The best lakeside camping near Fort Ripley

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Fort Ripley delivers lake camping with over 550 spots set on the water—think quiet mornings, loons calling, and plenty of room to cast a line. Expect average nightly prices around $75, but you can snag a site for just $25 if you keep an eye out. Top picks? Wise Woods on Fool Lake (50 reviews) sits right on the shoreline for easy fishing and paddling. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent (23 reviews) offers a sturdy setup and quick access to swimming. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat (23 reviews) is known for wide-open water views and a peaceful vibe. Showers, toilets, and campfires are standard at most sites, so you won’t be roughing it too hard. In winter, snow sports take over, while summer brings out swimmers and anglers. If you want a lakefront spot with real Minnesota flavour, Fort Ripley has you covered.

91% (183)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Hamlet Lake Homestead

1. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

94%
(32)
31mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Deerwood, MN
The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. 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 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. Guests can 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 
$69
 / night
Wise Woods on Fool Lake

2. Wise Woods on Fool Lake

99%
(76)
33mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV · MN
Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/m... Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Mi... Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.co... Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf... Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com... Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/loc... North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.bus... Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.co... is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profi... Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-cal... Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.c... Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4Hil...
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

3. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
44mi from Fort Ripley · 71 sites · RVs, Lodging · Backus, MN
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
woodland seating circle

6. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

41mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent · Wadena, MN
Green Island is an unexpected pine forest located actually inside a small town in northcentral Minnesota. The camping area is incredibly private and surrounds a small pond. It is primitive with minimal amenities beyond an outhouse and hand pump for water. Accessibility is only for tenting or truly tiny camper vehicles. The campground is a huge semi-shaded space for up to 20 tents, still, we prefer 1 or 2 at a time. However, larger group retreats are possible. We are serious environmentalists and we offer this opportunity just for true nature lovers as singles or couples, who totally take care of themselves, leave absolutely no trace, and are solid environmental stewards. In other words, its no place for a party. Separate from the campground there are: apple orchards, outdoor sculptures, wildlife, a meditation kuti, and perfect spaces for forest therapy. Yet almost unbelieveably, you can walk to a Pizza Hut or Walmart in 5 minutes. This is an excellent staging point for outdoors people en route to Itasca State Park, The Lost Fourty, and the state and national forests of the north.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$10
 / night
R&R Mille Lacs

15. R&R Mille Lacs

98%
(22)
28mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV · Garrison, MN
Learn more about this land:      R&R Mille Lacs offers a private channel lake lot on beautiful Mille Lacs! The site will have a pull through driveway with 2 RV spots with electricity and water on a gravel pad. The gravel drive through is big enough for 1 more RV but there are no hookups. $60 per RV per night. (So if your group brings 3 RVs it totals to $180.00 per night. Tents are also allowed.  There is one dump station as you pull out.      The site also has a private dock to put your boat or other water toys on. With just a short boat ride through the channel you can be out fishing on the mighty Mille Lacs in minutes. There are no waves to worry about in the channel so just tying up to the dock is nice and easy. With the calm waters it is a great place to use your kayak or paddle board, or just some fishing off the dock. There will be a four person paddle boat available for guests, you must bring your own lifejackets for any water activities.  There are also atv or mountain bike trails just feet away from the site. There is a fire pit on site with free split firewood.      We are located 5 minutes south of Garrison, and 5 minutes north of Grand Casino Mille Lacs, and right across the road from Northwood Hills golf course with Charlie’s Bar & Grill.       To launch your boat there are public water accesses to the north and south.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$60
 / night
Enjoy a fire by the shore of Littel Rabbit lake

17. Crosby-Rabbit River Retreat

92%
(6)
26mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV · Riverton, MN
Come enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities that Crosby Mn and the Cuyuna Recreation area have to offer while enjoying your own private, wooded RV campsite with electric and wifi! We have a single RV gravel camping spot that includes electric 50/30/120. Spot is level for 24 foot Rvs but can fit up to 31 with some leveling. Private spot offers a view of the Rabbit River and a quiet bay of Littel Rabbit lake. There is access to Littel Rabbit Lake and the Mississippi river for kayakers via the river channel, water level permitting. Camping spot offers a private view, private seating area and use of fire ring to enjoy the peaceful quiet woods, water and wildlife around the property shoreline. Property is a short ride from the Cuyuna State bike trail, Sagamore Unit recreation area, Mahnomen unit, MRT trail system, mine lakes with excellent swimming, site is a 6 mile ride to Crosby and the Portsmouth unit area. Crow Wing Portage trail a 1/2 mile walk up the road. Crosby's restaurant, brewery and shops are 10 minutes away, Brainerd is 15 minutes approximately for even more entertainment and shopping opportunities. Please note this is an adults only site. This is a great option for a couple or single camper looking for a quiet, private RV camping spot to enjoy easy access to the area trails and mine lakes.
Electrical Hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Doesn’t get much better than Cuyuna in the summertime!

19. Nature’s Playground Basecamp

88%
(4)
30mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crosby, MN
Welcome to our slice of paradise in the heart of Cuyuna Country Recreation Area! Situated on a tranquil 4-acre private lot, our camp offers a serene escape surrounded by the beauty of nature. Nestled on the shores of an environmental lake, you'll be treated to the sights and sounds of local wildlife, including majestic loons, ducks, geese, and various fish species. Feel free to explore the waters with our complimentary canoe and paddle boat, perfect for leisurely paddles or fishing excursions. Conveniently located just 1.25 miles from the Portsmouth Trailhead, outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves at the gateway to endless adventure. Take the paved trail to Ironton for a scenic bike ride, or venture onto the singletrack trails leading to the Rally Center for an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking experience. ATV and OHM trails are also nearby, offering additional opportunities for exploration. County owned public boat ramp down the road. After a day of outdoor fun, unwind at your campsite and hang your hammock by the lake. As the sun sets, gather around the fire pit with the lake as your backdrop, and marvel at the starry skies above. With peaceful nights and breathtaking views, our campground is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and create cherished memories with loved ones. Come join us for a relaxing getaway where adventure awaits at every turn!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$64
 / night

Fort Ripley delivers lake camping with over 550 spots set on the water—think quiet mornings, loons calling, and plenty of room to cast a line. Expect average nightly prices around $75, but you can snag a site for just $25 if you keep an eye out. Top picks? Wise Woods on Fool Lake (50 reviews) sits right on the shoreline for easy fishing and paddling. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent (23 reviews) offers a sturdy setup and quick access to swimming. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat (23 reviews) is known for wide-open water views and a peaceful vibe. Showers, toilets, and campfires are standard at most sites, so you won’t be roughing it too hard. In winter, snow sports take over, while summer brings out swimmers and anglers. If you want a lakefront spot with real Minnesota flavour, Fort Ripley has you covered.

91% (183)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Hamlet Lake Homestead

1. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

94%
(32)
31mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Deerwood, MN
The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. 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 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. Guests can 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 
$69
 / night
Wise Woods on Fool Lake

2. Wise Woods on Fool Lake

99%
(76)
33mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV · MN
Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/m... Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Mi... Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.co... Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf... Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com... Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/loc... North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.bus... Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.co... is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profi... Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-cal... Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.c... Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4Hil...
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

3. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
44mi from Fort Ripley · 71 sites · RVs, Lodging · Backus, MN
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
woodland seating circle

6. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

41mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent · Wadena, MN
Green Island is an unexpected pine forest located actually inside a small town in northcentral Minnesota. The camping area is incredibly private and surrounds a small pond. It is primitive with minimal amenities beyond an outhouse and hand pump for water. Accessibility is only for tenting or truly tiny camper vehicles. The campground is a huge semi-shaded space for up to 20 tents, still, we prefer 1 or 2 at a time. However, larger group retreats are possible. We are serious environmentalists and we offer this opportunity just for true nature lovers as singles or couples, who totally take care of themselves, leave absolutely no trace, and are solid environmental stewards. In other words, its no place for a party. Separate from the campground there are: apple orchards, outdoor sculptures, wildlife, a meditation kuti, and perfect spaces for forest therapy. Yet almost unbelieveably, you can walk to a Pizza Hut or Walmart in 5 minutes. This is an excellent staging point for outdoors people en route to Itasca State Park, The Lost Fourty, and the state and national forests of the north.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$10
 / night
R&R Mille Lacs

