Beach Camping Near Pillager, Minnesota, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Beach camping in Pillager means sandy mornings, cool lake breezes, and a tent just steps from the water. With over 530 beach campsites in the area, you can pitch your tent for as little as $25 a night, with an average stay around $40. Campfires are allowed, so bring marshmallows. Most sites welcome pets, and you’ll find toilets nearby. snow sports in winter, fishing all year, and wildlife-watching keep things interesting beyond the shoreline. For a spot with strong reviews, check out Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent (23 reviews), SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat (23 reviews), or The Hamlet Lake Homestead (15 reviews). You’ll find sandy coves for swimming and open stretches perfect for casting a line. Pack light, expect wildlife, and claim your spot on the shore.

97% (94)

Top-rated campgrounds

Beach camping in Pillager means sandy mornings, cool lake breezes, and a tent just steps from the water. With over 530 beach campsites in the area, you can pitch your tent for as little as $25 a night, with an average stay around $40. Campfires are allowed, so bring marshmallows. Most sites welcome pets, and you’ll find toilets nearby. snow sports in winter, fishing all year, and wildlife-watching keep things interesting beyond the shoreline. For a spot with strong reviews, check out Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent (23 reviews), SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat (23 reviews), or The Hamlet Lake Homestead (15 reviews). You’ll find sandy coves for swimming and open stretches perfect for casting a line. Pack light, expect wildlife, and claim your spot on the shore.

97% (94)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

94%

(32)

30mi from Pillager · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Deerwood, MN

The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. The Hamlet Lake Bunkhouse is located to the west of our home in its own secluded parcel next to the lake. The Camp on Hamlet Hill is to the north of our home, on a remote flat hill at the top of our property, on a hill over Cedar brook. with 300-acre, (private) Hamlet Lake in front, and the wide portion of the 20-mile Cedar brook in the back. We are a large "homesteading" family, with chickens, ducks, and a garden. The campsite is a private 1/2 acre clearing, surrounded by woods with a firepit, grill, cooking utensils, and an outhouse. (Tents are available for a small additional cost). There is an outdoor water pump below the hill. Guests can access the waterfront and beach in front, with the use of the swim raft, lily pad, fishing dock, canoe, kayak, and paddle boards included. At nearly 100 feet deep, Hamlet lake also boasts excellent fishing. Our home is located 6 miles from Crosby, with the world-class Cuyuna Lakes 50-mile mountain bike trail system. Crosby is a growing tourist town with many new and unique restaurants, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities. The paved bike trail begins 3.5 north of us. Milacs lake is 10 miles to the south.

2. Sunset Pines MN

100%

(6)

32mi from Pillager · 71 sites · RVs, Lodging · Backus, MN

Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen

3. Wise Lake Association

91%

(11)

11mi from Pillager · 1 site · RV · Brainerd, MN

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.

4. Pillsbury State Forest

100%

(1)

123 sites · East Gull Lake, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.

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5. Crow Wing State Forest

31 sites · Trommald, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Forest.

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6. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%

(35)

23mi from Pillager · 1 site · Lodging · Ironton, MN

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.

7. Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

100%

(27)

48mi from Pillager · 1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN

Goldie is closed for the season - she will reopen again in the spring! Goldie is an original early 1900's wooden caboose that ran on the DMIR railroad. She was re-designed in 1912 to be safer on the railroad (and her length extended so she wouldn't fall over). She ran the tracks of the Iron Range until retirement in 1968. It's been fully renovated with a few modern conveniences. We've re-used as much of the original wood as possible, and repurposed many things into other things so that we could keep the history alive. My husband is the carpenter that brought her to life and I'm the one that gave her some paint and design. Now, she's ready for people again, and to keep telling her story to others. Please...be our guest...and let Goldie be your host. Goldie has a max occupancy of 2 people due to space constraints. She also offers: ~ 1 very generous bundle of firewood included with stay ~ Hot and cold running water ~ A shower ~A/C and heat ~Hot water kettle for coffee, tea and cocoa (or oatmeal, etc) ~Paper dishes, plastic utensils and ceramic mugs ~Microwave ~Mini fridge ~One queen sized memory foam bed ~ Bath Towels, hand towel and wash towels ~Flush Toilet ~Fire ring, picnic table and lake access (kayaks available to use for free) ~Wifi access ** There is no cable TV, but we have a DVD player and some movies to choose from. Also there are some games to play. We do have pets and they do run around the yard freely. There are two dogs that love to romp and say hi (a female Golden Retriever and a female Griffon mix) and a female cat that does the same. They are super friendly, but they will come to visit you at the lake. Our lake is an "environmental lake" so while we keep a small beach area that you are welcome to use, it is not free of lily pads or weeds. It's simple, but fully swimm-able (the Golden Retriever keeps the first 8 feet of water weed free with her swimming!). You are welcome to use the dock and chairs we keep there for breezy evenings or to take a dip to cool off. We are only 2ish miles from town with gas, food, ice cream and a donut shop. There is a paved rail trail just down our street that runs both directions for many miles. Bikes are welcome! (please leave ATVs at home).

