Camping in Paul Bunyan State Forest, MN

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

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

Discover the rugged beauty of Paul Bunyan State Forest.  

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Paul Bunyan State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN
  • Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN
  • Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

100%
(16)
2 sites · Lodging · Nevis, MN
Come enjoy a relaxing vacation in our beautiful lakeside guest cabin! In one half of the cabin, which faces the woods, you'll find beautiful knotty pine vaulted ceilings over a queen bed with a loft above it. In the little loft are two twin-sized mattresses directly on the floor, fun for kids and accessible by a wooden ladder. Kids should be at least 6 years old to sleep up in the loft and closely supervised. There is also a bathroom with a toilet, sink, and cold water. Relax in the lakeside half of the cabin on the queen-sized hide-a-bed sofa or the recliner next to a wall of windows facing the lake. There's also a stove, small refrigerator, microwave oven, a sink with cold water, and a small table with 4 chairs. Outside, enjoy a peaceful campfire in the fire pit, listen to the enchanting calls of loons, watch eagles and herons fishing, and relax while enjoying the vast variety of songbirds. At night, our dark skies let you see the Milky Way and countless stars and planets! Full disclosure, though, there isn't an indoor shower available, but you can always enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake or use the enclosed outdoor solar camping shower. There isn't a television or wifi, so just take a technology break and get back to nature or bring a good book. If time and weather permits, we would be happy to give you a pontoon ride. Want to explore the area? Just a few miles away is the 49-mile multi-use Heartland Trail, where you can enjoy a quiet walk, run, or bike ride through a paved, wooded, level trail. Within ten miles are plentiful restaurants and stores in Park Rapids, Dorset, and Nevis. There are often music festivals throughout the summer, and several of the restaurants and bars host live music, some of which are played by Debbie, one of your two hosts! You can even take a 30-mile drive to Itasca State Park, home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where you can walk right across the headwaters!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$111
 / night
  • The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails
  • The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails
  • The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails

The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails

100%
(2)
1 site · RV, Tent · Detroit Lakes, MN
Hi welcome to The Hippie Hideaway. Let me tell you a little bit about what you will get to enjoy. My main goal is for you to feel free, relaxed, and reenergized. You will have a huge open area for you and your family to enjoy spending time together without sharing your experience with strangers. You can enjoy the watching the northern lights and star gazing. We have about a mile of walking trails that whined around a few sloughs and into a prairie where you will see a variety of wildlife, butterflies, and native plants. Shell and Island Lake are both within a few miles, The Tamarac Refuge is also just a few miles away. The Smokey Hills and Two Inlets 4 wheeling trails are also close. and Itasca State Park is about a 45min drive. Our property offers several different landscapes perfect for pictures. We have a variety of animals that wonder onto our property including deer, bear, otters, and raccoons.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
  • Stairway to loft from living room
  • Picture yourself on the front deck in the morning with a hot drink looking out over the lake.
  • Stairway to loft from living room

