The best camping near Wadena with swimming

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In Wadena, you’ll find over 630 places to camp that are perfect for anyone who wants to swim, from lakeside tent spots to shady sites tucked beside ponds. The average night runs about $83, but you can grab a spot for as little as $20. Swimming isn’t the only draw here—many campsites offer fishing, hiking, and plenty of wildlife to spot. Campfires are allowed, pets are welcome, and showers are a common perk. Locals often recommend Swan Lake Resort & Campground (28 reviews) for easy water access, RV There Yet Campground (18 reviews) for roomy sites and pet-friendly policies, and Fire Tower Pond (15 reviews) for peaceful mornings by the water. Water shoes come in handy—some swimming spots have rocky entries. If you’re after a swim and a campfire under the stars, Wadena delivers.

96% (132)

Top-rated campgrounds

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

1. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%
(52)
45mi from Wadena · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fergus Falls, MN
⛺️ Since 1949, we've been a family-operated resort & campground on Swan Lake in Fergus Falls, MN. We offer lakeside cabins, tent camping, and full hook-up, pull-through RV sites. Here, there is time to slow down, room to breathe, and lots to explore. 🏖️ Soak up the sun on the sandy beach, hike through the hidden trails, and take the pontoon out for a cruise. Be sure to turn the tech off and challenge a rival to ping pong, crack a cold one, and explore the water on stand-up paddleboard. 🍦 Bring the little ones and get messy at the arts & crafts table, catch a sunfish off the docks, and indulge in s’mores around the campfire. Don’t forget to show us what you got on the volleyball court and savor an ice cream at the camp store. Curl up in a hammock and get lost in a good book, smile at the flowers and gaze in awe at the night sky. Just be.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$53
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

2. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
37mi from Wadena · 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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Timberlost at West Crooked

6. Timberlost at West Crooked

43mi from Wadena · 1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN
West Crooked Lake Resort offers relaxation and enjoyment for the entire family on 20 acres of seclude woods. You can enjoy sun bathing on the sandy beach, swimming in the clear water, playing on the Rave Water Park, or reading a book in the shade. Listen to the loons calling, watch eagles soar overhead, glide through the clear waters in a canoe or paddleboat, or just bring a book, relax, and catch some rays on the sandy beach. Many area attractions are just minutes from the resort. Biking/walking trails, golf courses, casinos, challenge course, a local winery, horseback riding, shopping and restaurants are just a few of the attractions you will find. In addition, the Headwaters of the Mississippi in Itasca State Park is just 30 minutes from the resort. ATV riders enjoy hundreds of miles of trails in the Park Rapids Lakes Area, bringing them closer to nature's beauty in remote areas others often don't see. Local clubs maintain two primary trails in our area, which are connected with miles of trails along county highways/byways.  Drive your ATV directly to the trails from our resort. West and Middle Crooked Lakes are part of the famous Mantrap chain of lakes – the very heart of Northern Minnesota’s finest fishing country. Fish to catch in West Crooked Lake include Northern, Walleye, Bass and Panfish. You can fish right off the dock at the resort or venture out to the many inlets on this quiet lake. When on the lake, you will often find yourself enjoying the tranquil beauty of West Crooked Lake with no other boats in sight.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose

14. Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

100%
(27)
37mi from Wadena · 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).
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night
Sinclair Lewis Campground

16. Sinclair Lewis Campground

100%
(1)
50mi from Wadena · 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.

In Wadena, you’ll find over 630 places to camp that are perfect for anyone who wants to swim, from lakeside tent spots to shady sites tucked beside ponds. The average night runs about $83, but you can grab a spot for as little as $20. Swimming isn’t the only draw here—many campsites offer fishing, hiking, and plenty of wildlife to spot. Campfires are allowed, pets are welcome, and showers are a common perk. Locals often recommend Swan Lake Resort & Campground (28 reviews) for easy water access, RV There Yet Campground (18 reviews) for roomy sites and pet-friendly policies, and Fire Tower Pond (15 reviews) for peaceful mornings by the water. Water shoes come in handy—some swimming spots have rocky entries. If you’re after a swim and a campfire under the stars, Wadena delivers.

96% (132)

Top-rated campgrounds

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

1. Swan Lake Resort & Campground

98%
(52)
45mi from Wadena · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fergus Falls, MN
⛺️ Since 1949, we've been a family-operated resort & campground on Swan Lake in Fergus Falls, MN. We offer lakeside cabins, tent camping, and full hook-up, pull-through RV sites. Here, there is time to slow down, room to breathe, and lots to explore. 🏖️ Soak up the sun on the sandy beach, hike through the hidden trails, and take the pontoon out for a cruise. Be sure to turn the tech off and challenge a rival to ping pong, crack a cold one, and explore the water on stand-up paddleboard. 🍦 Bring the little ones and get messy at the arts & crafts table, catch a sunfish off the docks, and indulge in s’mores around the campfire. Don’t forget to show us what you got on the volleyball court and savor an ice cream at the camp store. Curl up in a hammock and get lost in a good book, smile at the flowers and gaze in awe at the night sky. Just be.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$53
 / night
Sunset Pines MN

2. Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
37mi from Wadena · 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
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Timberlost at West Crooked

6. Timberlost at West Crooked

43mi from Wadena · 1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN
West Crooked Lake Resort offers relaxation and enjoyment for the entire family on 20 acres of seclude woods. You can enjoy sun bathing on the sandy beach, swimming in the clear water, playing on the Rave Water Park, or reading a book in the shade. Listen to the loons calling, watch eagles soar overhead, glide through the clear waters in a canoe or paddleboat, or just bring a book, relax, and catch some rays on the sandy beach. Many area attractions are just minutes from the resort. Biking/walking trails, golf courses, casinos, challenge course, a local winery, horseback riding, shopping and restaurants are just a few of the attractions you will find. In addition, the Headwaters of the Mississippi in Itasca State Park is just 30 minutes from the resort. ATV riders enjoy hundreds of miles of trails in the Park Rapids Lakes Area, bringing them closer to nature's beauty in remote areas others often don't see. Local clubs maintain two primary trails in our area, which are connected with miles of trails along county highways/byways.  Drive your ATV directly to the trails from our resort. West and Middle Crooked Lakes are part of the famous Mantrap chain of lakes – the very heart of Northern Minnesota’s finest fishing country. Fish to catch in West Crooked Lake include Northern, Walleye, Bass and Panfish. You can fish right off the dock at the resort or venture out to the many inlets on this quiet lake. When on the lake, you will often find yourself enjoying the tranquil beauty of West Crooked Lake with no other boats in sight.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose

14. Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

100%
(27)
37mi from Wadena · 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).
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night
Sinclair Lewis Campground

16. Sinclair Lewis Campground

100%
(1)
50mi from Wadena · 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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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field