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The best camping in Father Hennepin State Park, MN

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92% (6)

Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park. 

92% (6)

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Father Hennepin State Park

Lakeview Campground

1. Lakeview Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Father Hennepin State Park · 62 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled within the 320 acres of Father Hennepin State Park sits Lakeview Campground, a sweet spot that's dotted with both hook-up and electrically fed campsites
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Maple Grove Campground

2. Maple Grove Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Father Hennepin State Park · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
If being landlocked doesn’t phase you (in fact, you prefer it) then Maple Grove Campground is your spot at Father Hennepin State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Group Camp

3. Group Camp

Campground in Father Hennepin State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just feet from the park’s parking area, Father Hennepin State Park is home to numerous group campsites, able to house between 12 and 25 people
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Top-rated campsites near Father Hennepin State Park

SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

1. SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

99%
(65)
2.4mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
***Campers (tents not included) must back in from Vista Rd (the tar road). Many prefer to walk back and view the site before parking. Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over Lake Mille Lacs, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Step onto the sandy beach from your campsite and surround yourself with the soothing sounds of nature and the lapping of the lake's waves to help you unwind and connect with the outdoors. The campground is a tighter space but the 100 ft beach has plenty of room to spread out. There is a communal firepit on the beach, along with two portable fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis. Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, are two friendly dogs – Frank, a Goldendoodle, and his sister/sidekick, Lucy, a Mini Goldendoodle. They roam freely on part of our property with the help of an invisible fence. Feel free to shoo them away, or hush them if they bother you or if any other rogue neighborhood dog wanders over. When we camp, we value privacy, and we'll ensure the same for you. Upon arrival, please head directly to your campsite or cabin. We can communicate through messaging to assist you with anything you need. Guests will need to be self contained, take waste with them and leave no trace. The Loo (pit toilet): She works hard for the money! With lots of campers and hot weather, The Loo can get a little...fragrant. We have it regularly serviced and cleaned, but during peak heat and heavy use, odors can happen. Nature gonna nature. If you're sensitive to smells please feel free to bring your own portable loo setup! Quiet hours are from 10:00 pm - 8:00 am please do not disrupt other guests or you may be asked to leave. ***Attention Summer Guests*** ***Swimmer's Itch Prevention*** During the warmer summer months, please be aware of the potential for swimmer's itch in our lake. Please Google Swimmer's Itch Prevention for more information. ***Mayflies and Fish Fly Hatches*** These hatches can vary by date and location. Remember you are in an outdoor space and they are a natural part of the ecosystem. Although they are a nuisance they are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Spirits of the Forest

2. Spirits of the Forest

100%
(66)
15mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 2 sites
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.
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Toilets
Showers
R&R Mille Lacs

3. R&R Mille Lacs

98%
(22)
15mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site
Learn more about this land:      R&R Mille Lacs offers a private channel lake lot on beautiful Mille Lacs! The site will have a pull through driveway with 2 RV spots with electricity and water on a gravel pad. The gravel drive through is big enough for 1 more RV but there are no hookups. $60 per RV per night. (So if your group brings 3 RVs it totals to $180.00 per night. Tents are also allowed.  There is one dump station as you pull out.      The site also has a private dock to put your boat or other water toys on. With just a short boat ride through the channel you can be out fishing on the mighty Mille Lacs in minutes. There are no waves to worry about in the channel so just tying up to the dock is nice and easy. With the calm waters it is a great place to use your kayak or paddle board, or just some fishing off the dock. There will be a four person paddle boat available for guests, you must bring your own lifejackets for any water activities.  There are also atv or mountain bike trails just feet away from the site. There is a fire pit on site with free split firewood.      We are located 5 minutes south of Garrison, and 5 minutes north of Grand Casino Mille Lacs, and right across the road from Northwood Hills golf course with Charlie’s Bar & Grill.       To launch your boat there are public water accesses to the north and south.
Pets
Full hookups
The Camps at the Vineyards

4. The Camps at the Vineyards

97%
(351)
18mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a 10-acre part of a larger 110-acre property. This section is reserved for tents, camping vans, and small trailers 20' or less. The river is great for small children to wade and swim in during the summer. During spring, the water is up higher for kayaks and canoes. We have built new out houses for our guests. Your hosts live at 1010 205th Ave. It is just a vineyard for now. the winery we hope will be built in 2027.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Clear Lake Getaway

5. Clear Lake Getaway

100%
(14)
20mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located on the edge of the forest surrounding Clear Lake in the Glen township, 10 miles north of Mille Lacs Lake in beautiful Aitkin County. The campsite can accommodate tents or small RVs up to 25' in length. The site features a screen house, outhouse, hand washing station, firepit, seating areas and walking trails. The site is less than a mile from the Clear Lake public access and boat launch. The property is home to Clear Lake Gardens, a sustainable farm with an onsite farmstand featuring in-season veggies, fruit, herbs and flowers. This is a private, quiet, reflective spot, perfect for your personal retreat, forest bathing and soaking up nature.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Raspberry Bramble Homestead

