The best camping in Scenic State Park, MN

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100% (1)

Discover Scenic State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.  

The best camping in Scenic State Park, MN

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Six miles from beach area, one mile from public access to Pokegama Lake.

5. Wildlife Orchard

98%
(26)
40mi from Scenic State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Grand Rapids, MN
Come stay at our peaceful farm in the forest! We are passionate about the natural world and cultivating our own food. Our farm is focused on a diversity of crops and animals while maintaining the beautiful wild setting we live in. We want to share the knowledge we are gaining as well as welcome interested people to experience the beauty of Northern Minnesota's woods, wilderness, and waters. Come to explore, relax, have fun, and recharge in a quiet natural setting. Learn more about this land: Rural old growth forest campsite connected to 7,287 acre state forest with hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing trails. Small diverse farm to visit- chickens, sheep and bees. Orchards and gardens with countless flowers, fruit trees and bushes, and vegetables. Greenhouse to tour. Beach 5 miles away- large beautiful lake for swimming. 6 person sauna, outhouse, fire pit, and walking trails on property.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
The Hatch Lake Tiny Home

7. The Hatch Lake Tiny Home

9.1mi from Scenic State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Bigfork, MN
Quiet, cozy, and private year-round cabin, with cedar-lined wood-burning Sauna on crystal clear Hatch Lake. Private dock and sandy shoreline with great depth right off the end of the dock for fishing or swimming. The attached waterway via a large culvert provides access for canoe or kayak excursions into gorgeous Turtle Lake. Heat AC provided by brand new split system, or get cozy in front of the Jotul propane stove Opportunities to hunt fish or recreate on and near the property. Secluded cabin on private lakeshore and dock on pristine Hatch Lake Wide open yard surrounded by trees with views of the lake peek through, so you are able to enjoy total privacy while you enjoy the beautiful cabin, porch, and yard! The king bed is located in the sleeping loft - currently accessed by ladder. If you prefer, there is a futon OR pull-out sofa available on the main level. 10 minutes down quiet country roads to Marcell, MN Surrounded by State Parks and Forests Charcoal grill provided Sparkling Clean space Enjoy a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit or propane stove Fully Stocked Kitchen and all linens supplied Smart TV Huge 3-sided fully enclosed screen porch so you can enjoy the gorgeous outdoors without unwanted pests Shower is a tad cozy - no bathtub The Entire Cabin, sauna, and amenities are included...please make yourself at home! You will have easy access with a keypad for self-check-in. Other things to note Escape from it all - Cell Service can be patchy, but the WIFI is excellent, so you can stay as connected as you choose! We are happy to welcome up to 2 dogs with a total combined weight of 80 lbs No Washer & Dryer on site The king bed is located in the sleeping loft - currently accessed by ladder. If you prefer, there is a futon OR pull-out sofa available on the main level. Wood for the sauna and fire pit may be available for guest use, but is not guaranteed. Wood is available for purchase at most local gas stations and grocery stores A security camera monitors the front yard and entrance for the safety and security of our guests. Shorter or longer stay options are sometimes available upon request,
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$309
 / night
The Long Lake Dome Home