8. Sinclair Lewis Campground

100%

(1)

47mi from Pillager · 42 sites · Sauk Centre, MN

The Sinclair Lewis Campground stands out as a unique recreational haven, nestled on 27.2 acres of picturesque land just a stone's throw from downtown Sauk Centre. Located on the Northwest side of the community, this campground is situated east of Hickman Drive along the serene South shore of Sauk Lake. With Sinclair Lewis Park bordering the campground to the east, visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The campground operates seasonally from May 1st to October 1st, weather permitting, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring a total of 80 campsites, the Sinclair Lewis Campground offers a variety of options to suit different needs. Among these, 52 sites come equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity, while 24 sites provide water and electricity only. For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are also 4 primitive sites available. Each campsite is designed with a fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground is well-equipped with essential amenities, including three sets of restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and a storm shelter. Additional facilities include a dump station, a fish cleaning house, and kayak rentals, providing easy access to Sauk Lake for fishing and paddling.

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Potable water

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9. Crosby Memorial Park Campground

27mi from Pillager · 21 sites · Crosby, MN

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.

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Potable water

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10. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

100%

(5)

63 sites · Vineland, Minnesota

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

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Potable water

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11. Birch Lakes State Forest

30 sites · Grey Eagle, Minnesota

Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.

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Potable water

Toilets

12. Lake Carlos State Park

100%

(3)

129 sites · Carlos, Minnesota

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

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Potable water

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13. Father Hennepin State Park

90%

(5)

109 sites · Wahkon, Minnesota

Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.

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Camper favorites near Pillager

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%

(35)

23mi from Pillager · 1 site · Lodging · Ironton, MN

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.

Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

100%

(27)

48mi from Pillager · 1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN

Goldie is closed for the season - she will reopen again in the spring! Goldie is an original early 1900's wooden caboose that ran on the DMIR railroad. She was re-designed in 1912 to be safer on the railroad (and her length extended so she wouldn't fall over). She ran the tracks of the Iron Range until retirement in 1968. It's been fully renovated with a few modern conveniences. We've re-used as much of the original wood as possible, and repurposed many things into other things so that we could keep the history alive. My husband is the carpenter that brought her to life and I'm the one that gave her some paint and design. Now, she's ready for people again, and to keep telling her story to others. Please...be our guest...and let Goldie be your host. Goldie has a max occupancy of 2 people due to space constraints. She also offers: ~ 1 very generous bundle of firewood included with stay ~ Hot and cold running water ~ A shower ~A/C and heat ~Hot water kettle for coffee, tea and cocoa (or oatmeal, etc) ~Paper dishes, plastic utensils and ceramic mugs ~Microwave ~Mini fridge ~One queen sized memory foam bed ~ Bath Towels, hand towel and wash towels ~Flush Toilet ~Fire ring, picnic table and lake access (kayaks available to use for free) ~Wifi access ** There is no cable TV, but we have a DVD player and some movies to choose from. Also there are some games to play. We do have pets and they do run around the yard freely. There are two dogs that love to romp and say hi (a female Golden Retriever and a female Griffon mix) and a female cat that does the same. They are super friendly, but they will come to visit you at the lake. Our lake is an "environmental lake" so while we keep a small beach area that you are welcome to use, it is not free of lily pads or weeds. It's simple, but fully swimm-able (the Golden Retriever keeps the first 8 feet of water weed free with her swimming!). You are welcome to use the dock and chairs we keep there for breezy evenings or to take a dip to cool off. We are only 2ish miles from town with gas, food, ice cream and a donut shop. There is a paved rail trail just down our street that runs both directions for many miles. Bikes are welcome! (please leave ATVs at home).

Sinclair Lewis Campground

100%

(1)

47mi from Pillager · 42 sites · Sauk Centre, MN

The Sinclair Lewis Campground stands out as a unique recreational haven, nestled on 27.2 acres of picturesque land just a stone's throw from downtown Sauk Centre. Located on the Northwest side of the community, this campground is situated east of Hickman Drive along the serene South shore of Sauk Lake. With Sinclair Lewis Park bordering the campground to the east, visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The campground operates seasonally from May 1st to October 1st, weather permitting, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring a total of 80 campsites, the Sinclair Lewis Campground offers a variety of options to suit different needs. Among these, 52 sites come equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity, while 24 sites provide water and electricity only. For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are also 4 primitive sites available. Each campsite is designed with a fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground is well-equipped with essential amenities, including three sets of restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and a storm shelter. Additional facilities include a dump station, a fish cleaning house, and kayak rentals, providing easy access to Sauk Lake for fishing and paddling.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Crosby Memorial Park Campground

27mi from Pillager · 21 sites · Crosby, MN

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.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Pillager

Walter E. Stark Assembly Area and Horse Campground

3.4mi from Pillager · 75 sites · in Pillsbury State Forest

100%

(1)

Rock Lake Campground

6.8mi from Pillager · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pillsbury State Forest

Greer Lake Campground

30mi from Pillager · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Crow Wing State Forest

100%

(3)

Ogechie Campground

36mi from Pillager · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

100%

(2)

Petaga Campground

37mi from Pillager · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Rum River Group Camp

37mi from Pillager · 2 sites · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Horse Campground

38mi from Pillager · 10 sites · in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Birch Lakes Campground

41mi from Pillager · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Birch Lakes State Forest

Horse Riders Campground

47mi from Pillager · 7 sites · in Lake Carlos State Park

100%

(1)

Upper Campground

47mi from Pillager · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Carlos State Park

100%

(2)

Lower Campground

47mi from Pillager · 74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Carlos State Park

100%

(1)

Maple Grove Campground

49mi from Pillager · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Father Hennepin State Park

Stories from the community

A

Asya

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at The Hamlet Lake Homestead

We had the loveliest time here. Beautiful, quiet spot looking out over the lake. Bunks are simple but comfy. Hosts are incredibly kind and welcoming. We really enjoyed the goats :) Big thanks to Eric and family for sharing your space with us!

J

Jonathan

October 2025

3 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Amy’s place was beautiful and peaceful. The caboose sits on a quiet, wooded part of the property and feels totally private — you can’t even see her house from it. There’s a private trail that leads down to the lake, passing a picnic table and a fire pit with a built-in grill. It’s a perfect spot to relax, cook out, or just sit and enjoy the view. The whole setup has a cozy, tucked-away vibe that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy nature.

The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose

Jim

September 2025

2 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

The caboose was a unique experience to actually stay in a renovated railroad caboose with ties to the area. It was very relaxing setting and have campfire coffee and close access to the bike trails. The dogs were always happy to say hello and the yoga platform was a perfect place to watch the clear night sky.

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!

N

Nick

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Detail, very good information and easy to communicate. Gorgeous caboose and very relaxing

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

Ashley

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Hamlet Lake Homestead

We had a great time canoeing, playing games, biking and had a nice bonfire! Beautiful area.

R

Robert

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wise Lake Association

Was easy to back into site. Easy water, sewer and electric hook up. Nice , helpful neighbors. Great beach.

