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Chengwatana State Forest

The best camping in Chengwatana State Forest, MN

Chengwatana State Forest: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

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Stories from the community

Anaiah

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Retreat

Crooked Creek was a perfect oasis away from the city. We really enjoyed the cozy vibes of the cabin, and the walking paths for us to enjoy. We were even provided orange beanies for hunting season, which we greatly appreciated as we went on our hikes! Naomi did a great job of making us feel comfortable and at home, and we would absolutely return.

Evan

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Camps at the Vineyards

Nice quiet spot. I stayed at site 9 and it was visible from the road, but that probably wouldn’t be the case in the spring and summer. I came specifically to see the northern lights because it was the closest area to the Twin Cities with low light pollution, and it was perfect for that. Fairly tucked away with a big open field down the trail.

Rachel

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

I loved staying in the Alpha Tent on Kim’s Farm. She brought me delicious beef stew for supper and I read a good book. Waking up to see the cows and donkeys was fun too.

Antea

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Evergreen Oasis Farm

We had a wonderful time at Tim’s! His land was clean and our trip was peaceful. We enjoyed the firepit and seeing the animals in the morning. Highly recommend!

Mike

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

We booked a late Fall trip to the farm and it exceeded all expectations. The farm setting was beautiful and charming. It was a great spot to hang out. We arrived in the late afternoon after hiking. One extras we added was dinner, so a little more than and hour after arriving and getting settled in, a crock of steaming hot beef stew and fresh bread was delivered tent side. We also added the Sauna/Cold Plunge package, so a couple hours after dinner we put on our suits and wandered over the wood-fired sauna. Talk about perfect. A few steamy rounds later and final plunge, we dried off and headed back to the tent to settle in front of the campfire. It was all really perfect. The tent was cozy and toasty warm with the stove. They've set up the experience so you have everything you need to have a great time. We're scheming to come back with friends, family or both!

Samuel

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

They are wonderful hosts, the lots are private and secluded. Direction are clear, everything is always nice. Highly recommended.

Alyssa

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

Super nice spot! Very easy to find and instructions were really clear. The welcome information was really nice to have with good recommendations for the area and what to know about the property.

Skylar

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Camps at the Vineyards

Stayed in the A-frame and it was so wonderful! Very peaceful, can’t wait to come back!

Damian

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Camps at the Vineyards

Clean and quiet, beautiful ambience with the birds and the creek.

Megan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Stone Creek Farm

Great experience, friendly host, and beautiful private site.

Kara

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The little cabin

Joaquin (the dog) and I had the best time at this tiny cabin! It was cozy and charming, with a little campfire that made our night feel magical. Joaquin loved having space to roam and sniff every corner like the king of the woods. For me, it was pure bliss—a quiet spot to kick back and rest my head. If you’re looking for peace, fresh air, and a happy pup, this is the place!

Julie

October 2025

1 night at Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

We loved camping at Alpha&Omega. Kim was so helpful in the whole process. We got the carmel rolls and coffee and they were delicious! Highly recommend this stay to everyone.

Nicole

October 2025

1 night at The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

Such a lovely respite for the night! I’m super grateful for the little cabin and slept so well there. Enjoyed my morning coffee outside in spite of the chill. Can’t wait to come back and hopefully explore the other lodging options, too.

Brittany

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

We had a nice time tent camping on Kim’s land. They offered to do pizzas if we wanted for dinner because they were also hosting a wedding and let my boys help make them. Millie’s meat lovers was delicious. The farm animals were adorable and we especially loved the extra friendly donkeys. We also enjoyed the extra added breakfast with cinnamon rolls and coffee in the morning. I’d definitely recommend you check out this beautiful glamping experience. We felt like honored guests.

Mindy

October 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Trego Lake Lakefront Property

What a beautiful property! We loved camping in an oak grove in the fall time - golden and heavenly! The lake was beautiful, and even though it's the weather wasn't conducive to swimming, we thoroughly enjoyed reading on the dock. Everything about the site was as described and made camping with our 34' fifth wheel a breeze. We will be back!

Ann

October 2025

28 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to The Jubilee Homestead

I have stayed at Jubilee Homestead a handful of times over 3 years. It’s a beautiful slice of land to bring my friends and my granddaughters to. The animals, the beautiful barn and owners are all great. Esther answers messages within minutes and is so helpful always. She and her husband have written many books and we bought one on this visit. I’ll be coming back here a few times every year. It’s wonderful to bring my city granddaughters out so they can experience this beautiful country life! Picking apples from trees, touching goats and chickens and just playing at the playground, it’s a sweet slice of country life.

Makenzie

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Bundo's Cabin

The cabin was a perfect weekend getaway for my husband and I and our two pups! There was plenty of space for the dogs to roam and Jon had everything you needed to cook, have a fire and relax. We’re already talking about doing it again next year! Thanks Jon for sharing your space!

Jessica

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stone Creek Farm

Dan greeted us warmly and offered our children the chance to pick an apple from his tree. His farm is gorgeous with vibrant sunsets and a quiet breeze through the grasses. We were very comfortable in the spacious tent and made a cozy bonfire both nights. We highly recommend staying here!

Emily

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Evergreen Oasis Farm

This was a great fall trip! We had an excellent time in the primative pasture campsite, in view of the rams. We explored all around the farm and were only 20 minutes away from interstate park. The icecream and other goodies in the barn shop were great! We spent lots of time with the alpacas and sheep, the hosts were super friendly as well. We heard cranes, coyotes, and moles milling around at night!

Britta

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

Comfortable and well-equipped glamping tent, and we were very warm between the bedding and wood stove on a 30-some degree night. Kim was a wonderful host! The pizzas were delicious, as were the cinnamon rolls in the morning. We would definitely return!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Chengwatana State Forest

Snake River Campground

14mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chengwatana State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Bundo's Cabin

99%

(158)

27mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Finlayson, MN

This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was harvested and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and out, there are so many ways to relax and connect with loved ones during all seasons at Bundo's Cabin. Learn more about this land: Where the forest meets the field. Unplug and relax at Bundo's Cabin with extraordinary views of wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities. The modern yet cozy cabin has electricity and features a front patio, an external outhouse and outdoor rainwater bucket shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a sleeping loft with a reading nook. No matter the season, this cabin is a wonderful, cozy, and clean, place to relax and unwind. Feel free to roam around the 10-acre property and explore the 80 acres of state land to the north. Deer, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, owls, eagles and more are likely to be seen or heard. Explore, Banning, Moose Lake, and Father Hennepin State Parks which are all within 30 minutes, and return to the cabin to read, play games, listen to records, have a fire, and relax. The kitchen provides you with everything you need to prepare your meals including a refrigerator, small freezer, stove, oven, cookware, cutting boards, sink, seasonings, oil, and coffee. Water for washing is available from an electric pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps from the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a user-friendly heat pump and gets the cabin to your desired temperature very quickly. We are grateful to honor the Dakota and Anishinaabe people whose land we occupy by donating $10 from every booking to the Makoce Ikikcupi Land Recovery Project. This project is actively working to return the land to the indigenous people from whom it was stolen. You can learn more about this project in reparative justice at www.makoceikikcupi.com.

Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

97%

(69)

41mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Princeton, MN

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)

The little cabin

97%

(34)

49mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Princeton, MN

Great quiet location, 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 sleeping bag for the twin bed in the loft, or 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 a small electric heater, or A/C if needed, 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 8 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 or 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 wood in a storage rack. My feeling on how well the heater will work in cold weather is you are probably good until the temp is in the lower teen. if interested you could bring a larger heater to help with heating. I do no plan to plow the driveway if it snows so keep that in mind if you see a storm forecast. I will block out dates after the first significant snowfall.

