27 Best Places for Lakeside Camping in Minnesota
Summer in Minnesota means being outdoors, spending time at the lake, and relaxing at a campground.
Being the Land of 10,000 Lakes, there is plenty of lakeside camping in Minnesota for locals and visitors to enjoy.
Here are 27 of the best places to pitch a tent or pull up your RV, all within a mile of a lake, in Minnesota this summer.
Map of the Best Lakeside Camping in MN
Best Tent Lakeside Camping in MN
There are so many beautiful places to find lakeside camping in Minnesota that are perfect for tenters.
If you prefer to ‘rough it’ a little bit when you camp and pull out the old tent, then these campgrounds and sites will be perfect for you!
1. Stony Point Campground
Location: Walker, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity
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Stony Point Campground is located on Leech Lake, just about 15 minutes from the small town of Walker, MN.
In the summer, Walker is a bustling little tourist town with plenty to do.
The campground is in a grassy area, on a piece of land that just out into Leech Lake, so you’ll be surrounded by water during your stay.
There are 44 sites at the campground, all of which can be reserved online.
2. Tettegouche State Park
Location: Silver Bay, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms
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The Lake Superior Cart-In Campground is located right on the shores of Lake Superior near Tettegouche State Park.
You must be prepared to walk from your car to camp here, as the campsites are not accessible to cars, but the sites are only about 1/2 mile from the designated parking lot.
There will be large carts available to help you carry your gear.
One of the best parts of camping here is the close access that you’ll have to some of the best hiking trails and waterfalls in Minnesota.
3. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Location: Northern Minnesota
Facilities: No
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For the ultimate lakeside camping experience in Minnesota, head to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
The Boundary Waters are accessible primarily by canoe, so you must be prepared to carry all of your gear with you.
There are nearly 2,000 designated campsites within the 1 million acres.
You’ll have the chance to spot amazing wildlife such as bears, moose, and wolves on your trip.
Plus, explore one of America’s most beautiful, remote locations.
Permits are required for certain entries into the area, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules.
4. Voyageurs National Park
Location: International Falls, MN
Facilities: No
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Camping at Minnesota’s only national park is only accessible by watercraft, but that just adds to the fun of it and makes for some great lakeside camping in MN.
You’ll enjoy the peace and quiet away from roads, cities, and more while camping here.
It is required to have a permit to camp anywhere within the national park.
After you’ve gotten your rest for the night, spend time enjoying the park by water or by foot on one of the many hiking trails.
There aren’t any facilities near the campsites, so be sure that you’re prepared before arriving.
5. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Location: Two Harbors, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, showers
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The cart-in campground at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is perfect for tenters who don’t mind leaving their car behind.
You’ll park your car in a parking lot just about 0.3 miles away, and use a provided cart to carry in your gear.
All guests will have access to a fire ring and picnic table to enjoy time around.
Many of the sites have a view of Lake Superior, and some can even see Split Rock Lighthouse from their tent!
6. Two Island Lake Campground
Location: Grand Marais, MN
Facilities: Drinking water, bathrooms
First-Come, First-Serve
Most campgrounds on the North Shore are pretty packed, but this one is much less busy than others.
Two Island Lake Campground is found just about 15 minutes northwest of Grand Marais, still within perfect distance of the beauty of the shore.
You’ll also be close to some of the popular places to see within the Boundary Waters, such as Eagle Mountain, the tallest peak in Minnesota.
No reservations are taken and there is no fee to camp here, so if all others are booked, this is the one for you!
7. Deer Lake Campground
Location: Deer River, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms
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Growing up, my family spent many weekends during the summer at Deer Lake Campground.
It’s a beautiful spot for lakeside camping in MN and is great for families!
Many of the campsites have stairs that lead directly down to the beach, which has great grassy space as well as sand for kids to enjoy.
It feels like you’re worlds away from anywhere else, but in reality, you’re only about 20 minutes from the city of Grand Rapids.
RVs are definitely able to be used here, but tents seem to be more suitable, as the roads can be narrow and bumpy.
8. West Seeleye Bay Campground
Location: Deer River, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms
First-Come, First-Serve
This small campground has about 22 first-come, first-served, sites available to stay at during the summer months.
It’s located right on Cut Foot Sioux Lake, which is well known for its great fishing of popular Minnesota fish.
This lake flows into the larger Lake Winnibigosish, which is a popular area for camping and spending time on the water.
There are no facilities besides bathrooms at this campground, so it’s best suited for tent campers.
The only downside of this campground is that it tends to close earlier in the season than many others.
9. Devil Track Lake Campground
Location: Grand Marais, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms
First-Come, First-Serve
Located close enough to Lake Superior for exploring during the day, but far enough away to avoid the crowds during the summer months is Devil Track Lake Campground.
The campsites in this small, no-fee campground are well-shaded and sit right on the shore of Devil Track Lake.
A boat launch and fishing pier are found nearby, making for great and easy fishing.
Because you’re so close to the North Shore, you may also consider visiting some of the beautiful state parks or checking out some of the hikes nearby.
Because no vehicles are allowed on the grass here, it’s best for tent campers to choose this campground.
Best RV Lakeside Camping in MN
I know that not everyone is a fan of sleeping on the cold, hard ground (I get it!).
So, here’s a list of 11 of the best places for lakeside camping in Minnesota that are suitable for RVs, campervans, and more.
10. Bear Head Lake State Park
Location: Ely, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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Located up north in Minnesota, you’ll find the beautiful and secluded Bear Head Lake State Park, perfect for a weekend spent camping.
There are 45 electric sites available to reserve, as well as many non-electric.
This park boasts some fantastic fishing and offers many piers and docks for fishermen to enjoy.
Visitors can enjoy water activities such as canoeing or kayaking and swimming, or explore part of the Taconite State Trail.
And if you’re up for more adventure, there are many other beautiful places nearby in Ely to explore.
11. Itasca State Park
Location: Park Rapids, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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At one of the best places for camping in Minnesota, you’ll also find the beautiful Mississippi Headwaters.
Explore the place where the great Mississippi River begins its journey to the Gulf of Mexico right here in Park Rapids.
During your stay, you can enjoy miles of paved bike trails, areas to swim and kayak on Lake Itasca, and enjoy time spent outdoors.
This is a popular place to camp, so expect many others, especially during the peak summer months.
I recommend booking a few months ahead of your planned visit to the oldest state park in Minnesota.
12. Gull Lake Recreation Area
Location: Brainerd, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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You’ll find some awesome lakeside camping in MN right along Gull Lake at the recreation area.
You’ll be surrounded by tons of lakes and waterways during your stay here.
Some of the best things to do here are go boating, canoe, and watch for the abundance of wildlife that lives in the area.
Fishermen will also enjoy their time here, as there is a large variety of walleye, pike, bass, and more in the lake.
One of the best parts of this campground is that campers will each have their own privacy, as the sites are separated by trees.
13. Lake Byllesbey Campground
Location: Cannon Falls, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity showers
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Located in Lake Byllesbey Regional Park, this campground offers many lakeside campsites for visitors to enjoy.
This park isn’t too far from Rochester and only about 45 minutes south of Minneapolis, making it the perfect escape from the city.
Nearby you’ll find over 3 miles of hiking trails, a beautiful swimming beach, a beach volleyball court, and more.
The 26-mile long Cannon Valley State Trail is also nearby, which is perfect for biking and walking.
14. Interstate State Park
Location: Saint Croix Falls, WI
Facilities: Drinking water, bathrooms, electricity, showers
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While this isn’t technically in MN, you’ll still be right on a beautiful waterway, the St. Croix River, and immediately across the Wisconsin border, near Taylors Falls.
Interstate State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Wisconsin, located just about one hour from the heart of Minneapolis.
I love this park for its incredible natural beauty like glacial potholes, riverside cliffs, and epic hiking trails.
If you’re an outdoors lover, booking a campsite at Interstate State Park is definitely the move for you.
15. Flying Goose Campground
Location: Fairmont, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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The Flying Goose Campground is located in very southern Minnesota near the town of Fairmont.
If you’re from the southern half of the state, just know that you don’t have to travel super far north to find great lakeside camping in MN!
There are over 100 sites at this campground, many of which have beautiful views of Lake Imogene.
It’s also the perfect campsite for people with large rigs, as there are 14 pull-thru sites for campers up to 100 feet.
Visitors can also enjoy the swimming beach and explore the lake on paddle boats or canoes.
16. Woodlawn Resort and Campground
Location: Glenwood, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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Woodlawn Resort and Campground is another great place for camping, located on the 13th largest lake in the state, Lake Minnewaska.
There are 30 spots within this campground, all of which are within walking distance of the lake.
This is a great campground to bring kiddos, as there is a large, sandy beach for them to swim, as well as a playground.
Bikes, paddleboats, kayaks, and more are also available to rent for visitors to enjoy during their stay.
17. Lake Auburn Campground
Location: Victoria, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms
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Enjoy an authentic, unplugged camping experience at Lake Auburn Campground in Victoria.
Just 30 minutes from Minneapolis, this is the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy some time spent in the great outdoors.
With no electricity or showers available, you’ll feel like you’re really immersed in nature.
Canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and more are available for rent to use on Lake Auburn.
18. Lake Bronson State Park
Location: Lake Bronson, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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There are 3 beautiful campgrounds located within Lake Bronson State Park.
For some awesome camping, right at Lake Bronson, choose to stay at the Lakeside Campground (hence the name 😉).
There are 48 sites, and many of them have great views of the lake, and you’re able to walk right down to it!
Visitors can also rent boats and canoes to enjoy the water during their visit.
19. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Location: Onamia, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is just minutes from one of Minnesota’s largest lakes, Mille Lacs Lake.
The 207-square-mile lake is one of the top destinations for fishing in the state.
