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Birch Lakes State Forest

The best camping in Birch Lakes State Forest, MN

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Stories from the community

Jim

October 2025

3 nights at Andes RV Park

Excellent rustic stay. Beautiful hikes in autumn.

ANDREW

October 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

Wonderful establishment! Well thought out. Beautiful and peaceful stay. Communication with host was very accommodating. All the amenities needed.

Dylan

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Welle's Campsite

Great site, sadly could only stay one day but highly recommend! Quiet / private site ! The dogs loved the space to play ball! The electric was a great plus!! 10/10 recommend !

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

We enjoyed our stay so much! This is a lovely, quiet spot. Easy to find, but no highway noise. Check in was straightforward with great communication from the hosts. You can see the other sites, but they are comfortably separated. Beautiful sunset view from under the giant old oak tree shading our little camper. We were so happy to have had the opportunity to stay and would definitely recommend.

Samuel

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Welle's Campsite

The 40 was an awesome little property to get away for the night! Great host, easy to find, well maintained and great for truck camping. 👍🏻

Sam

September 2025

28 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Kobi’s Backyard Getaway

Kobi's place was an amazing site, just outside of town so everything was close, but the site was nice and quiet and very secluded. We were encouraged to burn as much wood as we desired for our campfires, which was awesome. We also enjoyed the calm lake with our paddleboard, and visits from the ever so friendly pup. They gave us a local area tourist guide and were happy to provide any help. All in all I wouldn't hesitate to come back as the site was fantastic and the hosts were even better!

Dagmar

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Welle's Campsite

This is indeed a camping spot to be proud of! Obviously much thought went into to creating this amazing spot. A nicely decorated and maintained huge space, evergreens planted for even more privacy, generous DRY wood supply, super clean outhouse with light, table with bench and electricity. The hayfields were mowed and our dog sure enjoyed running over it. There is even a path through the woods. One of our favorite hipcamps, we would love to return.

Samuel

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Woods

Always one of my favorite places to camp! Michael is the best host and the property is beautiful a secluded.

Mindy

September 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Welle's Campsite

It was absolutely the most perfect, peaceful, and stunning camping spot! Will be back again soon! Thank you for letting us have a little piece of your heaven for a weekend!

Doug

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Woods

It is secluded and peaceful. Had a nice time walking up the road between the corn fields. He was quick with response time and there was firewood available. The sight was also well taken care of. Great place to get away from everything.

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

Amber

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

2nd booking! Will be continuing to book in the future!

Jennifer

September 2025

30 ft Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lake Placid Family Reunion Camp

We lived camping on Randy’s land. It was so spacious and made the 4 campers plus the tents have plenty of space and kids loved fishing off the docks all day long. Tons of grass areas for the dogs to run and play.

Karen

September 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to RV There Yet

This place was perfect for us. It had full hook-ups for a reasonable price. Easy to get to and was close to town and the bike trail. It was a clean, quiet campground which suited our needs perfectly. The manager, Amy, was very friendly and accommodating. I would definitely come back!!

Whitney

August 2025

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

Beautiful camp site! Will be back! The host provided a lot of great information right after booking and was super friendly!

Amanda

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Makers' Acres

Beautiful spot and large site! It was a bit closer to the house and neighbors houses than anticipated but hosts were very nice and we had a great time!

Brad

August 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Welle's Campsite

Great place, super private and quiet. Will be back!

Danny

August 2025

12 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Swift Falls County Park

Except for the rain it was fabulous! I don't think there's a bad spot in the campground! The river is really high kids need to be aware of fast moving water.

Alex

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

This is a beautiful and peaceful place to stay. Wonderful shade trees and well maintained grounds with easy access.

Ted

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Private secluded camp

Very private, clean, and the dog enjoyed the freedom. We thought the price point was a little high, but all in all a great night. Very thankful for the spot.

Aeriana

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Welle's Campsite

Great site! There was plenty of space. Great spot for star gazing

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Birch Lakes State Forest

Birch Lakes Campground

0.3mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Birch Lakes State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

100%

(11)

21mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Glenwood, MN

🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway | Near Glenwood, MN 🌿 Welcome to our peaceful retreat tucked away in the rolling countryside near Glenwood, Minnesota. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend away or a memorable group gathering, our private RV-friendly property offers a restful escape in nature. 🏕️ RV Sites Only We currently offer three spacious RV sites, each thoughtfully equipped for comfort and convenience: 50-amp electric hookups Water hookups Easy access for large RVs Open space to stretch out and enjoy the outdoors 🌲 On-Site Amenities Dog-Friendly Walking Path: Take a scenic stroll with your pup along our quiet nature path Hammock Zone: Kick back and relax under the trees Swing with a View: A guest favorite—perfect for quiet mornings or golden hour photos Wildlife Viewing: Watch for deer, birds, and other peaceful visitors 🌊 Local Attractions Just a short drive from Oak Crest, you’ll find activities for all interests: Grove Lake (minutes away): Great for swimming, fishing, and boating Glenwood (~20 mins): Lake Minnewaska Rolling Forks Vineyards Barsness Park with splash pad, trails, disc golf Pope County Museum for local history lovers 📅 Booking Information We're no longer offering the tiny home for rent, but our RV sites are open for peaceful stays and small gatherings. Contact us directly to check availability and reserve your spot. Booking early is encouraged during peak weekends. 🌾 Stay Connected Follow our journey and updates: Facebook – Oak Crest Instagram – @oakcresttinyhome

Pearsons Century Farm

98%

(132)

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

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

Wold Ranch

95%

(10)

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

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.

AN UNEXPECTED GREEN ISLAND

50mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent · Wadena, MN

Green Island is an unexpected pine forest located actually inside a small town in northcentral Minnesota. The camping area is incredibly private and surrounds a small pond. It is primitive with minimal amenities beyond an outhouse and hand pump for water. Accessibility is only for tenting or truly tiny camper vehicles. The campground is a huge semi-shaded space for up to 20 tents, still, we prefer 1 or 2 at a time. However, larger group retreats are possible. We are serious environmentalists and we offer this opportunity just for true nature lovers as singles or couples, who totally take care of themselves, leave absolutely no trace, and are solid environmental stewards. In other words, its no place for a party. Separate from the campground there are: apple orchards, outdoor sculptures, wildlife, a meditation kuti, and perfect spaces for forest therapy. Yet almost unbelieveably, you can walk to a Pizza Hut or Walmart in 5 minutes. This is an excellent staging point for outdoors people en route to Itasca State Park, The Lost Fourty, and the state and national forests of the north.

Makers' Acres

100%

(3)

37mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · Kimball, MN

Makers Acres is our home, our pottery studio named, Maine Prairie Studio, the Lakeside Campground, The Wedge and our camper, Andromeda. Guests are able to reserve the camper, The Wedge or Lakeside Campground to stay in. The camper is equipped with running water, electricity etc. The lakeside campground has enough space for 3 different dispersed campsites. The Wedge, is just enough for 1-2 people to stay. Since we are potters, guests are able to book some cool "Extras" at the studio. Below are the "Extras" we have available to register for. - "Come Try It" Pottery Experiences - Kayak Rentals - Paddleboard Rentals - Seasonal Garden Vegetables - Firewood - Athletic Brewing Company, NA Brews -20% Discount on our handmade pottery in our Gallery while your Hipcamping at Makers Acres. We look forward to helping you find your next hipcamping experience here at Makers Acres. During warm weather you are able to access Murray Lake from our property to swim, kayak or paddle board. During winter, we live 1/2 mile from a ski hill, Powder Ridge, which has tubing, downhill skiing and snowboarding.

Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

98%

(54)

49mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · RV · Hoffman, MN

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.

Alexandria Lakes Area Camp

99%

(42)

26mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Alexandria, MN

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. Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for cozy evenings and shared meals under the stars. A clean, well-maintained toilet is available on-site for your convenience. 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.

Swift Falls County Park

100%

(11)

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

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.

Oak Park Nature Nook

100%

(8)

46mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Oak Park, MN

Set on 36 acres we have a campsite back away from the house so you can have your own private area to camp! We have several maintained trails for walking or biking. Two small ponds on the property, one of which usually has turtles and the other brings in ducks, geese, deer and other wildlife. Eagles and cranes are often seen flying overhead. We do have a few hobby farm animals on the property that would love a visit from you if you request it for your stay. We are now offering our out house to our guests if needed, shown in the picture gallery. The outhouse is located closer to the resident's property, and you will have to go into our gated duck area to get to it. Milaca is about 10 miles away with great parks, biking trails, splash pad, Rum River and Frisbee golf. Foley is about 7 miles away and has a great family pool for summertime and nice parks. We are also about 25 minutes from St. Cloud if you want to venture further!

Four Leaf

92%

(6)

40mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Brandon, MN

Tucked away at the very end of a dead-end road, Four Leaf Campground offers a peaceful, private retreat on one of Minnesota’s quiet gems—Big Chippewa Lake. This one-acre slice of heaven boasts 400 feet of lakeshore and borders state land, giving you direct access to nature and unmatched seclusion. Set up your tent or park your RV beneath a canopy of mature trees that provide natural shade and a cool, relaxing atmosphere. With two private docks, you can fish right from shore or take your boat out—walleye are plentiful and the lake is perfect for a quiet morning cast or a sunset reel-in. While we don’t have hookups, well water, or septic, we offer something you won’t find at most campgrounds: privacy, beauty, and space to breathe. This spot is ideal for families, solo campers, or anyone looking to unplug and enjoy the simple joys of lakeside camping. Come experience the magic of Four Leaf Campground—where the only sounds you’ll hear are the breeze in the trees and the splash of fish on the line.

The Woods

99%

(60)

13mi from Birch Lakes State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenwald, MN

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.

Private secluded camp

100%

(3)

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

Learn more about this land:Next to the slough with open water. Lots of wildlife especially in the spring. There are three spots to choose from, two are more secluded and not really meant for large campers. But the bigger spot is really large.

The best camping in Birch Lakes State Forest, MN 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.

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