6. Raspberry Bramble Homestead

100%
(13)
21mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
A growing homestead with chickens, a rabbit, wild raspberry bushes, apple trees, cherry bushes, hazelnut trees, and a small man-made pond.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Reflections- Unique Modern A Frame

7. Reflections- Unique Modern A Frame

97%
(32)
21mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site
This modern A Frame cabin was completely remodeled. Located on 4 acres of woods on a quiet gravel road, you'll love the peace and serenity. Whether you want to wander the paths, listen to the birds, or start a fire on a starry night, this is the place. Fully furnished with kitchen, full bathroom, laundry and a loft to look out at the stars from the skylights. Pull out couch on main level to comfortably sleep 4. You'll enjoy the front and back decks to hang out- drink your morning coffee, look for the owls or throw dinner on the grill. Firepit for long nights and unlimited firewood.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Ringler's Family Campground

8. Ringler's Family Campground

100%
(24)
23mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We dreamed of our own land to expand Ringler's Haunted Trail, this property called to us the first day we stepped foot here.  Each year our family opens up for the month of October a haunted trail, complete with actors, a half mile long wooded trail with buildings to wander through.  Now our dreams are expanding to a winter wonderland and a hipcamp campground. We enjoying sharing the beauty of our land with others, including every now and again the neighbors cattle (they like to wonder over and check things out and then wonder back home, lol).  Come on over and join the fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gabeshiwin Tipi Village

9. Gabeshiwin Tipi Village

100%
(21)
25mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 4 sites
Gabeshiwin Tipis village is the result of a vision given to Minwewebenis (Kevin) as he gazed over the woods and fields of his land. His desire is to share the experience of living in a tipi like his ancestors did decades ago on the Great Plains. The tipis are situated in an intimate village erected around a central pond.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Fish Lake Getaway

10. Fish Lake Getaway

94%
(33)
26mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: The camper can sleep 4 comfortably so any more would need to sleep on floor or bring a tent. There is a fire pit and firewood,  access to a basicly private lake. 14’ aluminum boat and a canoe is available There is no place to put your own boat in. There is an outhouse and a shed with many yard games.  There is a park model camper available to use with no hook ups other than gas stove. Theirs is a twin bed, a queen bed and a couch. The max for the site would be 8 people and that’s only if a few sleep in tents.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Hamlet Lake Homestead

11. The Hamlet Lake Homestead

93%
(35)
28mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site
The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. We have both lakeshore (in front) and a hobby farm with cows, chickens and goats in our back lawn and woods. The Hamlet Lake Bunkhouse is located to the west of our home in its own secluded parcel next to the lake. The Camp on Hamlet Hill (closed for 2026) is to the north of our home, on a remote flat hill at the top of our property, on a hill over Cedar brook. with 300-acre, (private) Hamlet Lake in front, and the wide portion of the 20-mile Cedar brook in the back. We are a large "homesteading" family, with chickens, ducks, and a garden. The campsite is a private 1/2 acre clearing, surrounded by woods with a firepit, grill, cooking utensils, and an outhouse. (Tents are available for a small additional cost). There is an outdoor water pump below the hill, near which guests can view our fenced-in animals. Guests can also access the waterfront and beach in front, with the use of the swim raft, lily pad, fishing dock, canoe, kayak, and paddle boards included. At nearly 100 feet deep, Hamlet lake also boasts excellent fishing. Our home is located 6 miles from Crosby, with the world-class Cuyuna Lakes 50-mile mountain bike trail system. Crosby is a growing tourist town with many new and unique restaurants, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities. The paved bike trail begins 3.5 north of us. Milacs lake is 10 miles to the south.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Medicine Creek Farm

12. Medicine Creek Farm

100%
(111)
28mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 2 sites
At Medicine Creek Farm, we raise grass fed beef and lamb and pastured pork and eggs. We direct-market our food to customers in the Twin Cities and Duluth, primarily through our website. We have been moved and inspired by soil health and what we've learned of regenerative agriculture's ability to heal the land. Hannah manages the daily farm operations, taking care of the animals and moving fences and flocks through the pastures to improve the soil. Meanwhile Jason has been hard at work building our farm infrastructure including our house, shed, remodeled camper trailer, and rebuilding an 1880s timber frame barn where we host our farm stay.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Bundo's Cabin

13. Bundo's Cabin

99%
(171)
29mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site
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
Toilets
Campfires
Lazy River Landing

14. Lazy River Landing

94%
(17)
31mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy a peaceful escape on our private 3.5-acre lot, perfect for tent camping or RVs. The upper 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 shared with just our cabin and a campsite. If you are tenting, you can tent at the river but do not drive on the trail. 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 drop off and access points. The property lines are outlined in the overview picture. Please do not go to the east 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 Fur 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. There are 5 State Parks within an hour drive. Ask your hosts for even more ideas—they’re happy to share local favorites!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Duck duck camp

15. Duck duck camp

91%
(17)
31mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have two simple sites that allow you to camp within 2 miles of cuyuna mountain bike trails and the town of Crosby. Perfect for those just looking for a quiet place to relax after a great day of riding, hiking and enjoying the outdoors! Set a hammock, start a fire , enjoy a sauna and just relax! Bike to town and have dinner, ice cream and visit a local pub. We also have 20 and 30amp power. Take an outdoor shower to clean up after a day on the trails.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Showers
Rustic River Retreat

