Lakes State Forest

10. Birch Lakes State Forest

State forest 34mi from Fort Ripley · 30 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Crow Wing State Forest

11. Crow Wing State Forest

State forest 31mi from Fort Ripley · 31 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park

12. Father Hennepin State Park

90%
(5)
State park 41mi from Fort Ripley · 109 sites
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Carlos State Park

13. Lake Carlos State Park

100%
(3)
State park 49mi from Fort Ripley · 129 sites
Discover Lake Carlos State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sinclair Lewis Campground

14. Sinclair Lewis Campground

100%
(1)
41mi from Fort Ripley
The Sinclair Lewis Campground stands out as a unique recreational haven, nestled on 27.2 acres of picturesque land just a stone's throw from downtown Sauk Centre. Located on the Northwest side of the community, this campground is situated east of Hickman Drive along the serene South shore of Sauk Lake. With Sinclair Lewis Park bordering the campground to the east, visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The campground operates seasonally from May 1st to October 1st, weather permitting, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring a total of 80 campsites, the Sinclair Lewis Campground offers a variety of options to suit different needs. Among these, 52 sites come equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity, while 24 sites provide water and electricity only. For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are also 4 primitive sites available. Each campsite is designed with a fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground is well-equipped with essential amenities, including three sets of restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and a storm shelter. Additional facilities include a dump station, a fish cleaning house, and kayak rentals, providing easy access to Sauk Lake for fishing and paddling.

Looking to go camping near Fort Ripley, Minnesota? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 210 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, Hipcamp has got you covered. Looking for reviews? Check out some of the top campsites like The Jubilee Homestead (76 reviews), The Camps at the Vineyard (66 reviews), and Rusty Star Ranch Riverview (48 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly sites, and toilets. And with activities like swimming, whitewater paddling, and paddling available, there's never a dull moment. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors at Hipcamp!

96% (116) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Ripley

Wise Lake Association

1. Wise Lake Association

91%
(11)
17mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site
RV lot with beach and lake access 100 feet away. Wise lake is a beautiful clean and clear lake_. Located in the heart of brainerd just minutes away from everything Brainerd has to offer. Fishing doc, swim raft and nice sandy beach to spend those warm summer days. Picnic table and room to put your own fire pit on the lot.
Full hookups
from 
$34
 / night
Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

2. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%
(35)
25mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site
Private campsite on the quaint Hay Lake, near Crosby/Ironton, MN! Within minutes of the Cuyuna State Recreation Area and all it has to offer. This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a 13 foot bell tent with a queen size air mattress and two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent comfortably accommodates 2-3 adults, or a family with up to three small children. Enjoy fishing and boating on Hay Lake off your private dock. Canoe and two kayaks available for your use on the site. There are some lifejackets available for your use, but feel free to bring your own fishing and boating gear.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$99
 / night
The Hamlet Lake Homestead

3. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

94%
(32)
31mi from Fort Ripley · 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
from 
$90
 / night
Pillsbury State Forest

4. Pillsbury State Forest

100%
(1)
State forest 18mi from Fort Ripley · 123 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

5. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

100%
(5)
State park 31mi from Fort Ripley · 63 sites
Discover Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

6. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

99%
(61)
42mi from Fort Ripley · 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
from 
$50
 / night
TriBirches Resort And Campground

7. TriBirches Resort And Campground

100%
(10)
50mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites
Set along a quiet Minnesota lakeshore, our family-owned resort blends classic Up North cabin stays with light agrotourism and wide-open space to explore. Guests can choose from cozy cabins, tent sites, or RV sites, then spend their days swimming and fishing from the dock, paddling the lake with complimentary kayaks and pedal boats, or renting a boat for a longer adventure. Wander the grounds, gather around evening campfires, and visit the working barn, where chickens, sheep, and goats are part of daily life—an authentic farm presence that adds charm without feeling like a petting zoo. When you’re ready to mix in some play, enjoy our game room, indoor golf simulator, or a friendly match on the outdoor giant chess board. Mornings start slow with coffee and birdsong, days unfold with water time and wandering, and nights end under star-filled skies—perfect for travelers seeking nature, comfort, and a genuine rural experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

8. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
44mi from Fort Ripley · 35 sites · RVs, Lodging
Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Crosby Memorial Park Campground

9. Crosby Memorial Park Campground

29mi from Fort Ripley
Experience the unique charm of camping along the stunning shores of Serpent Lake, where nature and adventure come together. Just two blocks from the main street, our campground offers easy access to a fantastic playground and a skateboard park, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The area has transformed since the closure of the mines, which are now filled with crystal-clear waters, while the surrounding hills are adorned with lush poplar and spruce trees. Over half of our city is nestled within the expansive 5,000-acre Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, a haven for outdoor activities. Here, you can explore more than 24 miles of pristine natural shoreline, enjoy seven miles of paved bike trails, and tackle nearly 25 miles of world-class mountain biking routes certified by IMBA. Whether you're looking to swim, bike, or simply relax in nature, our campground provides the perfect base for your adventures. With nearby restaurants and shops, you’ll find everything you need to make your stay enjoyable and memorable.
Birch Lakes State Forest

10. Birch Lakes State Forest

State forest 34mi from Fort Ripley · 30 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Crow Wing State Forest

11. Crow Wing State Forest

State forest 31mi from Fort Ripley · 31 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park

12. Father Hennepin State Park

90%
(5)
State park 41mi from Fort Ripley · 109 sites
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Carlos State Park

13. Lake Carlos State Park

100%
(3)
State park 49mi from Fort Ripley · 129 sites
Discover Lake Carlos State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sinclair Lewis Campground

14. Sinclair Lewis Campground

100%
(1)
41mi from Fort Ripley
The Sinclair Lewis Campground stands out as a unique recreational haven, nestled on 27.2 acres of picturesque land just a stone's throw from downtown Sauk Centre. Located on the Northwest side of the community, this campground is situated east of Hickman Drive along the serene South shore of Sauk Lake. With Sinclair Lewis Park bordering the campground to the east, visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The campground operates seasonally from May 1st to October 1st, weather permitting, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring a total of 80 campsites, the Sinclair Lewis Campground offers a variety of options to suit different needs. Among these, 52 sites come equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity, while 24 sites provide water and electricity only. For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are also 4 primitive sites available. Each campsite is designed with a fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground is well-equipped with essential amenities, including three sets of restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and a storm shelter. Additional facilities include a dump station, a fish cleaning house, and kayak rentals, providing easy access to Sauk Lake for fishing and paddling.

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