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Chippewa National Forest

The best camping in Chippewa National Forest, MN

83% (6)

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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!

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.

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!

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!

Jonathan

October 2025

3 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Amy’s place was beautiful and peaceful. The caboose sits on a quiet, wooded part of the property and feels totally private — you can’t even see her house from it. There’s a private trail that leads down to the lake, passing a picnic table and a fire pit with a built-in grill. It’s a perfect spot to relax, cook out, or just sit and enjoy the view. The whole setup has a cozy, tucked-away vibe that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy nature.

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.

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!!!!!!

The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose

Jim

September 2025

2 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

The caboose was a unique experience to actually stay in a renovated railroad caboose with ties to the area. It was very relaxing setting and have campfire coffee and close access to the bike trails. The dogs were always happy to say hello and the yoga platform was a perfect place to watch the clear night sky.

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!

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.

Chase

September 2025

With kids

3 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

Amazing place to stay! Paul goes above and beyond to make sure you’re comfortable. We forgot propane for our blackstone last stay, and without hesitation, he gave us two 1lb tanks. We’ve stayed with Paul twice and will be back soon!

Nick

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Detail, very good information and easy to communicate. Gorgeous caboose and very relaxing

Nicole

September 2025

With pets

4 nights at Harvest Loon Camp

Beautiful views that were quiet and peaceful. Perfect place to get away and worked perfect for traveling with dogs.

Cassie

September 2025

With pets

5 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

I brought my 3 dogs up to Paul's for a much needed getaway and I honestly can't wait to go back (sans dogs at least once). Piper was there to greet me as soon as I opened my car door and she is such a sweetheart! The views are goegeous, the hiking is a ton of fun with cool stuff to find, that stars are beautiful, the wildlife is fun to admire. I was able to listen to a loon, saw and heard my first raven in person, and watched a great blue heron that likes to feed out on the lake every day. There's definitely a reason all his reviews are absolutely glowing.

Troy

September 2025

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

This is a great spot. Mike was a wonderful host. We will be back.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Chippewa National Forest

100%

(1)

Cass Lake Loop Campground

4.2mi from Chippewa National Forest · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

100%

(1)

Norway Beach Loop Campground

4.7mi from Chippewa National Forest · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

100%

(1)

North Star Campground

47mi from Chippewa National Forest · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

100%

(1)

Star Island Trail

2.8mi from Chippewa National Forest · 1 site · in Chippewa National Forest

Noma Lake Campground

40mi from Chippewa National Forest · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Webster Lake Campground

16mi from Chippewa National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Knutson Dam Campground

8mi from Chippewa National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Chippewa Loop Campground

5.2mi from Chippewa National Forest · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Wanaki Loop Campground

5.1mi from Chippewa National Forest · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

South Pike Bay Campground

3.8mi from Chippewa National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Winnie Campground

15mi from Chippewa National Forest · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Cut Foot Horse Campground

27mi from Chippewa National Forest · 34 sites · in Chippewa National Forest

Deer Lake Campground

26mi from Chippewa National Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

East Seelye Bay Campground

26mi from Chippewa National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Mosomo Point Campground

28mi from Chippewa National Forest · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Onegume Campground

28mi from Chippewa National Forest · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Tamarack Point Campground

24mi from Chippewa National Forest · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

West Seelye Bay Campground

26mi from Chippewa National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Williams Narrows Campground

27mi from Chippewa National Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Clubhouse Lake Campground

51mi from Chippewa National Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chippewa National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

I Live in the Country

98%

(32)

21mi from Chippewa National Forest · 4 sites · Tents · Becida, MN

This is home, a realization of a lifelong dream of living in the country. The land is magical. Our animals are our family. Learn more about this land: If you like privacy you'll love our 200 acre haven. Come up the long driveway and experience the spacious view of the open hay field. Camp in the open or tucked away in the trees. You choose the spot as long as it's not in the horse pasture, cow pasture when cows are in, or in the hay field when hay is long before it's cut. Hay field would be off limits roughly late June to Mid July during optimal growth time and cutting. Note: This is a primitive camping experience. We offer no amenities, no toilets, no water. We are a 20 minute drive from the North Entrance to Itasca State Park and the Headwaters of the Mississippi. LaSalle Lake State Recreation Area is also just a few minutes down the road from us. Also LaSalle Lake Recreation Area is only about six or seven miles down the road.

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

100%

(42)

27mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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🐕

Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

100%

(27)

31mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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).

Fire Tower Pond

100%

(26)

34mi from Chippewa National Forest · 1 site · Tent · Pine Point, MN

Campsite is set next to a large pond, deep in the woods on 40 private acres. The pond is accessible for swimming/kayaking/canoeing. Beautiful Itasca State Park is directly across the road from the property with biking, hiking, nature drives, boating, fishing, equipment rentals, dining and more. Within a few miles are several local eateries. The area has many miles of ATV trails and the Heartland Bike Trail.

RV There Yet Campground

98%

(29)

34mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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.

Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

100%

(16)

34mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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!

Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

97%

(106)

36mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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.

Harvest Loon Camp

100%

(119)

45mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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.

Jammers Retreat

16mi from Chippewa National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Bemidji, MN

Come enjoy camping on seven peaceful acres, just 7 miles from Bemidji, 3 miles from the state park, and only 2.5 miles from a private wilderness lake. The property features a large building suitable for gatherings, plus hot and cold water available outdoors. Unique highlights include a clay pit and sand pit—perfect for grounding, healing, or simply letting your inner child play. You’ll also find plenty of nearby lakes, trails, and opportunities for foraging and nature exploration. Extras available: • Kayaks and bicycles for guest use • Alternative healing circles upon request Campsites are first come, first served—a simple yet special place to connect with nature, community, and yourself.

Crandall View

24mi from Chippewa National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hines, MN

Nestled in the trees, come take in the northland and sleep under the stars on this cleared lot. This site makes a great base camp while enjoying various area activities being especially close to Blackduck Lake, area ATV trails and the local golf course. Other year around attractions and activities include: Upper Red Lake, Big Bog State Park, area hiking, biking, snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, a swimming area at Lake Benjamin, as well as various attractions in the Bemidji area. Don't forget to check out downtown Blackduck for quaint shops & cafes, the movie theater, and bowling alley. Also, home to the annual Woodcarvers Festival that takes place the last Saturday of July.

Bergamo Campground and Events

25mi from Chippewa National Forest · 100 sites · RVs · Solway, MN

Discover the unique charm of Bergamo Campground, a brand new destination for outdoor enthusiasts and ATV'ers. Nestled in Solway, MN, just 8 miles west of Bemidji, this campground offers easy access via US Hwy 2 and is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Beltrami County. With miles of ATV trails, hundreds of lakes nearby, including Lake Bemidji, Upper Red Lake, and Cass Lake, you'll find endless opportunities for swimming, fishing, and water sports. Bergamo Campground features 49 spacious seasonal campsites, each measuring 60x100 feet, equipped with septic, water, and 50-amp electrical hookups. Our campground is not only ATV, golf cart-friendly but we also welcomes pets, making it an ideal choice for families and animal lovers alike. Explore the expansive 232-acre property, which boasts miles of golf cart/bike and walking trails. It's a perfect location for ATV and horseback riding enthusiasts just 2.5 miles away. Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities abound, allowing you to connect with nature in a serene setting. Whether you're seeking a seasonal camping experience or a safe and beautiful spot for your Bemidji area getaway, Bergamo Campground is your perfect retreat.

Timberlost at West Crooked

26mi from Chippewa National Forest · 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.

The best camping in Chippewa National Forest, MN guide

Overview

About

The Chippewa National Forest could easily be renamed to Chippewa National Lakes! The serene waters produce more wetlands and lakes than any other National Forest in the country. The Chippewa is a place of baptismal beauty and has been heralded in folk song classics for decades. Meander rivers, hike over 290 miles of trails, and cast away for a chance at muskie, walleye, northern pike, bass or sunfish. Rough-it-out in style at over 20 campgrounds that are located on lakeshores. At the end your day raise a cold one to Minnesota, she never disappoints!

83%

6 ratings · 1 review

Mixed feelings

· May 2025

Knutson Dam Campground

I never been, but apparently the app said I was there... So much for smart technology.