16. Rustic River Retreat

100%
(24)
31mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located in Rutledge on the southern border of Willow River MN, just off the road to the Northshore and the Northwoods, Rustic River Retreat is nestled in the trees surrounding not just one, but two quaint towns perfect for exploring. The Rustic River Retreat is located less than 10 miles from Banning State Park, General Andrews State Forest and 2 miles from the Willard Munger State Trail offering camp sites for camper or tents with 30amp electric hookup. Rustic River Retreat also centrally located to areas with many attractions: approximately 40 minutes from Jay Cooke State Park, 1 hour to Duluth and 1 ½ hours to Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport. When entering property, take a right at the sign. I invite you to explore the property and the riverfront from the sites down the bridged trail to the river and along entrance road. The property down the road, across the creek is privately owned as are surrounding properties. Please be mindful of this and others privacy. Thank you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

17. The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

99%
(135)
33mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 5 sites
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!
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Toilets
Showers
Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

18. Hay Lake Basecamp Canvas Tent

99%
(35)
33mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site
Private campsite on the quaint Hay Lake, near Crosby/Ironton, MN! Within minutes of the Cuyuna State Recreation Area and all it has to offer. This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a 13 foot bell tent with a queen size air mattress and two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent comfortably accommodates 2-3 adults, or a family with up to three small children. Enjoy fishing and boating on Hay Lake off your private dock. Canoe and two kayaks available for your use on the site. There are some lifejackets available for your use, but feel free to bring your own fishing and boating gear.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Black Loon

19. The Black Loon

100%
(13)
34mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to The Black Loon! We are located in Cuyuna Country, a few steps from the Sagamore Unit. Located 2 hrs. north of the Twin Cities you will find yourself surrounded by adventure at every turn. Bike, hike or paddle opportunities are only steps away from the property or take a 5min drive into Crosby/Ironton for dining and shopping the local retailers. You will have access to 2.5 acres with wide open and forested spaces with ample room for your RV or tent. Enjoy a fire, hang in a hammock or take a hike or bike around the private trail. You’ll find plenty of firewood, a screened in gazebo and charcoal grill. If you’re staying in a camper or RV, there is plenty of space to turn around and a round-a-bout driveway with a center island perfect for hanging hammocks.
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Campfires
Dirt Haven GlamCamp

20. Dirt Haven GlamCamp

100%
(12)
34mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Dirt Haven GlamCamp, your gateway to the breathtaking Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area! Nestled amidst 6,000 acres of pristine lakes and lush forests, this hidden gem offers an unparalleled escape into nature's embrace. Situated near the Sagamore Unit, home to Minnesota's pioneering adaptive mountain bike trail, Dirt Haven GlamCamp is the ultimate haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Leave the hustle and bustle behind as you park your vehicle, camper, or sprinter right near the Sagamore Unit bike trail, ensuring seamless access to hours of exhilarating adventure. Our private site boasts ample, level space for tents, campers, and sprinters, all while preserving the serene ambiance of the wilderness. Surrounded by towering trees and teeming wildlife, you'll relish the tranquility of nature at your doorstep. But that's not all—Dirt Haven GlamCamp offers modern conveniences to enhance your stay. With power readily available, including standard 110 outlets, an EV outlet, and RV outlet, you can recharge both yourself and your electric vehicle without a hitch. Bid farewell to range anxiety and embrace the freedom to explore without limits. While there's no toilet facilities on-site currently, the boundless beauty of Cuyuna Country awaits just beyond your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and rugged terrain, knowing that a comfortable retreat awaits your return. This site is great for a group, so call some friends and come on over. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Dirt Haven GlamCamp: Downtown Ironton - 4 miles Downtown Crosby - 5 miles Brainerd - 11 miles
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Father Hennepin State Park camping guide

Overview

About

You’ll think you’re in an episode of the Simpsons when you see the cartoonishly vibrant colors at Father Hennepin State Park. Bright green trees line the pristine sandy beach on the Mille Lacs Lake, all framed by blue skies and even bluer water. Named for a Franciscan priest who visited the area with a French expedition in 1680, the French actually called the area Louisiana (in honor of Louis XIV) when Father Hennepin wrote home to describe its beauty. Hike to Pope’s Point to catch a sunset over the lake, or test out your volleyball skills on the beachside courts. Whatever you do, be sure to pack bug spray—you’ll be on a boggy midwestern lake, after all.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Father Hennepin State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be busy. Winters are cold and quiet, suitable for those seeking solitude amid the snow-covered landscapes.

Know before you go

  • Highway 67 is permanently closed; follow alternative routes provided by the park for access.
  • Check the park's official website or contact the park office for the latest information on closures and conditions.
  • Remember to bring essentials for outdoor activities, including water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
  • For a smooth visit, use the provided GPS coordinates to navigate to different areas within the park.
  • Park staff will check in campers directly at their sites, so there's no need to stop at the park office upon arrival.

Reviews for Father Hennepin State Park Campgrounds

92%
6 ratings · 2 reviews
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