- Waterside Camping
The best lakeside camping near Princeton
98% (146) • 19 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Princeton
Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake
1. Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake
100%
(34)
27mi from Princeton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Two campsites or our Chalet which sleeps five are available. Campsites are near a fabulous 10 acre deep spring fed lake. One campsite is in the prairie with a expansive view where 5 or 6 tents are possible. 2nd campsite is for one tent and is lakeside. Quiet peaceful trails through the woods. Animals at the home base. The chalet (in the pictures) , has all the needed amenities; shower, fridge, etc. Contact us for pricing details. Food and wine packages are available for the interested parties. This place is perfect.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Spirits of the Forest
2. Spirits of the Forest
100%
(66)
29mi from Princeton · 2 sites
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
SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat
3. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat
99%
(61)
42mi from Princeton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
***Campers (tents not included) must back in from Vista Rd (the tar road). Many prefer to walk back and view the site before parking.
Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over Lake Mille Lacs, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Step onto the sandy beach from your campsite and surround yourself with the soothing sounds of nature and the lapping of the lake's waves to help you unwind and connect with the outdoors.
The campground is a tighter space but the 100 ft beach has plenty of room to spread out.
There is a communal firepit on the beach, along with two portable fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, are two friendly dogs – Frank, a Goldendoodle, and his sister/sidekick, Lucy, a Mini Goldendoodle. They roam freely on part of our property with the help of an invisible fence. Feel free to shoo them away, or hush them if they bother you or if any other rogue neighborhood dog wanders over.
When we camp, we value privacy, and we'll ensure the same for you. Upon arrival, please head directly to your campsite or cabin. We can communicate through messaging to assist you with anything you need.
Guests will need to be self contained, take waste with them and leave no trace.
The Loo (pit toilet): She works hard for the money! With lots of campers and hot weather, The Loo can get a little...fragrant. We have it regularly serviced and cleaned, but during peak heat and heavy use, odors can happen. Nature gonna nature. If you're sensitive to smells please feel free to bring your own portable loo setup!
Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm - 8:00 am please do not disrupt other guests or you may be asked to leave.
***Attention Summer Guests*** ***Swimmer's Itch Prevention***
During the warmer summer months, please be aware of the potential for swimmer's itch in our lake. Please Google Swimmer's Itch Prevention for more information.
***Mayflies and Fish Fly Hatches***
These hatches can vary by date and location. Remember you are in an outdoor space and they are a natural part of the ecosystem.
Although they are a nuisance they are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$50
/ night
Lake Maria State Park
4. Lake Maria State Park
90%
(10)
State park 24mi from Princeton · 19 sites
Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park
5. Father Hennepin State Park
90%
(5)
State park 40mi from Princeton · 109 sites
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
R&R Mille Lacs
6. R&R Mille Lacs
98%
(22)
47mi from Princeton · 1 site
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Ham Lake Resort
7. Ham Lake Resort
90%
(5)
28mi from Princeton · 6 sites
Ham Lake Resort in Minnesota, just a short drive from the Twin Cities, is an excellent choice for a camping getaway. The resort boasts over 100 RV sites with full hookup options, tent sites, and cabin rentals, providing a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. The amenities at Ham Lake are top-notch, including boat docks, laundry facilities, a picnic area, and a dedicated play area for dogs. For recreation, campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, horseshoes, a playground for kids, and numerous planned activities throughout the weekends. The beautiful lake offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. Beyond the resort, there are plenty of exciting activities to explore nearby.
Nature lovers can go horseback riding or visit the stunning state parks in the area. Families can have a blast at Bunker Beach Water Park, while those looking for a more relaxed day can visit Willow Tree Winery for some wine tasting. The Mall of America, just a short drive away, offers endless entertainment with dining options, the Crayola Experience, Sea Life Aquarium, and Nickelodeon Universe. For a cultural outing, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden features over 50 unique sculptures perfect for a leisurely stroll and some great photos. The nearby Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is another fantastic spot, offering a chance to see a variety of animals and enjoy an amusement park.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$61
/ night
Lakeside Treehouses on 10 acres
8. Lakeside Treehouses on 10 acres
100%
(1)
32mi from Princeton · 3 sites
Escape to our 2, spacious lakeside cabins, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Nestled on 10 acres of private land, this retreat offers a perfect blend of nature and relaxation. Inside, you’ll find open floor plans with warm wooden interior walls, creating unique and inviting atmospheres. Cozy up by the fireplace, challenge friends to games, or unwind in the private sauna after a day by the lake.
