Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe
- Ironton
Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent
Hosted by Leah · Ironton, Minnesota
4 guests max · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet
Leah is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Romantic
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.
What to expect
Canvas tent
4 guests max
Campfires allowed
Toilet available
Pets allowed
Potable water available
Bins available
Picnic table present
No showers
Cooking equipment absent
No wifi
Laundry absent
Hot Tub absent
No playground
Things to know
Getting there
Check in: After 4:00 PM
Early or late check-in may be availableCheck out: Before 12:00 PM
Late check-out may be availableOn arrival: Head straight to site
Cancellation policy: Moderate
Minimum nights: 2 nights
Accepts bookings: 6 months out
Park at listing
No wheelchair access
Max 2 vehicles
2WD accessible
During your trip
Follow the
Leave it better
Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.
Lodging
1 site
Instant book
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
99%
(35)Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Picnic table
Reviews
99% Recommend35 ratings · 31 reviews
This was a fabulous spot for a long weekend trip! The tent was super cozy and clean, and it included a nice air mattress with bedding, a mini fridge, and a coffee maker insider (there is electricity, which was super convenient when needed). The site itself had great amenities like a picnic table, canoe/kayaks/paddleboards to use off of the private dock, and hammocks that were already set up for use. Really lovely touches like solar lights lining the path from the parking area to the campsite/the path to the bathroom and a bin with wood for the firepit. There was some occasional noise in the early mornings from people unloading their boats at the public lake access nearby (a couple hundred feet away from the tent with woods in between, you can see the cars from the campsite through the trees), but not too bad. There was also hunting fairly close by one of the mornings we were there if that's something that you or any dogs you might camp with are bothered by and you're visiting during hunting season. Overall this was a super nice campsite, we would absolutely return and recommend it!
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Amanda W.
3 reviews
This camp was well-equipped and had all the essentials. It was located a short walk-in from the parking area. We enjoyed fishing from the private dock and using the kayaks and the canoe. The site was clean and comfortable. We did have rain off-and-on, and it was chilly at night; the thick tent did help us stay warm(er) and dry. We had beautiful views of the sky, and the sunsets were spectacular.
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Kasey M.
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Quiet Little Lakeside Glamp
With pets ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
Leah’s site is certainly a treat! Very well maintained with a gorgeous bell tent onsite just feet from the lake- which we had to our selves for the entire Labor Day weekend. Paddle boards, kayaks, even a canoe- all included! There’s a wonderful little hammock / chair spot up on a ridge overlooking the lake. Had I known it would be this romantic of a set up I would have taken just my lady friend and left the dogs at home!
And as for dogs- if you have a pup that prefers to run on land, this may not be the best location for you. More than enough water, though- if that’s what your pet is in to. Also expect decent mosquitoes with all that water- however, the tent is more than roomy enough if you need a bug break.
So if you’re looking for a quiet spot with some extra comforts beyond those most often found on Hipcamp, give this one a try!
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Donny G.
3 reviews
Leah’s land was as described and was a very nice place to stay for what my husband referred to as “camping-lite”: not full blown glamping but not totally roughing it. We had our kids along for their first camping trip. The tent provided was nice and roomy and the added amenity of electricity and a fridge with separate freezer was great. We really appreciated the potable water, the out-house and all of the equipment for some fun on the lake. The lake was very pretty, we did some fishing and we enjoyed spotting the loons, but I would not consider it swimable off of the dock considering all of the lily pads. One thing I wish I would have brought were some folding camping chairs for around the fire pit, but none of this took away from how much we enjoyed our stay. We would absolutely recommend this property.
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Carla K.
1 year on Hipcamp
Beautiful camping spot on the lake. The kayaks were a huge plus. The glamping tent had everything that we needed. We will defintely be back.
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Theresa N.
2 reviews
This camping spot is amazing! The hut is very clean and there is a blow up mattress with sheets all ready made up. There is electricity with a small fridge and freezer that is very convenient! Theres a couple of hammocks on top of the overlook that my kid absolutely loved. They have 2 paddle boards, 2 kayaks, and 1 canoe that are available for use, and we used the canoe entire time. The fishing is awesome!!! Sunfish are very very active. One after another for most of the weekend. Caught a bass, crappie, and perch. We had a great time and the hosts are very responsive and clearly run this spot with a lot of pride. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again and would recommend this spot to anyone.
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Kyle S.
5 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
With pets ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
Awesome site!! Two people and two dogs and we had plenty of room. Not to mention very clean, responsive hosts, and perfect blend of privacy and not being in the middle of nowhere. Would absolutely stay here again!
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Katie A.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
We had a wonderful relaxing time. The view was beautiful and we loved hearing the lake sounds at night.
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Ericka D.
1 year on Hipcamp
Oh, you want a romantic, secluded getaway that feels like Mother Nature herself sprinkled a little extra magic on it? This place delivers. Leah and Josh created an absolute gem—think luxury meets wilderness without the Wi-Fi guilt trip.
Let’s talk amenities: queen bed with fluffy blankets, games for when you’re feeling competitive, fairy lights for that romantic glow, clean water, an actually clean bathroom (a unicorn in the camping world), kayaks, a canoe, and firewood ready to go. But wait—there’s a dock for lounging like you're in a rom-com, and the local wildlife... Adorable. Curious frogs, chatty birds, and a mouse or two living their best forest-core lives. 🐭🛶✨
Honestly? 15/10. Don’t question it. Book it, show up, and try not to fall in love (with the place or your person… or both). 😏🔥🌿🛶
Jenipher H.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
3rd time staying at hay lake. Love the improvements with the new yellow tent. Large queen size blow up mattress was an added bonus. Can’t wait to stay again 💚
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Lianna R.
5 reviews
The site was super nice and Leah was so responsive to my messages! She had everything we needed ready when we arrived! It was perfect for a little weekend getaway! She It was camping but it’s set up so cute with hammocks and chairs up a little hill and the tent down below and a couple more chairs so you can sit on the dock! We didn’t get to take the canoe out because we had our dogs with but were hoping to go back and get to do that! The lake was sooooo quiet and just people using canoes and Kayaks! The sky was so clear while we were there so it was wonderful! I made a mistake when I left and didnt take the garbage with me like I was suppose to:((. We are used to staying at campgrounds where they pick it up when you check out and I didnt think twice until I got her check out instructions and didnt read them until AFTER I left:( I felt awful but she was so kind! I would highly recommend! The only thing I was surprised about was the trail cam we saw the dat after we got there…. It was totally fine that it was there! We laughed about how many things must be seen, but it was just a little surprise we weren’t aware of:). Glad I wasn’t a honeymooner lol!
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Melissa F.
2 years on Hipcamp
Very cute campsite, the kayaks were a big hit. The outhouse was nice to have. If you have dogs be prepared to get very muddy!
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Ambra S.
3 reviews
Second time staying here. Stayed back in June and returned the following August. Perfect spot as always. Noticed that they added a wheel-barrel to transport items to and from the parking area, an extra storage shed to store outside items, and that the dirt road is now paved. Loving the improvements 💚
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Lianna R.
5 reviews
Recommends
· August 2024
Beautiful sunset spot & a very friendly loon on Hay lake
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Brianna M.
3 reviews
What a beautiful and peaceful lake! Our 2 boys loved catching sunnies and bass off the doc and chasing frogs around the shore. My husband and I spent our days hanging on the doc in the sun, listening to music and watching our kids enjoy the hot summer days! Fantastic sunsets around the fire and nice shaded mornings greeted by singing birds! There was a beautiful swan family across the lake and we loved watching the sweet little fireflies cash each other around the cat tails. Canoe and kayaks for use, lots of life jackets available and plenty of dry fire wood, which we greatly appreciated! Our hosts were very friendly and available if we needed anything. We recommend this little gem!
Tess K.
2 reviews
Mixed feelings
· July 2024
Shoreline campsite on quiet lake
With pets ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
Spent two nights at the end of June over a weekend. The site was just as described. It’s private and the small lake experience is tranquil. There only appear to be a couple docks on the lake and taking in a sunset, alone, from the middle of the lake in the provided canoe was an awesome experience.
If you don’t venture onto the water the campsite faces west so the sunset from there is also wonderful.
Even though you’re next to the boat launch, the only traffic seems to be in the morning when the weekend fishermen show up, launch, fish, and then leave a few hours later. The rest of the time it’s very quiet.
The site is surrounded by standing water and pretty dense vegetation which means lots of bugs but the owner provided several refillable Citronella candles which seemed to make a difference. A smoky fire also seemed to help when the breeze was coming off the lake but when it shifts and starts blowing the bugs from the woods to the campsite you need to be ready for it.
There was an ample supply of firewood and a great fire pit with a couple folding chairs. I’d recommend bringing a bright flashlight to watch the frogs in the reeds at night.
There is plenty of room for dogs to hang out without bothering the neighbors but there is a pretty mucky shoreline so if your dog is prone to wading or chasing frogs be sure to bring some extra towels.
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Cory L.
7 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Group trip ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
The site was beautiful and had multiple seating areas. It also was fully stocked with firewood, kayaks, a canoe, and life jackets. Sadly we had to leave a night early due to a family emergency. Leah was very understanding! Would highly recommend, only downside was all the mosquitos, be prepared with bug spray
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Nicolette T.
4 reviews
I just got home from an absolutely incredible, romantic experience at Hay Lake! 🥰
The lake itself was stunning. As we paddled around in the kayaks, we never saw a single other person. We did, however see a beaver, loons, and an eagle! It was nothing short of magical.
Speaking of magic, listening to the frogs, loons, and crickets around the fire and throughout the night was breathtaking. 😌
The host, Leah, had fantastic communication and helped us feel very cared for leading up to our visit.
