The best camping in Banning State Park, MN

·
100% (5)

The best camping in Banning State Park, MN

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Calm.

2. Bundo's Cabin

99%
(158)
4.7mi from Banning State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Finlayson, MN
This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was harvested and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and out, there are so many ways to relax and connect with loved ones during all seasons at Bundo's Cabin. Learn more about this land: Where the forest meets the field. Unplug and relax at Bundo's Cabin with extraordinary views of wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities. The modern yet cozy cabin has electricity and features a front patio, an external outhouse and outdoor rainwater bucket shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a sleeping loft with a reading nook. No matter the season, this cabin is a wonderful, cozy, and clean, place to relax and unwind. Feel free to roam around the 10-acre property and explore the 80 acres of state land to the north. Deer, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, owls, eagles and more are likely to be seen or heard. Explore, Banning, Moose Lake, and Father Hennepin State Parks which are all within 30 minutes, and return to the cabin to read, play games, listen to records, have a fire, and relax. The kitchen provides you with everything you need to prepare your meals including a refrigerator, small freezer, stove, oven, cookware, cutting boards, sink, seasonings, oil, and coffee. Water for washing is available from an electric pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps from the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a user-friendly heat pump and gets the cabin to your desired temperature very quickly. We are grateful to honor the Dakota and Anishinaabe people whose land we occupy by donating $10 from every booking to the Makoce Ikikcupi Land Recovery Project. This project is actively working to return the land to the indigenous people from whom it was stolen. You can learn more about this project in reparative justice at www.makoceikikcupi.com.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$123
 / night
The Cedar Cabin!

6. Crooked Creek Retreat

100%
(22)
17mi from Banning State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Hinckley, MN
Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness. Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another. We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people. A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland). The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight! The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
Went out on the kayaks to get a different perspective of the ponds. Kayaks are free to use for guests.

7. The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

98%
(127)
18mi from Banning State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Pine City, MN
Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$101
 / night
Hidden Pines

10. Hidden Pines

96%
(167)
20mi from Banning State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Kerrick, MN
Come get away in our grove of balsam pine trees in a rural area with lots of wildlife to see and hear. We have 5 primitive campsites, one for large groups and three for smaller more private camping and one drive in site for camping out of vehicle or tent . We offer un mapped hiking trails onsite and there is plenty of activities to do within 10 to 15  miles from camp. Activities include swimming at local beaches, Nemadji State Forest, General CC Andrews State Forest, ATV riding, lots of great fishing lakes, several rivers for kayaking and canoeing, local restaurants, coffee houses, movie theater, general store, shopping, antiques/craft, grocery, gas, local brewery, agate center, fire museum. The land was purchased by the Sway family in the late 70's from a farmer and has been in the family since. We are one of the 4 current land owners of this property and plan to keep the land in the family as long as we can. Our home was built in 2011 on part of the property. Since living here we have used the land for hiking, gardening, wood harvesting, selling Christmas trees, and now we are excited for our new adventure of opening a small part of our land for camping. We are excited for you to enjoy our land as much as we do.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Tent site looking East down Snake River

13. O'Dalaigh Hideaway

100%
(44)
22mi from Banning State Park · 1 site · Tent · Rock Creek, MN
Note: Site does not have an assigned address but the driveway is next to our cabin on the North side of the Snake River in Pine City MN, NOT Rock Creek MN. The site is a vacant lot and has the better river view and experience as its a small peninsula that juts out to the river with rapids. There is a swimming area right next to the campsite or feel free to jump into the rapids if you want a rush. River is not deep most of the year and there is fishing right there as well, mostly large and small mouth bass. There is parking off the road and a short walk to the campsite, just follow the sounds of the river. A small wagon is provided to help with getting gear down to the river tent site. New this year (2025) is a composting toilet along the trail to the tent site. It uses a "separator" where #1 goes back to the earth (as it is sterile and liquid) and #2 goes into a bucket and is covered with wood chips. There is also a standing urinal for men if desired. If you would prefer to use a pit toilet there is one on the property with directions marked with a sign. It is a farther walk however, about 100 yards from the tent site and on the cabin property near the driveway. If you want something even more convenient, feel free to bring your own. Firewood is available for sale onsite or feel free to clean up dead wood lying along the trail at no cost, note that it is more than likely freshly cut and wet but will burn if the fire is hot enough. The tent site is right next to rapids on the Snake river. If you struggle sleeping to the sound of rushing water, this may not be for you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Spirits of the Forest

14. Spirits of the Forest

100%
(66)
27mi from Banning State Park · 13 sites · Lodging · Mora, MN
How we ended up in Knife Lake Township on 81 acres of forested land. We began looking for land in late fall of 1996. After several months of searching, we happened upon a tiny newspaper ad for 81 acres of land described as "Beautiful, secluded, mature hardwoods, tall pines w/creek & beaver pond, many gd bldg sites & great hunting". We toured the property, covered in almost two feet of snow, on a snowmobile in January 1997 and fell in love with it. We have been stewards of this piece of land for 25 years and are still enamored of its beauty and diversity. We are lulled to sleep by the sounds of owls and bullfrogs and the distant yipping of coyotes. Spring through fall we are often awakened by the rattling, honking of sandhill cranes and a wide variety of bird songs. Besides deer and lots of small critters, we've seen bear, bobcat, rafters of turkeys, quail, grouse, pheasant, owls, hawks and eagles. The sky, on a clear night, is breathtaking. We have always visualized sharing the land with others, so come and immerse yourself in this bountiful space.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Lazy River Landing

