The best camping in Father Hennepin State Park, MN

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92% (6)

Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.  

The best camping in Father Hennepin State Park, MN

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
92% (6)

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

Camper favorites near Father Hennepin State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Bundo's Cabin

99%
(158)
29mi from Father Hennepin 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.
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$123
 / night

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

98%
(127)
33mi from Father Hennepin 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!
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$101
 / night

The little cabin

97%
(34)
40mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Princeton, MN
Great quiet location, Wildlife and the sound of the country. You will have the only camp site on the property. You can stay in the small camping cabin in comfort with your own bedding, or sleeping bag for the twin bed in the loft, or the futon on the main level. The cabin only has room for two adults unless you bring a camp pad to sleep on the floor, or squeeze in a child, but you have the comforts of a small electric heater, or A/C if needed, a Weber grill, mini fridge, microwave, and Electricity. Quiet former country farm site, with great wildlife viewing options with walking trails. Only 23 miles to DT St. Cloud and 8 Miles to the Walmart in Princeton for food or supplies. If a shower is desired the Kwik Trip in St Cloud, on Hwy 10 has showers. Just a half mile off Hwy 95 and 5 miles from the large Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, with trails and lots of wildlife. In the Fall expect to see a large amount of wildlife with many migrating birds come out of the refuge to feed. Expect to hear Pheasant's cackle in the AM, and see Sandhill Cranes or Geese fly over the camp site, or sitting in area fields. Enjoy time around a campfire with folding chairs and a picknick table, with plenty of free dry wood in a storage rack. My feeling on how well the heater will work in cold weather is you are probably good until the temp is in the lower teen. if interested you could bring a larger heater to help with heating. I do no plan to plow the driveway if it snows so keep that in mind if you see a storm forecast. I will block out dates after the first significant snowfall.
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$38
 / night

River View Lodge

100%
(1)
28mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Aitkin, MN
Settle into the RV space at River View Lodge, where every spot offers a great view of the river. With water and electric hookups, you'll have everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable stay. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, this is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature at its best. The space To fully enjoy your vacation, we’ve compiled some of the best places to visit, eat and drink, and things to do. We hope these will make your Sevierville experience more memorable. → Aitkin City Park | 0.6 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Aitkin County Historical Society Depot Museum | 0.7 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Rialto Theatre | 0.8 Miles | 2 Minutes Drive → Block North's Locker room | 0.9 Miles | 3 Minutes Drive → Ripple River Gallery | 12.3 Miles | 14 Minutes Drive → Soo Line Depot Museum | 15.0 Miles | 20 Minutes Drive → Crosby Memorial Park | 15.2 Miles | 20 Minutes Drive → Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area | 16.1 Miles | 22 Minutes Drive → Sibley Lake Park | 37.3 Miles | 47 Minutes Drive Other things to note ⋆ Check-out is at 11am ⋆ If smoking at your RV site, please do not dispose of cigarette butts on the grounds, we appreciate your help in keeping our sites clean. ⋆ We do allow pets at all RV sites. Please keep pets on leashes and clean up any waste. ⋆ No more than one RV at each site. ⋆ Please let us know if you will have an extra vehicle, and we can let you know where to park. ⋆ Please be respectful of your neighbors, noise ordinance is enforced from 10pm-7am. ⋆ We do have the right to ask you to leave at any time if these items are not being followed, you are being disruptive or disrespectful of others.
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from 
$40
 / night

Crooked Creek Retreat

100%
(22)
46mi from Father Hennepin 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!
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$70
 / night

Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm

97%
(69)
41mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Princeton, MN
Farm Glamping and Camping: Unplug and Reconnect with Nature's Rhythm Escape the everyday and embrace the simple joys of countryside living with our signature glamping experience. Our thoughtfully appointed site features a comfortable queen-sized bed where you’ll drift off to sleep surrounded by the gentle sounds of farm life. Glamping: Wake to beautiful views of our vibrant pasture and peaceful hay fields from your private deck with two inviting rocking chairs, the perfect spot to savor your morning coffee or evening beverage. As day turns to night, join fellow guests around our shared fire pit to toast marshmallows and share stories beneath Minnesota’s starry sky. Our glamping sites seamlessly complement the farm’s other experiences. Attend a Thursday or Saturday pizza night or join a goat yoga session during your stay. On nights without scheduled activities, guests are welcome to use the camp stove to prepare their own meals or we can make recommendations on local eateries. Camping: Situated along our field road are two spots between our hay field and pasture. Wake up to sounds of our cattle and enjoy a beautiful view of our growing hay field. Pet Policy Unlike our other Farm event spaces which are pet-free, we welcome your furry friend to stay with you in our glamping tents. Pets must remain leashed when outside the tent and stay within the designated glamping area throughout their visit. We do have dogs at the farm that are friendly, but not on leash. Enhance Your Stay with Add-On Experiences: Farm-Style Breakfast: Start your day with fresh baked caramel rolls, orange juice and French press coffee. Wood-Fired Sauna: Rejuvenate body and spirit in our authentic sauna experience Cold Plunge: Invigorate your senses with a refreshing cold plunge after the sauna Pet Package: Bring your furry friend along with our pet-friendly accommodation option (includes welcome treat and designated pet area)
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from 
$50
 / night

The Jubilee Homestead

99%
(273)
35mi from Father Hennepin 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.
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from 
$5
 / night

Winding Woods on Pine River

97%
(18)
39mi from Father Hennepin State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Crosby, MN
Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake & Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf.com/ Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com/ Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, Minnesota. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity
Pets
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from 
$28
 / night

Other options near Father Hennepin State Park

The best camping in Father Hennepin State Park, MN 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.
92%
6 ratings · 2 reviews