- Banning State Park
The best camping in Banning State Park, MN
100% (5)
The best camping in Banning State Park, MN
100% (5)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Banning State Park adventure.
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Anaiah
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Retreat
Crooked Creek was a perfect oasis away from the city. We really enjoyed the cozy vibes of the cabin, and the walking paths for us to enjoy. We were even provided orange beanies for hunting season, which we greatly appreciated as we went on our hikes! Naomi did a great job of making us feel comfortable and at home, and we would absolutely return.
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Evan
3 weeks ago
Tent
Nice quiet spot. I stayed at site 9 and it was visible from the road, but that probably wouldn’t be the case in the spring and summer. I came specifically to see the northern lights because it was the closest area to the Twin Cities with low light pollution, and it was perfect for that. Fairly tucked away with a big open field down the trail.
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Antea
3 weeks ago
Tent
We had a wonderful time at Tim’s! His land was clean and our trip was peaceful. We enjoyed the firepit and seeing the animals in the morning. Highly recommend!
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Jennifer
October 2025
With kids
It was seriously one of the best experiences ever. The owners were so kind and went above and beyond to let our two boys interact with the animals. Camping was their birthday present and they said it was the best trip they ever had. The animals were so fun, and hiking is super close by. We definitely want to return.
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Rowe
October 2025
Tent
With kids
We didn't want to leave. I took my six year old son camping there. We were both a bit sad when it was time to go home. It was quiet and peaceful. We laid in the hammock watching the stars late into the night. We picked a couple apples from their apple trees. We explored the trails. We pet the horses and rabbits. We got some fresh eggs from the barn. We loved the old rustic barn. My son and I both enjoyed the privacy of being the only tent campers there. A tent is waiting for you, but you can use your own tent if you want. A fire ring has an adjustable cooking grate that you can use. Some cut logs surround the fire pit that you can sit on. Plenty of firewood available stacked close to the fire pit. It was a time I will cherish and never forget. The owners were welcoming and friendly. I'm so glad that Jay Cooke campground was sold out and didn't have any spots available. I am new to Hipcamp and can't wait to explore more cool places they offer.
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Skylar
October 2025
With pets
Stayed in the A-frame and it was so wonderful! Very peaceful, can’t wait to come back!
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Damian
October 2025
Tent
Clean and quiet, beautiful ambience with the birds and the creek.
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Nicole
October 2025
1 night at The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa
Such a lovely respite for the night! I’m super grateful for the little cabin and slept so well there. Enjoyed my morning coffee outside in spite of the chill. Can’t wait to come back and hopefully explore the other lodging options, too.
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Ann
October 2025
28 ft Class C
I have stayed at Jubilee Homestead a handful of times over 3 years. It’s a beautiful slice of land to bring my friends and my granddaughters to. The animals, the beautiful barn and owners are all great. Esther answers messages within minutes and is so helpful always. She and her husband have written many books and we bought one on this visit. I’ll be coming back here a few times every year. It’s wonderful to bring my city granddaughters out so they can experience this beautiful country life! Picking apples from trees, touching goats and chickens and just playing at the playground, it’s a sweet slice of country life.
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Makenzie
October 2025
With pets
The cabin was a perfect weekend getaway for my husband and I and our two pups! There was plenty of space for the dogs to roam and Jon had everything you needed to cook, have a fire and relax. We’re already talking about doing it again next year! Thanks Jon for sharing your space!
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Emily
October 2025
Tent
With pets
This was a great fall trip! We had an excellent time in the primative pasture campsite, in view of the rams. We explored all around the farm and were only 20 minutes away from interstate park. The icecream and other goodies in the barn shop were great! We spent lots of time with the alpacas and sheep, the hosts were super friendly as well. We heard cranes, coyotes, and moles milling around at night!
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BreAnne
October 2025
16 ft car
With kids
We had great time. Our kiddo loved the sheep and the barn market was super cute. You don’t need to go far out of the city to find great space that is young kiddo approved!
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Claire
October 2025
With pets
Peaceful and Quiet, perfect fall colors! Loved the animals especially the bunnies were a huge hit with our kids. Comfortable, clean and great communication by host.
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Courtney
October 2025
31 ft Class C
Esther’s property was so beautiful and relaxing! I loved all the chickens, goats and seeing the neighbors’ cows and horses. Also, one of the barn cats literally climbed up in my lap and cuddled into my neck!! So sweet! The little path around their property is cute and the outhouse was so clean and roomy. The cookies at arrival were delicious and I purchased a book (excited to read) and crochet pig from their little store. It was a quick stay but peaceful and relaxing. I would recommend!
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Leslie
October 2025
With kids
Our farm stay was wonderful! Our kids thoroughly enjoyed the tour, the animals, the dogs! The barn was perfect for our family of five. Highly recommend!!!
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Ashley
October 2025
2 nights at Into The Woods
Where do I even start? Maybe at the fact that we absolutely cannot wait to return?! We had so much fun at “the dome”. The autumn trees worked out perfectly for us – the trees were in full color and the weather mostly cooperated while we were there. The second night we were able to see the stars and MY GOODNESS, it was absolutely spectacular.
It was expected to be pretty chilly during the night, so I brought a 10x20ft tarp to lay on the ground and help insulate against it and I think that helped significantly during our second night when the temp was about 36*. We cooked over the fire mostly for meals, but also drove the few minutes to A&W for root beer floats daily.
The compostable toilet is located behind a small partition to provide a bit of privacy, but there is also a gas station within three minutes of the site so I just drove to use that one mostly. The solar powered fan circulated the air a bit, but there’s only so much you can move the air around in a dome shaped space… it was 70* on our second day and it got warm inside of the dome pretty quickly.
We were able to buy firewood at the Adventure Church lot (five minutes away) and paid $5/bundle in cash at a self-serve stand. This stand is covered, so it had dry wood even after it rained the first night.
We loved how secluded it felt without also feeling like we were in the middle of nowhere. Overall, as the first camp like experience for us, it was a roaring success! Highly highly recommend, 10/10.
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Jennifer
October 2025
2 nights at Meadow Cabin
Property was just as described. Easy check in. Great area to hike and enjoy the fall color. Hosts responded quickly to questions.
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Tim
October 2025
2 nights at Meadow Cabin
We enjoyed a great "quick getaway" (from Minneapolis) at this sweet property. Tucked in the woods, a 3 minute walk to the river, this was super relaxing. Hiking at St Croix State Park, s'mores, reading & games... Couldn't ask for a better mini-break. Thanks for the hospitality!
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Nick
October 2025
2 nights at Bundo's Cabin
Beautiful location. The cabin is charming, cozy, and very well maintained. I love the record player too!
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Camille
October 2025
With kids
My grandkids; ages 8 and 10 and I visited wonderful farm this past weekend for a one nite getaway. We all loved the experience! The kids rollerbladed in the barn, played with the cats and loved seeing the goats and chickens! Our glampung tent was perfect; comfortable bed and fun vibe. We definitely will be back next year! Thank you, Esther and Joel for your hospitality!
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Other options near Banning State Park
The best camping in Banning State Park, MN guide
Overview
About
Rocky gorges, waterfalls, and forested riverbanks set the scene for adventures in Banning State Park. Grab your canoe, kayak, or raft and tackle the gnarly rapids of the Kettle River—Blueberry Slide, Hell’s Gate, and Dragon Tooth are famous for their thrilling hairpin turns and dramatic scenery. Afterward, hit the trail to explore Banning Sandstone Quarry, Wolf Creek Falls, and Robinson’s Ice Cave; scale 40-foot cliffs overlooking the river; or bring your snowmobile or skis for a winter excursion. Campers can snag a spot at the small campground, pitch a tent at the five canoe-in campsites, or check into the camper cabin.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- You can reserve one of the park’s 33 campsites (11 with electric hookups) in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website. Watercraft campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
- Campsite reservations open 120 days in advance, and same-day bookings are possible.
- Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book your spot as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
When to go
Paddling season at Banning State Park runs from April through September, and the park can get busy, especially on weekends. Parking fills up quickly, so plan an early morning or late afternoon arrival to secure a spot. Banning State Park Campground is open from April through mid to late November. Winter visits are equally enjoyable with options for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, but expect minimal facilities if you visit in the off-season.
Know before you go
- Banning State Park is set 93 miles north of Minneapolis or about a 1.5-hour drive away.
- Vehicle permits are required for all Minnesota state parks, in addition to camping reservation fees. Permits can be purchased in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website.
- Park facilities include a gift shop, vault toilets, and picnic areas. Flush toilets and showers are available at the campground in season only.
- There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Banning State Park.
100%
5 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· August 2025
Another nice one worth to be checked out, the rivers is there also can take the time ,good fishing
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Juan D.
8 reviews