Best State Parks In Minnesota: Maplewood State Park
Maplewood State Park has some extremely interesting and fun things to do for visitors of all ages. You can hike up Hallaway Hills and take in impressive panoramic views of your surroundings from the top. Those who want to enjoy the views but dont want the strain of a hike will be glad to know that a five-mile scenic road winds through the entirety of the park. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Josh Hanson Veterans Memorial Picnic Shelter or have a snack along the beach at South Lida Lake. Other activities that are popular with visitors include horseback riding, fishing, and camping.
Address: 39721 Park Entrance Road, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572, Phone: 218-863-8383
Where Can You Camp For Free In Minnesota
Are you camping on a budget, or do you want to explore all Minnesota offers by visiting multiple campgrounds?
If so, you likely want to learn about the free campground options.
Fortunately, unlike a few other states, Minnesota has a variety of free campgrounds available. If you would like to discover the names of a few of the best, have a look below:
- Saint Knox National Scenic Riverway Campsites.
- Harriet Lake Rustic Campground.
- Cedar Bay Campground.
Why Youll Love St Cloud Clearwater Rv Park
Guests at St Cloud Clearwater RV Park have everything they need to relax and forget about the stresses of everyday life. You can get closer to ture with the nearby hiking trails, cycling tours, and fishing, spend a day resting and enjoying the board games and book exchange or have some family fun by playing basketball, mini golf, or horseshoes. On top of it all, youll be able to enjoy clean restrooms, hot showers, wireless internet, a laundromat, and a camp store and gift shop.
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About Minnesota State Park Campsites
Standard campsites include a cleared, level space for one tent or camper a picnic table, fire ring, and seasonal access to bathroom and shower facilities. Some have electric or water hookups for an added charge. Rustic campsites include space for one tent or camper, a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and access to water and a pit toilet. Keep in mind that in addition to the campsite rental, there is a $7 one-day park permit fee. A one-day permit is all that is necessary for one overnight in the park. Consider applying the fee to a $35 annual permit to enjoy the parks year-round!
Wild River State Park
Minnesotas landscape offers many opportunities for campers to spend time outdoors and enjoy a variety of activities.
One of the best places to camp with your family is Wild River State Park, which is located north of St. Cloud and offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites and rustic cabins.
In addition to offering easy access to fun outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and fishing, this park also features four showers for campers to use. Visit the State Park system website for current activities, planning resources, and make reservations.
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Minnesota State Parks For Your Next Rv Camping Trip
See Places on a Map
No matter what your outdoor goals arefishing, hiking, swimming, skiing, hunting or just nature-based R& Rtheres a Minnesota State Park for you and your RV.
Traveling by RV continues to grow in popularity as more people discover the freedom and ease of taking their home on the road. RVs can access many remote areas, opening doors to far-flung adventures, all without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. People can travel at their own pace and carry everything they need with them, and still enjoy the best Mother Nature has to offer.
Here are 10 great examples of Minnesota State Parks that offer pull-through RV spaces and dump stations, including a few that offer free WiFi if you want to work remotely while traveling.
Of The Best Places For Camping In Minnesota
Minnesota isnt just the land of 10,000 lakes its also the land of thousands of amazing campgrounds!
In Minnesota, you have a wide range of camping options to select from, including lakeside canoe camping, amenities-filled RV camping, rustic tent camping, and everything in between.
Here are 40 of the best campgrounds in Minnesota to help you plan your trip.
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Where Does Your Next Rv Adventure Take You
RVs are a classic slice of Americana that are more than just camping vehicles. They are a way to get your family to bond together and to create memories that are going to last a lifetime.
What do you look for in an RV campground? Are you looking for a rustic experience that has you getting away from city life or do you want to be on the edge of excitement? One of the best RV campgrounds in Minnesota can offer you the experience youre looking for.
Have you visited an RV campground you feel should be added to our list of best RV campgrounds in Minnesota?. If so, please contact us and share your experiences.
Also, while exploring the outdoors in the amazing state of Minnesota, you should check out our list of the 12 Best Lakes in Minnesota.
William Obrien State Park
For a camping experience that is both affordable and modern, consider William OBrien State Park near Marine on St Croix. This park offers a variety of different camping opportunities, including RV sites with electric hookups, a rustic cabin tent-only campground, and group campsites.
Visitors can also access the St Croix River by driving one mile up the road to Wabasha Beach, which offers camping opportunities for those who want to be closer to the water.
There is also a concession stand and restrooms available to campers. Visit the State Park system website for current activities, planning resources, and make reservations.
For more private campgrounds and RV resorts, check out Campspot. They provided a full list of area campgrounds , amenities, Tripadvisor reviews, and the ability to book online.
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What People Are Saying About Royal Oaks Rv Park
Very nice place to stay. Quiet and well taken care of. The rules make it better as no one speeds on the road. If we are in the area again we wouldn’t hesitate to stay here.