10. The Long Lake Dome Home

12mi from Scenic State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Bigfork, MN
Soak up the beauty of Long Lake in the woods south of Bigfork, MN, in this unique Geodesic Dome Home. Enjoy the bedroom with a king bed, an open sleeping loft with two full beds, a futon in the main room, and a full bath. This property is located on a hilltop boasting a west-facing lake view with over 300' of lake front and old-growth red pines towering over the cabin. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace on cooler nights or savor your morning coffee on the private deck or screened porch overlooking the lake. Secluded cabin on private lakeshore and dock on majestic Long Lake Wooded yard gives the feel of retreating deep into the forest with views of the lake peeking through, so you are able to enjoy privacy while you delight in the quiet of the beautiful cabin, deck,s and yard! Steps to the sleeping loft are pretty steep, please watch your step! 30 minutes north on Scenic Highway 7 to Bigfork Surrounded by State Parks and Forests Grill provided Sparkling Clean space Enjoy a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit or indoor wood stove Fully Stocked Kitchen and all linens supplied Smart TV Cozy, fully enclosed screen porch so you can enjoy the gorgeous outdoors without unwanted pests Guest access The Entire Cabin and amenities are included. The Garages and sheds are not available for the use of our guests with the exception of the firewood storage. Please make yourself at home! You will have easy access with a keypad for self-check-in. Other things to note Escape from it all - Cell Service can be patchy, but the WIFI is excellent, so you can stay as connected as you choose! We are happy to welcome up to 2 dogs. We are not able to accommodate cats. Stairs to the sleeping loft are fairly steep; we have traction strips and a handrail rail but this still may be challenging for some guests. A security camera monitors the front yard and entrance for the safety and security of our guests. Shorter or longer stay options are sometimes available upon request; cleansing fees will be adjusted accordingly. Contact us for more information!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$249
 / night
Tamarack Ponds

12. Tamarack Ponds

100%
(6)
27mi from Scenic State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Deer River, MN
Welcome to Tamarack Ponds Camping, your gateway to the pristine beauty of Itasca County, Minnesota. Nestled on 40 acres of private land adorned with ancient cedar, ash, and black spruce trees, our campground offers a serene nature retreat. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, where the melodies of wildlife fill the air, creating a symphony of natural sounds. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have you covered with carefully curated camping spots. Two tenting spots equipped with fire pits and cooking grates provide the perfect setting for a cozy evening under the stars. For RV enthusiasts, we offer 1-2 spacious spots complete with 20, 30, and 50-amp electric hookups, a movable fire pit, ensuring a comfortable stay amid the wilderness. Situated between the charming towns of Cohasset and Deer River, and just minutes from the bustling hub of Grand Rapids, our private property campground offers easy access to a wealth of outdoor adventures. Explore world-class fishing lakes, traverse ATV trails, or embark on scenic hikes through lush forests—there's something for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. Fishermen and women are welcome to park here as their base camp, RV style fish houses are welcome. Firewood will be provided. mostly pine, and popular. *FYI, this private property has a cabin and outbuildings on it, and the owner may be there , as well as other campers from HipCamp, while you stay. At Tamarack Ponds Camping, we invite you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. Join us for an unforgettable camping experience in the heart of Itasca County. * Special discount for First responders * NEW FOR 2025, OUTDOOR HAND WASHING STATION (CURRENTLY CLOSED FOR WINTER) ***NOTE..... NOVEMBER, THROUGH FEBRUARY ARE WINTER MONTHS IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA. I WILL HOST WINTER CAMPERS, BUT SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS WILL HAVE TO BE MADE, FOR SNOW REMOVAL, AND ACCESS TO CAMP SPOTS*** THANKS, JOHN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Camp 84

13. Camp 84

100%
(1)
30mi from Scenic State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Chisholm, MN
Even through the snowy winters. We provide private campsites at Camp 84. We offer 3 separate and secluded tent sites, each with personal vehicle parking. All sites include a designated campfire ring and tenting area. Just a 7-minute drive from downtown Chisholm and the biking trails at the REDHEAD Mountain Bike Park, this is a great spot to crash for the night or hang out for the weekend! The property has direct access to the Northern Traxx ATV Trail, located just a short drive down Hwy 84. (Ask for directions if you’d like to explore.) Additional parking for utility trailers or extra vehicles may be available in the Collin Sand and Gravel field. Guests are welcome to wander the property trails at their own discretion. There are no marked trails, but feel free to explore—just be mindful to keep a respectful distance from other sites. A porta potty is located between Sites 1 and 2 on the other side of the driveway. Small camper vans are welcome, but RVs and camper trailers will not fit. Message me with any questions—thanks! —Your camp host, Carson
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$18
 / night
Two Rivers RV and Campground

