Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve one of the park’s 33 campsites (11 with electric hookups) in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website. Watercraft campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
- Campsite reservations open 120 days in advance, and same-day bookings are possible.
- Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book your spot as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
When to Go
Paddling season at Banning State Park runs from April through September, and the park can get busy, especially on weekends. Parking fills up quickly, so plan an early morning or late afternoon arrival to secure a spot. Banning State Park Campground is open from April through mid to late November. Winter visits are equally enjoyable with options for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, but expect minimal facilities if you visit in the off-season.
Know Before You Go
- Banning State Park is set 93 miles north of Minneapolis or about a 1.5-hour drive away.
- Vehicle permits are required for all Minnesota state parks, in addition to camping reservation fees. Permits can be purchased in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website.
- Park facilities include a gift shop, vault toilets, and picnic areas. Flush toilets and showers are available at the campground in season only.
- There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Banning State Park.
Banning State Park
From white-water rafting to rock climbing—thrills are easily found at this state park.
Rocky gorges, waterfalls, and forested riverbanks set the scene for adventures in Banning State Park. Grab your canoe, kayak, or raft and tackle the gnarly rapids of the Kettle River—Blueberry Slide, Hell’s Gate, and Dragon Tooth are famous for their thrilling hairpin turns and dramatic scenery. Afterward, hit the trail to explore Banning Sandstone Quarry, Wolf Creek Falls, and Robinson’s Ice Cave; scale 40-foot cliffs overlooking the river; or bring your snowmobile or skis for a winter excursion. Campers can snag a spot at the small campground, pitch a tent at the five canoe-in campsites, or check into the camper cabin.
Rocky gorges, waterfalls, and forested riverbanks set the scene for adventures in Banning State Park. Grab your canoe, kayak, or raft and tackle the gnarly rapids of the Kettle River—Blueberry Slide, Hell’s Gate, and Dragon Tooth are famous for their thrilling hairpin turns and dramatic scenery. Afterward, hit the trail to explore Banning Sandstone Quarry, Wolf Creek Falls, and Robinson’s Ice Cave; scale 40-foot cliffs overlooking the river; or bring your snowmobile or skis for a winter excursion. Campers can snag a spot at the small campground, pitch a tent at the five canoe-in campsites, or check into the camper cabin.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Banning State Park
Climbers, this one goes out to you. As one of only five state parks in Minnesota that allows rock climbing, Banning State Park Campground holds its rocks close, but for the rest of us, there’s no shortage of adventure. In the summer, 11 miles of cross country and six miles of snowmobile trails await you, and in the summer, these trails are travell Read more...
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Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Paddling season at Banning State Park runs from April through September, and the park can get busy, especially on weekends. Parking fills up quickly, so plan an early morning or late afternoon arrival to secure a spot. Banning State Park Campground is open from April through mid to late November. Winter visits are equally enjoyable with options for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, but expect minimal facilities if you visit in the off-season.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to camp at Banning State Park?
Camping fees at Banning State Park in Minnesota vary depending on the type of campsite and the time of year. During the peak season (April to October), a standard campsite costs around $23-$25 per night, while a group campsite can cost up to $90 per night. In the off-season (November to March), the fees are slightly lower. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, visit the Banning State Park official website.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —