The best camping in Birch Lakes State Forest, MN

Name: Birch Lakes State Forest
Address: Birch Lakes State Forest

Discover the natural splendor of Birch Lakes State Forest.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Birch Lakes State Forest adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Birch Lakes State Forest

Birch Lakes Campground

1. Birch Lakes Campground

Campground in Birch Lakes State Forest · 30 sites · Tents, RVs

Birch Lakes Campground is as “basic” as a brunette…except in a good way

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Top-rated campsites near Birch Lakes State Forest

The Woods

1. The Woods

99%

(71)

13mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to our hidden gem in the Minnesota woods—perfect for campers looking to unplug and enjoy the simple beauty of the outdoors. Our property offers a peaceful, rustic setting with towering trees, quiet walking trails, and plenty of wildlife. You might spot deer wandering through, hear wild turkeys gobbling in the distance, or catch a glimpse of an eagle soaring overhead. This is a primitive property, so you won’t find modern amenities like bathrooms or running water. But what you will find is space to breathe, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're here to hike, stargaze, cook over the fire, or just relax, this is your spot to slow down and enjoy the natural world.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

2. 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

100%

(12)

21mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

🌿 Oak Crest RV Sites | Near Glenwood, MN Enjoy a peaceful country stay just minutes from Glenwood and Grove Lake. Each back-in RV site includes: * 50-amp electric * Water hookup (May 1–Nov. 30) * Free Wi-Fi Property amenities: * Nature walking trail * One hammock * Countryside swing * Wildlife viewing Please note: * Three back-in RV sites on the property. * A private tiny home is also located on the property and may be occupied during your stay. * One RV and one vehicle per site. * Registered guests only. * No parties or unapproved visitors. Nearby: * Grove Lake * Lake Minnewaska * Rolling Forks Vineyards * Downtown Glenwood

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Creekwood Acres, LLC

3. Creekwood Acres, LLC

99%

(116)

26mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site

We purchased the property in 2003 in order to escape the city life and be closer to nature. Over the years we have developed our sustainable farm, raising grass-fed cattle, chickens, and various other animals over the years. We also breed Bernese Mountain Dogs, so you'll see some of our pack wandering the property. We work hard to maintain practices that heal the land and preserve it for the future. No chemicals, hormones, antibiotics, pesticides or herbicides are used here. We raised our four children here and have made many memories together as we learned to farm, build and enjoy our land. We continue to create and build towards a long-term vision, creating a haven for artisans with self-sufficient living in mind. Welcome to our inviting custom built cottage. It is located on our property, approximately 300' from on our home on our 55 acre land plot, located 10 minutes outside of St. Joseph, MN. We are very near St. John's University and the College of St. Benedict. Hiking trails located on our property as well as nearby County parks and St. John's University. We are 6 miles from the Wobegon Trail (76 miles long) which is great for biking, roller blading, walking and running. Come explore Creekwood Acres which is host to a great deal of wild life as well as sustainably raised animals with a process we call rejuvenative farming. Wander through the woods and listen to the birds, watch monarch butterflies, our cattle and hear the, frogs, crickets and occasionally distant coyotes. The Watab Creek runs through the property which consists of fields, forest and a pond. Our cozy cottage was built by our family using lumber sawn on our property. There are two double beds up in the loft accessible by ladder and one queen size sofa sleeper (very comfortable!) on the main level . A wood burning stove keeps the cottage cozy in cooler weather. There is a bathroom with flushing toilet and shower. Electricity keeps the cottage aglow and runs a refrigerator, microwave, sound system and fans. Also available for your convenience, an apartment size range and kitchen sink. Enjoy a fire in a private fire ring near the cottage. Firewood available for purchase (for exterior fire ring). Enjoy a wood-fired sauna upon request. The sauna has been known to get quite hot! Theres so much more to come and your current support to help with our reinvestment in Creekwood Acres is so greatly appreciated!!! Side Note: We truly strive to accommodate everybody's needs and wishes. The more we host, the more we understand that some people just want to be left to enjoy a quiet weekend while others love to engage and develop a connection. We enjoy engaging in conversation and developing connections and yet completely respect the desire for others privacy to the utmost degree. We try to let the guest set the stage and expectations based on the first greeting and any encounters. Please feel free to state your hopes and wishes. Also..., we are passionate about our farming methods with a strong sense of homesteading. If you are interested in learning more about regenerative farming, we are happy to chat! Our hope is to bring people back to the land in a holistic, spiritual, and conscientious manner.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