17. Two Rivers RV and Campground

100%
(7)
33mi from Scenic State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · La Prairie, MN
Escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in nature with your family at Two Rivers RV & Campground! Our Campground is located on over 50 acres at the confluence of the Mississippi and Prairie Rivers. A forest of mixed hardwoods and conifers cover the area, housing an abundance of wildlife including deer, bald eagles, porcupines, rabbits, chipmunks and many others. Wild blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries grow seasonally on the forest floor. The tall bluff along the river allows beautiful views of the river. The river has abundant fishing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. The Prairie River and Mississippi River offer great opportunities for boating and fishing. Anglers will find Walleye, Northern Pike, Catfish, Large and Small mouth Bass among other species. Birders enjoy viewing Bald Eagles, Hawks, Ducks, Geese and many other species from the trails of the park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
Vaddu's Nature Reserve

20. Vaddu's Nature Reserve

45mi from Scenic State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Iron, MN
Named in honor of a late great nature enthusiast from the owners' family, Vaddu's Nature Reserve offers a cute cabin for rent in 40 acres of picturesque North Minnesota hunting/birdwatching territory, 10 minutes from Bob Dylan's home town of Hibbing, 45 minutes from Duluth, and 3 hours from the Twin Cities. Barely 10 minutes north of the Sax-Zim Bog, one often hears a veritable symphony of birds while at the site. The glampsite is ideal for folks who want to enjoy nature, find tranquility, and access nearby attractions in north Minnesota. A driveway provides easy access from Gerzin Road for people who might have a hard time walking long distances, with driveway parking right by the campsite; The location provides birding, hiking, bogging, and snow-shoeing possibilities for people of various abilities, both in the property and at nearby attractions like Washington State Forest or Cloquet Valley. Property is about half wetland and half forest, so ensure you safely prepare for expeditionary activities you might undertake...but you already knew that :-) A map is attached with the photos, where the light green is bog/wetland and the darker green is forest, with the campsite shown in a white pin drop and some other markers like deer stands and feed lots in red/blue pin drops. The trails are marked in teal lines on the map (some blaze orange ribbons on trees irl) but not state-park-level by any measure (goals!) My buddy who has leased the hunting rights this year maintains the trails from time to time, but be aware of both, overgrowth and marshland. Dress in bright colors. The campsite has a campfire setup, picnic table, firewood pile, other seating areas, space to play games/sports (some equipment provided), grills, propane stoves (propane not provided), an outhouse, borewell water (not drinkable without boiling/treatment but can be used for dishes, washing etc.). The cabin has heat by way of a propane heater. Solar-powered lantern in the cabin can charge cell phones. NOT ON THE GRID, but a generator takes care of any electronic or electrical appliances you might want to run. Bring drinking-water/TP/food/layers/sleeping-bags/blankets/trash-bags/repellant/etc.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night
100% (1)

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

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Top-rated campgrounds

Wildlife Orchard

98%
(26)
40mi from Scenic State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Grand Rapids, MN
Come stay at our peaceful farm in the forest! We are passionate about the natural world and cultivating our own food. Our farm is focused on a diversity of crops and animals while maintaining the beautiful wild setting we live in. We want to share the knowledge we are gaining as well as welcome interested people to experience the beauty of Northern Minnesota's woods, wilderness, and waters. Come to explore, relax, have fun, and recharge in a quiet natural setting. Learn more about this land: Rural old growth forest campsite connected to 7,287 acre state forest with hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing trails. Small diverse farm to visit- chickens, sheep and bees. Orchards and gardens with countless flowers, fruit trees and bushes, and vegetables. Greenhouse to tour. Beach 5 miles away- large beautiful lake for swimming. 6 person sauna, outhouse, fire pit, and walking trails on property.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

