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Leech Lake Recreation Area

The best camping in Leech Lake Recreation Area, MN

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Stories from the community

Michael

2 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to RV There Yet Campground

The campground has really nice and private spots. Really enjoyed our stay!

Sara

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Harvest Loon Camp

It truly is a special place. The cabin, lake, sunrises, the loons and swans and the stars! the wind through the pines and the quiet, I loved it all. The cabin all by itself is extraordinary but add all the rest to it and it was simply magical. I can’t wait to return.

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
A 500 square foot very comfortable base camp

Thomas S

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

Paul has a really comfortable place, beautiful location on a quiet shallow small lake. There is a canoe, and many other entertainment opportunities are there onsite or nearby. it is a quiet spot, enough room for small family and pet to shar with Paul and his dog Piper as i did. i wish I had a few more days to enjoy, but i'll be back!

Danny

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Wise Woods on Fool Lake

A great spot on the side of Fool Lake, where you can enjoy the weather and sit on a dock.

Cassidy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

Campsite 1 was an awesome camping spot on the River. The road to get there wasn’t bad at all. I was able to drive my fwd sedan down there easily.

Jeff

October 2025

40 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Tamarack Ponds

Easy to follow back for instructions, beautiful and quite place to be. Loved it and highly recommended it. John’s communication was excellent.

Jordan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

We wanted to find somewhere last minute to camp and it was a really cool spot. Plenty of firewood, nice view of the river. We didn’t face any issues driving to the site, off roading but a clear path. The fire pit was awesome and our fire was still smoking when we woke up!

Erica

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Harvest Loon Camp

My husband and I stayed in the Harvest Loon Cabin for three nights for our 10 year wedding anniversary. It was the perfect getaway - the cabin was cozy and the scenery was beautiful. We would love to come stay again in the future!

Curtis

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to I Live in the Country

It felt very private as I placed my tent toward the back of the field. The star viewing was great!

Cheryl

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to East Lake Ranch

It was a beautiful site, well kept and the entire ranch was beautiful. The land owners were welcoming and kind, and it was just phenomenal.

Stacey

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harvest Loon Camp

This was our second trip and it was just as great as the first! My husband hates camping but he loves this cabin! Perfect blend of rustic outdoors with comfortable, modern amenities. Our 3 kids love it too! It's very peaceful and private. Highly recommend for families or anyone looking to rent a nice cabin!

Great view of West Lake from the hill. Dock access to West Lake.

steve

October 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

2 nights at East Lake Ranch

It's quiet at this location, and it feels remote -- even though you don't have to rough it to get there. We come here with a 35' 5th wheel; not a problem. Great view of an almost private lake, and great access. Jake and Amy are super friendly, but they never get in your hair. Love the farm animals. Fun to call them by their names and get close to them. We've been here before and will probably return.

Tracy

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Harvest Loon Camp

Amazing spot! Well-appointed cabin in a beautiful setting and the host is excellent.

Michael

October 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

Mike was so accommodating. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Mikko camp. Plenty of room for the dog to run. Everything way beyond expectations.

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wise Woods on Fool Lake

This spot was perfect for our group of 4. Really pretty view and we had a lot of fun paddling around the lake. Jackie was a wonderful, responsive host.

Steve

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Sunset Pines MN

I noticed their website said they were already closed for the season but HipCamp still let me book it. I was half-expecting a call back and a refund but instead, they were more than welcoming of my stay and even sort of apologetic that some of the amenities were no longer available this late in the year. On top of that, I got held up in traffic and didn’t arrive until almost 8:30pm which they did not seem the least bit bothered by. One day, as I was returning from the trails with my dog, they offered her treats and an adorable Sunset Pines scarf! I was only in town for a wedding but will definitely make the trip again in the future, maybe even get myself a seasonal RV lot someday!

Andrea

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage is such a lovely peaceful relaxing retreat. The views of the lake are stunning!! Paul and Piper were so kind and welcoming. We hiked his property, explored the nearby forest and small towns nearby, and of course a nightly campfire-we heard loons and owls. We usually tent camp so this was a treat-Paul has everything you need! I highly recommend!!!!!!

Camper Trailer or Motorhome accessibility

Samantha

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

Love this site! Remote enough that the dogs can be off leash, nice trails, firewood is provided. We will definitely be back!

Isaac

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

What a fantastic spot! As the host recommends, definitely plan to walk. We drove out there in a very small AWD car and we got out and in in mostly one piece, but it is very tight. That said, site 3 is stunning. The stars were out and it was the perfect site to stargaze. We managed to get a couple walleye off of the bank in front of the camp. Definitely bring your rod and some heavy lures to get across the wide Mississippi if you like fishing. They are out there! -Tons of wood -good views -well kept -very dog friendly -no bugs (when we went)

Erin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Harvest Loon Camp

We had a great time disconnecting from the busy city life. The cabin was so cozy and it was amazing to be able to take a hot shower after a long chilly fall day. We will definitely be back with friends. There was so many places for people to sleep.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Leech Lake Recreation Area

Leech Lake Campground

0.9mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 77 sites · Tents, RVs · in Leech Lake Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds

Harvest Loon Camp

100%

(119)

28mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Outing, MN

📌Update: Cabin now complete with an indoor shower and toilet. ❄Cabin is now available year-round. 🌲 Picturesque lakeshore property located on 24 acres, with almost 2,000 feet of lake access right in front of the cabin. ⛵Lake public access is located at the end of the cabin driveway. Little Emily Lake Park is located 10.3 miles away from cabin. This park offers excellent swimming and Hiking Trails has public restrooms and a playground for kids - Address is 21517 Papoose Road, Emily, MN 56447 phone # (218) 824-1010 🏕 Serene, peaceful and unrivaled privacy. Water sports and trails for hiking and quads make Harvest Loon Camp the perfect spot to relaxation and fun. 😊Radiant heat, wood stove, air conditioning and fans. 🔥Wood available for use with woodstove and campfires. 🛌 Campers WILL NEED to provide their own bedding depending on their sleeping needs (pillows, linens, blankets). Accommodations include a bunk with two full beds stacked, a twin daybed and trundle (so two twin beds) and another full sized bed. All open concept. Also bring your own towels. 🍳 Kitchen has antique pots, pans, utensils, coffeepot, microwave, toaster, stove and refrigerator for your use. 🌟 Gorgeous furnished porch to watch wildlife. Grocery store within 5 miles. 🦆 This location is also perfect for horseback riding and snowmobiling and ice fishing. George lake is known to have nice sized pan fish.

Winding Woods on Pine River

97%

(18)

47mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crosby, MN

Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake & Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf.com/ Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com/ Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, Minnesota. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

100%

(42)

35mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Nevis, MN

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🐕

The Hoffman Hideaway

100%

(1)

38mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hill City, MN

Just 5 miles south of Hill City lies a rare and breathtaking escape—67 acres of pristine, private land nestled along the serene Willow River. Surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Hill River State Forest, this secluded haven offers direct access to miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking, ATVing, running the dogs, or simply soaking in the natural splendor. Positioned in the heart of ATV country, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you’re exploring the rugged backwoods, unwinding by the gentle sounds of the river, or catching a glimpse of northern Minnesota wildlife, this property is the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility. From the northwest corner, take in a stunning panoramic view of Quanda Mountain—a sight that transforms with the seasons and adds a majestic backdrop to your retreat. Though remote, the site is easily accessible by vehicle and camper, making it an ideal basecamp for extended getaways. Off-grid and untouched, it’s a true hideaway where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Just one mile away, enjoy the Sunday Meat Raffle at the Corner Club. 6 miles north is Sunny’s Convenience Store for ice cream. 6 miles away from Quanda Mountain Park. Feel free to message us with any questions! We’re happy to help. -Zach & Nicole Hoffman

Cuyuna/Mississippi River Land

94%

(211)

50mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents · Crosby, MN

21 acres of land with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage. It's mostly undeveloped and a great place to get back into nature. Close to town and amenities, but far enough into the woods to feel like you're Up North. 200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar 5 miles to Yawkey Unit Mountain Bike trails 5 miles to downtown Crosby shopping and restaurants 5.2 miles to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center 5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton 6 miles to Cuyuna Recreation Area trailhead in Ironton 6 miles to Super One Foods in Crosby 10.1 miles to Sagamore Unite Mountain Bike Trails

RV There Yet Campground

98%

(29)

34mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 19 sites · RVs · Akeley, MN

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.

Wise Woods on Fool Lake

99%

(76)

47mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · MN

Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/st... Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/m... Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Mi... Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.co... Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf... Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com... Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/loc... North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.bus... Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.co... is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profi... Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-cal... Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.c... Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4Hil...

Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

100%

(16)

39mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Nevis, MN

Come enjoy a relaxing vacation in our beautiful lakeside guest cabin! In one half of the cabin, which faces the woods, you'll find beautiful knotty pine vaulted ceilings over a queen bed with a loft above it. In the little loft are two twin-sized mattresses directly on the floor, fun for kids and accessible by a wooden ladder. Kids should be at least 6 years old to sleep up in the loft and closely supervised. There is also a bathroom with a toilet, sink, and cold water. Relax in the lakeside half of the cabin on the queen-sized hide-a-bed sofa or the recliner next to a wall of windows facing the lake. There's also a stove, small refrigerator, microwave oven, a sink with cold water, and a small table with 4 chairs. 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, though, there isn't an indoor shower available, but you can always enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake or use the enclosed outdoor solar camping shower. There isn't a television or wifi, so just take a technology break and get back to nature or bring a good book. If time and weather permits, we would 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!

Sunset Pines MN

100%

(6)

34mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 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

The Trout Lake Campground

86%

(7)

39mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bovey, MN

Nestled in the "Up North" beauty of historic Bovey, Minnesota we offer family-friendly camping with spacious Seasonal RV sites and multiple Daily RV and tent sites with direct access to Trout Lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, and recreation.

Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

97%

(106)

39mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 2 sites · RVs · Nevis, MN

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.

East Lake Ranch

96%

(57)

44mi from Leech Lake Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palisade, MN

Our land is very special with positive energy vibes. If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies flutter about in the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax. Learn more about this land: We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak which you drive right up to! Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in this site. Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Campfire ring in this site. From Meadow and OAK, you have easy access [5-minute walk] to the outhouse called the "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers. Bring your container sto fill up. Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. Do NOT peel the birch bark from live trees! You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up. You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals. We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank and Randy", five sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, and Princess Mary Margaret just to name a few! We have 9 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods. We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land. The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch. Great first time experience for kids. Learn about our protected shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html

The best camping in Leech Lake Recreation Area, MN guide

Overview

About

Don’t let the name fool you. The only thing that sucks about Leech Lake is knowing you’ll eventually have to leave! Trust us, with over 300 miles of shoreline to explore, this place will make you want to ask for a few more days off. Settle in among the birch and pine trees that line this reservoir and breathe in the beauty of 126,000 acres of cool, clear water. A crackling campfire at the lake’s well-maintained campground is perfect for a quick dry-off after exploring the marshlands or crouching by the shore to catch a glimpse of a local heron or loon.

With handy access to trails, picnic areas, and a moor for your boat, your site will be an ideal spot to recharge and plan for the next day. And if the lake’s got you itching for fish, there are enough perch and pike here for the whole crew.

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