Wold Ranch

4. Wold Ranch

95%

(11)

26mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site

Pause your travels for the night or spend a few days. Conveniently located right off US Hwy 71 or 20 miles from I-94. This is a level RV site able to accommodate big rigs, 50amp service and water. We are a working family farm. Enjoy the horses , cows, cats, and dog. Patio with shade and fire ring located next to site.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Alexandria Lakes Area Camp

5. Alexandria Lakes Area Camp

98%

(41)

26mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape the noise and discover a hidden gem just 10 minutes from Alexandria. Nestled off a quiet gravel road, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect blend of seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by trees and wide-open skies, it's an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being off the beaten path. Your campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for cozy evenings and shared meals under the stars. You have access to the entire 2.5 acer property, so pick a spot that suits you. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a relaxing overnight stop on a road trip, or a base for exploring the lakes area, this tranquil spot offers a peaceful, no-fuss experience in nature.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

6. Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

98%

(22)

33mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Single site camp spot surrounded by woods and water. Our 51 acre parcel is just three miles from downtown Alexandria but you’ll feel like your way out of town. It’s a quiet location with no neighbors, a dock for fishing (or watching the sunset) trails for hiking and one of the best lakes for kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding. We are located: A short mile to a trailhead on the Central Lakes Trail Half mile to Lake Brophy County Park with a giant playground and Mountain Bike Trails Quarter mile from the Arrowood 18 hole golf course Also our lake is connected to the Carlos, Le Homme Dieu, Darling Chain of lakes, jump in your boat and connect to 11 more lakes

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Picnic table

Welle's Campsite

7. Welle's Campsite

98%

(32)

35mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

40 acres of peaceful hunting land with a mixture of woods, swamp, hay fields, and a permanent campsite established in the corner. Plenty of room for parking and multiple campers/tents. Campsite is well maintained and has 30 amp hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and an outhouse to use.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Swift Falls County Park

8. Swift Falls County Park

98%

(21)

40mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 23 sites · Tents, RVs

The Swift Falls County Park is located on the banks of the Chippewa River in the village of Swift Falls, Minnesota. The park is open for camping from May to October and online registration is available below. Swift Falls Park is a great place to hike, fish, or enjoy the playground. Pets are allowed. Need Firewood? Firewood can be purchased from the white building across the river (over the bridge) by the dam.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Andes RV Park

9. Andes RV Park

97%

(17)

41mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

Our new RV Park was opened in 2023 and features 45 full hook up spots, bath/shower house, kids play area, Pickle ball court (coming Mid July 2023), and over 800 acres of trails to enjoy. We have 2 small bodies of water accessible by our trail system that are great for kayaking and fishing. Come enjoy the outdoors with us today!

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Toilets

Full hookups

Pearsons Century Farm

10. Pearsons Century Farm

99%

(145)

49mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Homesteaded more than 100 years ago this farm is somewhat stuck in time. Once this was a prosperous dairy operation. Location location location, this place is my slice of heaven on earth. Located in the corner of 4 townships on an extremely quiet road. Our farm now raises grass fed beef and wooly pigs pastured along driveway along with the usual cast of a farm, dogs, cats, chickens, guineas and goats

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

11. Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

98%

(60)

49mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site

Enjoy a spacious 2-acre lakefront RV site in a natural Minnesota setting, perfect for spreading out and relaxing. The property sits along a quiet, dead-end gravel road, just a short drive from a paved county highway. Please note: The lake bay directly connected to the site is shallow and weedy, so swimming is not recommended, and fishing from the shore or dock may be challenging. However, the scenic lake views and gentle slope to the water make this an ideal setting for your RV retreat. Location Reference: • ~25 miles west of Alexandria, MN • ~90 miles northwest of St. Cloud, MN • ~155 miles northwest of Minneapolis, MN • ~95 miles southeast of Fargo, ND What You’ll Find Here: • Full RV hookups including 30-amp (220V) and 20-amp (110V) electrical service, water, and a connection to a sewage holding tank. • Mostly open, grassy lot with full sun exposure and a few small trees along the perimeter. • Located ½ mile off a paved county road, with minimal traffic on a dead-end gravel road. • Small dock provided. The shallow bay may be suitable for small boats, but water levels vary and larger boats may have difficulty. Public boat launch is 1 mile away. • Swimming is not ideal from the property, but a well-maintained public beach is just 1 mile away on a neighboring lake. • A paved bike trail is ½ mile away, offering access to the beach and nearby town. • Fire ring provided. Firewood is available as an optional add-on. Things to Note • The RV shown in photos is not included—it’s for example purposes only. • There are no trash facilities onsite—guests must pack out all garbage. • One RV and up to two vehicles per booking, please. • A shed on the premises is locked and not accessible during your stay. • No storm shelter is available. Guests are responsible for seeking shelter in case of severe weather. • Insects and mosquitoes are common—bring repellent or screens. • There is a neighboring house on the west side and another private lot across the bay on the east, partially screened by trees. • You may hear distant train sounds as they pass through the area. • A security camera is onsite, but it is disconnected between check-in and check-out for guest privacy.

Pets

Full hookups

Big Birch Slice Of Pie

12. Big Birch Slice Of Pie

1.9mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A slice of heaven all for your viewing pleasure! Connected to another 1.25 acres with cabins is a 3 acre wide open space with 360 views of the lake and a RV hookup. Patios to sit and view and no neighbours make this the most sought after heavenly space! Game room on property fun for all types with pool table and shuffleboard, darts and air hockey. Great for rainy days too!

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Bruce's RV spot

13. Bruce's RV spot

100%

(1)

7.4mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Bruce's RV Spot, a quiet and convenient place to stay in central Minnesota. Surrounded by scenic countryside, lakes, and outdoor recreation, this peaceful RV site is perfect for travelers looking to relax, explore the area, or enjoy a comfortable overnight stop. Whether you're fishing, sightseeing, or simply unwinding, you'll find a welcoming basecamp for your Minnesota adventure.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

The Motel & Motor Lodge

14. The Motel & Motor Lodge

19mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 16 sites · RVs, Lodging

Just steps from the Central Lakes Trail and within walking distance of downtown Osakis, our Trailside Hookup Sites are designed to be an easy, comfortable place to settle in. Whether you're exploring the Alexandria lakes area, biking the trail, or road-tripping through central Minnesota, we're conveniently located just off Interstate 94, making it simple to pull in, unwind, and enjoy a slower pace for a while. On-Site Amenities: • High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property • Private-use bathrooms with individual showers (coming soon!) • Pet-friendly RV sites • Fully virtual check-in process

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Native Prairie Buffalo Site

15. Native Prairie Buffalo Site

20mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site

Carved out over 12,000 years ago by the Iowa glacial lobe, this land rests within the easternmost wintering area of the North American buffalo herd. This is a rare and untouched native prairie site near known Indigenous artifacts. It is also just 25 minutes from world-class healthcare facilities and shopping in Alexandria, MN, or just 9 minutes from Osakis, MN. Head of the Lakes Resort, known for its generous portions of French fries, is also just a short drive away. Walk to the nearest access point on the Long Prairie River, or travel just a couple of miles down Fairfield Drive—also a scenic walk—to Lake Osakis, one of the most heavily stocked walleye lakes in Minnesota. Battle Point also offers a nearby fishing pier. Drive just 5 minutes northeast on County Road 1 to an easy tubing access point, then enjoy a couple of relaxing hours floating down the lazy river back toward the campsite. The site is rustic, with no utilities or outhouse. Pack out what you pack in. Parking is available at the entrance only, and no motorized vehicles are allowed in the campground. The western boundary is marked by a white poly fence, while the rest of the property extends to the river. See the photos for the boundary outline.

