The best forest cabins near Lake Elmo

·
95% (449)

Top-rated campgrounds

Good Root Growers

2. Good Root Growers

100%
(145)
46mi from Lake Elmo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Prairie Farm, WI
Tucked in a valley 70 miles east of St. Paul, our sanctuary of rolling hills, hardwoods, pines, and birch groves offers a peaceful escape. Explore 30 acres of meandering trails through woods and meadows planted as Monarch habitat. Enjoy nights alive with owls, coyotes, frogs, and brilliant stars. This is a full sensory experience: birdsong at dawn, chickens foraging through the yard, deer in the fields, and turkeys in the trees. A true stargazer and birder’s delight. 🌿 Shared Spaces Greenhouse: Tomatoes, peppers, ginger, and flowers Gardens: flowers, vegetable, herbs and apple trees Deck/Pergola: 28' of cushioned, shaded seating area with Roku TV. Listen to music with friends, stretch out to read a book, share a card game or relax with a drink. Ask us about hosting your event! Farm Amenities: Stainless steel sink (hot/cold water),and countertops for cooking prep or washing up, potable water fill, beverage counter, and yard games. Custom fire pits, nesting tables and shade umbrellas. On-Farm Sales: Firewood, eggs, seasonal produce, ginger and plants. Forage: kindling, wild berries, mushrooms, and wildflowers bouquets Facilities: Two ultra-clean port-a-potties, plus garbage and recycling drop-offs ⛺ 6 Unique Campsites Meadow Camp East and West – 30-amp RV/tent sites with water, near the greenhouse Hill Camp – Flexible tent/RV shaded site with scenic overviews Sumac Camp – Spacious, group-friendly tent/RV site Pine Camp – Private walk-in tent site tucked into the woods Inga's Cabin (Est 1894 - a historic backdrop that adds character to your stay 🏡 Local Flavor Don’t let our quiet town fool you—the community brims with creativity and hospitality. Within a 15-minute walk you’ll find Amish bakeries and woodworking shops. Local highlights include farm-fresh meat butchers, cheese shops, herbal apothecaries, local honey and maple syrup, goat milk products, quilt shops, microbreweries, and lively town events with music and food. 💫 Why Stay With Us We’re grateful stewards of this land and love sharing its peace, beauty and abundance. Whether you’re here for stargazing, hiking, gathering with family, or simply unplugging—this is your place to pause and breathe.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
The campsite entrance is directly off of Hwy 63. There's no fire number, but the gated gravel driveway is 1/4 mile to the north of 320th Ave.  Our house is on 320th Ave, and the quarry has it's own entrance.

3. Twin Folk Farms

98%
(101)
30mi from Lake Elmo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hager City, WI
Previously a 100 acre century farm, this fertile land was tended to by generations of old time farmers. Their dairy cows pastured in areas which we now graze sheep.  The restored quarry provided gravel for the nearby highway restoration and local projects.The property is currently a mix of hay ground, cropland, pasture, forest, and quarry. Twin sisters, Darla and Kayla, and their families live across the road from each other and own the surrounding 140 acres. They keep busy planting/tending trees, making hay, moving fence for grazing animals, operating a farm business called Twin Folk Farms (pastured meat, camps, etc), and raising their families.Learn more about this land:- This site is at the edge of a restored quarry, sheep pasture, and wooded hillside.- The site is tucked down a flat mowed path, so it feels very private and protected. - You can hike up a path to the sheep pasture. Sometimes sheep are there, sometimes elsewhere on the farm. You can hike the other direction and check out the restored quarry. We have paths all around the property, so feel free to respectfully explore.- You can't see the highway from this site, but you can hear it. It's super handy to be able to hop out of your campsite haven and onto the hwy, but be aware that you will hear vehicles.- There's a Mississippi river boat launch a few miles down the road, so feel free to park your boat at the bottom of the quarry driveway.- The Hay Creek riding trails are 25 minutes away, so contact us if you want to set up a place in the quarry to park your horses and trailer for the night. - We are certified to sell meat straight off of the farm (Twin Folk Farms), so contact us if you want to purchase your meat and have it delivered to your campsite. You can also set up a time to come up to the farm and purchase meat. - The beautiful, historic town of Red Wing is 10 minutes from our farm. You'll find a mix of modern amenities and historic shops to suit your fancy.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Rustic Log Cabin with Stunning View

4. Rustic Log Cabin with Stunning View

100%
(3)
23mi from Lake Elmo · 1 site · Lodging · Ellsworth, WI
Rustic Log Cabin Getaway with Trails and Scenic Views Escape to this hand-built log cabin retreat — perfect for those who love the outdoors and a touch of old-fashioned living. The cabin features a cozy front porch, a wood stove for warmth, and charming seasonal touches to make you feel right at home. In the evenings, string lights and a fire pit set the stage for unforgettable nights under the stars with family or friends. You’ll also find plenty to explore right outside your door — walking paths, UTV trails, and sweeping scenic views that let you fully immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re up for a peaceful hike, a ride through the countryside, or simply soaking in the landscape, this cabin is the ideal base. Please note: this is a true rustic experience. The cabin does not have indoor plumbing — you’ll be using a clean, well-kept outhouse. If you’re a camper type who enjoys nature, simplicity, and unplugging, this is the perfect spot for you. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the porch in the morning sun, watching wildlife, or gathering around the fire at night, this cabin offers peace, connection, and a return to the basics.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Amish built cabin

5. Serenity Valley

91%
(11)
43mi from Lake Elmo · 1 site · Lodging · Plum City, WI
Come escape to 40 acres of peaceful Wisconsin wilderness—a true getaway from the noise and stress of city life. This is off-the-grid living at its finest. Nestled on this beautiful land is a charming 2015 Amish-built cabin that offers a cozy, rustic retreat surrounded by nature. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening sunsets on the wrap-around porch, where you’ll likely spot plentiful wildlife in their natural habitat. During the summer, the land bursts with wild raspberries and blackberries for you to pick and enjoy. Inside, you’ll find a warm and inviting space with a wood-burning stove, sitting area, and taxidermy décor that adds to the authentic rustic cabin atmosphere. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to six, with two double beds in the loft and one double bed on the main floor. Step outside to cook over the outdoor fire pit, or take a peaceful walk along several private hiking trails on the property. Beyond our land, you’ll find picturesque lakes, charming local shops, and cozy restaurants just a short drive away. We hope you enjoy this special place as much as we do—our little slice of paradise. 2-night minimum stay required. Please note: There is no electricity or running water. There is an outhouse for guest use. There is also taxidermy inside the cabin, contributing to its rustic, nature-inspired charm. This is 12x24 cabin with a loft.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$76
 / night
Hok-Si-La Municipal Park

7. Hok-Si-La Municipal Park

47mi from Lake Elmo · 4 sites · Lake City, MN
Hok-Si-La Park stands out as a remarkable 252-acre municipally owned park on the scenic Minnesota side of Lake Pepin, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the joys of tent camping, launch their boats from the public ramp, or unwind on the sandy beach. A mile-long stretch of Mississippi River shoreline invites exploration, while the interpretive center offers educational insights into the local ecosystem. Families can enjoy the playground, engage in volleyball or basketball games, and savor picnics in picturesque settings, including a charming chapel. Open from mid-April to mid-October, the park features various facilities, including a dining hall and screened shelters, making it an ideal venue for gatherings such as family reunions, birthday celebrations, and corporate picnics. Throughout the year, Hok-Si-La Park remains accessible for hiking, bird watching, and leisurely beach strolls. In winter, visitors can take advantage of groomed cross-country ski trails, ensuring that this park is a year-round destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
95% (449)

Top-rated campgrounds

Good Root Growers

2. Good Root Growers

100%
(145)
46mi from Lake Elmo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Prairie Farm, WI
Tucked in a valley 70 miles east of St. Paul, our sanctuary of rolling hills, hardwoods, pines, and birch groves offers a peaceful escape. Explore 30 acres of meandering trails through woods and meadows planted as Monarch habitat. Enjoy nights alive with owls, coyotes, frogs, and brilliant stars. This is a full sensory experience: birdsong at dawn, chickens foraging through the yard, deer in the fields, and turkeys in the trees. A true stargazer and birder’s delight. 🌿 Shared Spaces Greenhouse: Tomatoes, peppers, ginger, and flowers Gardens: flowers, vegetable, herbs and apple trees Deck/Pergola: 28' of cushioned, shaded seating area with Roku TV. Listen to music with friends, stretch out to read a book, share a card game or relax with a drink. Ask us about hosting your event! Farm Amenities: Stainless steel sink (hot/cold water),and countertops for cooking prep or washing up, potable water fill, beverage counter, and yard games. Custom fire pits, nesting tables and shade umbrellas. On-Farm Sales: Firewood, eggs, seasonal produce, ginger and plants. Forage: kindling, wild berries, mushrooms, and wildflowers bouquets Facilities: Two ultra-clean port-a-potties, plus garbage and recycling drop-offs ⛺ 6 Unique Campsites Meadow Camp East and West – 30-amp RV/tent sites with water, near the greenhouse Hill Camp – Flexible tent/RV shaded site with scenic overviews Sumac Camp – Spacious, group-friendly tent/RV site Pine Camp – Private walk-in tent site tucked into the woods Inga's Cabin (Est 1894 - a historic backdrop that adds character to your stay 🏡 Local Flavor Don’t let our quiet town fool you—the community brims with creativity and hospitality. Within a 15-minute walk you’ll find Amish bakeries and woodworking shops. Local highlights include farm-fresh meat butchers, cheese shops, herbal apothecaries, local honey and maple syrup, goat milk products, quilt shops, microbreweries, and lively town events with music and food. 💫 Why Stay With Us We’re grateful stewards of this land and love sharing its peace, beauty and abundance. Whether you’re here for stargazing, hiking, gathering with family, or simply unplugging—this is your place to pause and breathe.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
The campsite entrance is directly off of Hwy 63. There's no fire number, but the gated gravel driveway is 1/4 mile to the north of 320th Ave.  Our house is on 320th Ave, and the quarry has it's own entrance.

3. Twin Folk Farms

98%
(101)
30mi from Lake Elmo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hager City, WI
Previously a 100 acre century farm, this fertile land was tended to by generations of old time farmers. Their dairy cows pastured in areas which we now graze sheep.  The restored quarry provided gravel for the nearby highway restoration and local projects.The property is currently a mix of hay ground, cropland, pasture, forest, and quarry. Twin sisters, Darla and Kayla, and their families live across the road from each other and own the surrounding 140 acres. They keep busy planting/tending trees, making hay, moving fence for grazing animals, operating a farm business called Twin Folk Farms (pastured meat, camps, etc), and raising their families.Learn more about this land:- This site is at the edge of a restored quarry, sheep pasture, and wooded hillside.- The site is tucked down a flat mowed path, so it feels very private and protected. - You can hike up a path to the sheep pasture. Sometimes sheep are there, sometimes elsewhere on the farm. You can hike the other direction and check out the restored quarry. We have paths all around the property, so feel free to respectfully explore.- You can't see the highway from this site, but you can hear it. It's super handy to be able to hop out of your campsite haven and onto the hwy, but be aware that you will hear vehicles.- There's a Mississippi river boat launch a few miles down the road, so feel free to park your boat at the bottom of the quarry driveway.- The Hay Creek riding trails are 25 minutes away, so contact us if you want to set up a place in the quarry to park your horses and trailer for the night. - We are certified to sell meat straight off of the farm (Twin Folk Farms), so contact us if you want to purchase your meat and have it delivered to your campsite. You can also set up a time to come up to the farm and purchase meat. - The beautiful, historic town of Red Wing is 10 minutes from our farm. You'll find a mix of modern amenities and historic shops to suit your fancy.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Rustic Log Cabin with Stunning View

4. Rustic Log Cabin with Stunning View

100%
(3)
23mi from Lake Elmo · 1 site · Lodging · Ellsworth, WI
Rustic Log Cabin Getaway with Trails and Scenic Views Escape to this hand-built log cabin retreat — perfect for those who love the outdoors and a touch of old-fashioned living. The cabin features a cozy front porch, a wood stove for warmth, and charming seasonal touches to make you feel right at home. In the evenings, string lights and a fire pit set the stage for unforgettable nights under the stars with family or friends. You’ll also find plenty to explore right outside your door — walking paths, UTV trails, and sweeping scenic views that let you fully immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re up for a peaceful hike, a ride through the countryside, or simply soaking in the landscape, this cabin is the ideal base. Please note: this is a true rustic experience. The cabin does not have indoor plumbing — you’ll be using a clean, well-kept outhouse. If you’re a camper type who enjoys nature, simplicity, and unplugging, this is the perfect spot for you. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the porch in the morning sun, watching wildlife, or gathering around the fire at night, this cabin offers peace, connection, and a return to the basics.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Amish built cabin

5. Serenity Valley

91%
(11)
43mi from Lake Elmo · 1 site · Lodging · Plum City, WI
Come escape to 40 acres of peaceful Wisconsin wilderness—a true getaway from the noise and stress of city life. This is off-the-grid living at its finest. Nestled on this beautiful land is a charming 2015 Amish-built cabin that offers a cozy, rustic retreat surrounded by nature. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening sunsets on the wrap-around porch, where you’ll likely spot plentiful wildlife in their natural habitat. During the summer, the land bursts with wild raspberries and blackberries for you to pick and enjoy. Inside, you’ll find a warm and inviting space with a wood-burning stove, sitting area, and taxidermy décor that adds to the authentic rustic cabin atmosphere. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to six, with two double beds in the loft and one double bed on the main floor. Step outside to cook over the outdoor fire pit, or take a peaceful walk along several private hiking trails on the property. Beyond our land, you’ll find picturesque lakes, charming local shops, and cozy restaurants just a short drive away. We hope you enjoy this special place as much as we do—our little slice of paradise. 2-night minimum stay required. Please note: There is no electricity or running water. There is an outhouse for guest use. There is also taxidermy inside the cabin, contributing to its rustic, nature-inspired charm. This is 12x24 cabin with a loft.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$76
 / night
Hok-Si-La Municipal Park

7. Hok-Si-La Municipal Park

47mi from Lake Elmo · 4 sites · Lake City, MN
Hok-Si-La Park stands out as a remarkable 252-acre municipally owned park on the scenic Minnesota side of Lake Pepin, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the joys of tent camping, launch their boats from the public ramp, or unwind on the sandy beach. A mile-long stretch of Mississippi River shoreline invites exploration, while the interpretive center offers educational insights into the local ecosystem. Families can enjoy the playground, engage in volleyball or basketball games, and savor picnics in picturesque settings, including a charming chapel. Open from mid-April to mid-October, the park features various facilities, including a dining hall and screened shelters, making it an ideal venue for gatherings such as family reunions, birthday celebrations, and corporate picnics. Throughout the year, Hok-Si-La Park remains accessible for hiking, bird watching, and leisurely beach strolls. In winter, visitors can take advantage of groomed cross-country ski trails, ensuring that this park is a year-round destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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