The best camping in La Salle Lake State Recreation Area, MN

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Top-rated campgrounds

Tumbleweed Base Camp

100%
(298)
47mi from La Salle Lake State Recreation Area · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

Safe And Sound In Nevis, MN

100%
(16)
32mi from La Salle Lake State Recreation Area · 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

Sunset Pines MN

100%
(6)
48mi from La Salle Lake State Recreation Area · 71 sites · RVs, Lodging · 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

Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

97%
(106)
35mi from La Salle Lake State Recreation Area · 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

The Hippie Hideaway Camp & Trails

100%
(2)
34mi from La Salle Lake State Recreation Area · 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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

I Live in the Country

98%
(32)
4.5mi from La Salle Lake State Recreation Area · 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

Other options near La Salle Lake State Recreation Area

The best camping in La Salle Lake State Recreation Area, MN guide

Overview

About

Minnesotans have a lot to be proud of when it comes to their amazing state parks, great outdoors life and beautiful landscape, and La Salle Lake State Recreation Area is no exception. La Salle Lake clocks in at over 213-feet deep, making it the deepest lake within the border of Minnesota. Plus, there’s over 990 acres of awesome-looking woods, steep valley slopes and dramatic ridges that surround the lake—all the more reason to get out here and explore! Miles of hiking trails will lead you through the rocky terrain, complete with plenty of bird’s-eye-view lookouts of the grand La Salle. Avid backpackers can hike the Challenge Trail, a more remote, backwoods experience with river crossings and steep ascents. You’ll want to bring your binoculars and zoom lenses for some up-close-and-personal birding, waterfowl spotting and white-tailed deer locating. If you are a Minnesotan, get out here because this park is right in your backyard.

When to go

The ideal time to visit La Salle Lake State Recreation Area is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the park's full beauty is on display. Winter can be harsh, with limited access and activities, so plan your trip accordingly to make the most of the park's offerings.

Know before you go

  • Check for any park alerts or road closures before your visit, as conditions can change.
  • Remember that some GPS apps may not have updated road information; follow posted directions to the park.
  • For a smooth entry, have your park pass or entry fee ready upon arrival.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress in layers.
  • Take advantage of the park's diverse activities by bringing appropriate gear for hiking, fishing, or boating.
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