Step outside to enjoy the grills and fire pits, perfect for evening cookouts under the stars. With direct lake access, you can boat, swim, fish, or paddle at your leisure. Whether you’re exploring the trails, relaxing in the sauna, or gathering around the fire, these cabins are your ideal getaway for adventure and tranquility.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$350
/ night
Makers' Acres
9. Makers' Acres
100%
(3)
37mi from Princeton · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Makers Acres is our home, our pottery studio named, Maine Prairie Studio, the Lakeside Campground, The Wedge and our camper, Andromeda. Guests are able to reserve the camper, The Wedge or Lakeside Campground to stay in. The camper is equipped with running water, electricity etc. The lakeside campground has enough space for 3 different dispersed campsites. The Wedge, is just enough for 1-2 people to stay.
Since we are potters, guests are able to book some cool "Extras" at the studio. Below are the "Extras" we have available to register for.
- "Come Try It" Pottery Experiences
- Kayak Rentals
- Paddleboard Rentals
- Seasonal Garden Vegetables
- Firewood
- Athletic Brewing Company, NA Brews
-20% Discount on our handmade pottery in our Gallery while your Hipcamping at Makers Acres.
We look forward to helping you find your next hipcamping experience here at Makers Acres.
During warm weather you are able to access Murray Lake from our property to swim, kayak or paddle board.
During winter, we live 1/2 mile from a ski hill, Powder Ridge, which has tubing, downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$45
/ night
Interstate State Park
10. Interstate State Park
100%
(4)
State park 46mi from Princeton · 84 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Interstate State Park and its outdoor adventures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
William O'Brien State Park
11. William O'Brien State Park
94%
(9)
State park 46mi from Princeton · 120 sites
Discover the natural splendor of William O'Brien State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
98% (146) • 19 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Princeton
Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake
1. Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake
100%
(34)
27mi from Princeton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Two campsites or our Chalet which sleeps five are available. Campsites are near a fabulous 10 acre deep spring fed lake. One campsite is in the prairie with a expansive view where 5 or 6 tents are possible. 2nd campsite is for one tent and is lakeside. Quiet peaceful trails through the woods. Animals at the home base. The chalet (in the pictures) , has all the needed amenities; shower, fridge, etc. Contact us for pricing details. Food and wine packages are available for the interested parties. This place is perfect.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Spirits of the Forest
2. Spirits of the Forest
100%
(66)
29mi from Princeton · 2 sites
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
SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat
3. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat
99%
(61)
42mi from Princeton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
***Campers (tents not included) must back in from Vista Rd (the tar road). Many prefer to walk back and view the site before parking.
Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over Lake Mille Lacs, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Step onto the sandy beach from your campsite and surround yourself with the soothing sounds of nature and the lapping of the lake's waves to help you unwind and connect with the outdoors.
The campground is a tighter space but the 100 ft beach has plenty of room to spread out.
There is a communal firepit on the beach, along with two portable fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, are two friendly dogs – Frank, a Goldendoodle, and his sister/sidekick, Lucy, a Mini Goldendoodle. They roam freely on part of our property with the help of an invisible fence. Feel free to shoo them away, or hush them if they bother you or if any other rogue neighborhood dog wanders over.
When we camp, we value privacy, and we'll ensure the same for you. Upon arrival, please head directly to your campsite or cabin. We can communicate through messaging to assist you with anything you need.
Guests will need to be self contained, take waste with them and leave no trace.
The Loo (pit toilet): She works hard for the money! With lots of campers and hot weather, The Loo can get a little...fragrant. We have it regularly serviced and cleaned, but during peak heat and heavy use, odors can happen. Nature gonna nature. If you're sensitive to smells please feel free to bring your own portable loo setup!
Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm - 8:00 am please do not disrupt other guests or you may be asked to leave.
***Attention Summer Guests*** ***Swimmer's Itch Prevention***
During the warmer summer months, please be aware of the potential for swimmer's itch in our lake. Please Google Swimmer's Itch Prevention for more information.
***Mayflies and Fish Fly Hatches***
These hatches can vary by date and location. Remember you are in an outdoor space and they are a natural part of the ecosystem.
Although they are a nuisance they are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$50
/ night
Lake Maria State Park
4. Lake Maria State Park
90%
(10)
State park 24mi from Princeton · 19 sites
Discover Lake Maria's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Father Hennepin State Park
5. Father Hennepin State Park
90%
(5)
State park 40mi from Princeton · 109 sites
Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
R&R Mille Lacs
6. R&R Mille Lacs
98%
(22)
47mi from Princeton · 1 site
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Ham Lake Resort
7. Ham Lake Resort
90%
(5)
28mi from Princeton · 6 sites
Ham Lake Resort in Minnesota, just a short drive from the Twin Cities, is an excellent choice for a camping getaway. The resort boasts over 100 RV sites with full hookup options, tent sites, and cabin rentals, providing a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. The amenities at Ham Lake are top-notch, including boat docks, laundry facilities, a picnic area, and a dedicated play area for dogs. For recreation, campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, horseshoes, a playground for kids, and numerous planned activities throughout the weekends. The beautiful lake offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. Beyond the resort, there are plenty of exciting activities to explore nearby.
Nature lovers can go horseback riding or visit the stunning state parks in the area. Families can have a blast at Bunker Beach Water Park, while those looking for a more relaxed day can visit Willow Tree Winery for some wine tasting. The Mall of America, just a short drive away, offers endless entertainment with dining options, the Crayola Experience, Sea Life Aquarium, and Nickelodeon Universe. For a cultural outing, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden features over 50 unique sculptures perfect for a leisurely stroll and some great photos. The nearby Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is another fantastic spot, offering a chance to see a variety of animals and enjoy an amusement park.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$61
/ night
Lakeside Treehouses on 10 acres
8. Lakeside Treehouses on 10 acres
100%
(1)
32mi from Princeton · 3 sites
Escape to our 2, spacious lakeside cabins, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Nestled on 10 acres of private land, this retreat offers a perfect blend of nature and relaxation. Inside, you’ll find open floor plans with warm wooden interior walls, creating unique and inviting atmospheres. Cozy up by the fireplace, challenge friends to games, or unwind in the private sauna after a day by the lake.
Step outside to enjoy the grills and fire pits, perfect for evening cookouts under the stars. With direct lake access, you can boat, swim, fish, or paddle at your leisure. Whether you’re exploring the trails, relaxing in the sauna, or gathering around the fire, these cabins are your ideal getaway for adventure and tranquility.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$350
/ night
Makers' Acres
9. Makers' Acres
100%
(3)
37mi from Princeton · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Makers Acres is our home, our pottery studio named, Maine Prairie Studio, the Lakeside Campground, The Wedge and our camper, Andromeda. Guests are able to reserve the camper, The Wedge or Lakeside Campground to stay in. The camper is equipped with running water, electricity etc. The lakeside campground has enough space for 3 different dispersed campsites. The Wedge, is just enough for 1-2 people to stay.
Since we are potters, guests are able to book some cool "Extras" at the studio. Below are the "Extras" we have available to register for.
- "Come Try It" Pottery Experiences
- Kayak Rentals
- Paddleboard Rentals
- Seasonal Garden Vegetables
- Firewood
- Athletic Brewing Company, NA Brews
-20% Discount on our handmade pottery in our Gallery while your Hipcamping at Makers Acres.
We look forward to helping you find your next hipcamping experience here at Makers Acres.
During warm weather you are able to access Murray Lake from our property to swim, kayak or paddle board.
During winter, we live 1/2 mile from a ski hill, Powder Ridge, which has tubing, downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$45
/ night
Interstate State Park
10. Interstate State Park
100%
(4)
State park 46mi from Princeton · 84 sites
Discover the scenic beauty of Interstate State Park and its outdoor adventures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
William O'Brien State Park
11. William O'Brien State Park
94%
(9)
State park 46mi from Princeton · 120 sites
Discover the natural splendor of William O'Brien State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
j
jame
September 2025
34 ft Class A
With pets
we loved our weekend on mille lacs lake. very nice property and hosts were great. well happily be back!
See more
M
Matthew
September 2025
32 ft travel trailer
With kids
This was our 2nd time staying here in the last couple months. It’s an amazing spot right near the lake. The property is very well kept and the owners are very hospitable. My kids and family absolutely love it!
See more
S
Shahriar
September 2025
Group trip
Wonderful cabin and host. My family had a great time! We shall be back!
See more
corina
September 2025
3 nights at Ham Lake Resort
The staff was lovely, all very nice people ! the resort was a lot of fun, cool chill party vibes 😎
See more
J
Jenn
August 2025
With pets
Had the most special time. First time staying ina yurt and it was everything I could have hoped for. Comfortable, secluded and all we needed and could have wanted. Such a kind couple and special place. Would love to come back with family and friends to share it with
See more
A
Amanda
August 2025
Tent
Beautiful spot and large site! It was a bit closer to the house and neighbors houses than anticipated but hosts were very nice and we had a great time!
See moreS
Sue
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Sarah's campsite was the perfect place. Loved the lakeside and the amenities that were provided. The place was private enough for our group of friends. It was the perfect escape for our group of friends. We got to camp by the beachside and enjoyed the bonfire.
See more
J
Juli
August 2025
Group trip
Would recommend staying at Bob and Roxanne’s! A beautiful area for camping. We had a perfect night under the stars and full moon enjoying a bonfire and sounds of nature around us (sandhill cranes, loons, owls, redstarts, and even some wolves howling during the night). The site was private and quite spacious. The flies and mosquitos were out in force during the day but they provided a mesh shelter that was nice to hang out in. The outhouse (very nice and clean) is a bit of a walk at night, but they provided potable water at our site so we were able to brush our teeth without walking to the outhouse. The yurt was sturdy and spacious and cooled down well for sleep. The town of Mora was only 12-15 mins from the property making it easy to access restaurants or grocery stores. Bob and Rox are very friendly and were very responsive to questions I had prior to arrival. We would definitely recommend this spot!
See more
Duncan
July 2025
Tent
With kids
This was a wonderful slice of Minnesota summer! Swimming in the lake and the campsite was perfect. Thank you JD and Megan :)
See more
haily
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Spirits of the Forest
Peaceful, quiet, and the stars were great. Make sure to bring sheets, blankets, and pillows, and camping chairs to sit by the fire. Great stay for the price and would definitely stay again!
See morew
whitney
July 2025
Tent
With pets
Camp sites were great. Very accommodating. Have access to a lake right on property. They have various activities to keep the whole family busy. Dogs and cats were very friendly.
See moreM
Matthew
June 2025
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
Amazing place to camp out at! The sites are directly across the lawn to the beach. Plenty of communal areas to hang out at. My kids absolutely loved and enjoyed the stay. The host was even nice enough to come out and offer them a water pad to play on. It is a tight squeeze into your site if you have a trailer. I had a 32ft trailer in there and while it fits perfectly, I wouldn’t recommend much larger. There is a general store about 5 minutes away to get anything you forget. Oh and it’s very dog friendly. I’m definitely planning a trip there again. Great times.
See moreB
Bonnie
June 2025
With kids
Amazing place! Such friendly hosts and it was such a lovely set up!
See morem
mark
June 2025
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
Excellent place to stay. Sarah is very accommodating
See more
Kim
June 2025
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very relaxing and peaceful. Beautiful wildlife! Fantastic location and easy drive to casino, museum, and state park. The fire pit and wood provided was so nice. Nicely manicured lawn & plenty of privacy. We had a very nice time here & would return.
See more
R
Ryan
June 2025
With pets
We loved everything about this mini get away.
The owners were super friendly and nice and kept everything clean.
If you are looking for a Yurt adventure and relaxing; this is your place.
The Yurt was kept up and in good shape; and the site was perfectly big for hanging out and extra space and there was groomed paths to walk on as well. It was very secluded and private. It was a great weekend to disconnect from technology and reconnect with my partner. Very Relaxing.
Def bring your citronella candles and bug spray. There was some bugs but it was not to bad.
We are looking to stay in the TP next time we come up here.
This place we would highly recommend.
See moreJ
Joel
May 2025
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very nice hosts, beautiful view, beachfront property, quiet, but close enough to the action. I recommend it and my wife and I would definitely go back!
See more
Nick
May 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
The campgrounds were a very pleasant surprise. Very well maintained, clean, quiet at night, and the staff were all very friendly and wonderful (including maintenance guys who helped me with a plumbing leak issue). Nice petting zoo, dog play area, little beach on the lake, and trails around the grounds. Some RV spots are a little close together, but the overall grounds are large and spacious, so it didn't feel crowded. Kind of an under-the-radar hidden gem for the Twin Cities!
See more