The Hatch Lake Tiny Home

9.1mi from Scenic State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Bigfork, MN
Quiet, cozy, and private year-round cabin, with cedar-lined wood-burning Sauna on crystal clear Hatch Lake. Private dock and sandy shoreline with great depth right off the end of the dock for fishing or swimming. The attached waterway via a large culvert provides access for canoe or kayak excursions into gorgeous Turtle Lake. Heat AC provided by brand new split system, or get cozy in front of the Jotul propane stove Opportunities to hunt fish or recreate on and near the property. Secluded cabin on private lakeshore and dock on pristine Hatch Lake Wide open yard surrounded by trees with views of the lake peek through, so you are able to enjoy total privacy while you enjoy the beautiful cabin, porch, and yard! The king bed is located in the sleeping loft - currently accessed by ladder. If you prefer, there is a futon OR pull-out sofa available on the main level. 10 minutes down quiet country roads to Marcell, MN Surrounded by State Parks and Forests Charcoal grill provided Sparkling Clean space Enjoy a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit or propane stove Fully Stocked Kitchen and all linens supplied Smart TV Huge 3-sided fully enclosed screen porch so you can enjoy the gorgeous outdoors without unwanted pests Shower is a tad cozy - no bathtub The Entire Cabin, sauna, and amenities are included...please make yourself at home! You will have easy access with a keypad for self-check-in. Other things to note Escape from it all - Cell Service can be patchy, but the WIFI is excellent, so you can stay as connected as you choose! We are happy to welcome up to 2 dogs with a total combined weight of 80 lbs No Washer & Dryer on site The king bed is located in the sleeping loft - currently accessed by ladder. If you prefer, there is a futon OR pull-out sofa available on the main level. Wood for the sauna and fire pit may be available for guest use, but is not guaranteed. Wood is available for purchase at most local gas stations and grocery stores A security camera monitors the front yard and entrance for the safety and security of our guests. Shorter or longer stay options are sometimes available upon request,
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$309
 / night

The Long Lake Dome Home

12mi from Scenic State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Bigfork, MN
Soak up the beauty of Long Lake in the woods south of Bigfork, MN, in this unique Geodesic Dome Home. Enjoy the bedroom with a king bed, an open sleeping loft with two full beds, a futon in the main room, and a full bath. This property is located on a hilltop boasting a west-facing lake view with over 300' of lake front and old-growth red pines towering over the cabin. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace on cooler nights or savor your morning coffee on the private deck or screened porch overlooking the lake. Secluded cabin on private lakeshore and dock on majestic Long Lake Wooded yard gives the feel of retreating deep into the forest with views of the lake peeking through, so you are able to enjoy privacy while you delight in the quiet of the beautiful cabin, deck,s and yard! Steps to the sleeping loft are pretty steep, please watch your step! 30 minutes north on Scenic Highway 7 to Bigfork Surrounded by State Parks and Forests Grill provided Sparkling Clean space Enjoy a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit or indoor wood stove Fully Stocked Kitchen and all linens supplied Smart TV Cozy, fully enclosed screen porch so you can enjoy the gorgeous outdoors without unwanted pests Guest access The Entire Cabin and amenities are included. The Garages and sheds are not available for the use of our guests with the exception of the firewood storage. Please make yourself at home! You will have easy access with a keypad for self-check-in. Other things to note Escape from it all - Cell Service can be patchy, but the WIFI is excellent, so you can stay as connected as you choose! We are happy to welcome up to 2 dogs. We are not able to accommodate cats. Stairs to the sleeping loft are fairly steep; we have traction strips and a handrail rail but this still may be challenging for some guests. A security camera monitors the front yard and entrance for the safety and security of our guests. Shorter or longer stay options are sometimes available upon request; cleansing fees will be adjusted accordingly. Contact us for more information!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$249
 / night