15. Lazy River Landing

96%
(13)
28mi from Banning State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Braham, MN
Enjoy a peaceful escape on our private 1-acre lot, perfect for tent camping or RVs. The site includes an electric hook-up, outhouse, and a dedicated fire pit for campfires under the stars. Surrounded by woods on either side, it offers a quiet, semi-secluded spot for nature lovers. A short trail (400 feet or a little over a football field) leads through the forest to the Snake River, where you’ll find a second fire pit with chairs, solar lighting, and a private dock that is share with just our cabin and then campsite. If you are tenting, you can tent at the river but do not drive on the trail except for atvs. The river is great for fishing, swimming, canoeing, or kayaking, and can accommodate small boats. Multiple public boat landings are located up and down the river for easy access. The property lines are outlined in the overview picture. Please do not go to the west of the trail to provide ample space for privacy with our neighbors. The red on the map is the camping area with electricity and outhouse. Our personal log cabin is the blue dot but there is a significant tree line in between. If we are there, we are happy to give you a tour. The blue line is the trail. The white area is our property on the river and available for tent only or to hang out for the day if you choose to camp up top. The purple area is where the goats are busy eating. Come and visit them! While the site does not have running water, you’ll be camping right next to our family cabin, and we’re happy to help with anything you might need. We also have friendly goats on the property that guests are welcome to visit! There’s also plenty to explore nearby. Just minutes away, Braham offers a quirky “hole-in-the-wall” bowling alley and some charming local shops. Head north to Pine City for more options, including restaurants, a larger grocery store, and additional shopping. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Snake River Trading Post, a Minnesota historical site. And if you’re in the mood for a local treat, Sapsucker Farms is a nearby cidery open on weekends, often hosting live music, food trucks, and hiking trails. Ask your hosts for even more ideas—they’re happy to share local favorites!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$31
 / night
Apple trees and barn

18. The Jubilee Homestead

99%
(273)
35mi from Banning State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stanchfield, MN
Our family is looking forward to another great camping season! This small hobby farm is where I (Esther) grew up and now my husband Joel, our four children, and my parents, are developing it into a self-supporting farmstead and event venue as we raise chickens and Nigerian dwarf goats, and grow a pick-your-own elderberry field. We offer a single site for off-season/winter camping for longer visits at a discounted rate. Please reach out for more information if you're interested. What you can expect at The Jubilee Homestead: Free firewood Free 20amp electricity hookup at all sites (NOT ENOUGH TO RUN A/C, plenty for everything else) Free water Free farm fresh, free-range eggs to collect yourself in the mornings plus more for sale when available. Access to broomball court and equipment in barn loft Rustic trail around back of property about 1/4 mile long Playground Dishwashing sink You are welcome to enjoy The Milk Room Lounge and Farm Store. You'll find self-serve coffee, hot cocoa, and other options available for purchase, There is a microwave, places to sit and visit, and even a game table. Joel and I have co-authored several books (under the pen name J.E. Ribbey) which are also available in the Farm Store. We have an American post-apocalyptic thriller series and a historical fiction series for middle grade readers about the American Revolutionary War. We have a nice, fully private outdoor shower with hot water available for $2.50/shower. Guests can pay on-site via our posted QR codes or cash box. We're also available for other events like birthday parties, intimate weddings, and group gatherings at our gazebo and/or 20ft x 40ft party tent. As a homeschooling, home business building family, there is usually a project or two always in the works to join in on if you feel so inclined or just sit back and enjoy the peace of clean air and loving goats! Several lakes in the area provide numerous options for fishing, boating, and hiking. And nothing beats those evening country road walks while agate hunting! Other area attractions include Mini golf in Cambridge, public aquatic center with water slides in Mora, and several state parks an hour or less away.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$5
 / night
Rustic Haven Retreat on 80 acres

20. Rustic Haven Retreat on 80 acres

100%
(12)
37mi from Banning State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Luck, WI
Nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, Rustic Haven Retreat offers an unparalleled camping experience spread across 80 sprawling acres of pristine land. This serene getaway is the perfect destination for adventurers seeking a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Designed with the discerning camper in mind, Rustic Haven Retreat provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're arriving with an RV or setting up a tent, Rustic Haven Retreat caters to all styles of outdoor enthusiasts. The site boasts electrical hookups for RVs, ensuring that guests can enjoy the comforts of home while surrounded by the serenity of nature. The vast acreage invites exploration and is a haven for wildlife, offering campers the chance to witness the beauty of undisturbed flora and fauna. The landscape of Rustic Haven Retreat is diverse, featuring rolling hills, wooded areas, and open fields. This variety allows guests to choose their ideal camping spot – whether it’s under the canopy of ancient trees, beside a babbling brook, or in the middle of a sun-drenched meadow. The property is designed to provide both privacy and community, with ample space for solitude as well as communal areas for gathering and sharing stories under the stars. Activities at Rustic Haven Retreat are as boundless as its landscapes. From hiking and bird watching to stargazing and enjoying quiet evenings by the fire, there’s something for everyone. Our commitment to maintaining the natural beauty of the land ensures that every visit is as breathtaking as the last. Rustic Haven Retreat is more than just a place to camp; it’s a destination where memories are made, spirits are rejuvenated, and the beauty of nature is celebrated. Come and experience the magic of this 80-acre paradise, where every stay promises an adventure and a sanctuary.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
100% (5)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Banning State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Banning State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

Bundo's Cabin

99%
(158)
4.7mi from Banning State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Finlayson, MN
This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was harvested and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and out, there are so many ways to relax and connect with loved ones during all seasons at Bundo's Cabin. Learn more about this land: Where the forest meets the field. Unplug and relax at Bundo's Cabin with extraordinary views of wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities. The modern yet cozy cabin has electricity and features a front patio, an external outhouse and outdoor rainwater bucket shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a sleeping loft with a reading nook. No matter the season, this cabin is a wonderful, cozy, and clean, place to relax and unwind. Feel free to roam around the 10-acre property and explore the 80 acres of state land to the north. Deer, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, owls, eagles and more are likely to be seen or heard. Explore, Banning, Moose Lake, and Father Hennepin State Parks which are all within 30 minutes, and return to the cabin to read, play games, listen to records, have a fire, and relax. The kitchen provides you with everything you need to prepare your meals including a refrigerator, small freezer, stove, oven, cookware, cutting boards, sink, seasonings, oil, and coffee. Water for washing is available from an electric pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps from the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a user-friendly heat pump and gets the cabin to your desired temperature very quickly. We are grateful to honor the Dakota and Anishinaabe people whose land we occupy by donating $10 from every booking to the Makoce Ikikcupi Land Recovery Project. This project is actively working to return the land to the indigenous people from whom it was stolen. You can learn more about this project in reparative justice at www.makoceikikcupi.com.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$123
 / night

Crooked Creek Retreat

100%
(22)
17mi from Banning State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Hinckley, MN
Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness. Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another. We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people. A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland). The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight! The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

98%
(127)
18mi from Banning State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Pine City, MN
Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$101
 / night

Hidden Pines

96%
(167)
20mi from Banning State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Kerrick, MN
Come get away in our grove of balsam pine trees in a rural area with lots of wildlife to see and hear. We have 5 primitive campsites, one for large groups and three for smaller more private camping and one drive in site for camping out of vehicle or tent . We offer un mapped hiking trails onsite and there is plenty of activities to do within 10 to 15  miles from camp. Activities include swimming at local beaches, Nemadji State Forest, General CC Andrews State Forest, ATV riding, lots of great fishing lakes, several rivers for kayaking and canoeing, local restaurants, coffee houses, movie theater, general store, shopping, antiques/craft, grocery, gas, local brewery, agate center, fire museum. The land was purchased by the Sway family in the late 70's from a farmer and has been in the family since. We are one of the 4 current land owners of this property and plan to keep the land in the family as long as we can. Our home was built in 2011 on part of the property. Since living here we have used the land for hiking, gardening, wood harvesting, selling Christmas trees, and now we are excited for our new adventure of opening a small part of our land for camping. We are excited for you to enjoy our land as much as we do.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

O'Dalaigh Hideaway

100%
(44)
22mi from Banning State Park · 1 site · Tent · Rock Creek, MN
Note: Site does not have an assigned address but the driveway is next to our cabin on the North side of the Snake River in Pine City MN, NOT Rock Creek MN. The site is a vacant lot and has the better river view and experience as its a small peninsula that juts out to the river with rapids. There is a swimming area right next to the campsite or feel free to jump into the rapids if you want a rush. River is not deep most of the year and there is fishing right there as well, mostly large and small mouth bass. There is parking off the road and a short walk to the campsite, just follow the sounds of the river. A small wagon is provided to help with getting gear down to the river tent site. New this year (2025) is a composting toilet along the trail to the tent site. It uses a "separator" where #1 goes back to the earth (as it is sterile and liquid) and #2 goes into a bucket and is covered with wood chips. There is also a standing urinal for men if desired. If you would prefer to use a pit toilet there is one on the property with directions marked with a sign. It is a farther walk however, about 100 yards from the tent site and on the cabin property near the driveway. If you want something even more convenient, feel free to bring your own. Firewood is available for sale onsite or feel free to clean up dead wood lying along the trail at no cost, note that it is more than likely freshly cut and wet but will burn if the fire is hot enough. The tent site is right next to rapids on the Snake river. If you struggle sleeping to the sound of rushing water, this may not be for you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

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

  1. 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. 
  2. Campsite reservations open 120 days in advance, and same-day bookings are possible. 
  3. 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