99% (257) • 32 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Kettle River
Balsam Ridge Retreat
1. Balsam Ridge Retreat
100%
(977)
43mi from Kettle River · 9 sites · Lodging
Hello friends! Yes, we are open!!
Thanks for your interest in Balsam Ridge Retreat! As you may know, we've been on pause for several months taking care of my aging mom. She is still with us but we're going to open up for the beautiful winter months!
Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'.
We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth.
It was once an abandoned house that sat for years, until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale.
We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here!
Just down the road is a trout stream and just beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood
for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired it's horses and closed it's doors to make room for new homes,
but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun.
This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$69
/ night
Crooked Creek Retreat
2. Crooked Creek Retreat
100%
(22)
36mi from Kettle River · 3 sites · Lodging
Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness.
Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another.
We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people.
A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland).
The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight!
The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$70
/ night
Homestead Hideaway
3. Homestead Hideaway
96%
(13)
23mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled on 32 scenic acres, our farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature and experience farm life. Wander trails that weave through woodlands, cozy up by the campfire, or settle into our rustic barn, complete with a hayloft and three-stall stable. Meet our friendly animals—a couple of horses, goats, a curious barn cat, a lovable dog, and a flock of chickens—all eager for friendly handling and interaction.
Throughout the seasons, enjoy fresh produce straight from our gardens. Summer brings an abundance of fruits and veggies, perfect for farm-to-table meals. In autumn, explore our apple orchard with trees ripe for picking. And in spring, witness the traditional process of maple syruping, a sweet highlight of farm life.
Whether you’re exploring the grounds, visiting with animals, or savoring the harvest, our farm offers an immersive escape to nature's rhythm, making each season a unique experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Fish Lake Getaway
4. Fish Lake Getaway
94%
(33)
21mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:
There is a fire pit and firewood, access to a basicly private lake. 14’ aluminum boat and a canoe is available There is no place to put your own boat in. There is an outhouse and a shed with many yard games. There is a park model camper available to use with no hook ups other than gas stove. Theirs is a twin bed, a queen bed and a couch. The max for the site would be 8 people and that’s only if a few sleep in tents.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
East Lake Ranch
5. East Lake Ranch
96%
(57)
40mi from Kettle River · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our land is very special with positive energy vibes.
If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies flutter about in the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax.
Learn more about this land:
We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak which you drive right up to!
Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in this site.
Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Campfire ring in this site.
From Meadow and OAK, you have easy access [5-minute walk] to the outhouse called the "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers. Bring your container sto fill up. Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. Do NOT peel the birch bark from live trees! You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up.
You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals. We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank and Randy", five sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, and Princess Mary Margaret just to name a few! We have 9 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods. We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land. The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch. Great first time experience for kids.
Learn about our protected shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$39
/ night
Loon Hollow-The Cedar Grove & Cabin
6. Loon Hollow-The Cedar Grove & Cabin
100%
(6)
44mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Single campsite and tiny cabin nestled in the woods on a 15 acre private property adjacent to Rice Lake. Listen to the loons call on summer evenings, enjoy a campfire, and relax!
There are 3 acres of private, rustic trails to explore as well as a small flock of chickens you are welcome to feed/visit if interested.
The property location is an easy 5 min drive to a popular restaurant, the boat launch on Rice Lake, and a Quick Trip; and just 15 mins to central Duluth and myriad hiking and biking trails. Let our beloved property be the basecamp for all your North Shore adventures.
Parking is provided for 1 vehicle. No trailers (sorry). Check-in is an easy self serve process for your convenience. (Please note the parking and outhouse is near the owner's residence.)
Additional notes to consider: During certain times of the year, particularly fall, it is also possible to hear occasional hunting from other large properties around the lake, but be assured there is no hunting on our property or our direct neighbors and you are located securely in the center of our 15.5 acres.
To clarify location: We are located in Rice Lake, MN, a suburb of Duluth (with a Duluth address). :) Also, the bugs can be a challenge in summer so bring protection. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$23
/ night
Spirits of the Forest
7. Spirits of the Forest
100%
(66)
43mi from Kettle River · 13 sites · Lodging
How we ended up in Knife Lake Township on 81 acres of forested land.
We began looking for land in late fall of 1996.
After several months of searching, we happened upon a tiny newspaper ad for 81 acres of land described as "Beautiful, secluded, mature hardwoods, tall pines w/creek & beaver pond, many gd bldg sites & great hunting". We toured the property, covered in almost two feet of snow, on a snowmobile in January 1997 and fell in love with it.
We have been stewards of this piece of land for 25 years and are still enamored of its beauty and diversity. We are lulled to sleep by the sounds of owls and bullfrogs and the distant yipping of coyotes. Spring through fall we are often awakened by the rattling, honking of sandhill cranes and a wide variety of bird songs. Besides deer and lots of small critters, we've seen bear, bobcat, rafters of turkeys, quail, grouse, pheasant, owls, hawks and eagles. The sky, on a clear night, is breathtaking.
We have always visualized sharing the land with others, so come and immerse yourself in this bountiful space.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$60
/ night
Medicine Creek Farm
8. Medicine Creek Farm
100%
(106)
18mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Lodging
At Medicine Creek Farm, we raise grass fed beef and lamb and pastured pork and eggs. We direct-market our food to customers in the Twin Cities and Duluth, primarily through our website. We have been moved and inspired by soil health and what we've learned of regenerative agriculture's ability to heal the land. Hannah manages the daily farm operations, taking care of the animals and moving fences and flocks through the pastures to improve the soil. Meanwhile Jason has been hard at work building our farm infrastructure including our house, shed, remodeled camper trailer, and rebuilding an 1880s timber frame barn where we host our farm stay.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Gabeshiwin Tipi Village
9. Gabeshiwin Tipi Village
100%
(18)
32mi from Kettle River · 9 sites · Lodging
Gabeshiwin Tipis village is the result of a vision given to Minwewebenis (Kevin) as he gazed over the woods and fields of his land. His desire is to share the experience of living in a tipi like his ancestors did decades ago on the Great Plains. The tipis are situated in an intimate village erected around a central pond.
Toilets
Potable water
from
$64
/ night
Sears Farm of Minnesota
10. Sears Farm of Minnesota
100%
(5)
22mi from Kettle River · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our 40-acre Central Minnesota farm, where we're on a mission to restore and revitalize this historic property to its former glory. Our efforts have preserved the majestic barn, farmhouse, and more, offering guests a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
As a guest at our HipCamp area, you'll have access to the serene surroundings, including small trails through the thicket and woods, and picturesque views of the wetlands. Plus, with Banning State Park just 5 minutes away, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring.
Whether you're seeking a private retreat or prefer shared spaces, our accommodations feature nice fire pits, with wood typically stocked nearby for your convenience. And for those looking to experience local nightlife, there are several wonderful bars, restaurants, and entertainment options within a 15-minute drive.
For adventure seekers, rafting is available in nearby Sandstone, just 10 minutes away, while rock climbing can be enjoyed at Banning State Park and other nearby parks.
In 2025, we'll be hosting special events in our beautiful 1950s cattle barn, adding even more charm and character to our property. As we embark on this exciting journey, we welcome your advice and suggestions to make your stay truly memorable.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
99% (257) • 32 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Kettle River
Balsam Ridge Retreat
1. Balsam Ridge Retreat
100%
(977)
43mi from Kettle River · 9 sites · Lodging
Hello friends! Yes, we are open!!
Thanks for your interest in Balsam Ridge Retreat! As you may know, we've been on pause for several months taking care of my aging mom. She is still with us but we're going to open up for the beautiful winter months!
Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'.
We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth.
It was once an abandoned house that sat for years, until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale.
We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here!
Just down the road is a trout stream and just beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood
for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired it's horses and closed it's doors to make room for new homes,
but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun.
This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$69
/ night
Crooked Creek Retreat
2. Crooked Creek Retreat
100%
(22)
36mi from Kettle River · 3 sites · Lodging
Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness.
Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another.
We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people.
A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland).
The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight!
The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$70
/ night
Homestead Hideaway
3. Homestead Hideaway
96%
(13)
23mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled on 32 scenic acres, our farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature and experience farm life. Wander trails that weave through woodlands, cozy up by the campfire, or settle into our rustic barn, complete with a hayloft and three-stall stable. Meet our friendly animals—a couple of horses, goats, a curious barn cat, a lovable dog, and a flock of chickens—all eager for friendly handling and interaction.
Throughout the seasons, enjoy fresh produce straight from our gardens. Summer brings an abundance of fruits and veggies, perfect for farm-to-table meals. In autumn, explore our apple orchard with trees ripe for picking. And in spring, witness the traditional process of maple syruping, a sweet highlight of farm life.
Whether you’re exploring the grounds, visiting with animals, or savoring the harvest, our farm offers an immersive escape to nature's rhythm, making each season a unique experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Fish Lake Getaway
4. Fish Lake Getaway
94%
(33)
21mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:
There is a fire pit and firewood, access to a basicly private lake. 14’ aluminum boat and a canoe is available There is no place to put your own boat in. There is an outhouse and a shed with many yard games. There is a park model camper available to use with no hook ups other than gas stove. Theirs is a twin bed, a queen bed and a couch. The max for the site would be 8 people and that’s only if a few sleep in tents.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
East Lake Ranch
5. East Lake Ranch
96%
(57)
40mi from Kettle River · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our land is very special with positive energy vibes.
If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies flutter about in the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax.
Learn more about this land:
We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak which you drive right up to!
Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in this site.
Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Campfire ring in this site.
From Meadow and OAK, you have easy access [5-minute walk] to the outhouse called the "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers. Bring your container sto fill up. Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. Do NOT peel the birch bark from live trees! You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up.
You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals. We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank and Randy", five sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, and Princess Mary Margaret just to name a few! We have 9 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods. We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land. The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch. Great first time experience for kids.
Learn about our protected shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$39
/ night
Loon Hollow-The Cedar Grove & Cabin
6. Loon Hollow-The Cedar Grove & Cabin
100%
(6)
44mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Single campsite and tiny cabin nestled in the woods on a 15 acre private property adjacent to Rice Lake. Listen to the loons call on summer evenings, enjoy a campfire, and relax!
There are 3 acres of private, rustic trails to explore as well as a small flock of chickens you are welcome to feed/visit if interested.
The property location is an easy 5 min drive to a popular restaurant, the boat launch on Rice Lake, and a Quick Trip; and just 15 mins to central Duluth and myriad hiking and biking trails. Let our beloved property be the basecamp for all your North Shore adventures.
Parking is provided for 1 vehicle. No trailers (sorry). Check-in is an easy self serve process for your convenience. (Please note the parking and outhouse is near the owner's residence.)
Additional notes to consider: During certain times of the year, particularly fall, it is also possible to hear occasional hunting from other large properties around the lake, but be assured there is no hunting on our property or our direct neighbors and you are located securely in the center of our 15.5 acres.
To clarify location: We are located in Rice Lake, MN, a suburb of Duluth (with a Duluth address). :) Also, the bugs can be a challenge in summer so bring protection. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$23
/ night
Spirits of the Forest
7. Spirits of the Forest
100%
(66)
43mi from Kettle River · 13 sites · Lodging
How we ended up in Knife Lake Township on 81 acres of forested land.
We began looking for land in late fall of 1996.
After several months of searching, we happened upon a tiny newspaper ad for 81 acres of land described as "Beautiful, secluded, mature hardwoods, tall pines w/creek & beaver pond, many gd bldg sites & great hunting". We toured the property, covered in almost two feet of snow, on a snowmobile in January 1997 and fell in love with it.
We have been stewards of this piece of land for 25 years and are still enamored of its beauty and diversity. We are lulled to sleep by the sounds of owls and bullfrogs and the distant yipping of coyotes. Spring through fall we are often awakened by the rattling, honking of sandhill cranes and a wide variety of bird songs. Besides deer and lots of small critters, we've seen bear, bobcat, rafters of turkeys, quail, grouse, pheasant, owls, hawks and eagles. The sky, on a clear night, is breathtaking.
We have always visualized sharing the land with others, so come and immerse yourself in this bountiful space.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$60
/ night
Medicine Creek Farm
8. Medicine Creek Farm
100%
(106)
18mi from Kettle River · 2 sites · Lodging
At Medicine Creek Farm, we raise grass fed beef and lamb and pastured pork and eggs. We direct-market our food to customers in the Twin Cities and Duluth, primarily through our website. We have been moved and inspired by soil health and what we've learned of regenerative agriculture's ability to heal the land. Hannah manages the daily farm operations, taking care of the animals and moving fences and flocks through the pastures to improve the soil. Meanwhile Jason has been hard at work building our farm infrastructure including our house, shed, remodeled camper trailer, and rebuilding an 1880s timber frame barn where we host our farm stay.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Gabeshiwin Tipi Village
9. Gabeshiwin Tipi Village
100%
(18)
32mi from Kettle River · 9 sites · Lodging
Gabeshiwin Tipis village is the result of a vision given to Minwewebenis (Kevin) as he gazed over the woods and fields of his land. His desire is to share the experience of living in a tipi like his ancestors did decades ago on the Great Plains. The tipis are situated in an intimate village erected around a central pond.
Toilets
Potable water
from
$64
/ night
Sears Farm of Minnesota
10. Sears Farm of Minnesota
100%
(5)
22mi from Kettle River · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our 40-acre Central Minnesota farm, where we're on a mission to restore and revitalize this historic property to its former glory. Our efforts have preserved the majestic barn, farmhouse, and more, offering guests a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
As a guest at our HipCamp area, you'll have access to the serene surroundings, including small trails through the thicket and woods, and picturesque views of the wetlands. Plus, with Banning State Park just 5 minutes away, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring.
Whether you're seeking a private retreat or prefer shared spaces, our accommodations feature nice fire pits, with wood typically stocked nearby for your convenience. And for those looking to experience local nightlife, there are several wonderful bars, restaurants, and entertainment options within a 15-minute drive.
For adventure seekers, rafting is available in nearby Sandstone, just 10 minutes away, while rock climbing can be enjoyed at Banning State Park and other nearby parks.
In 2025, we'll be hosting special events in our beautiful 1950s cattle barn, adding even more charm and character to our property. As we embark on this exciting journey, we welcome your advice and suggestions to make your stay truly memorable.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Emily
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
Amazing stay as always. Can’t wait to come back in January. Perfect hosts, perfect location, and perfect stuga. We love this place!!
See more
M
Mirtha
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
My stay was amazing. I love Duluth and wanted to go to Bentleyville and it was a short drive from that plus down town duluth and canal park. Amazing location. It is a wooded area away from the city and people and very quiet. There is beautiful lights lighting the pathways thru out the entire area. Kris and Linda were the nicest hosts I have met, they gave us a lovely tour of all of the sites showed us where everything was and told us to just text if they needed anything. They were both so so nice, welcoming and bubbly. Just the kind of people I like to be around. We had a stove, fridge and heaters to keep us warm as it was really cold but we slept like babies nice and warm with plenty of extra blankets provided by Kris and Linda. They even have a awesome community tent with many chairs and a piano and guitar. They have compost outhouses close by each site and they were easy to use and worked great. They also provided water. It was very magical and peaceful there. I can’t wait to visit again. The entire stay was calm, relaxed and magical during the night time with all of the lights. The swings there are also an absolute blast. If you are considering coming here. I encourage you to go for it. They are wondering hosts and I don’t have a single complaint. Everything was perfect. - Kristian and Mirtha.
See more
J
Jason
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
Unfortunately, I had a dear friend take a turn for the worse at Mayo and he is no longer with us. But my interactions with Linda via Hipcamp chat was wonderful. Linda is a great, pleaseant, understanding, and compassionate person. I truly believe had I been able to make my stay that she would have made sure that it was a wonderful one. I will have to rebook in the near future.
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M
Marta
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
Linda made our winter camping experience magical and enjoyable. The basics like the furniture and chopped wood were solid, and the string lights around the property add something special to winter nights. I really enjoyed meeting Linda and staying at her site.
See more
Anaiah
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Retreat
Crooked Creek was a perfect oasis away from the city. We really enjoyed the cozy vibes of the cabin, and the walking paths for us to enjoy. We were even provided orange beanies for hunting season, which we greatly appreciated as we went on our hikes! Naomi did a great job of making us feel comfortable and at home, and we would absolutely return.
See moreJ
Jonah
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
My wife and I came up for the weekend and stayed in the roost. It was a lovely rustic cabin that kept it's warm during the cold nights. The property was a nice to walk through the trails. The trails are lit at night for comfort. The host were welcoming and wonderful to us during our stay. We tried out the swing and that was a delight. Overall great experience.
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B
Baron
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
Linda and Chris are two of the most welcoming and caring people. They take the time to make sure your stay is as enjoyable as it possibly could be. From little things like clearly lit trails at night to a very warm cabin to wake up refreshed in. We will definitely come again.
See morej
josh
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
This place is amazing and has so much charm. I have been here twice and it keeps getting better. The host are wonderful people and great to meet. This is a magical place and I would recommend to anyone.
See more
J
Jennifer
October 2025
With kids
It was seriously one of the best experiences ever. The owners were so kind and went above and beyond to let our two boys interact with the animals. Camping was their birthday present and they said it was the best trip they ever had. The animals were so fun, and hiking is super close by. We definitely want to return.
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Rowe
October 2025
Tent
With kids
We didn't want to leave. I took my six year old son camping there. We were both a bit sad when it was time to go home. It was quiet and peaceful. We laid in the hammock watching the stars late into the night. We picked a couple apples from their apple trees. We explored the trails. We pet the horses and rabbits. We got some fresh eggs from the barn. We loved the old rustic barn. My son and I both enjoyed the privacy of being the only tent campers there. A tent is waiting for you, but you can use your own tent if you want. A fire ring has an adjustable cooking grate that you can use. Some cut logs surround the fire pit that you can sit on. Plenty of firewood available stacked close to the fire pit. It was a time I will cherish and never forget. The owners were welcoming and friendly. I'm so glad that Jay Cooke campground was sold out and didn't have any spots available. I am new to Hipcamp and can't wait to explore more cool places they offer.
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A
Austin
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
This was one of the most magical places to stay and we hope to be back again and again. The hosts Linda and Chris are the key holders for the magic that this place holds. Meeting you upon arrival and making sure you know the ins and outs of the place and any little tricks that may come in handy along the way, truly some of the best hosts out there. One of our favorite things about Danny’s tent was using the little wood stove to warm up the place and cook on top of. I’ve never stayed in a tent so cozy it made you never want to leave. The whole experience in itself will leave you wanting more , from booking a weekend to dreaming of booking a week even in the cold months. Thank you Linda and Chris for having us and we hope to see you again!
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Kay
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
This was my second stay at Balsam Ridge, however the first time at the Listening Point. We initially planned on staying at a different site until we were contact by Linda, the site host, and informed that this quaint little "canned ham" camper was available to use if we want to move to that instead as it might be a little warmer. We agreed to switch, and are sure glad we did! Linda went above and beyond to make sure every thing was absolutely perfect for us upon arrival. There was literally everything we could possibly need as if we pulled the camper in and parked it ourselves. Shy of our own personal necessities, the only thing we "really" had to bring was blankets, pillows & food...everything was provided in the camper! We really hit the jackpot with this stay! (Actually the jackpot is name of the super clean outhouse that is less that 20 feet away) but we really did feel spoiled with this stay! **One thing to note - if you happen to stay when the temperatures start getting below freezing.. You'll still be plenty warm inside, but you will need to bring water with you for cooking\drinking\dishes**
No matter what season you choose to stay, you'll not be disappointed! There are plenty of things to do both in the camper and on site. When you arrive Chris & Linda will give you a tour through the campground to show you around and help you bring your things to your site if you want\need help and are always available if you ever need anything. I promise you'll be a happy camper!
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Paula
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
It's like you are in the forest, yet you are a stones throw away from town! The quiet and friendly atmosphere the Hosts provide is top notch! Listening Point is on top of the hill and close enough to the Jackpot for those midnight runs. That canned ham is small but big enough for the two adults to get around and get things done. The thoughtful way Linda had the camper decorated blew my mind. She had throw pillows on one bed that a family member cross stitched and likey took a good while to finish. They were beautiful. Just take a walk and look at all the lil details that have been lovingly put into all the spaces at the Retreat. Let me know if you find the tortoise shell, it will make me 😃
Would I recommend this camping retreat to friends and family? I sure would! You have to experience Balsam Ridge Retreat at least once in your lifetime. As long as they remain open my friend Kay and I will be there every year.
I miss them already. Thank you again for the relaxation.
P.H.
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Abby and Brittany
October 2025
With kids
Fantastic place! Linda and Chris are incredibly kind and hospitable!
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Alejandro
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
my fiance and I had a great stay and the tent was very comfy!
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Anthony
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
5 stars every time. I take an annual trip here and have taken this trip for the last 3 years. You will never not be comfortable or feel like you’re at home. Chris and Linda give an excellent warm welcome to all guests that arrive and keep the same warm and caring attitude throughout the whole stay. Also if you’re having any problems they handle it very quickly with patience and a smile. If you’re thinking about staying here or thinking about camping in Duluth. I promise you with my whole heart this is the place to go!!
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Rae
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
Linda and Chris are such lovely and welcoming hosts; from check-in to check-out they were warm and hospitable.
The canvas tent with wood stove was fantastic to sleep in and held the heat from the stove very well, and the property itself is fantastic and a delight to walk along.
I look forward to booking here again sometime!
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Claire
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat
Super cozy and remote! Loved sharing tight quarters in the fall with my favorite person :)
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Laurie
October 2025
With kids
This was our first time at Balsam Ridge Retreat, but hopefully not the last! It felt very secluded and private, while also super accessible to Duluth. Linda and Chris were excellent hosts, ready with the golf cart to give us a tour and help carry our luggage. They have put a lot of thought into all the various offerings (like the fire pits, lounge by the pond, carpet pool, christmas-lighted trails, bird feeders outside our window), and it's clear they care deeply about making sure their guests enjoy themselves. We felt very comfortable in the Stuga, especially with the help of the heaters. And our ten-year-old loved the "dreamer" and the "screamer," two different swings that live up to their names, one offering a calm swing and the other, an exhilarating soar through the air. We're looking forward to coming back when there's some snow!
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Erin
October 2025
Tent
Loved camping at the Cedar Grove! It was a beautiful location with a small view of the lake from the camp site. It was surprisingly private without having to walk too far from the parking spot. I really appreciated the cart that was available to bring supplies to and from the camp site. Also the outhouse was the nicest one I've ever used. Would definitely camp here again!
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