Fireside Acres

42mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · St. Francis, MN

Our camping area sits in a quiet corner of our 40-acre property. You'll find easy access through a mowed approach that opens into a peaceful spot just for you. While there’s some privacy from the road, traffic is minimal, so you can relax and enjoy the quiet. Beyond our home and a few outbuildings, the land offers a beautiful mix of young timber, lowlands, open meadows, and winding trails—perfect for exploring or simply soaking in nature. We’re just beginning our journey into creating an RV park, so while some of our plans are still in progress, we’re excited to share what we have so far. Water is available from a hydrant near the house, and once you book, we’ll provide a map showing the layout of the land, trails, and water access. If you prefer, we’d also be happy to give you a personal tour when you arrive!

The Oaks at Oakwood Farm

98%

(225)

45mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Oak Grove, MN

Enjoy 10 acres shared between 2 sites! The two campsites are large and can accommodate approximately 6 tents comfortably at each. If more is needed let us know we have room and can accommodate. There is a shared bathroom/changing room and trash/recycling between the sites. There is a water point in the barn if you need to fill up on drinking water just make sure you have a container for it. Site includes a picnic table and firepit and many acres with downed trees to salvage. Bundles of firewood can be purchased if needed. This area includes a back pasture and woods with trails throughout for walking/mountain biking. There are many horse trails in the area, if you want to bring your horses that is fine as long as you bring containment for them and clear it with us first. We are approximately 1 mile from a rum river access. There are multiple river trip options from our property. We are also 3 mins from lake george and the Rum River Regional Park for swimming, biking, fishing, boating, and more paddling. There is a Bills gas n grocery as well as a G-will liquors less than a minute from the property. The Ponds golf course is about 4 mins away as well. If you are looking to hit downtown Anoka that is a straight shot and approx 12 mins away. This site is on an active hobby farm that has dogs, cats, horses, chickens, goats, turkeys, and multiple gardens. We have a farm stand by the road where we sell items such as fresh roasted coffee, eggs, BBQ sauce, pickles, maple syrup, hot sauce, and more! We are very pet friendly and like to meet new furry faces, so feel free to bring them along!

Raspberry Bramble Homestead

100%

(7)

30mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Ogilvie, MN

A growing homestead with chickens, a rabbit, wild raspberry bushes, apple trees, cherry bushes, hazelnut trees, and a small man-made pond.

Crooked Creek Retreat

100%

(22)

17mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Hinckley, MN

Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness. Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another. We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people. A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland). The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight! The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

98%

(127)

6.7mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 5 sites · Lodging · Pine City, MN

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!

Trego Lake Lakefront Property

98%

(89)

46mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 1 site · RV · Trego, WI

This was my father's favorite place to be in the summer. He loved watching the hummingbirds early in the season and the leaf turn in the fall. We hope you and your guests will enjoy staying here as much as our family has. Five acre private lakefront property surrounded by trees. Cement pad for your RV or trailer. 50-amp and full hookups. Bring your own converter if less than 30 amps. Large fire pit (supply your own firewood). Recently refurbished private dock. Four-wheel trails and rental companies nearby. Short drive from the Namekagon River which is great for tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Due to a recent review, I am also adding here that swimming from our property is not ideal. The lake tends to be weedy during warm summers. There are places to swim nearby, so if you are booking with the sole intent of being able to swim, please be aware that this is likely not the best site for you unless you are willing to drive to a nearby beach.

Bayberry Acres on Danger Lake

100%

(34)

16mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Braham, MN

Two campsites or our Chalet which sleeps five are available. Campsites are near a fabulous 10 acre deep spring fed lake. One campsite is in the prairie with a expansive view where 5 or 6 tents are possible. 2nd campsite is for one tent and is lakeside. Quiet peaceful trails through the woods. Animals at the home base. The chalet (in the pictures) , has all the needed amenities; shower, fridge, etc. Contact us for pricing details. Food and wine packages are available for the interested parties. This place is perfect.

The Jubilee Homestead

99%

(273)

20mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stanchfield, MN

Our family is looking forward to another great camping season! This small hobby farm is where I (Esther) grew up and now my husband Joel, our four children, and my parents, are developing it into a self-supporting farmstead and event venue as we raise chickens and Nigerian dwarf goats, and grow a pick-your-own elderberry field. We offer a single site for off-season/winter camping for longer visits at a discounted rate. Please reach out for more information if you're interested. What you can expect at The Jubilee Homestead: Free firewood Free 20amp electricity hookup at all sites (NOT ENOUGH TO RUN A/C, plenty for everything else) Free water Free farm fresh, free-range eggs to collect yourself in the mornings plus more for sale when available. Access to broomball court and equipment in barn loft Rustic trail around back of property about 1/4 mile long Playground Dishwashing sink You are welcome to enjoy The Milk Room Lounge and Farm Store. You'll find self-serve coffee, hot cocoa, and other options available for purchase, There is a microwave, places to sit and visit, and even a game table. Joel and I have co-authored several books (under the pen name J.E. Ribbey) which are also available in the Farm Store. We have an American post-apocalyptic thriller series and a historical fiction series for middle grade readers about the American Revolutionary War. We have a nice, fully private outdoor shower with hot water available for $2.50/shower. Guests can pay on-site via our posted QR codes or cash box. We're also available for other events like birthday parties, intimate weddings, and group gatherings at our gazebo and/or 20ft x 40ft party tent. As a homeschooling, home business building family, there is usually a project or two always in the works to join in on if you feel so inclined or just sit back and enjoy the peace of clean air and loving goats! Several lakes in the area provide numerous options for fishing, boating, and hiking. And nothing beats those evening country road walks while agate hunting! Other area attractions include Mini golf in Cambridge, public aquatic center with water slides in Mora, and several state parks an hour or less away.

Wild Vines Campground

96%

(96)

24mi from Chengwatana State Forest · 25 sites · Tents · Taylors Falls, MN

With some of the oldest vines in Minnesota, (1994) Wild Mountain Winery has been in operation since 2010 as a premier winery. Nestled on the second highest point in Chisago County, we offer picturesque views and quiet, natural setting. With both food, beer, cider and wine to sample, you will find something that makes you smile. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the setting you choose; in the vines of our 6 acres of vineyard, or in the woods next to the winery. Enjoy all the amenities of the winery with a short walk to your cot, hammock or sleeping bag. No "drive-in" sites available, but we provide pull carts or courtesy shuttle upon request. Close to Wild Mountain Ski and Water park. Each site offers a fire ring. On site bathrooms and potable water. Camp any day of the week. Check in- Friday 2:00, or by special request Sat/Sun 12:00 Weekdays 12:00 Check out- 11:00

The best camping in Chengwatana State Forest, MN guide

Overview

About

Chengwatana, besides having a sweet name, has the full state forest package. That package includes miles of beautiful forested upland islands that are formed by the surrounding marshes and brush. It also comes with a total of three rivers—the Kettle, Snake, and St. Croix—all of which offer outstanding fishing. What did you expect?

When you visit this place, you won’t be skimped on a great experience; you’ll probably leave wishing you had more time. Good thing the Snake River Campground is there to accommodate a longer stay. Hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling—there’s no questioning it, you gotta go. The only question is, where do you start?

Notable campgrounds

The Walter Stark Horse Campground - A favorite among equestrians with spacious sites nestled in the forest.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as the Walter Stark Horse Campground is popular among nature lovers.
Check for updates on campground improvements to plan your visit when the facilities are at their best.
Consider weekday camping for more availability and a quieter experience.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan during peak seasons.

When to go

The best time to visit Chengwatana State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for busier trails and potential heat. Winters are serene but cold, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Know before you go

Check the latest park updates for any road or campsite improvements before your trip.
Be aware of local wildlife and practice safe viewing from a distance.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for activities like horseback riding or off-highway vehicle riding.
Remember to pack out what you pack in to keep the forest pristine for all visitors.
Accessibility may vary across different areas of the forest, so plan accordingly.

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