I highly recommend staying here and I hope to be back myself someday! 😊
A
Alex A.
2 years on Hipcamp
We loved camping here. The campsite was nice and clean. Bathroom was surprisingly pleasant for an outhouse. Lots of wildlife but still close to surrounding town area to go out and grab something to eat. Swans and loons on the lake were an added bonus. We would stay again!
L
Lianna R.
5 reviews
Recommends
· June 2024
Very friendly hosts. Campground was very quite and peaceful.
T
Tyler D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2023
With kids ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
I love the tent camping on the land it was perfect. The views were great, it was beautiful. The kids loved it great time.
C
Cole C.
6 years on Hipcamp
We absolutely loved our experience here. The tent was clean and secure. It rained pretty one night while we were there and we had no issues with rain in the tent.
The location was beautiful and secluded and had so much to offer. We brought our dog and he enjoyed swimming and jumping off the doc. We went canoeing with the canoe provided and relaxed in the hammocks. Two sets of comfortable chairs were provided and basic cooking supplies which we used to cook over the fire pit. A full water jug was also provided and was convenient for hand and dish washing. Lastly, firewood was provided which was one of the most amazing parts. Not having to worry about buying and hiking bundles of wood was a HUGE plus!
The outhouse was clean and in a convenient location. Not like your typical port a potty.
The hosts were very friendly and easy to get a hold of if you should need anything. Would 100% recommend this location to anyone!
S
Samantha G.
3 years on Hipcamp
This was such an amazing private camping site!!! You can see they have put a lot of love and TLC into their land. The lake is breathtaking, fishing was great, wildlife abundant (we saw beavers, loons, swans, cranes just to name a few). They provide a canoe and a couple kayaks that allowed us to explore. We broke out the snorkeling gear and saw some really neat aquatic life. Our son caught his first bowfin off the doc making it an extra memorable stay. Communication and local tips was great from the hosts. Only thing I would caution to folks wanting to stay - bring ALL the mosquito repellent if you are going to be out around dusk! Cost of staying in a natural/unaltered aread (worth it).
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Breeanna B.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2023
Beautiful campsite next to the wate
Group trip ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
This was the second year in a row I booked a trip here and it was perfect again. The host are very helpful and nice. The campsite was improved from last year with more sand next to water making the sunset views even better. Food and good company is all you need to bring here to make is a great time. 10/10
I
Ian W.
3 reviews
Recommends
· June 2023
With pets ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
It was an excellent spot. Nice and private. We had a wonderful time and would definitely camp here again.
T
Tyler H.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2022
Leah's property was absolutely beautiful! It was everything advertised and then some. Very quiet and peaceful. 10/10 recommend. Leah also checked in with me upon arrival, and two days into our stay!
Elizabeth S.
3 reviews
What a unique find! It was a great little family getaway, a place to relax, the kids could fish, and a peaceful paddle around the lake in the kayaks. Leah has thought of every little detail to make our stay comfortable. The tent was spacious enough for our family. Leah is a great host, great communication. Definitely will be back!
Brianne D.
4 years on Hipcamp
My family had a great time at Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks. Leah, the host, checked in to make sure we had everything we needed (which we did). It poured for many hours our first night there but the roomy, sturdy glamping tent kept the rain out just fine. Leah, had two kayaks and a canoe on site for us to use and we enjoyed kayaking around Hay lake. We never made it out fishing due to the rain, but I could hear fish splashing around in the lily pads all night long so I would imagine it's full of crappies or sunnies, maybe larger fish too? There was also plenty of water provided and the onsite porta potty / outhouse was VERY clean and not stinky in the slightest and not buggy, so for anybody worried about the bathroom situation, don't sweat it. The fire pit was large and had a cooking grate over part of it which made it great for cooking. There was plenty of firewood provided free of charge. There were also a couple of really nice, comfortable adirondack chairs and a pair of hammocks strung up in some nearby trees which made for some nice relaxing in the afternoon. Overall, had a really great time and couldn't ask for anything more. Super close and convenient location for either riding the Cuyuna trails or heading into town. Would definately stay again.
K
Kris V.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2022
With kids ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
Great spot close to awesome bike trails! Hosts were incredible! Great hospitality! So many thoughtful touches throughout site!
Well appointed with supplies big (canoe, kayaks, life jackets, tent) & small (matches, big spray, games)
We’d love to return for a future trip!
R
Rosanna I.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2022
Camping near great mountain biking
Group trip ·
Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks
Amazing site and hosts! Beautiful views of the lake with an amazing setup. The tent is huge and could easily sleep four with room the spair. The hammocks, kayaks, and canoe all provided are perfect for a good time at the lake. It's nice and close to great mountain biking. Be sure to ask the host for their mountain biking recommendations! Would absolutely recommend this place. 10/10
I
Ian W.
3 reviews
Location
Ironton, Crow Wing, Minnesota, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Leah J.
Joined in May 2022Things to do nearby
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