Camping in Paul Bunyan State Forest

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

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Dispersed camping in the meadow and over the small hill, choose where you best see fit 🏕️

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

This place is great! Perfect home base for all there is to offer in the area. I’ve already recommended to a friend and would definitely come back. Thanks for a great stay!

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

Great hosts! Great stop while driving cross country

2 nights at Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

The cabin was wonderful . The lake and the doc are majestic at sunset. My tweens loved sleeping in the loft and making smores by the fire pit ! Deb is a great host invited us downtown to an event she hosts that benefits the animal shelter ! A real swell time with swell hosts !

2 nights at Tumbleweed Base Camp

I camped for two nights in my tent. David and Logan were the perfect hosts. Their land is beautiful, and the place was very serene. What they’ve done with the barn is really nice and would be a great place to hang out on a rainy night.

Forest retreat vibes 🌿✨ Sound healing, solitude, and the sweetest peace.

Katie

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

Tent camping at Tumbleweed was simple, peaceful, and exactly what I needed. I loved being surrounded by green grass that felt like a soft meadow, wildflowers in bloom, and the surprise of cool mushrooms scattered throughout. The biodiversity of the ecosystem was beautiful to witness. I came for solo respite and retreat—and left feeling refreshed, grounded, and renewed.

Updated and refreshed, our teepee needed some 2025 photos! 🏕️

Eric

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

This was a quaint place very well placed to give seclusion yet close enough for any need. I will be excited to see how they continue to grow as I will definitely return. I will say having a communal grill would be a great upgrade.

2 nights at RV There Yet Campground

Perfect for boondocking! There is water at the rv dump as well as clean portables dotted throughout the acreage. Importantly, there is plenty of space for a relatively private stay. We were in site 101 and could hear the road quite clearly but didn’t mind, you may want to choose a deeper site. The tree plantation was perfect for a hammock! Thank you Allen and we look forward to another stay.

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

Staying at Tumbleweed worked very well for our family. We had a grassy site with a picnic table. We had easy access to the nice recreation /lounge area in the barn. David and Logan were very hospitable and welcoming. We would definitely stay again.

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
A 500 square foot very comfortable base camp

Katie

1 week ago

2 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

Paul’s cabin is nice and simple. Beautiful land and lake access. We saw loons, herons and heard lots of other birds each evening and morning. The cabin had the essentials we needed and Paul was very hospitable.

Jessica

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

The site was very quiet and so comfortable! We felt like we were by ourselves in the woods. The bathroom was very clean and convenient. The hosts were absolutely fabulous!

Weekend Trip to RV There Yet Campground

The campground was very quiet and private feeling. There was free firewood to use which was nice and we got good sleep.

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

Very quiet and well maintained site. Perfect for a short weekend stay in Detroit Lakes! Thank you David!

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

This is a lovely, quiet spot with prime location to Detroit Mtn. The property's renovated barn is beautiful with amenities like bumper pool table, ping pong, dining area, reading books. We had a 20 ft. Camper and there was another longer camper and a couple ofntent campers. Super nice, highly recommend.

2 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

Loved our time at Paul and Piper's. Their hospitality is fantastic. Plenty of room for our dog to stretch her legs. Cabin is also close to the NCT for hiking which was our focus. Wish we would've had more time - would have loved to take a sunset cruise around the lake with Paul and Piper. We hope to be back!

Gautham Kumar Reddy

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

We had a wonderful stay at Debbie’s place! She was very responsive and made us feel welcome right away. One of the highlights was the relaxing pontoon ride she offered – such a peaceful way to enjoy the lake. The water was calm and the overall vibe was incredibly soothing, giving us the perfect chance to unwind. If you’re looking for a serene lakeside getaway with a warm and attentive host, we highly recommend Debbie’s land.

4 nights at I Live in the Country

Late June- site is ideal basecamp for exploring Itasca area lakes & trails. Driving on Great River Road is beautiful. We stayed by field- rolling meadow brimming w/ wildflowers, surrounded by deer-filled birch forest. Fireflies & butterflies & stars & kite-flying. Cool breeze off field kept mosquitoes in check, wore hats & bug spray b/c of ticks & deer flies. Easily remedied w/ socks over pantlegs & repellent. Stuck ticks on tape- or thrown in empty pop bottle w/ screw-cap. Lymes confirmed in area, so cautious. Dogs have vaccine & tick meds, but are magnetics. Dogs on tieout did great & prevented big black bear from entering kiddos empty tent, which reminded us to keep food in truck w/ anything scented like sunscreen or toothpaste. Glad we brought sunshades/canopy, camping toilet & sink. No fires allowed, so had hotplate & truck cord. Every night was an awesome game night- boardgames, cards, mad libs- partly b/c zero bars cellphone service (Verizon4G only.) Which ended up being a total blessing for good-oldfashioned family bonding. There's a nice little park nearby for ok cell reception to answer emails & make a few important calls. I might invest in modest signal amplifier for camping adventures in future. Tons of trails close by for off-leash dogs & lakes for swimming. But honestly, the meadow view, central yet secluded location & the kindness of the hosts (later check-in & check-out) made this place a 5 star experience absolutely. A hidden gem.

1 night at Tumbleweed Base Camp

Dave’s land was clean, comfortable, and safe. We enjoyed spending time in the barn.

1 night at Tumbleweed Base Camp

We loved this Hipcamp!! Campfire, ping pong, a clean porta potty … what more could we ask for? Oh - and it’s within a few miles of a giant troll. So fun.

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

Beautiful and quiet camp ground! The barn is a super cool addition to the site! Highly recommend and the owners are super nice and easy to work with! Definitely coming back in the future!

Weekend Trip to Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

This place was perfect for my son and me. Close to fishing, Itasca State Park and some great small towns. Quiet, clean and comfortable.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Paul Bunyan State Forest

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Gulch Lake Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Paul Bunyan State Forest

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Mantrap Lake Campground

36 sites · RVs, Tents In Paul Bunyan State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Paul Bunyan State Forest

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Tumbleweed Base Camp

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Detroit Lakes, MN

This old homestead belonged to my belated brother Steve, and after he passed unexpectedly, we decided to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for those interested in sharing a peaceful and modest property. The old barn is a work in progress to eventually become the base to accommodating more travelers and outdoor enthusiasts as finances permit. My son Logan, after having worked in the service industry bartending for 14 years and hosting 100+ global travelers via CouchSurfing out in San Diego, is well-versed in creating an inviting space, enjoying the merits of hard work through the hospitality industry. We look forward to meeting you and sharing/swapping stories around the campfire! Learn more about this land: Our property and profile are in constant change as we are in a stage of development, but we look to share our land with those seeking to enjoy a warm, welcome environment for those fellow wanderers, outdoor enthusiasts, vagabonds, and globetrotters. Logan is a well-traveled backpacker and together we share 5 1/2 acres here in a bustling little touristy town. We enjoy the company of those who endorse small footprint, sustainable practices and like to establish meaningful connections. All we ask is that you respect the property, our neighbors, and make an effort to add one more new friend before you depart.

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Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

2 sites · Lodging36 acres · 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🐕

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RV There Yet Campground

19 sites · RVs80 acres · 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. More details at https://rvthereyetcampground.com/

Saved 1 time

Timberlost at West Crooked

1 site · Lodging20 acres · 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.

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Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

2 sites · RVs4 acres · Nevis, MN

Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake. Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. This location has two power stands 175ft apart. (20, 30, 50 amp Electric) and a Glamper. 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.

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Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · 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, or you can borrow our kayaks. 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!

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Goldie The Caboose

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Nevis, MN

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).

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Sunset Pines MN

71 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Backus, MN

Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen

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I Live in the Country

4 sites · Tents200 acres · 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 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. We are a 20 minute drive from the North Entrance to Itasca State Park and the Headwaters of the Mississippi. Also LaSalle Lake Recreation Area is only about six or seven miles down the road.

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Velkommen to Norske Camp!

5 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Backus, MN

I bought this land near Pine River in August 2018. I wanted to have my own hunting land and something that was close to town and trails. A property that had a potential of multi-recreational use for people to enjoy while visiting. There are about 40 acres of county land surrounding three sides of the property. The main trail on my land goes thru the majority of the county land and loops back connecting to my main trail again.

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Fire Tower Pond

1 site · Tent40 acres · 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.

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Willow Acres an RV Resort

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Park Rapids, MN

Being in the resort business my whole life, I had a dream of developing this one of a kind property into something I could share with vacationers. To build something that has never been done. Travelers that experience these sites agree they are truly exceptional! Learn more about this land: Check out the web site for Willow Acres in Park Rapids! parkrapidsrvpark. com Do you want to get off the beaten path and get away from the crowds? Then this Park is for you! Sit under the stars by you fire with no one else around! All sites are PULL THROUGH, level and wooded, which offers great privacy. Full hook ups with 50 amp service, water and sewer. Easily accessible. Great camper setup area. There are many local amenities near by and tourist attractions nearby. 5 minutes from town and approximately 20 minutes from Itasca State Park. Rental opportunities are available by Weekly $250 Monthly $700.

Camping in Paul Bunyan State Forest guide

Overview

About

Pile the flapjacks high and pull out the flannel, cause Paul Bunyan is in the house! Actually, flip that. We’re in the house of Paul Bunyan. However, the trees in this state forest aren’t in any danger of being chopped down. It’s true this forest was once the site of a booming logging industry, but today the trees grow wild and free. It would even take a lumberjack legend like Bunyan countless lifetimes to cut through these 150,113 acres.

Instead, nowadays people come here for the hundreds of miles of trails that wind through the pine forests. The Paul Bunyan State Trail and North Country National Scenic Trail are two excellent places to start if you’re one of said people. If you’re itchin to go fishin or spend a night under the stars, check out Gulch Lake and Mantrap Lake, each of which feature their own campground. And always keep an eye out for the local wildlife that roam these parts. No promises you’ll see Babe the Blue Ox though!

Notable campgrounds

The Walter Stark Horse Campground provides a scenic escape for equestrian lovers and campers alike.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot at the popular Walter Stark Horse Campground.
Check for cancellations regularly, as last-minute openings can occur.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability.
Explore nearby camping options for alternative stays if the park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Paul Bunyan State Forest is during the summer and fall when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Winter offers a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, though some amenities may be limited. Avoid spring's muddy conditions for camping.

Know before you go

Check the latest park updates for any road or campsite improvements that may affect your visit.
Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife by reviewing safety guidelines.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for activities like fishing or off-highway vehicle riding.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the natural environment.
Accessibility may vary across different areas of the park, so plan accordingly.

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Paul Bunyan State Forest

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Stories from the community

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Paul Bunyan State Forest

Gulch Lake Campground

Mantrap Lake Campground

Top-rated campgrounds near Paul Bunyan State Forest

Tumbleweed Base Camp

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

RV There Yet Campground

Timberlost at West Crooked

Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

Goldie The Caboose

Sunset Pines MN

I Live in the Country

Velkommen to Norske Camp!

Fire Tower Pond

Willow Acres an RV Resort

Camping in Paul Bunyan State Forest guide

Overview

About

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

When to go

Know before you go

Related Searches

Best camping near me