Location
Learn more on the locationswebsite!
Amenities
- 90 full hook up sites/30 and 50 amps/back in and pull through sites/ big rig friendly/ camp store/laundry/ meeting rooms/ bike rental/pedal cart rentals/ playground/dog park/fire rings and picnic tables at each site/wifi/good cellular service/cable and streaming tv/ice and firewood for sale/yard games
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Superior National Forest
Far and away, the largest and best-known area for camping in Minnesota is the BWCA, located in the Arrowhead region of the state. At 1 million acres in size and over twenty percent water, this is the largest protected nature area in Minnesota.
Sharing 150 miles of international boundary with Canada, this wilderness retreat is not for the beginner camper. In fact, a wilderness permit is required to visit the BWCA.
Explorers are expected to strictly follow state guidelines concerning water pollution, use of motorized watercraft, waste disposal, etc.
If youre up for the physical challenges a journey into the Boundary Waters presents, youll be rewarded with 1,200 miles of canoeable water, 12 hiking trails, 2,000 campsites, and the largest wolf population settlement in the U.S.
Want to plan a trip to the BWCA? Check out Beyond The Tent guide to camping the BWCA here.
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Mn State Parks: William O’brien State Park
Since 1947 William OBrien State Park has been welcoming visitors from all over the nation to enjoy its lush outdoor space and its varied array of activities. The 1,520-acre park is filled with bogs, wooded areas, riparian zones, and glacial moraine. Within this amazingly beautiful space you can take part in picnicking, hiking, birdwatching, canoeing, fishing, camping, cross-country skiing, and many other outdoor recreational activities. There are facilities such as canoe rentals, public boat ramps, drive-in camping grounds, and fishing piers to make your stay more memorable. Visitors can cool off by swimming on the sandy beach on Lake Alice while anglers can head out to the St. Croix riverbank and catch trout, bass, and several other species of fish.
Address: 16821 O’Brien Trail N, Marine on St Croix, MN 55047, Phone: 651-539-4980
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Gooseberry Falls State Park is a must-see for waterfall lovers, with over 15 waterfalls to explore. There are also plenty of trails for hikers and cyclists. The park is located in the northeast corner of Minnesota, in the town of Two Harbors roughly 45 minutes north of Duluth.
The parks waterfalls can be found on both the east and west sides of the park. There are a variety of trails for hikers of all levels, as well as a campground, picnic areas, and a visitor center.
This is the busiest state park in Minnesota so come prepared or even consider camping in off-peak times. Summer is when it gets very crowded. Its busy for a reason. Its extremely beautiful. So, book a reservation for camping well in advance.
To get to this state park, youll also have the opportunity to drive along the North Shore Scenic Byway which features beautiful views of Lake Superior.
Read Also: Black Hills National Forest Camping Map
Judge Cr Magney State Park
Located in Grand Marais, Judge C.R. Magney State Park is best known for its mysterious Devils Kettle waterfall. As the Brule River makes its way through the park, it splits into two separate waterfalls. The campground features 27 private wooded drive-in sites, complete with showers and modern plumbing.
St Cloud Clearwater Rv Park
Image Source:https://www.time2camp.com/
If youre looking to get away from the busy hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is without a doubt the place for you! This Good Sam Club affiliated RV parks campgrounds are located near Clearwater, Minnesota- providing a quiet, peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing stay. Along with the serene surroundings, this park also offers fun and entertainment such as a heated pool and mini-golf!
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What People Are Saying About St Cloud Clearwater Rv Park
Very friendly helpful people. Great campground, you can tell the owners take pride. Cant wait for the next summer to spend some quality time here again. Douglas, Google reviews
Location
Learn more on the locationswebsite!
Amenities
- Daily/Weekly/Monthly Rates: from $41/none/none # of RV Sites: 102 Full Hookups: Yes 30/50 Amp: Both Back-In/Pull-Through Sites: Pull-Through Pool/Hot tub: Pool Showers: Yes Pets Allowed: Yes Cell Reception: Yes Wi-Fi: Yes Discounts: Good Sam Club
Afton State Park Afton
While other state parks and Minnesota campgrounds may be more well-known, Aftons central location cant be beaten.
Just half an hour outside of St. Paul, this state park is nestled along the beautiful St. Croix River, with 20 miles of hiking trails along the rivers bluffs and across pristine Minnesota prairie lands.
In addition to its hiking trails, there are 4 miles of paved bike paths and even some suitable trails for horseback riding.
When its time to bed down for the evening, campers have a variety of options, including 28 rustic campsites, cabins with electricity, and even a few yurts! In the summer, Afton offers the gamut of outdoor activities and games, from volleyball to horseshoes to a groomed swimming beach.
And in the winter, cross-country skiers will be equally pleased this park is known for 18 excellent miles of cross-country trails.
Interested in winter camping in Minnesota? It is possible! Check out this article about how to choose the perfect winter camping tent.
Due to its close proximity to the Twin Cities, Afton was designed with no vehicle access to the camping areas or swimming beach, but theyre easily accessible via a short walk.
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Best State Parks In Minnesota: Jay Cooke State Park
Jay Cooke State Park has so many interesting and unique features which cant be experienced elsewhere. For example, one of the first things that you should do once you get to the park is walk across the iconic Swinging Bridge which sways above the St. Louis River. To get a really amazing panoramic view of the St. Louis River and the surrounding valley, hike up to Oldenburg Point. On your way there youre sure to come across some wonderful historic structures which were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Other aspects of the park which shouldnt be missed are Pioneer Cemetery and Thomson Dam.
Address: 780 Highway 210, Carlton, MN 55718, Phone: 218-673-7000
Free Camping In Minnesota
Finally, the Land of 10,000 Lakes’ camping experience almost guarantees water nearby, and finding free camping in Minnesota to enjoy all the water is easy.
Visitors looking to save money and be closer to the wilderness can stay at for easy lake access or Harriet Lake Rustic Campground in Superior National Forest.
Unlock pro campendium features
Recommended Reading: Land Between The Lakes Camping Reservations
Looking For The Best Camping In Minnesota
Youre in the right place! In this guide, we will be covering the following:
- A selection of the best Minnesota campgrounds
- Info on nearby attractions and hiking trails
- Logistics & amenities of each campsite
- The top campsites in the Minnesota State Park system
Minnesota aint called The Land of the 10,000 Lakes for nothin! With endless state parks, national forests, and unspoiled wilderness to explore, youd need at least 10,000 days to take in all the wild and untamed nature Minnesota offers up.
Plan your next outdoor adventure with our guide to the best campgrounds in Minnesota. Weve featured everything from fancy RV parks to primitive, middle-of-nowhere campsites. Included youll also find all the best local attractions, hiking trails, and sweet R& R spots you wont want to miss at each camp.
Ready to get started? Check out our guide to the best camping in Minnesota and prepare for breathtaking beauty and unparalleled adventure!
Judge C R Magney State Park
With scenic waterfalls and several opportunities to observe the local wildlife, a visit to Judge C. R. Magney State Park is sure to be memorable for visitors of all ages. The park is open to the public all year long, though the campsites are only open seasonally. Popular spots include the Devilfish Lake, McFarland Lake, and the Twin Lakes campgrounds. In addition to seeing the wildlife and camping there overnight, youll also be able to enjoy picnicking, hiking, and trout fishing during your visit to the park. Hikers will be glad to know that most of the parks trails connect to the Superior Hiking Trail.
Address: 4051 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604, Phone: 218-387-6300
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Reserving A Campsite At Minnesota State Parks
Reserving a campsite in advance is strongly advised and often required to secure a spot at the most popular Minnesota State Park campgrounds. Families start making their summer plans early! Camping reservations may be made up to one year in advance of your first nights stay. Online reservations can be made by calling 866-857-2757 24 hours a day, except for the first day a reservation becomes available . A non-refundable fee of $7 per web reservation and $10 call-in reservation is charged per campsite. There is NO FEE charged if making a same-day reservation. There is also no fee charged if you show up to the park and make a reservation
For additional camping opportunities , click here.
Minnesota Campgrounds With Dates Times And Rules
Minnesota is possibly one of the best American states where you can escape into the wilderness and spend quality time with family.
If you want to make your holiday worth remembering, you need to choose a campground that will provide you with the necessary amenities and activities to ensure your happiness.
To help you avoid the Rv and tent campground duds, we have researched plenty of available campgrounds to present you with two of our best options:
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Best Minnesota State Parks For Camping
Before we get into it, our personal favorites are the Boundary Waters Canoe and Wilderness area and Voyageurs National Park. Both are absolute staples for camping in Minnesota, and in particular, both of these provide those iconic northern Minnesota summer nights for camping.
However, since neither of those areas are technically state parks, were here to provide you with some true state parks in Minnesota.
Grand Marais Campground & Marina
300 campsites with a full spectrum of prices and settings, all of them within walking distance of the mighty Lake Superior.
Looking to get back to nature but still enjoy all the comforts of big city living? Then check out Grand Marais Campground & Marina. Its hard to beat this stunning spot sandwiched between a harbor and the shores of Lake Superior. You can enjoy boundless nature by day and city living by night thanks to the many restaurants and downtown shops just a short distance away.
The campground is massive and features over 300 campsites. These range from primitive spots to full-hookup lakeview sites. Enjoy the finer things in life with amenities such as clean bathhouses, discount green fees, playgrounds, a softball field, and boat service to Isle Royale National Park.
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