D

Donny

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

Leah’s site is certainly a treat! Very well maintained with a gorgeous bell tent onsite just feet from the lake- which we had to our selves for the entire Labor Day weekend. Paddle boards, kayaks, even a canoe- all included! There’s a wonderful little hammock / chair spot up on a ridge overlooking the lake. Had I known it would be this romantic of a set up I would have taken just my lady friend and left the dogs at home! And as for dogs- if you have a pup that prefers to run on land, this may not be the best location for you. More than enough water, though- if that’s what your pet is in to. Also expect decent mosquitoes with all that water- however, the tent is more than roomy enough if you need a bug break. So if you’re looking for a quiet spot with some extra comforts beyond those most often found on Hipcamp, give this one a try!

L

Lynn

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at The Hamlet Lake Homestead

The bunk house was very cute and comfortable. Access to the lake was great and Eric and his family were wonderful.

C

Carla

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

Leah’s land was as described and was a very nice place to stay for what my husband referred to as “camping-lite”: not full blown glamping but not totally roughing it. We had our kids along for their first camping trip. The tent provided was nice and roomy and the added amenity of electricity and a fridge with separate freezer was great. We really appreciated the potable water, the out-house and all of the equipment for some fun on the lake. The lake was very pretty, we did some fishing and we enjoyed spotting the loons, but I would not consider it swimable off of the dock considering all of the lily pads. One thing I wish I would have brought were some folding camping chairs for around the fire pit, but none of this took away from how much we enjoyed our stay. We would absolutely recommend this property.

T

Theresa

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

Beautiful camping spot on the lake. The kayaks were a huge plus. The glamping tent had everything that we needed. We will defintely be back.

K

Kyle

July 2025

With kids

3 nights at Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

This camping spot is amazing! The hut is very clean and there is a blow up mattress with sheets all ready made up. There is electricity with a small fridge and freezer that is very convenient! Theres a couple of hammocks on top of the overlook that my kid absolutely loved. They have 2 paddle boards, 2 kayaks, and 1 canoe that are available for use, and we used the canoe entire time. The fishing is awesome!!! Sunfish are very very active. One after another for most of the weekend. Caught a bass, crappie, and perch. We had a great time and the hosts are very responsive and clearly run this spot with a lot of pride. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again and would recommend this spot to anyone.

K

Katie

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

Awesome site!! Two people and two dogs and we had plenty of room. Not to mention very clean, responsive hosts, and perfect blend of privacy and not being in the middle of nowhere. Would absolutely stay here again!

C

Chia

July 2025

With pets

1 night at The Hamlet Lake Homestead

Great hosts! Such a great glamping experience! The lake was def an awesome bonus! They let us use their canoe, paddleboards and kayaks. We also got to enjoy the slide and the plank in the lake. The water was amazing! They have two fans in the bunkhouse. That was very nice. We brought our two dogs and it went well. The Blackstone was very convenient. We lit a campfire and enjoyed the night. No mosquitoes during the day but they def come out as the sun set. Lol. Had such a good time. I'd def book again!

C

Chase

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Amy and her husband were amazing! They have such a peaceful property. From the time we arrived to the time we departed, we felt that we were treated as family. Beautiful people and property! Appreciate the time we spent with you.

E

Ericka

July 2025

3 nights at Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

We had a wonderful relaxing time. The view was beautiful and we loved hearing the lake sounds at night.

Jenipher

June 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

Oh, you want a romantic, secluded getaway that feels like Mother Nature herself sprinkled a little extra magic on it? This place delivers. Leah and Josh created an absolute gem—think luxury meets wilderness without the Wi-Fi guilt trip. Let’s talk amenities: queen bed with fluffy blankets, games for when you’re feeling competitive, fairy lights for that romantic glow, clean water, an actually clean bathroom (a unicorn in the camping world), kayaks, a canoe, and firewood ready to go. But wait—there’s a dock for lounging like you're in a rom-com, and the local wildlife... Adorable. Curious frogs, chatty birds, and a mouse or two living their best forest-core lives. 🐭🛶✨ Honestly? 15/10. Don’t question it. Book it, show up, and try not to fall in love (with the place or your person… or both). 😏🔥🌿🛶

L

Lianna

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

3rd time staying at hay lake. Love the improvements with the new yellow tent. Large queen size blow up mattress was an added bonus. Can’t wait to stay again 💚