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Two Inlets State Forest

The best camping in Two Inlets State Forest, MN

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Stories from the community

Michael

2 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to RV There Yet Campground

The campground has really nice and private spots. Really enjoyed our stay!

Nancy

October 2025

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.

Popular spot to back in trailer/camper…semi-secluded, view of the barn, cozy and content.

Tami

October 2025

29 ft Class C

1 night at Tumbleweed Base Camp

Owner helped us into our site. Felt safe. Quiet area which is nice.

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

Thomas S

October 2025

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!

Max

October 2025

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

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!

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.

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.

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

Jeffery

October 2025

2 nights at Tumbleweed Base Camp

Great location to explore the area. Dave, the host, is very nice.

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.

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!

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!!!!!!

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

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.

The wildflowers in full bloom just outside the caboose

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.

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.

Camper Trailer or Motorhome accessibility

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!

Maggie

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tumbleweed Base Camp

Wonderful spot and even better hosts. It was a lovely night!

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.

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!

Nick

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

Detail, very good information and easy to communicate. Gorgeous caboose and very relaxing

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Two Inlets State Forest

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Hungryman Lake Campground

3.6mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 14 sites · in Two Inlets State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Fire Tower Pond

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(26)

6.6mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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.

Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

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(42)

17mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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🐕

Goldie The Caboose - Nevis MN

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(27)

18mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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).

Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

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19mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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!

Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

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21mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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.

I Live in the Country

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24mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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.

RV There Yet Campground

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27mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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.

Tumbleweed Base Camp

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(298)

29mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails

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14mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

Timberlost at West Crooked

18mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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.

Toad Creek Camping

19mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Frazee, MN

A century farm located in the heart of Minnesota lakes country. The property features a hobby farm, abundant wildlife, woods, fields, pastures, and ponds. Conveniently located near area lakes and trails, about 20 miles from the nearest town.

Strawberry Lake Cabin

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(4)

21mi from Two Inlets State Forest · 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

The best camping in Two Inlets State Forest, MN guide

Overview

About

If you’re not ready to lose yourself (and your cell service) fully in the Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota, get the best of the wilderness on the southern outskirts at Two Inlets State Forest. Here you can spend the day hiking trails into Itasca State Park, fishing and hunting the area’s game, or swimming and canoeing on Cedar Lake, Hungryman Lake, or Two Inlets Lake (all have boat access, too). If you can’t live without wi-fi, or just want a break from roughin’ it, stop into one of the many resort lodges bordering Two Inlets Lake—Two Inlets Resort has great snacks and a game room complete with pool table, so why not make some new friends and start a tourney? Alternately, you can grab some of the famous Minnesota-harvested wild rice from nearby White Earth Reservation and cook it up over a fire at your campsite (both options will be delicious).

Notable campgrounds

The Walter Stark Horse Campground - A serene spot for equestrian lovers to camp amid the forest's beauty.

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.
Visit during the off-peak season for better chances of availability.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Two Inlets 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 potential heat. Winters can be harsh, with activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing available for the intrepid.

Know before you go

Check the DNR website for any road or campsite improvements that may affect your visit.
Be prepared for the presence of heavy machinery, especially near the Walter Stark Horse Campground.
Ensure you have the necessary permits and adhere to all regulations during your stay.
For any inquiries, the DNR can be reached at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.
Sign up for email updates to stay informed about events and changes within the forest.

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1 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· July 2020

Hungryman Lake Campground

We enjoy this primitive campground deep in the woods. It has boat access and there is also a place for swimming in Hungryman Lake. Some sites are right on the water. Most sites offer seclusion and it's quiet here. There is a toilet and well water. There are fire rings and picnic tables at all the sites. We highly recommend it here. The road to get here can be somewhat treacherous. It can flood when it rains. Bring lots of big spray and be careful of the wood ticks.