The best camping in Minnesota

Name: Minnesota
Address: Minnesota
Rating: 4.783

The land of 10,000 lakes―11,842 to be exact—is a water-logged paradise for anglers, paddlers, and campers. From the shores of Lake Superior to the banks of the Mississippi, you'll never be more than a short drive from a lake campground or a forest hiking trail. Minnesota's distinct seasons afford plenty of opportunities to get outdoors, whether you're hiking or horseback riding through autumnal woodlands, wild swimming in the lakes in summer, or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through the long winter months. The best weather for a camping trip is from May through October, but you'll find many Minnesota campgrounds open year-round.

96% (10.9K) • 9,568 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Minnesota

Ranch Retreat Camping

1. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(460)

Winona, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our ranch has been in our family for 16 years and, before that, belonged to one family for over 200 years. Jolene (me, - owner) and my two sons, Riley and Logan, put a lot of time and dedication into our ranch. Our ranch is located on 40 acres where anyone can find their little piece of “peace.” We pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our guests and making them feel at home when they step onto our land. We will do our best to accommodate your needs in any way possible. Our WIFI is not always 100% reliable. If you need WIFI during your stay, please bring another option with you, such as a hotspot on your cell phone, in case ours is not dependable. From the crew who loves to share a little piece of our life on Stone Roller Road, – Jolene, Riley, Logan, Scotch (the yellow lab), Hops (the chocolate lab), and Scrappy (the late ranch dog)

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Whippletree Farm & Nature Trail

2. Whippletree Farm & Nature Trail

100%

(217)

Lake Elmo, MN · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Whippletree! This is our sixth-generation family farm, and while it's more of a hobby farm now, it has been in continuous agricultural production since 1869! Besides tillable farm land, we are stewards of native prairie, small wooded areas, a remnant of an oak savanna and wetlands, with trails throughout. We consider this our sanctuary and enjoying sharing it with others looking for a place of retreat to connect with the natural world. Stop by for a visit!

Electrical hookup

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Campfires

Balsam Ridge Retreat

3. Balsam Ridge Retreat

100%

(1072)

Duluth, MN · 7 sites

Hello friends! Thanks for your interest in Balsam Ridge Retreat! Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'. We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth. Our home was once an abandoned house that sat for years until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale. We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here! Just down the road is a trout stream and beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired its horses and closed its doors to make room for new homes, but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun. This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.

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Potable water

Camden State Park

4. Camden State Park

100%

(7)

State park in Minnesota · 93 sites

Discover Camden State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Finland State Forest

5. Finland State Forest

95%

(11)

State forest in Minnesota · 82 sites

Discover the natural allure of Finland State Forest.

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Campfires

Honeyberry Minnesota working farm

6. Honeyberry Minnesota working farm

98%

(122)

Stillwater, MN · 2 sites

Small working farm of 25 acres with roughly 1/3 wooded. Bring cash if you want to buy fresh produce. Half-way between Hudson WI and Stillwater MN. Tons of activities to do, including the St Croix River. Mowed trails on the property, campfire wood provided. Site 1A has electric. Walk up to our two-acre Haskap orchard.

Pets

River Road Campground Luverne

7. River Road Campground Luverne

92%

(592)

Luverne, MN · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This is a newer campground to Rock County near Luverne, MN. This property is known as the "boy scouts" by the locals. When we were kids we spent time on this property riding bike, horses, and exploring. We have turned this 13 acre property into 22 site campground that we are excited to share with you. Nestled in a bed of trees just 2 miles from I-90 and 1/4 mile South of the Luverne City Park. This campground has 12 sites with rural water and 20,30&50 amp electric at every site. Dump Station. 8 Full Hook Up Sites (Sewer, Water, Electric) Two small ponds and shade trees. Wifi. Shower House/Bathrooms. Campers can enjoy the quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife, a perfect place for bird watching. We also have a paved bike trial that connects to the campground that leads to miles of trials around Luverne and out to the State park.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

field view campsite

8. field view campsite

94%

(76)