Tamarack Ponds

100%
(6)
27mi from Scenic State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Deer River, MN
Welcome to Tamarack Ponds Camping, your gateway to the pristine beauty of Itasca County, Minnesota. Nestled on 40 acres of private land adorned with ancient cedar, ash, and black spruce trees, our campground offers a serene nature retreat. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, where the melodies of wildlife fill the air, creating a symphony of natural sounds. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have you covered with carefully curated camping spots. Two tenting spots equipped with fire pits and cooking grates provide the perfect setting for a cozy evening under the stars. For RV enthusiasts, we offer 1-2 spacious spots complete with 20, 30, and 50-amp electric hookups, a movable fire pit, ensuring a comfortable stay amid the wilderness. Situated between the charming towns of Cohasset and Deer River, and just minutes from the bustling hub of Grand Rapids, our private property campground offers easy access to a wealth of outdoor adventures. Explore world-class fishing lakes, traverse ATV trails, or embark on scenic hikes through lush forests—there's something for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. Fishermen and women are welcome to park here as their base camp, RV style fish houses are welcome. Firewood will be provided. mostly pine, and popular. *FYI, this private property has a cabin and outbuildings on it, and the owner may be there , as well as other campers from HipCamp, while you stay. At Tamarack Ponds Camping, we invite you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. Join us for an unforgettable camping experience in the heart of Itasca County. * Special discount for First responders * NEW FOR 2025, OUTDOOR HAND WASHING STATION (CURRENTLY CLOSED FOR WINTER) ***NOTE..... NOVEMBER, THROUGH FEBRUARY ARE WINTER MONTHS IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA. I WILL HOST WINTER CAMPERS, BUT SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS WILL HAVE TO BE MADE, FOR SNOW REMOVAL, AND ACCESS TO CAMP SPOTS*** THANKS, JOHN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

Camp 84

100%
(1)
30mi from Scenic State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Chisholm, MN
Even through the snowy winters. We provide private campsites at Camp 84. We offer 3 separate and secluded tent sites, each with personal vehicle parking. All sites include a designated campfire ring and tenting area. Just a 7-minute drive from downtown Chisholm and the biking trails at the REDHEAD Mountain Bike Park, this is a great spot to crash for the night or hang out for the weekend! The property has direct access to the Northern Traxx ATV Trail, located just a short drive down Hwy 84. (Ask for directions if you’d like to explore.) Additional parking for utility trailers or extra vehicles may be available in the Collin Sand and Gravel field. Guests are welcome to wander the property trails at their own discretion. There are no marked trails, but feel free to explore—just be mindful to keep a respectful distance from other sites. A porta potty is located between Sites 1 and 2 on the other side of the driveway. Small camper vans are welcome, but RVs and camper trailers will not fit. Message me with any questions—thanks! —Your camp host, Carson
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$18
 / night

Other options near Scenic State Park

The best camping in Scenic State Park, MN guide

Overview

About

The name does not mislead you at Scenic State Park. In the southern edge of Minnesota's northwoods, the town of Bigfork plays host to some of the state’s most mesmerizing scenery. The trail not to miss is Chase Point, weaving along a glacial esker to a ridge that offers breathtaking views of Zaiser Island and Sandwick Lake (no, not Sandwich, though a chicken salad sammy on a sesame roll makes the views here that much better). A bog boardwalk leads you through marshlands, and rustic WPA cabins and historic lodges abound. The big skies visible from the boardwalk make this the park’s best sunrise spot, and the perfect place for birders to check out one of Minnesota’s best collections of rare airborne species.

Notable campgrounds

  • Yellow Medicine Campground – A serene spot for campers seeking a peaceful retreat amid the park's eastern woodlands.
  • Horse Campground – Perfect for equestrian lovers, this campground provides easy access to scenic trails and nature's splendor.
  • Backpack/Watercraft Campground – Ideal for the adventurous at heart, offering a unique camping experience accessible by hiking or watercraft.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your preferred campsite, as spots fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a great spot.

When to go

The best time to visit Scenic State Park is during the summer and fall when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Winter can be harsh, with some areas less accessible due to snow. Spring brings new life but also the potential for muddy trails.

Know before you go

  • Check for any park alerts or road closures before your visit, as conditions can change.
  • Remember that Highway 67 is closed; follow provided directions to avoid getting lost.
  • Prepare for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly for your outdoor adventures.
  • Cell service may be limited, so download maps and important information beforehand.
  • Respect wildlife and natural habitats by following park regulations and guidelines.
100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews