98% (273) • 17 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Ripley
Wise Lake Association
1. Wise Lake Association
91%
(11)
17mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV
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
The Camps at the Vineyards
2. The Camps at the Vineyards
97%
(339)
45mi from Fort Ripley · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a 10-acre part of a larger 110-acre property. This section is reserved for tents, camping vans, and small trailers 20' or less. The river is great for small children to wade and swim in during the summer. During spring, the water is up higher for kayaks and canoes.
Your hosts live at 1010 205th Ave. It is just a vineyard for now. the winery we hope will be built in 2025.
Pets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Wise Woods on Fool Lake
3. Wise Woods on Fool Lake
99%
(76)
33mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
4. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
41mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent
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
Winding Woods on Pine River
5. Winding Woods on Pine River
97%
(18)
32mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land.
Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom.
Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet!
Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you.
Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area!
**Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.**
Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html 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/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake & Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ 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.com/ 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/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, Minnesota. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Welle's Campsite
6. Welle's Campsite
100%
(22)
9mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
40 acres of peaceful hunting land with a mixture of woods, swamp, hay fields, and a permanent campsite established in the corner. Plenty of room for parking and multiple campers/tents. Campsite is well maintained and has 30 amp hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and an outhouse to use.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Oak Park Nature Nook
7. Oak Park Nature Nook
100%
(8)
41mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Set on 36 acres we have a campsite back away from the house so you can have your own private area to camp! We have several maintained trails for walking or biking. Two small ponds on the property, one of which usually has turtles and the other brings in ducks, geese, deer and other wildlife. Eagles and cranes are often seen flying overhead. We do have a few hobby farm animals on the property that would love a visit from you if you request it for your stay. We are now offering our out house to our guests if needed, shown in the picture gallery. The outhouse is located closer to the resident's property, and you will have to go into our gated duck area to get to it. Milaca is about 10 miles away with great parks, biking trails, splash pad, Rum River and Frisbee golf. Foley is about 7 miles away and has a great family pool for summertime and nice parks. We are also about 25 minutes from St. Cloud if you want to venture further!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
98% (273) • 17 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Ripley
Wise Lake Association
1. Wise Lake Association
91%
(11)
17mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV
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
The Camps at the Vineyards
2. The Camps at the Vineyards
97%
(339)
45mi from Fort Ripley · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a 10-acre part of a larger 110-acre property. This section is reserved for tents, camping vans, and small trailers 20' or less. The river is great for small children to wade and swim in during the summer. During spring, the water is up higher for kayaks and canoes.
Your hosts live at 1010 205th Ave. It is just a vineyard for now. the winery we hope will be built in 2025.
Pets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Wise Woods on Fool Lake
3. Wise Woods on Fool Lake
99%
(76)
33mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
4. AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND
41mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent
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
Winding Woods on Pine River
5. Winding Woods on Pine River
97%
(18)
32mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land.
Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom.
Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet!
Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you.
Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area!
**Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.**
Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html 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/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake & Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ 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.com/ 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/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, Minnesota. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Welle's Campsite
6. Welle's Campsite
100%
(22)
9mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
40 acres of peaceful hunting land with a mixture of woods, swamp, hay fields, and a permanent campsite established in the corner. Plenty of room for parking and multiple campers/tents. Campsite is well maintained and has 30 amp hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and an outhouse to use.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Oak Park Nature Nook
7. Oak Park Nature Nook
100%
(8)
41mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Set on 36 acres we have a campsite back away from the house so you can have your own private area to camp! We have several maintained trails for walking or biking. Two small ponds on the property, one of which usually has turtles and the other brings in ducks, geese, deer and other wildlife. Eagles and cranes are often seen flying overhead. We do have a few hobby farm animals on the property that would love a visit from you if you request it for your stay. We are now offering our out house to our guests if needed, shown in the picture gallery. The outhouse is located closer to the resident's property, and you will have to go into our gated duck area to get to it. Milaca is about 10 miles away with great parks, biking trails, splash pad, Rum River and Frisbee golf. Foley is about 7 miles away and has a great family pool for summertime and nice parks. We are also about 25 minutes from St. Cloud if you want to venture further!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Evan
November 2025
Tent
Nice quiet spot. I stayed at site 9 and it was visible from the road, but that probably wouldn’t be the case in the spring and summer. I came specifically to see the northern lights because it was the closest area to the Twin Cities with low light pollution, and it was perfect for that. Fairly tucked away with a big open field down the trail.
See more
D
Damian
October 2025
Tent
Clean and quiet, beautiful ambience with the birds and the creek.
See more
D
Danny
October 2025
Tent
A great spot on the side of Fool Lake, where you can enjoy the weather and sit on a dock.
See more
D
Dylan
October 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Great site, sadly could only stay one day but highly recommend! Quiet / private site ! The dogs loved the space to play ball! The electric was a great plus!! 10/10 recommend !
See moreA
Andrew
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
This spot was perfect for our group of 4. Really pretty view and we had a lot of fun paddling around the lake. Jackie was a wonderful, responsive host.
See moreC
Cheryl
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very serene and rustic sites. A great place to go and unplug! Nice area for walks in the woods and not seeing others. The camp host is very helpful when needed.
See more
C
Cheryl
September 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
It was a very private rustic campsite. Carl's a very good host and will help out with whatever you need. The campground is right next to the Rum River State Forest with lots of hiking and trails to explore. The night skies are fantastic! I was able to have my dogs off leash, they loved exploring and taking a little dip in the river!
See more
Samuel
September 2025
Tent
With pets
The 40 was an awesome little property to get away for the night! Great host, easy to find, well maintained and great for truck camping. 👍🏻
See moreK
Kristen
September 2025
20 ft campervan
With kids
Jackie was very responsive. The outhouse was a nice luxury. Great view of Fools Lake. Would recommend!
See more
becky
September 2025
Tent
Tent camping next to the lake with the trees starting to turn in late September is beyond words.
See more
G
Gloria
September 2025
Tent
The site was private and groomed. There is no cell service but the host was available up the road. Carl, his wife and his daughter stopped by our site and were very welcoming and enjoyable. It was a wonderful visit and I plan to return and check out the mini cabin he has😁
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Dagmar
September 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is indeed a camping spot to be proud of!
Obviously much thought went into to creating this amazing spot. A nicely decorated and maintained huge space, evergreens planted for even more privacy, generous DRY wood supply, super clean outhouse with light, table with bench and electricity.
The hayfields were mowed and our dog sure enjoyed running over it. There is even a path through the woods.
One of our favorite hipcamps, we would love to return.
See moreC
Clara
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great communication and beautiful site! I was surprised to see my cell service did not work for the last few hundred feet of the drive but that concern was completely quelled by the beautiful river a few yards from my campsite. I am absolutely going to come back here.
See moreM
Mindy
September 2025
32 ft Class C
With pets
It was absolutely the most perfect, peaceful, and stunning camping spot! Will be back again soon! Thank you for letting us have a little piece of your heaven for a weekend!
See moreA
Amanda
September 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
This was an amazing camping spot. There was a slight hill down to the water but nothing unmanageable. Dock, swing, picnic table, paddle boat, canoe, all great features. There is a hose with water if needed, which was very convenient. Lake is very quiet and relaxing. Would stay again and recommend to anyone!
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R
Robert
September 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Was easy to back into site. Easy water, sewer and electric hook up. Nice , helpful neighbors. Great beach.
See moreM
Meghan
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Lovely place. Everything as expected, would stay again
See more
J
Janell
September 2025
Tent
With kids
As described, this was a scenic spot on the river. Nice grassy spots for tenting and sitting by the fire. Upgraded port-a-potty was a pleasant surprise. We had a small boat on a trailer but I wouldn’t haul in anything bigger.
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Becky
August 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Very responsive host! Lovely river view! Dogs loved this stay!
See moreK
Kareem
August 2025
Tent
Amazing stop on the trip! The vineyard was beautiful and the site was easy to find and had everything we needed. Can’t wait to get back.
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