Strawberry Lake Cabin

100%
(4)
1 site · Lodging · Ogema, MN
Winter Wonderland in a Classic, Cozy Cabin - Strawberry Lake Cabin Here Up North, we know about winter. How to get cozy, enjoy good company, and, of course, how to deeply appreciate the downy white blanket of snow that envelops us for several months of the year. With our winter smarts and fondness for the season, we created what we think is the ideal wintertime getaway here at Strawberry Lake Cabin. Built in 2013 by local Minnesota craftsmen, our cabin wall and floors boast radiant heat (great for defrosting your toes after a snowy hike), its comfy indoor spaces are great for long conversations and warm drinks, and its spotless kitchen encourages you to prepare some snowed-in comfort food together. Or, maybe you'd like to be pampered and treated to a local homemade catered breakfast, lunch or dinner - we can help make that happen. Not to mention the world of winter activities waiting just outside the cabin. Watch thick snowflakes drift to the snow-blanketed ground and frozen lake through the prism of the cabin’s cathedral windows, which reach from the living area to the lofted bedroom. Then venture out to explore the glittering, snowbound landscape for yourself! A RETREAT FOR COUPLES, FRIENDS & FAMILIES; MOREOVER, A PLACE TO REUNITE WHERE EVERYONE CAN SPREAD OUT Experience the easy romance of tucking into nature together and shaking off the stresses of everyday life. From the cozy, lofted bedroom, views of an unpolluted Minnesota sky full of stars will lull you into a deep sleep, and a winter wonderland will greet you in the morning. When you and your sweetheart are ready to venture out, a whole slew of winter activities await. From ice fishing, ice skating at a local pond, to traversing 250 miles of snowmobiling trails and snowshoeing across beautiful landscapes…including at lovely Pine Lake in the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, just 3 miles from the cabin, or consider the nearby winter-sports haven Maplelag Resort, which offers cross-country skiing, fat tire biking and skate skiing. If you’d like to capture the essence of that “feeling of premium” – we’d love to have you here to experience our version of paradise at Strawberry Lake! Kind regards, Don (& Cheryl) Aamodt, Owners
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$180
 / night
  • TV and DVD player on sliders so they are hidden away when not in use. A small selection of DVDs are provided, but feel free to bring your own.
  • From the bed toward the door. The shower is at the end of the hall on the right, just inside the doorway
  • TV and DVD player on sliders so they are hidden away when not in use. A small selection of DVDs are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

100%
(27)
1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN
Goldie is closed for the season - she will reopen again in the spring! Goldie is an original early 1900's wooden caboose that ran on the DMIR railroad. She was re-designed in 1912 to be safer on the railroad (and her length extended so she wouldn't fall over). She ran the tracks of the Iron Range until retirement in 1968. It's been fully renovated with a few modern conveniences. We've re-used as much of the original wood as possible, and repurposed many things into other things so that we could keep the history alive. My husband is the carpenter that brought her to life and I'm the one that gave her some paint and design. Now, she's ready for people again, and to keep telling her story to others. Please...be our guest...and let Goldie be your host. Goldie has a max occupancy of 2 people due to space constraints. She also offers: ~ 1 very generous bundle of firewood included with stay ~ Hot and cold running water ~ A shower ~A/C and heat ~Hot water kettle for coffee, tea and cocoa (or oatmeal, etc) ~Paper dishes, plastic utensils and ceramic mugs ~Microwave ~Mini fridge ~One queen sized memory foam bed ~ Bath Towels, hand towel and wash towels ~Flush Toilet ~Fire ring, picnic table and lake access (kayaks available to use for free) ~Wifi access ** There is no cable TV, but we have a DVD player and some movies to choose from. Also there are some games to play. We do have pets and they do run around the yard freely. There are two dogs that love to romp and say hi (a female Golden Retriever and a female Griffon mix) and a female cat that does the same. They are super friendly, but they will come to visit you at the lake. Our lake is an "environmental lake" so while we keep a small beach area that you are welcome to use, it is not free of lily pads or weeds. It's simple, but fully swimm-able (the Golden Retriever keeps the first 8 feet of water weed free with her swimming!). You are welcome to use the dock and chairs we keep there for breezy evenings or to take a dip to cool off. We are only 2ish miles from town with gas, food, ice cream and a donut shop. There is a paved rail trail just down our street that runs both directions for many miles. Bikes are welcome! (please leave ATVs at home).
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night
  • Jammers Retreat
  • Jammers Retreat
  • Jammers Retreat

Jammers Retreat

9 sites · RVs, Tents · Bemidji, MN
Come enjoy camping on seven peaceful acres, just 7 miles from Bemidji, 3 miles from the state park, and only 2.5 miles from a private wilderness lake. The property features a large building suitable for gatherings, plus hot and cold water available outdoors. Unique highlights include a clay pit and sand pit—perfect for grounding, healing, or simply letting your inner child play. You’ll also find plenty of nearby lakes, trails, and opportunities for foraging and nature exploration. Extras available: • Kayaks and bicycles for guest use • Alternative healing circles upon request Campsites are first come, first served—a simple yet special place to connect with nature, community, and yourself.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
  • Toad Creek Hobby Farm
  • Toad Creek Hobby Farm
  • Toad Creek Hobby Farm

Toad Creek Hobby Farm

1 site · Tent · Frazee, MN
Rustic off-grid campsite with an unfinished cabin and outhouse, now available for tent camping. Located on a century farm in the heart of Minnesota’s lakes country. Please note, this location is not for the faint of heart — it’s for those who like to rough it or get away from the modern world for a day or two. There is no running water, electricity, or Wi-Fi, and a vehicle capable of navigating a bumpy, wooded trail is required to access the campsite. The property features abundant wildlife, woods, fields, pastures, and ponds. Conveniently located near area lakes and trails, about 20 miles from the nearest town.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
  • Timberlost at West Crooked
  • Timberlost at West Crooked
  • Timberlost at West Crooked

Timberlost at West Crooked

1 site · Lodging · Nevis, MN
West Crooked Lake Resort offers relaxation and enjoyment for the entire family on 20 acres of seclude woods. You can enjoy sun bathing on the sandy beach, swimming in the clear water, playing on the Rave Water Park, or reading a book in the shade. Listen to the loons calling, watch eagles soar overhead, glide through the clear waters in a canoe or paddleboat, or just bring a book, relax, and catch some rays on the sandy beach. Many area attractions are just minutes from the resort. Biking/walking trails, golf courses, casinos, challenge course, a local winery, horseback riding, shopping and restaurants are just a few of the attractions you will find. In addition, the Headwaters of the Mississippi in Itasca State Park is just 30 minutes from the resort. ATV riders enjoy hundreds of miles of trails in the Park Rapids Lakes Area, bringing them closer to nature's beauty in remote areas others often don't see. Local clubs maintain two primary trails in our area, which are connected with miles of trails along county highways/byways.  Drive your ATV directly to the trails from our resort. West and Middle Crooked Lakes are part of the famous Mantrap chain of lakes – the very heart of Northern Minnesota’s finest fishing country. Fish to catch in West Crooked Lake include Northern, Walleye, Bass and Panfish. You can fish right off the dock at the resort or venture out to the many inlets on this quiet lake. When on the lake, you will often find yourself enjoying the tranquil beauty of West Crooked Lake with no other boats in sight.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$145
 / night
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Stories from the community

Bunny with Atitude!
Avatar
Nancy
1 week ago
23 ft travel trailer
1 night at Tumbleweed Base Camp
Beautiful spot with a huge barn you can relax in the game room, very unique! David and Logan were great hosts, enjoyed the visit, the Info and the apple crisp. Don't forget to go see the Dambo Trolls, 2 are very close.
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Paul’s Lakeside Cottage A 500 square foot very comfortable base camp
T
Thomas S
1 week ago
With pets
1 night at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Paul has a really comfortable place, beautiful location on a quiet shallow small lake. There is a canoe, and many other entertainment opportunities are there onsite or nearby. it is a quiet spot, enough room for small family and pet to shar with Paul and his dog Piper as i did. i wish I had a few more days to enjoy, but i'll be back!
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Popular spot to back in trailer/camper…semi-secluded, view of the barn, cozy and content.
M
Max
3 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
1 night at Tumbleweed Base Camp
Awesome property, and they’re super nice and really went above and beyond to make it a great stay, would highly recommend
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I Live in the Country
C
Curtis
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to I Live in the Country
It felt very private as I placed my tent toward the back of the field. The star viewing was great!
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Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
J
Jonathan
October 2025
3 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
Amy’s place was beautiful and peaceful. The caboose sits on a quiet, wooded part of the property and feels totally private — you can’t even see her house from it. There’s a private trail that leads down to the lake, passing a picnic table and a fire pit with a built-in grill. It’s a perfect spot to relax, cook out, or just sit and enjoy the view. The whole setup has a cozy, tucked-away vibe that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy nature.
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Tumbleweed Base Camp
T
Tom
October 2025
30 ft fifth wheel
With pets
3 nights at Tumbleweed Base Camp
This was a perfect location to check out the troll hunt. Dave was friendly and helpful. The barn and it's inside it a great addition to the space. It was a cold night so we watched a movie in the barn! We would highly recommend this place.
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Updated and refreshed, our teepee needed some 2025 photos! 🏕️
J
Jeffery
October 2025
2 nights at Tumbleweed Base Camp
Great location to explore the area. Dave, the host, is very nice.
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Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
M
Michael
October 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Weekend Trip to Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
Mike was so accommodating. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Mikko camp. Plenty of room for the dog to run. Everything way beyond expectations.
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Sunset Pines MN
S
Steve
October 2025
With pets
3 nights at Sunset Pines MN
I noticed their website said they were already closed for the season but HipCamp still let me book it. I was half-expecting a call back and a refund but instead, they were more than welcoming of my stay and even sort of apologetic that some of the amenities were no longer available this late in the year. On top of that, I got held up in traffic and didn’t arrive until almost 8:30pm which they did not seem the least bit bothered by. One day, as I was returning from the trails with my dog, they offered her treats and an adorable Sunset Pines scarf! I was only in town for a wedding but will definitely make the trip again in the future, maybe even get myself a seasonal RV lot someday!
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Paul’s Lakeside Cottage A 500 square foot very comfortable base camp
A
Andrea
October 2025
With pets
3 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Paul’s Lakeside Cottage is such a lovely peaceful relaxing retreat. The views of the lake are stunning!! Paul and Piper were so kind and welcoming. We hiked his property, explored the nearby forest and small towns nearby, and of course a nightly campfire-we heard loons and owls. We usually tent camp so this was a treat-Paul has everything you need! I highly recommend!!!!!!
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Dispersed camping in the meadow and over the small hill, choose where you best see fit 🏕️
J
Jonathan
September 2025
Tent
1 night at Tumbleweed Base Camp
Location is just around the corner from Detroit Mountain. Owners are very friendly and accommodating. Restored barn offers a unique meeting place. Fire pit and firewood available to enjoy a cozy evening around the fire.
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The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose
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Jim
September 2025
2 nights at Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
The caboose was a unique experience to actually stay in a renovated railroad caboose with ties to the area. It was very relaxing setting and have campfire coffee and close access to the bike trails. The dogs were always happy to say hello and the yoga platform was a perfect place to watch the clear night sky.
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Tumbleweed Base Camp
M
Molly
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp
Sweet teepee setup on private deck tucked in the trees. Close to porta-potty and community fire pit. Came with pillows, bedding, lights, electricity, fan, heater, and even a fly swatter. Host stopped by on 2nd day to remove leaves from deck. Hosts attentive and friendly.community spaces outstanding! Shared fridge/freezer and Venmo snack pantry. Perfect hip camp.
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Camper Trailer or Motorhome accessibility
S
Samantha
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Weekend Trip to Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
Love this site! Remote enough that the dogs can be off leash, nice trails, firewood is provided. We will definitely be back!
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Dispersed camping in the meadow and over the small hill, choose where you best see fit 🏕️
M
Maggie
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp
Wonderful spot and even better hosts. It was a lovely night!
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Tumbleweed Base Camp
M
Molly
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp
We had a tent site and the teepee site. Great location, fire pit with wood, water, community space in barn. Very attentive hosts, friendly and helpful. Top ten site.
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Paul’s Lakeside Cottage A 500 square foot very comfortable base camp
C
Chase
September 2025
With kids
3 nights at Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
Amazing place to stay! Paul goes above and beyond to make sure you’re comfortable. We forgot propane for our blackstone last stay, and without hesitation, he gave us two 1lb tanks. We’ve stayed with Paul twice and will be back soon!
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The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose
N
Nick
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN
Detail, very good information and easy to communicate. Gorgeous caboose and very relaxing
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Popular spot to back in trailer/camper…semi-secluded, view of the barn, cozy and content.
B
Brad
September 2025
14 ft travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp
This place is awesome. The property and owners are fantastic. The central barn is a very cool hangout space. Both times we have stayed, owner/operator went out of their way to ensure everyone was enjoying stay. Highly recommend supporting this place. Thanks for great stay!
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Popular spot to back in trailer/camper…semi-secluded, view of the barn, cozy and content.
J
Joanne
September 2025
27 ft Class C
With pets
Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp
This is a beautiful setting with a great host! We had a comfortable stay.
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Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Paul Bunyan State Forest

Gulch Lake Campground
100%
(1)

Gulch Lake Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Paul Bunyan State Forest
Mantrap Lake Campground
100%
(1)

Mantrap Lake Campground

36 sites · RVs, Tents In Paul Bunyan State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Paul Bunyan State Forest

  • Beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails are available to those wanting to test their trail riding skills.
  • May 24th, 2022, our first session of Tumbleweed Barn Yoga! (beginner classes only $10)
  • Beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails are available to those wanting to test their trail riding skills.

Tumbleweed Base Camp

100%
(297)
10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
  • Headwaters of the Mississippi River at close by Itasca State Park!
  • Paul’s Lakeside Cottage
  • Headwaters of the Mississippi River at close by Itasca State Park!

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

100%
(42)
2 sites · Lodging · Nevis, MN
Very Quiet, Peaceful, Private, Off the Grid, Dark Sky, Wooded 36 acre+ homesteaded property with nice lakeshore guest cottage. Close to Itasca State Park- Headwaters of the Mississippi, Paul Bunyan State Forest, Nevis, Park Rapids, Dorset, Walker or Bemidji for Good Music, Food and Fun! Dock space for smaller fishing boats and close to many area lakes for good fishing. Close to the North Country National Scenic Trail for some great hiking. Or just stay put here in nature amongst its non-human inhabitants. We look forward to meeting YOU! ✌️Paul+Piper🐕
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$96
 / night
  • Future development.
  • Typical sites 1-4
  • Future development.

RV There Yet Campground

98%
(28)
19 sites · RVs · Akeley, MN
The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
  • Bergamo Campground and Events
  • Bergamo Campground and Events
  • Bergamo Campground and Events

Bergamo Campground and Events

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

Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
71 sites · Lodging, RVs · 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
  • Beautiful sunsets!
  • We loved the sweet horses on the property!
  • Beautiful sunsets!

I Live in the Country

98%
(32)
4 sites · Tents · Becida, MN
This is home, a realization of a lifelong dream of living in the country. The land is magical. Our animals are our family. Learn more about this land: If you like privacy you'll love our 200 acre haven. Come up the long driveway and experience the spacious view of the open hay field. Camp in the open or tucked away in the trees. You choose the spot as long as it's not in the horse pasture, cow pasture when cows are in, or in the hay field when hay is long before it's cut. Hay field would be off limits roughly late June to Mid July during optimal growth time and cutting. Note: This is a primitive camping experience. We offer no amenities, no toilets, no water. We are a 20 minute drive from the North Entrance to Itasca State Park and the Headwaters of the Mississippi. LaSalle Lake State Recreation Area is also just a few minutes down the road from us. Also LaSalle Lake Recreation Area is only about six or seven miles down the road.
Pets
from 
$10
 / night
  • Outhouse
  • It’s going to be even more beautiful when the leaves reach peak fall clothes!
  • Outhouse

Fire Tower Pond

100%
(26)
1 site · Tent · Pine Point, MN
Campsite is set next to a large pond, deep in the woods on 40 private acres. The pond is accessible for swimming/kayaking/canoeing. Beautiful Itasca State Park is directly across the road from the property with biking, hiking, nature drives, boating, fishing, equipment rentals, dining and more. Within a few miles are several local eateries. The area has many miles of ATV trails and the Heartland Bike Trail.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night
  • Willow Acres an RV Resort
  • Willow Acres an RV Resort
  • Willow Acres an RV Resort

Willow Acres an RV Resort

93%
(30)
8 sites · RVs, Tents · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
  • Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
  • Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow
  • Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

97%
(106)
2 sites · RVs · Nevis, MN
Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake. - NOTE: This is now (2023) a single site with two (2) power stands. Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV's in or pitch a tent and stay as long as you like. 8 miles south of Nevis in the Heartland Lakes area. Adjacent 8 acres of 'Common Use' woods and picnic area with dock for fishing. Or bring a canoe/Kayak to launch. 4th Crow is NOT a recreational lake, but great for fishing, waterfowl and wildlife spotting. Fire pit, picnic table and swing on site. 9 miles from Heartland Biking Trail and within 3 miles of OHV/Snowmobile trails access. Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

Camping in Paul Bunyan State Forest, MN 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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  1. United States
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  2. Minnesota
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  3. Paul Bunyan State Forest