15. R&R Mille Lacs

98%
(22)
28mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV · Garrison, MN
Learn more about this land:      R&R Mille Lacs offers a private channel lake lot on beautiful Mille Lacs! The site will have a pull through driveway with 2 RV spots with electricity and water on a gravel pad. The gravel drive through is big enough for 1 more RV but there are no hookups. $60 per RV per night. (So if your group brings 3 RVs it totals to $180.00 per night. Tents are also allowed.  There is one dump station as you pull out.      The site also has a private dock to put your boat or other water toys on. With just a short boat ride through the channel you can be out fishing on the mighty Mille Lacs in minutes. There are no waves to worry about in the channel so just tying up to the dock is nice and easy. With the calm waters it is a great place to use your kayak or paddle board, or just some fishing off the dock. There will be a four person paddle boat available for guests, you must bring your own lifejackets for any water activities.  There are also atv or mountain bike trails just feet away from the site. There is a fire pit on site with free split firewood.      We are located 5 minutes south of Garrison, and 5 minutes north of Grand Casino Mille Lacs, and right across the road from Northwood Hills golf course with Charlie’s Bar & Grill.       To launch your boat there are public water accesses to the north and south.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$60
 / night
Enjoy a fire by the shore of Littel Rabbit lake

17. Crosby-Rabbit River Retreat

92%
(6)
26mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV · Riverton, MN
Come enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities that Crosby Mn and the Cuyuna Recreation area have to offer while enjoying your own private, wooded RV campsite with electric and wifi! We have a single RV gravel camping spot that includes electric 50/30/120. Spot is level for 24 foot Rvs but can fit up to 31 with some leveling. Private spot offers a view of the Rabbit River and a quiet bay of Littel Rabbit lake. There is access to Littel Rabbit Lake and the Mississippi river for kayakers via the river channel, water level permitting. Camping spot offers a private view, private seating area and use of fire ring to enjoy the peaceful quiet woods, water and wildlife around the property shoreline. Property is a short ride from the Cuyuna State bike trail, Sagamore Unit recreation area, Mahnomen unit, MRT trail system, mine lakes with excellent swimming, site is a 6 mile ride to Crosby and the Portsmouth unit area. Crow Wing Portage trail a 1/2 mile walk up the road. Crosby's restaurant, brewery and shops are 10 minutes away, Brainerd is 15 minutes approximately for even more entertainment and shopping opportunities. Please note this is an adults only site. This is a great option for a couple or single camper looking for a quiet, private RV camping spot to enjoy easy access to the area trails and mine lakes.
Electrical Hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Doesn’t get much better than Cuyuna in the summertime!

19. Nature’s Playground Basecamp

88%
(4)
30mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crosby, MN
Welcome to our slice of paradise in the heart of Cuyuna Country Recreation Area! Situated on a tranquil 4-acre private lot, our camp offers a serene escape surrounded by the beauty of nature. Nestled on the shores of an environmental lake, you'll be treated to the sights and sounds of local wildlife, including majestic loons, ducks, geese, and various fish species. Feel free to explore the waters with our complimentary canoe and paddle boat, perfect for leisurely paddles or fishing excursions. Conveniently located just 1.25 miles from the Portsmouth Trailhead, outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves at the gateway to endless adventure. Take the paved trail to Ironton for a scenic bike ride, or venture onto the singletrack trails leading to the Rally Center for an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking experience. ATV and OHM trails are also nearby, offering additional opportunities for exploration. County owned public boat ramp down the road. After a day of outdoor fun, unwind at your campsite and hang your hammock by the lake. As the sun sets, gather around the fire pit with the lake as your backdrop, and marvel at the starry skies above. With peaceful nights and breathtaking views, our campground is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and create cherished memories with loved ones. Come join us for a relaxing getaway where adventure awaits at every turn!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$64
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Fort Ripley

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field