Northfield, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: You"ll camp right next to the pasture and on our field drive with wonderful views and sunsets. The field is surrounded on three sides by Rice County Wilderness Park so it is very private and quiet.if you have a tent or small vehicle park down next to fire ring. If you have an RV park on the field drive next to the site We do not use pesticides sprays, the ticks are prolific this year all throughout MN. Bring repellents for yourself Porta potty is a five minute walk to front of barn, there is also water available at the barn bring your own container

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Toilets

Campfires

The Double J

9. The Double J

99%

(369)

Zumbrota, MN · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to the Double J! Of the 71 acres we own, about half is tillable and the other half is woods and pastures for our horses. Within that, there is a beautiful secluded 3-acre meadow nestled down along along a beautiful 1,200 foot stretch of the Zumbro River where we have 5 spacious tent/RV campsites. While the campsites are all adjacent to each other along the river, they are each very spacious (the smallest being 100' wide and 75' deep), with some mature trees scattered around. Each sites (except Site #1) is able to accommodate up to 8 people and more than one tent or RV. There is a small meadow above all the sites where campers can play catch or other games. We provide and maintain a centrally located outhouse and keep the entire area mowed throughout the year. All sites offer great shade trees (perfectly spaced for hanging up a hammock) and access to the river - great for those hot summer days! Water activities to be enjoyed include fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and tubing (equipment not included). Some campers will drop in upstream at the Covered Bridge Park and float down to their campsite. The Zumbro River, especially in the fishing hole, offers great fishing including Trout, Small-mouth, Red-horse, and an occasional Northern or Sauger. Campers are welcome to to meander out into our pastures to pet our two horses, Shiloh and Champ. Also, we are just over a mile from town where you can visit Covered Bridge Park which has a Frisbee golf course and a nice play area for younger kids. Reserving adjacent sites, or all of the sites, makes for the ideal setting for a large family or group camp-out. In order to prevent overcrowding, we do reserve the right to limit number of sites, or campers per site based on overall parties/campers in the camping area. We will notify you if there are any limits at the time of your booking. We enjoy being able to share our property with others, and it is our desire to promote a safe, peaceful, family-friendly environment, therefore, be sure to note, we do have a NO ALCOHOL policy. PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to read the "RV Details" on the site information page as the road to the camping area may limit the type or size of RV due to a couple dips, a sharper curve, and it's steeper slope. Also, keep in mind, we reserve the right to cancel any reservations due to heavy rains or floods that may require our sites some additional time to dry out sufficiently. For updates and notice of last minute cancellations be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DoubleJCamping As is customary for most campgrounds, we ask that if you bring in your own firewood that it be kiln dried. Dry firewood can be purchased for $5.00/bundle. TIP - Being we do not reimburse campers in the event of rain (unless campground is flooded or too muddy), we highly recommend campers take advantage of Hipcamp’s Weather Guarantee option when booking. With Minnesota’s unpredictable weather it allows you to get reimbursed for any days it rains over a specified amount, even if you choose to stick out the rain! The cost is very reasonable making it almost a no-brainer! Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions! We look forward to being able to serve you!

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Tettegouche State Park

10. Tettegouche State Park

100%

(17)

State park in Minnesota · 45 sites

You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Itasca State Park

11. Itasca State Park

100%

(15)

State park in Minnesota · 239 sites

Explore the wild headwaters of the Mississippi River at Minnesota’s oldest state park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Afton State Park

12. Afton State Park

100%

(18)

State park in Minnesota · 31 sites

Give Afton State Park's four-stage geocache a run with free GPS units you can checkout at the park.

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Campfires

Blue Mounds State Park

13. Blue Mounds State Park

100%

(8)

State park in Minnesota · 88 sites

Discover quartzite cliffs, bison herds, and wildflower-blanketed prairies.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The little cabin

14. The little cabin

98%

(57)

Princeton, MN · 1 site

Great quiet relaxing location, with wildlife and the sound of the country. You will have the only camp site on the property. You can stay in the small camping cabin in comfort with your own bedding, or bring a sleeping bag. We have the twin bed in the loft, or use the futon on the main level. The cabin only has room for two adults unless you bring a camp pad to sleep on the floor, or squeeze in a child, but you have the comforts of an A/C , a Weber grill, mini fridge, microwave, and Electricity. Quiet former country farm site, with great wildlife viewing options with walking trails. Only 23 miles to DT St. Cloud and 7 Miles to the Walmart in Princeton for food or supplies. If a shower is desired the Kwik Trip in St Cloud, on Hwy 10 has showers. Just a half mile off Hwy 95 and 5 miles from the large Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, with trails and lots of wildlife. In the Fall expect to see a large amount of wildlife with many migrating birds come out of the refuge to feed. Expect to hear Pheasant's cackle in the AM, and see Sandhill Cranes and Geese fly over the camp site, or sitting in area fields. Enjoy time around a campfire with folding chairs and a picknick table, with plenty of free dry firewood in a storage rack.

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Campfires

Tumbleweed Base Camp

15. Tumbleweed Base Camp

99%

(378)

Detroit Lakes, MN · 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.

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The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

16. The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

99%

(138)

Pine City, MN · 5 sites

Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!

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Showers

Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

17. Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

97%

(117)

Princeton, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Farm Glamping and Camping: Unplug and Reconnect with Nature's Rhythm Escape the everyday and embrace the simple joys of countryside living with our signature glamping experience. Our thoughtfully appointed site features a comfortable queen-sized bed where you’ll drift off to sleep surrounded by the gentle sounds of farm life. Glamping: Wake to beautiful views of our vibrant pasture and peaceful hay fields from your private deck with two inviting rocking chairs, the perfect spot to savor your morning coffee or evening beverage. As day turns to night, join fellow guests around our shared fire pit to toast marshmallows and share stories beneath Minnesota’s starry sky. Our glamping sites seamlessly complement the farm’s other experiences. Attend a Thursday or Saturday pizza night or join a goat yoga session during your stay. On nights without scheduled activities, guests are welcome to use the camp stove to prepare their own meals or we can make recommendations on local eateries. Camping: Situated along our field road are two spots between our hay field and pasture. Wake up to sounds of our cattle and enjoy a beautiful view of our growing hay field. Pet Policy Unlike our other Farm event spaces which are pet-free, we welcome your furry friend to stay with you in our glamping tents. Pets must remain leashed when outside the tent and stay within the designated glamping area throughout their visit. We do have dogs at the farm that are friendly, but not on leash. Enhance Your Stay with Add-On Experiences: Farm-Style Breakfast: Start your day with fresh baked caramel rolls, orange juice and French press coffee. Wood-Fired Sauna: Rejuvenate body and spirit in our authentic sauna experience Cold Plunge: Invigorate your senses with a refreshing cold plunge after the sauna Pet Package: Bring your furry friend along with our pet-friendly accommodation option (includes welcome treat and designated pet area)

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Campfires

The Edge

18. The Edge

94%

(238)

Rochester, MN · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This 6 acre farm used to be a sod farm, and then a Christmas tree farm. Camping provided is in the remnants of the uncut Christmas tree forest which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.

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Campfires

Off Grid Stargazing

19. Off Grid Stargazing

98%

(99)

Hermantown, MN · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Off Grid camping on private property. Tent, Car, Van, Truck, Roof-top camping welcome. Select the right site to fit your needs. Drive to every campsite (except Heated Winter Camping-3 min walk) and have your own private parking. Secluded privacy with incredible stargazing. Experience complete darkness for viewing the stars. Breathtaking Northern Lights if the time is right. There is One Clear Camping Dome on-site which includes a private firepit. Enjoy 360 degrees of nature in the Clear Dome while relaxing on a queen size bed. Don't want to set camp up? Don't worry... There is 1 Heated tent set up with 2 cots available. Several other sites include private firepits. If you need a pull-thru site, Site #9 offers a pull-thru option. Please note there is no water or electric. The property has 2 porta potties for campers. Choose from several different campsites that you can drive directly onto. Dogs are allowed if kept on a leash or tether. They may not run free. No extra charge for pets! CLEAN UP after your pets. A convenience store is just a 3-minute drive away if you need supplies. Walmart delivery is available to driveway. Park Point Beach is only 10 miles from the property. Jay Cooke State Park only 10 miles away. Enger Tower only 9 miles away. Please note that you may hear distant sounds, including traffic, trains, coyotes, and a neighbor's rooster. There are 4 different types of campsites. 1. Heated Clear Dome with queen bed and bedding. Includes private firepit, 1 vehicle and 2 people. Setting up an additional tent is allowed. 2. Vehicles only. No firepit. No tents. (Rooftop tent is ok) $20 3. Sites with Firepits allow vehicles and tents. $30-40 includes a firepit filled with firewood, 1 vehicle, 2 tents, 4 people. Additional firewood can be purchased for $7 a bundle. 4. Tent already set up. Heated Fall/Winter Camping (only 1 available) If yard maintenance, such as mowing or trimming is necessary during your stay, it will typically take place between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

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Campfires

Cuyuna Crossing | Riverside Stays

20. Cuyuna Crossing | Riverside Stays

95%

(151)

Crosby, MN · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

Cuyuna Crossing offers both private riverside domes and walk-in rustic campsites on 21 wooded acres with over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage, just minutes from the Cuyuna Recreation Area. Our professionally designed 18-hole disc golf course winds through the woods and along the river. Overnight guests can play any time during their stay, and the course is also open to the public on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mirror Hypedomes (Glamping) Our insulated domes are designed for quiet, comfortable stays and are ideal for couples. Each includes a king bed, wood stove (firewood provided), electric heat, AC in the summer season, mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, outdoor seating, fire ring, and private river access. Included wood-fired, coil thermosiphon hot tubs are the ultimate camping luxury during the summer season. Private Bathroom & Shower: Each dome comes with its own private bathroom and shower, just for your party. It's in the main building, a short walk from the domes. Pets: Leashed pets are welcome everywhere outside on the property, but they can't stay inside the domes. Winter Season (Oct 19 – May 1) The domes stay open all year! During the winter season the wood-fired hot tubs are out of service (we shut them off once nights drop below freezing), and the rate is $179 a night with a 1-night minimum. The wood stove keeps things cozy, and firewood is provided. Plan to keep the fire going overnight on the coldest nights. Rustic Campsites Walk-in tent sites offer a simple, peaceful way to experience the land. The property includes one Riverside Group Site (up to four tents) and four individual tent sites along the river. Sites are bring-your-own-gear. A porta potty serves the campsite area. Walk-In Access: All campsites are walk-in only, with no vehicles past the main lot. Park there and use one of our carts to haul your gear. The trail can be muddy or uneven after rain, so plan on two trips if you're bringing a lot. Water: The campsites don't have water or electrical hookups. You can fill up with drinking water at the main building by the parking lot, so bring a jug or refillable bottles to carry back to your site. Optional add-on: shared private bathroom & shower access in the main building (limited availability, advance purchase required). Coming Soon Additional premium tents are planned for a future phase of the property. The Property Over a half mile of Mississippi River frontage 18-hole disc golf course (guests any time; open to the public Tuesdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.) Wooded setting with space to relax Nearby: 200 yards to The Bridge Tavern restaurant and bar .3 miles to public Mississippi River water access 1.5 miles to the Milford Mine Memorial Park 4.7 miles to downtown Crosby shops and restaurants 5.1 miles to Yawkey Unit mountain bike trails 5.3 miles to emergency room and hospital 5.5 miles to Super One Foods 5.9 miles to Cykel Bike Shop in Ironton 10.1 miles to Sagamore Unit mountain bike trails Good to Know This is a shared property with both domes and campsites. Rustic campsites are walk-in only; domes include parking at site. Spring conditions may include mud or high water. Prior reviews referencing vehicle access reflect an earlier layout.