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Campfires

Canary Beach Resort

16. Canary Beach Resort

25mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 12 sites

Welcome to Canary Beach Resort Canary Beach RV Resort has officially joined the Unhitched family! Unhitched Management has stepped in to lead operations for this premier lakeside destination. Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Villard in Minnesota, Canary Beach RV Resort is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking both relaxation and adventure. We are honored to take the wheel for this next chapter and preserve the summer traditions you love while steering toward an even brighter future Canary Beach Resort Get Unhitched We’re bringing our Safe, Clean, and Friendly promise to life with enhanced standards and a renewed focus on building a real community. Playground Boat Ramp Laundry Bathhouses Volleyball Dump Station Dog Park WiFi Beach Canary Beach RV Park offers three comfortable ways to stay along the water in Villard. Choose a seasonal site, book an RV site, or settle into a cabin for an easy lakeside getaway. However you stay, you will find a welcoming place built for relaxation, family time, and days by the beach. Life at Canary Beach is peaceful, family-friendly, and centered around the lake. Enjoy the beach, boat ramp, playground, volleyball, unleashed dog park, WiFi, and easy access to the water for a full day outside. With laundry, bathhouses, and a dump station on-site, your stay feels simple, comfortable, and easy to enjoy.

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Showers

RV There Yet

17. RV There Yet

79%

(12)

30mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 40 sites

RV There Yet is located in the gorgeous town of Alexandria, Minnesota. Campers come here every year to escape the busyness of life; visitors can look forward to clean and well-managed facilities, friendly and helpful staff, and of course, plenty of peace and quiet. There's tons to do around the park, so expect excellent golf courses, bowling alleys, local museums and antique shops. There's also a plethora of great dining options, so if you're from out of town, be sure to dine out as much as you can to experience Alexandria through its cuisine. Near the campground, campers can also enjoy tastings at the Carlos Creek Winery or take the kids to the Erickson Petting Zoo.

Pets

Full hookups

Willow

18. Willow

100%

(1)

31mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 2 sites

Nestled on five peaceful acres, Willow offers a charming country escape surrounded by woods and wildflower fields. With just two campsites—one tucked into the trees and one beside a blooming field—you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. Our home is also on the property, but we’re often away on weekends, so chances are, you'll have the whole space to enjoy in solitude. Located just miles from multiple lakes and only a short drive to Carlos State Park and Spruce Hill Park, Willow is a great home base for fishing, hiking, paddling, or simply relaxing in nature. You’re also just 20 minutes from Alexandria, where you’ll find great restaurants, local shops, and plenty to explore downtown. Whether you’re looking for quiet reflection or a jumping-off point for adventure, Willow offers the best of both worlds.

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Potable water

Lakefront or Woodland

19. Lakefront or Woodland

31mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Lakefront Enjoy the beauty of camping right along the lake where you can wake up to the sunrise Woodland Tucked away among the trees are Woodland campsite offers a peaceful, private escape, surrounded by nature.

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Campfires

Fish Trap Oasis

20. Fish Trap Oasis

82%

(14)

32mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Come relax and restore at a quiet lakeside camp spot on Fish Trap Lake! The property is perfect for any small group fishermen, campers or RVers who want private lake views. The property is next to a government nature preserve and located near various cabins. Fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and swimming can all be enjoyed on Fish Trap Lake. We are less than a mile from the boat launch on Lake Alexander which is great for fishing. A dock is also on the property for lake access.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jeslyn

2 weeks ago

With pets

5 nights at Andes RV Park

this is our 3rd time being back at the cabin & it just keeps getting better & better! we actually got a bit of rain this year & it made for a fun ride into the woods😂 we had so much fun fishing on the lake & exploring the area. this is such a cool spot to unplug & get away from the outside world. we can't wait to be back!!!💜

Zoe

2 weeks ago

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Welle's Campsite

This property is absolutely lovely and the hosts were so kind and helpful. We would absolutely stay here again!

2+ acres to spread out. RV in the picture is not included and is only shown for example purposes.

Matt

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

We always have a great time. Lake, bullfrogs bar, thrift store. We will be back.

Ami

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

Excellent site! Quiet, convenient and just what we needed for the bike race weekend. Thanks!

