The best campgrounds near Fort Ripley, Minnesota with wildlife watching

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!

94% (422)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Ripley

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!

94% (422)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Ripley

1. 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...

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.

3. Fish Trap Oasis

82%

(11)

11mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Tent, RV

Come relax and restore at a quiet lakeside camp spot on Fish Trap Lake! The property is perfect for any small group fishermen, campers or RVers who want private lake views. The property is next to a government nature preserve and located near various cabins. Fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and swimming can all be enjoyed on Fish Trap Lake. We are less than a mile from the boat launch on Lake Alexander which is great for fishing. A dock is also on the property for lake access.

4. Crow Wing State Park

100%

(1)

60 sites · Baxter, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park

100%

(2)

39 sites · Little Falls, Minnesota

Discover the natural charm of Charles A. Lindbergh State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. 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.

7. The Forest Container

86%

(37)

31mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Lodging

Tree house, tiny home, shipping container, luxury hotel - the Forest Container is a bit of each of these things. Set in a lush forest valley, this is an incredible and unique place to stay. The property is within the Cuyuna mountain bike area, between the Yawkey and the Cruser's Kettle trailheads. There is a fire ring as well as a great deck upon which you can camp or otherwise relax and enjoy the view of the forested valley. The container is heated and cooled, and the container has a luxurious warm tiled shower, sink, toilet (cassette style), power and of course, as pictured, a beautiful small bedroom and living room. Coffee machine and mini fridge included on the deck. 👍🏼

8. Sunset Pines MN

100%

(6)

44mi from Fort Ripley · 71 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

9. R&R Mille Lacs

98%

(22)

28mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV

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.

10. Pillsbury State Forest

100%

(1)

123 sites · East Gull Lake, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

100%

(5)

63 sites · Vineland, Minnesota

Discover Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Birch Lakes State Forest

30 sites · Grey Eagle, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. Father Hennepin State Park

90%

(5)

109 sites · Wahkon, Minnesota

Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

94%

(211)

33mi from Fort Ripley · 5 sites · Tents

21 acres of land with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. It's mostly undeveloped and a great place to get back into nature. Close to town and amenities, but far enough into the woods to feel like you're Up North. 200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar 5 miles to Yawkey Unit Mountain Bike trails 5 miles to downtown Crosby shopping and restaurants 5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center 5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton 6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead in Ironton 6 miles to Super One Foods in Crosby 10.1 miles to Sagamore Unite Mountain Bike Trails

15. 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!

16. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%

(35)

25mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Lodging

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. Coming Summer 2025, beautiful new White Duck canvas tent, in sunny yellow! We are also installing electric for your glamping convenience. This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a 13 foot bell tent with a queen size bed and two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent comfortably accommodates 2-3 adults, or a family with up to four 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.

17. Love Lake Hacienda & Camp

90%

(5)

19mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites · Tents

Turtle site offers a safe place to lay one's head Semi-secluded campsite with easy access. This is a cleared, raked, and mowed spot behind the shop in the woods on one acre of backland. Hand pump sand well and porta potty. There is a walking trail to the end of the road that leads you to the Sailing Club. Lots of wildlife and chirping birds. Bring your own drinking or cooking water and come with all you need. Leave nothing behind! Ideal for the minimalist. Love Lake Hacienda and Camp is located in a lake's community with larger lots. Close to several lakes, biking and hiking trails and much more. Turtle camp is just the beginning of a dream to offer more camping sites in the future. With sustainability and natural environment in mind.

18. St. Cloud Campground & RV Park

43mi from Fort Ripley · 349 sites

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where the beauty of central Minnesota meets a welcoming atmosphere perfect for all types of visitors. Whether you’re seeking a primitive camping adventure, a lively family retreat, or a gathering spot for your RV club, our site offers an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences. We take pride in providing a range of accommodations and amenities designed to enhance your stay, ensuring that both recreation and relaxation are at your fingertips. Enjoy spacious sites that offer privacy and comfort, allowing you to unwind in nature while still being close to essential facilities. Central Minnesota's allure is undeniable, making it a favored destination for friends, families, and clubs traveling from near and far. With nearby attractions such as stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, adding to the convenience and enjoyment of your visit. Come experience the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility at our campground!

19. Crosby Memorial Park Campground

29mi from Fort Ripley · 21 sites

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.

20. Lake Carlos State Park

100%

(3)

129 sites · Carlos, Minnesota

Discover Lake Carlos State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Camper favorites near Fort Ripley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

R&R Mille Lacs

98%

(22)

28mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · RV

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.

Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

94%

(211)

33mi from Fort Ripley · 5 sites · Tents

21 acres of land with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. It's mostly undeveloped and a great place to get back into nature. Close to town and amenities, but far enough into the woods to feel like you're Up North. 200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar 5 miles to Yawkey Unit Mountain Bike trails 5 miles to downtown Crosby shopping and restaurants 5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center 5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton 6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead in Ironton 6 miles to Super One Foods in Crosby 10.1 miles to Sagamore Unite Mountain Bike Trails

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!

Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%

(35)

25mi from Fort Ripley · 1 site · Lodging

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. Coming Summer 2025, beautiful new White Duck canvas tent, in sunny yellow! We are also installing electric for your glamping convenience. This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a 13 foot bell tent with a queen size bed and two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent comfortably accommodates 2-3 adults, or a family with up to four 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.

Love Lake Hacienda & Camp

90%

(5)

19mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites · Tents

Turtle site offers a safe place to lay one's head Semi-secluded campsite with easy access. This is a cleared, raked, and mowed spot behind the shop in the woods on one acre of backland. Hand pump sand well and porta potty. There is a walking trail to the end of the road that leads you to the Sailing Club. Lots of wildlife and chirping birds. Bring your own drinking or cooking water and come with all you need. Leave nothing behind! Ideal for the minimalist. Love Lake Hacienda and Camp is located in a lake's community with larger lots. Close to several lakes, biking and hiking trails and much more. Turtle camp is just the beginning of a dream to offer more camping sites in the future. With sustainability and natural environment in mind.

St. Cloud Campground & RV Park

43mi from Fort Ripley · 349 sites

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where the beauty of central Minnesota meets a welcoming atmosphere perfect for all types of visitors. Whether you’re seeking a primitive camping adventure, a lively family retreat, or a gathering spot for your RV club, our site offers an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences. We take pride in providing a range of accommodations and amenities designed to enhance your stay, ensuring that both recreation and relaxation are at your fingertips. Enjoy spacious sites that offer privacy and comfort, allowing you to unwind in nature while still being close to essential facilities. Central Minnesota's allure is undeniable, making it a favored destination for friends, families, and clubs traveling from near and far. With nearby attractions such as stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, adding to the convenience and enjoyment of your visit. Come experience the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility at our campground!

Crosby Memorial Park Campground

29mi from Fort Ripley · 21 sites

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.

Public campgrounds near Fort Ripley

100%

(1)

Crow Wing Campground

8.2mi from Fort Ripley · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · in Crow Wing State Park

100%

(2)

Lindbergh Campground

14mi from Fort Ripley · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Charles A. Lindbergh State Park

Walter E. Stark Assembly Area and Horse Campground

15mi from Fort Ripley · 75 sites · in Pillsbury State Forest

100%

(1)

Rock Lake Campground

19mi from Fort Ripley · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pillsbury State Forest

100%

(3)

Ogechie Campground

28mi from Fort Ripley · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

100%

(2)

Petaga Campground

29mi from Fort Ripley · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Rum River Group Camp

29mi from Fort Ripley · 2 sites · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Horse Campground

30mi from Fort Ripley · 10 sites · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Birch Lakes Campground

34mi from Fort Ripley · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Birch Lakes State Forest

100%

(1)

Maple Grove Campground

42mi from Fort Ripley · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Father Hennepin State Park

100%

(2)

Lakeview Campground

42mi from Fort Ripley · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · in Father Hennepin State Park

Group Camp

42mi from Fort Ripley · 6 sites · in Father Hennepin State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Evan

November 2025

Tent

1 night at The Camps at the Vineyards

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.

D

Damian

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Camps at the Vineyards

Clean and quiet, beautiful ambience with the birds and the creek.

D

Danny

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Wise Woods on Fool Lake

A great spot on the side of Fool Lake, where you can enjoy the weather and sit on a dock.

C

Cassidy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

Campsite 1 was an awesome camping spot on the River. The road to get there wasn’t bad at all. I was able to drive my fwd sedan down there easily.

J

Jordan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

We wanted to find somewhere last minute to camp and it was a really cool spot. Plenty of firewood, nice view of the river. We didn’t face any issues driving to the site, off roading but a clear path. The fire pit was awesome and our fire was still smoking when we woke up!

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wise Woods on Fool Lake

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.

C

Cheryl

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at The Camps at the Vineyards

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.

I

Isaac

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

What a fantastic spot! As the host recommends, definitely plan to walk. We drove out there in a very small AWD car and we got out and in in mostly one piece, but it is very tight. That said, site 3 is stunning. The stars were out and it was the perfect site to stargaze. We managed to get a couple walleye off of the bank in front of the camp. Definitely bring your rod and some heavy lures to get across the wide Mississippi if you like fishing. They are out there! -Tons of wood -good views -well kept -very dog friendly -no bugs (when we went)

A

Amanda

September 2025

With pets

3 nights at Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

This was a fabulous spot for a long weekend trip! The tent was super cozy and clean, and it included a nice air mattress with bedding, a mini fridge, and a coffee maker insider (there is electricity, which was super convenient when needed). The site itself had great amenities like a picnic table, canoe/kayaks/paddleboards to use off of the private dock, and hammocks that were already set up for use. Really lovely touches like solar lights lining the path from the parking area to the campsite/the path to the bathroom and a bin with wood for the firepit. There was some occasional noise in the early mornings from people unloading their boats at the public lake access nearby (a couple hundred feet away from the tent with woods in between, you can see the cars from the campsite through the trees), but not too bad. There was also hunting fairly close by one of the mornings we were there if that's something that you or any dogs you might camp with are bothered by and you're visiting during hunting season. Overall this was a super nice campsite, we would absolutely return and recommend it!

Gemma enjoying the view from the camper!

C

Cheryl

September 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at The Camps at the Vineyards

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!

K

Kristen

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wise Woods on Fool Lake

Jackie was very responsive. The outhouse was a nice luxury. Great view of Fools Lake. Would recommend!

becky

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Wise Woods on Fool Lake

Tent camping next to the lake with the trees starting to turn in late September is beyond words.

G

Gloria

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Camps at the Vineyards

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😁

C

Cay

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

My friends and I loved our experience at site #3. The view by the river was beautiful and the bugs weren't bad at all! The host was super easy to contact and quick to get back with any questions we had! Overall, it was the perfect weekend.

C

Clara

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Camps at the Vineyards

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.

K

Kasey

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

This camp was well-equipped and had all the essentials. It was located a short walk-in from the parking area. We enjoyed fishing from the private dock and using the kayaks and the canoe. The site was clean and comfortable. We did have rain off-and-on, and it was chilly at night; the thick tent did help us stay warm(er) and dry. We had beautiful views of the sky, and the sunsets were spectacular.

A

Amanda

September 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

4 nights at Wise Woods on Fool Lake

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!

M

Meghan

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Wise Woods on Fool Lake

Lovely place. Everything as expected, would stay again

M

Miguel

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

The site was secluded, which we love. Private and virtually quiet, with the occasional car in the far distance. The campsite was right by the river which is a great view early in the morning.