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The best family-friendly campsites in Minnesota

Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(460)

Winona, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Balsam Ridge Retreat

100%

(1072)

Duluth, MN · 7 sites

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

River Road Campground Luverne

92%

(592)

Luverne, MN · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

The Double J

99%

(369)

Zumbrota, MN · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Tumbleweed Base Camp

99%

(378)

Detroit Lakes, MN · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

97%

(117)

Princeton, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The best dog-friendly campsites in Minnesota

Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(460)

Winona, MN · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Honeyberry Minnesota working farm

98%

(122)

Stillwater, MN · 2 sites

Pets

River Road Campground Luverne

92%

(592)

Luverne, MN · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

field view campsite

94%

(76)

Northfield, MN · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The Double J

99%

(369)

Zumbrota, MN · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The little cabin

98%

(57)

Princeton, MN · 1 site

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Josh

4 days ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This was my 3rd time at balsam ridge. Stayed in the roost and had an amazing weekend end. This is a perfect location and getaway filled with so much whimsy and magic. My favorite spot is the community center where I can enjoy a fire and play games, guitar, or the piano. I cannot give enough credit to our host Chris and Linda for how much work and heart they have put into this place. Absolutely love coming here.

4 days ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

I had a very lovely weekend away from the city! The grounds were beautiful and the Stuga was super cozy. Ill defintely be back!

Joshua

1 week ago

18 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Beautiful property and a very friendly and quick to respond and help host!

Brice

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Had a great stay!

Dani

1 week ago

17 ft truck camper

Weekend Trip to Off Grid Stargazing

Thanks for having us! It was a nice spot and awesome being so close to downtown Duluth!

Kallan

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Stayed two nights in Danny’s Tent. Our experience was truly incredible. The hosts Chris and Linda make you feel at home. They went far past our expectations, their service and attention to detail is amazing. I can’t wait to come back!

Alex

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

It wasn't just two nights of lodging - it was two wonderful days full of memories for us and our children. Thank you, Chris and Linda, for your hospitality and genuine care. We love returning to your retreat!

Addison

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wise Woods on Fool Lake

What a wonderful spot. A quiet lake and an easy drive to and from town

Andy

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Whippletree Farm & Nature Trail

My third time staying here. It's such a peaceful lovely escape, that's still close to the city. I will for sure be back!

Nic

1 week ago

1 night at Off Grid Stargazing

Amazing host and site! Will definitely be back in the future.

Paul

2 weeks ago

28 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Whippletree Farm & Nature Trail

We love it and have decided to spend one more night here! Peter is friendly, warm, a very welcoming host. 110% Recommended!

Ashton

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at field view campsite

Perfect spot to get some end of season camping in! Very easy to find, even when we arrived in the dark. Kristin was very kind and made sure to come introduce herself and give us directions on getting to the barn for the bathroom and water. Absolutely beautiful views, quiet and private as well. Will definitely be returning!

Susan

2 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at The Double J

We had a great camping experience at the Double J. Campground is clean quiet, and the hosts responded almost instantly to my messages to them. I will definately be returning to this darling little campground.

Brian

2 weeks ago

35 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Honeyberry Minnesota working farm

Great hip camp. Private, quiet and easy to find. Will stay again when I am in the area.

Ashley

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

1 night at Mn River Valley Sanctuary

great little spot with a little hobby farm. friendly and helpful hosts who are above and beyond.

Sylvia

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Double J

We had a lovely stay here. Drove about 35 min to do a beautiful hike at the Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Really nice woods walk. Overall we enjoyed our stay at the Double J. Bathroom is very clean and the property is well kept. Hosts were super welcoming and responsive.

Grace

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Off Grid Stargazing

Very nice lady and was super helpful and was a beautiful spot

Ingrid

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Off Grid Stargazing

Great spot with everything exactly as listed! Can see the stars incredibly well on a clear night.

GaShia

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Double J

Thank you it was an awesome stay!

Alexis

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Off Grid Stargazing

What an incredible spot! My husband and I went camping for the first time and thanks to Aimee and this great spot, it was a breeze! The location was easy to find, she was quick to respond, the view of the stars were incredible and we even had a cat visitor our first night ( a big highlight for me). 10/10 will be coming back.

Minnesota camping guide

Where to go

Northwest Minnesota

Bordered by Canada to the north, and South Dakota and the Red River Valley to the west, northwest Minnesota is home to some of the state's biggest lakes. Grand Rapids and Bemidji are the gateways to the Leech Lake Recreation Area and the Chippewa National Forest, while nearby Itasca State Park lies at the headwaters of the Mississippi River. To the north, two Minnesota state parks border the Lake of the Woods, known for its walleye fishing and winter snowmobiling.

Northeast Minnesota

Lush state forests, wetlands, and island-studded lakes blanket the northeastern tip of Minnesota, stretching down from the Canadian border to the north shore of Lake Superior. Minnesota camping is at its wildest out here, whether paddling out to island campsites in Voyageurs National Park, RV camping with full hookups in Superior National Forest, or seeking out a tranquil lake campground in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Central Minnesota

On the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are launchpads for outdoor adventures in central Minnesota. Some of the region's best campgrounds are just a short drive from the city at Mille Lacs Lake, while Frontenac State Park has a mix of drive-in RV sites and cart-in tent sites along the Mississippi. Further north, there's kayak and canoe camping along the St. Croix River at Wild River State Park, or yurt and camper cabin rentals at Afton State Park.

Southern Minnesota

Glacial plains and scenic river valleys give way to the wooded bluffs of the Mississippi River in southern Minnesota. Rochester, Mankato, and Winona provide easy access to the south, where highlights include aptly named Great River Bluffs State Park, Whitewater State Park, and Minneopa State Park, home of Minnesota's tallest waterfall. In the far southwestern corner, Blue Mounds State Park is known for its soaring cliffs—a hotspot for rock climbing—and free-roaming bison.

Top camping destinations around Minnesota

Karlstad

7 campgrounds

Gooseberry Falls State Park

83 campgrounds

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

84 campgrounds

Lake Pepin

85 campgrounds

Superior National Forest

Tettegouche State Park

83 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to camp anywhere in Minnesota?

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere without restrictions in Minnesota. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, state forests, and national forests. In some cases, dispersed camping (primitive camping away from developed campgrounds) is allowed in specific areas of state and national forests. For instance, you can find dispersed camping sites in Minnesota's national forests such as the Chippewa National Forest and Superior National Forest. When camping in these areas, it's important to follow Leave No Trace principles and adhere to any posted regulations or restrictions.

For more information on camping options in Minnesota, you can visit Hipcamp.

Is there any free camping in Minnesota?

Yes, there are several places to camp for free in Minnesota. You can find free camping in its national forests: Superior National Forest and Chippewa National Forest. These forests offer dispersed camping, which is primitive and has no facilities, so you'll need to come prepared. Additionally, some state forests and wildlife management areas in Minnesota also allow free camping. Please be aware of local rules and regulations when camping in these areas.

How much does camping cost at Minnesota state parks?

Camping fees at Minnesota state parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. On average, you can expect to pay the following rates for camping:

Tent sites: $15 to $23 per night
RV sites with electric hookups: $25 to $35 per night
Group campsites: $50 to $300 per night, depending on the size of the group
Cabins: $55 to $200 per night, depending on the size and amenities

These rates are subject to change, and additional fees may apply for vehicle permits, reservation fees, or other services. To learn more about camping options and fees in Minnesota state parks, visit the Hipcamp Minnesota State Parks page.

Do you need a permit to camp in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, whether you need a permit to camp depends on the location and type of camping. For state parks, you will need to make a reservation and pay the appropriate fees. Reservations can be made through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reservation system. For camping in national forests, such as the Superior National Forest or the Chippewa National Forest, you may need a permit for certain areas, especially if you plan to camp in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Information on permits and reservations for the BWCAW can be found on the Recreation.gov website. For dispersed camping in national forests, you generally do not need a permit. However, it's essential to follow the guidelines and regulations for each specific forest. Always check with the local ranger district office for the area you plan to camp in for any specific rules or restrictions.