Leah

3 weeks ago

56 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to RV There Yet

Basic no frills no fuss RV spot that was really easy to park and set up at.

Michelle Rose

3 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Swift Falls County Park

Beautiful park with a clean restroom and hot shower. Highly recommend!

Mindy

September 2026

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Welle's Campsite

Best place to camp! Love this place and cannot wait to get back to there!

Aubrey

September 2026

Tent

1 night at The Woods

lovely hideaway spot! walking paths throughout the tree cluster. lots of wildlife: deer, chipmunk, squirrels, butterflies. great sunrise view!!

Cara

September 2026

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

It’s a great spot right in Alexandria! Easy to find, easy to back in, Scott was a great host and made us feel very welcome! Right between the lakes and still felt like we were out in nature, which is just what we were looking for. So many stars! Thanks so much guys!

Amber

September 2026

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

It was a great stay as usual! Will book again. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Erin

September 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Woods

We loved tent camping in The Woods! Michael was an amazing host and was very responsive to any questions we had. It was secluded and so nice to have the space completely to ourselves! We’ve already started planning our next trips there!

Jorge

August 2026

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

Host went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed. Close to host home but not as close as we've been to other campers. Host was respectful of our privacy.

George

August 2026

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

The host went way beyond to make our stayenjoyable and memorable. Some reviews said the site was to close to the home. But really it was really no closer than another camper at most camping grounds. We barely saw the owners unless they were asking if we needed more wood or anything else. I admit I was a little nervous at first, but I would and will stay here again.

Glen

August 2026

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at The Woods

A great secluded campsite . Quiet and picturesque woods with dark sky viewing Thanks

Angie

August 2026

23 ft Class C

1 night at Welle's Campsite

This was a great place to stay! To be honest I wish all camping was this private & quiet. It was nice to pull in, get set up & unwind after a long day of driving. Would definitely stay here again. Thanks Eric!

Jenny

August 2026

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Welle's Campsite

Wonderful property; private, quiet, just the faint sound of mooing, and the stars were incredible! Owners stopped by to bring us water, and they were very nice!

Debbie Sue

August 2026

13 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Bruce's RV spot

This was a Quiet and safe spot a little off the beaten path for a quick stay in our conversion van over night. Pulled in the dark and left before the sun came up.

Nathan

August 2026

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

I loved the tranquility and the peace & quiet. Plus, the lake view and new dock are very nice.

Nathan

August 2026

With pets

2 nights at Andes RV Park

Great little cabin secluded in the woods by the lake with nice trails to hike. Friendly staff and smooth arrival.

Dan

August 2026

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

Quiet and peaceful stay, hosts never bothered us, perfect 2 night stay near Alexandria, close enough to town, far enough to feel like your not!

Birch Lakes State Forest camping guide

Overview

About

If you were the kid who liked the tiniest presents at Christmas, because you knew a big box didn’t necessarily mean a great gift, then you’ll appreciate Birch Lakes State Forest. It’s not the biggest forest. In fact, it’s one of Minnesota’s smallest. But that doesn’t stop it from being one of the most intriguing places in the state.

Uniquely situated between Minnesota’s northeast forested region and the prairie region to the southwest, you get a little bit of each landscape here. The waters of Little Birch and Birch Lake are about as clear as a crystal glass, and are waiting for you to dive right in! We bet you’ll want to do just that after working up a healthy sweat on the 7 miles of hiking trails in the area.

Notable campgrounds

Walter Stark Horse Campground – A serene retreat for equestrian lovers with picturesque trails and modern campsite facilities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot at the popular Walter Stark Horse Campground.
Visit during weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on the official website for updates on campsite improvements and availability.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan during peak seasons.

When to go

The best time to visit Birch Lakes State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for busier trails and campsites. Winter can be harsh, so check road and campsite conditions if you're planning a cold-weather adventure.

Know before you go

Check the latest updates on road and campsite improvements before your trip.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for activities like fishing and horseback riding.
Be mindful of wildlife and practice safe viewing from a distance.
Prepare for varying weather conditions by packing appropriate gear.
Respect the forest's natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles.