92% (738) • 1,054 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Verndale
Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
1. Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
97%
(106)
34mi from Verndale · 1 site
Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake.
- NOTE: This is now (2023) a single site with two (2) power stands.
Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV's in or pitch a tent and stay as long as you like. 8 miles south of Nevis in the Heartland Lakes area. Adjacent 8 acres of 'Common Use' woods and picnic area with dock for fishing. Or bring a canoe/Kayak to launch. 4th Crow is NOT a recreational lake, but great for fishing, waterfowl and wildlife spotting. Fire pit, picnic table and swing on site. 9 miles from Heartland Biking Trail and within 3 miles of OHV/Snowmobile trails access.
Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Wise Lake Association
2. Wise Lake Association
91%
(11)
36mi from Verndale · 1 site
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.
Full hookups
Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN
3. Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN
100%
(16)
37mi from Verndale · 2 sites
Come enjoy a relaxing vacation in our two beautiful lakeside cabins! Each cabin can accommodate up to 4 people. Full descriptions of each cabin can be found on each listing.
Outside, enjoy a peaceful campfire in the fire pit, listen to the enchanting calls of loons, watch eagles and herons fishing, and relax while enjoying the vast variety of songbirds. At night, our dark skies let you see the Milky Way and countless stars and planets!
Full disclosure, there isn't a television or wifi, so just take a technology break and get back to nature or bring a good book. Your own data plan on your mobile device will likely get reception, but we can't guarantee it. If time and weather permits, we would even be happy to give you a pontoon ride.
Want to explore the area? Just a few miles away is the 49-mile multi-use Heartland Trail, where you can enjoy a quiet walk, run, or bike ride through a paved, wooded, level trail. Within ten miles are plentiful restaurants and stores in Park Rapids, Dorset, and Nevis. There are often music festivals throughout the summer, and several of the restaurants and bars host live music, some of which are played by Debbie, one of your two hosts! You can even take a 30-mile drive to Itasca State Park, home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where you can walk right across the headwaters!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Huntersville State Forest
4. Huntersville State Forest
State forest 27mi from Verndale · 78 sites
Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pillsbury State Forest
5. Pillsbury State Forest
100%
(1)
State forest 27mi from Verndale · 123 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Pillsbury State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
RV There Yet Campground
6. RV There Yet Campground
98%
(31)
37mi from Verndale · 6 sites
The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site.
Pets
Kobi’s Backyard Getaway
7. Kobi’s Backyard Getaway
96%
(14)
38mi from Verndale · 1 site · Tent, RV
Single site camp spot surrounded by woods and water. Our 51 acre parcel is just three miles from downtown Alexandria but you’ll feel like your way out of town. It’s a quiet location with no neighbors, a dock for fishing (or watching the sunset) trails for hiking and one of the best lakes for kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding.
We are located:
A short mile to a trailhead on the Central Lakes Trail
Half mile to Lake Brophy County Park with a giant playground and Mountain Bike Trails
Quarter mile from the Arrowood 18 hole golf course
Also our lake is connected to the Carlos, Le Homme Dieu, Darling Chain of lakes, jump in your boat and connect to 11 more lakes
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Picnic table
Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
8. Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
100%
(27)
39mi from Verndale · 1 site
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).
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake
9. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake
97%
(15)
40mi from Verndale · 1 site
Some campsites you drive up to. This one you earn — and the lake is with you every step of the way.
The Hilltop sits on 7.5 acres above Stalker Lake in Otter Tail County, offering something genuinely rare: a private hilltop campsite with panoramic lake views and direct access to a lakeside sandy area and dock below. The climb to the site is about 250 feet and steep, but the lake view opens up from the first step and only gets better as you go. There's a bench halfway up for good reason — stop, catch your breath, and take it in. By the time you reach the top, you'll understand why guests keep coming back.
Below the hill, your lakeside area is set up for full days outside. A large, deep-sand terrace sits just above the water with Adirondack chairs, a picnic table, fire ring, and easy stair access down to the lake. The shoreline is riprap, but the lake bottom is firm sand — great for wading, swimming, and getting in and out of the canoe. It's the kind of spot where nobody moves for three hours and nobody apologizes for it. The lakeside area is shared with your hosts when we're around — friendly neighbors, not hoverers. The hilltop and lakeside area are separated by Stalker Lake Road, a low-traffic country road easy to cross on foot.
Two fire rings — one at the hilltop, one at the lakeside area — mean the evening belongs to you wherever you want to spend it. Sunsets here are a nightly event, not just a backdrop. Well-behaved dogs welcome, off-leash.
The Hilltop — Worth the climb. Every time.
Explore the Area
You're well-positioned for a full Otter Tail County experience. Glendalough State Park (15 min) — trails, swimming beach, creek tubing, kayak/bike/SUP rentals. Inspiration Peak (15 min) for a scenic hike. Phelps Mill County Park and Maplewood State Park within 40 minutes.
On the water: fish off the dock, launch at Stalker Lake public access (0.25 mi) or Long Lake (1 mi), rent a boat or pontoon through Enclave Marine or G3 Rentals, or ask us about the Otter Tail River float.
Battle Lake (10 min) for dining, groceries, and a lazy afternoon. Stalker Lake Golf Course & Bar is one mile away — walkable if you're feeling ambitious after the hill. Ask us for our local recommendations PDF with more info and links to everything above.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Lake Carlos State Park
10. Lake Carlos State Park
100%
(3)
State park 32mi from Verndale · 129 sites
Discover Lake Carlos State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Glendalough State Park
11. Glendalough State Park
90%
(5)
State park 32mi from Verndale · 26 sites
Discover Glendalough State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gull Lake Recreation Area
12. Gull Lake Recreation Area
Park 47mi from Verndale · 39 sites
What happens when you bring a little history, geology, and the art of the outdoors together under one sunset? You get the Gull Lake Recreation Area where the purist, the adventurist, and the 18-hole golfer all coexist for the sake of Mother Nature! The largest lake in the Gull chain of lakes, Gull Lake Recreation Area is an eclectic spot formed by an ancient glacier historically marked by ancient Native American burial mounds dating back to 800 B.C. A holy grail for wildlife viewing, bald eagles and otters can be spotted throughout the park while the call of the loon sings in the distance. Peaceful sunsets are enjoyed from the shores of the lake, from the captain's chair of the family pontoon boat, and even from the turf of the golf course. As if that wasn’t enough, Gull Lake is stocked with walleye, northern pike, bass, and a variety of panfish. Score!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Crow Wing State Park
13. Crow Wing State Park
100%
(1)
State park 33mi from Verndale · 60 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Crow Wing State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Alexandria Lakes Area Camp
14. Alexandria Lakes Area Camp
99%
(42)
42mi from Verndale · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape the noise and discover a hidden gem just 10 minutes from Alexandria. Nestled off a quiet gravel road, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect blend of seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by trees and wide-open skies, it's an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being off the beaten path.
Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for cozy evenings and shared meals under the stars. A clean, well-maintained toilet is available on-site for your convenience.
Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a relaxing overnight stop on a road trip, or a base for exploring the lakes area, this tranquil spot offers a peaceful, no-fuss experience in nature.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
TriBirches Resort And Campground
15. TriBirches Resort And Campground
100%
(11)
43mi from Verndale · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Set along a quiet Minnesota lakeshore, our family-owned resort blends classic Up North cabin stays with light agrotourism and wide-open space to explore. Guests can choose from cozy cabins, tent sites, or RV sites, then spend their days swimming and fishing from the dock, paddling the lake with complimentary kayaks and pedal boats, or renting a boat for a longer adventure.
Wander the grounds, gather around evening campfires, and visit the working barn, where chickens, sheep, and goats are part of daily life—an authentic farm presence that adds charm without feeling like a petting zoo.
When you’re ready to mix in some play, enjoy our game room, indoor golf simulator, or a friendly match on the outdoor giant chess board. Mornings start slow with coffee and birdsong, days unfold with water time and wandering, and nights end under star-filled skies—perfect for travelers seeking nature, comfort, and a genuine rural experience.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Welle's Campsite
16. Welle's Campsite
100%
(22)
44mi from Verndale · 1 site · Tent, RV
40 acres of peaceful hunting land with a mixture of woods, swamp, hay fields, and a permanent campsite established in the corner. Plenty of room for parking and multiple campers/tents. Campsite is well maintained and has 30 amp hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and an outhouse to use.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
17. Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
100%
(53)
44mi from Verndale · 1 site
Very Quiet, Peaceful, Private, Off the Grid, Dark Sky, Wooded 36 acre+ homesteaded property with nice lakeshore guest cottage. Close to Itasca State Park- Headwaters of the Mississippi, Paul Bunyan State Forest, Nevis, Park Rapids, Dorset, Walker or Bemidji for Good Music, Food and Fun! Dock space for smaller fishing boats and close to many area lakes for good fishing. Close to the North Country National Scenic Trail for some great hiking. Or just stay put here in nature amongst its non-human inhabitants. We look forward to meeting YOU! ✌️Paul+Piper🐕
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Dirt Haven GlamCamp
18. Dirt Haven GlamCamp
100%
(11)
46mi from Verndale · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Dirt Haven GlamCamp, your gateway to the breathtaking Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area! Nestled amidst 6,000 acres of pristine lakes and lush forests, this hidden gem offers an unparalleled escape into nature's embrace.
Situated near the Sagamore Unit, home to Minnesota's pioneering adaptive mountain bike trail, Dirt Haven GlamCamp is the ultimate haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Leave the hustle and bustle behind as you park your vehicle, camper, or sprinter right near the Sagamore Unit bike trail, ensuring seamless access to hours of exhilarating adventure.
Our private site boasts ample, level space for tents, campers, and sprinters, all while preserving the serene ambiance of the wilderness. Surrounded by towering trees and teeming wildlife, you'll relish the tranquility of nature at your doorstep.
But that's not all—Dirt Haven GlamCamp offers modern conveniences to enhance your stay. With power readily available, including standard 110 outlets, an EV outlet, and RV outlet, you can recharge both yourself and your electric vehicle without a hitch. Bid farewell to range anxiety and embrace the freedom to explore without limits.
While there's no toilet facilities on-site currently, the boundless beauty of Cuyuna Country awaits just beyond your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and rugged terrain, knowing that a comfortable retreat awaits your return. This site is great for a group, so call some friends and come on over.
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Dirt Haven GlamCamp:
Downtown Ironton - 4 miles
Downtown Crosby - 5 miles
Brainerd - 11 miles
Pets
Electrical hookup
Potable water
Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent
19. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent
99%
(35)
47mi from Verndale · 1 site
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.
This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a 13 foot bell tent with a queen size air mattress and two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent comfortably accommodates 2-3 adults, or a family with up to three 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tumbleweed Base Camp
20. Tumbleweed Base Camp
100%
(300)
47mi from Verndale · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This old homestead belonged to my belated brother Steve, and after he passed unexpectedly, we decided to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for those interested in sharing a peaceful and modest property.
The old barn is a work in progress to eventually become the base to accommodating more travelers and outdoor enthusiasts as finances permit.
My son Logan, after having worked in the service industry bartending for 14 years and hosting 100+ global travelers via CouchSurfing out in San Diego, is well-versed in creating an inviting space, enjoying the merits of hard work through the hospitality industry.
We look forward to meeting you and sharing/swapping stories around the campfire!
Learn more about this land:
Our property and profile are in constant change as we are in a stage of development, but we look to share our land with those seeking to enjoy a warm, welcome environment for those fellow wanderers, outdoor enthusiasts, vagabonds, and globetrotters. Logan is a well-traveled backpacker and together we share 5 1/2 acres here in a bustling little touristy town. We enjoy the company of those who endorse small footprint, sustainable practices and like to establish meaningful connections. All we ask is that you respect the property, our neighbors, and make an effort to add one more new friend before you depart.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
P
Paul
2 days ago
With kids
Paul’s place is awesome! Very quiet and you can even see lots of fish swimming in the lake in the clear water!
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A
Arasu
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Wonderful experience, we have been here before but this time we had the campground to ourselves. David is an amazing host and took good care of us. The kids especially loved it because David gave them a free rein and they hung out with him by the campfire trading stories. We will be visiting again in a month and we cannot wait!
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J
Jason
1 week ago
21 ft Class C
The place was great highly recommend we will definitely be going back. Jackie was a great host.
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J
JoAnn
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
Nice and peaceful... big campsites. Primative sites.. does have a porta potty, dump station, portable water, picnic table, fire ring and firewood available. Sites are beautiful among the pines. Allen met us there and escorted us to our site. Very great communication! Would highly recommend. We stayed on site 104. Thanks Allen for providing a great place to camp.
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N
Nikka
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed car/tent camping, I highly recommend wisewoods on fool lake! We loved waking up close to the lake hearing chirping birds in the morning and the view was relaxing! Kayaks and pedal boat was available to use on site and you can fish right off the dock. We caught a couple smallmouth and largemouth bass and crappies too! Jackie the host was very nice and responsive to my questions and even allowed us to a late checkout free of charge. We definitely would book again! 😃
See moreG
Grace
2 weeks ago
With pets
We really enjoyed our stay here and would return. We loved using the wood burning stove in the cabin, letting our dog roam free on the land, and being on the water. The cabin is rustic yet comfortable. It had everything we needed. We loved being close to the headwaters and getting to know Paul and his pup Piper.
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Denise
2 weeks ago
13 ft travel trailer
What a great place to just get lost in the woods! Im new to Scamp camping and Allen was so patient with me and my son. He took time to make sure we had everything we needed and checked on us while there a couple of times. Very helpful and kind. Great wooded area. Nice solar lit portal potties, picnic bench, tons of firewood and lots of quiet! Definitely stop if going by or want to get away. Level areas and big paths to drive down to the spots. Water, and dump if you want. Perfect. Thank you Allen! 😃
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Maggie
April 2026
Tent
Beautiful property and David is so welcoming and kind :)
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K
Kolton
April 2026
15 ft rooftop tent
Was a nice open area yet secluded, awesome fire pit, easy to find. Excellent communication! Slight road noise that settled down as night approached.
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Rose
April 2026
16 ft car
Had an amazing time solo car camping! The place was beautiful to relax at and amazing hiking spots nearby! Very peaceful
See moreS
Saulius
April 2026
With pets
Paul's spot is absolutely beautiful. A thoughtful and spacious cabin right on the lake . Super comfortable bed , a wood stove, everything you need including a view. The lake is a wildlife viewing haven and you can see a ton of creatures if you take the time to walk around. The dock is a nice addition, and I went out and had ana maxing night of stargazing there. Played guitar by the fireplace, what more could you ask for . Oh wait, yeah Paul is rad. He has a ton of awesome stories and is living g his dream of being off grid. His pal Piper is an awesome pup as well. There is nothing g negative i can say. This place is a gem, as is the host.
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S
Susan
April 2026
21 ft campervan
With pets
A beautiful location. We were here at the beginning of spring, still a bit of snow on the ground and frozen ice on the river. Totally awesome!
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S
Samuel
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Excellent place to hangout or base camp while exploring the area. Not far from everything you need. Paul was great to work with and even gave us a ride when the drive was soft and muddy.
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S
SwagOnTheTrail
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Super quiet, cozy and secluded. What else can you ask for? I’ll definitely be coming back!
See moreJ
John
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Quiet, cozy place. Perfect place to retreat to recharge.
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Sarah
January 2026
With pets
Really nice little gem of a cabin on a lake. Location made it feel secluded. Paul the owner was very kind and lives in the house near the cabin. Lots of fun for the dogs off leash on the trails and frozen lake. Saw northern lights and had cozy times by the wood stove. Definitely coming back.
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Chris
January 2026
With pets
We had a wonderful winter stay at Paul's cabin. We enjoyed the frozen lakes by snowshoe with our dog and reading by the fireplace in the evening. Paul and his dog Piper were both great. Paul gave us good directions on places to snowshoe over coffee, Piper got along great with our dog and she even came along for a hike. We hope to make it back in another season. It's a beautiful spot.
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Elliette
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
We came here for our honeymoon and had an incredible experience. Paul was extremely kind and welcoming, and he took the time to show us his beautiful property. The cabin is amazing and has everything you need to enjoy a few days of rest and relaxation. We felt very comfortable and at peace during our stay. We will definitely be back and highly recommend this place.
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M
Michael
November 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
The campground has really nice and private spots. Really enjoyed our stay!
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Nancy
October 2025
23 ft travel trailer
Beautiful spot with a huge barn you can relax in the game room, very unique! David and Logan were great hosts, enjoyed the visit, the Info and the apple crisp. Don't forget to go see the Dambo Trolls, 2 are very close.
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