Multiple sites have electricity, making them perfect for RV campers, while there are also 3 walk-in sites for those who prefer a bit more privacy and don’t mind hiking in.
Though the walk-in sites are only about 100 yards from the parking area, so you won’t have to go too far.
During your visit, climb the 100-foot fire tower and experience a bird’s eye view of the entire park.
20. Lebanon Hills Campground
Location: Apple Valley, MN
Facilities: Bathrooms, electricity, showers
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The Lebanon Hills Campground is in the perfect location, just about 30 minutes south of Minneapolis.
It’s a great place for those who live in the Twin Cities to escape the craziness and enjoy some nature for a night or weekend.
There are nearly 100 campsites for visitors to choose from, based on availability, plus plenty of hiking trails around.
With many hiking trails and a popular, sandy swimming beach nearby, your days can be filled with fun or relaxation at your campsite.
21. Black Beach Municipal Campground
Location: Silver Bay
Facilities: Electric, Shower rooms, Drinking water
Reserve Here
With nearly 50 campsites located right on the shores of Lake Superior, Black Beach Municipal Campground is a lake lovers dream.
Listen to the sounds of the waves crashing as you fall asleep at night, and wake up in the morning.
And when you aren’t busy spending time at the campground, head out for some exploring of Black Beach nearby.
This beautiful campground fills up fast, so be sure to book in advance!
22. Gooseberry Falls State Park
Location: Two Harbors
Facilities:
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Booking a stay at one of the North Shore’s most popular campsites is a highly sought-after activity in Minnesota.
Nearby are some of the best waterfalls in the state, as well as plenty of hiking trails, viewpoints, and things to do.
You’ll be located right off of the shores of Lake Superior.
When you aren’t at the campsite, head into Two Harbors for some fun.
Best Lakeside Resorts and Cabins in MN
You can still experience all the beauty of lakeside camping in Minnesota while staying at a beautiful resort or in a cabin.
Here are 5 of the best cabins in Minnesota to book a stay at this summer.
23. Sugar Lake Lodge
Location: Cohasset, MN
Reserve Here
Located in northern Minnesota on the beautiful Sugar Lake, you’ll find ‘Your Favorite Northern Minnesota Resort.’
Sugar Lake Lodge is the perfect lakeside cabin in MN for those who are looking to get away from the busyness of everyday life.
Both lakeside cabins with kitchens and bathrooms, and lodge rooms are available to rent in the summer months.
With free kayak and canoe rentals, a sand beach, basketball and tennis courts, a golf course, fishing docks, and more, Sugar Lake Lodge has it all.
Plus, you’ll be only minutes away from Grand Rapids, where there is plenty to do and explore.
24. Little Norway Resort
Location: Park Rapids, MN
Reserve Here
Little Norway Resort is tucked away on the quiet and secluded Little Mantrap Lake near Park Rapids, MN.
The adorable little resort has many varieties of 2-3 bedroom cabins available to book a stay in, all complete with kitchens and bathrooms.
Also available for use are kayaks, canoes, and more, a playground, and a swimming beach.
A small game room is found in the lodge house for rainy days, as well as a small convenience store with treats and essentials.
I’ve spent many days here visiting family every summer and have really enjoyed my time at Little Norway.
25. Campfire Bay Resort
Location: Cushing, MN
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Campfire Bay Resort gives visitors a true lakeside camping experience in MN when they stay in their shoreline cabins.
Every cabin that is available for rent has beautiful views of Fish Trap Lake, as well as a full kitchen and a patio.
Each week during the summer, the resort hosts fun events for guests to take part in, on top of the other regular activities.
A sand volleyball court, a sandy beach, a game room, and kayaks and canoes are all available for guests to enjoy.
26. Cuyuna Cove
Location: Crosby, MN
Reserve Here
Cuyuna Cove isn’t your average lakeside resort in Minnesota.
This adorable boutique lodging destination is found in the Cuyuna State Recreation Area and offers boutique cabins and ‘glamping’ for guests.
Nearby, you can enjoy spending time on the crystal clear Portsmouth Mine Pit Lake or adventure out for some mountain biking on the epic trails.
You truly can’t find a better place to book a stay for a weekend adventure in central Minnesota than in the small town of Crosby.
Visiting Cuyuna is a unique experience that everyone from Minnesota should have!
27. Breezy Point Cabins
Location: Two Harbors, MN
Reserve Here
This list of places to camp in MN wouldn’t be complete without a gorgeous resort on Lake Superior.
Each of the 12 cabins at Breezy Point is located right along the shore of Lake Superior, with absolutely amazing views to wake up and fall asleep to.
Each is also complete with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom to make your stay easy.
Plus, with a stay booked here, you’ll be within minutes of some of the best things to do in Minnesota, on the incredible North Shore.
Is Minnesota Good for Camping?
Minnesota is the prime state to go camping in, with thousands of lakes, plenty of wooded areas, and some of the most beautiful outdoors.
What more could you ask for when seeking a few days spent out in nature?
You’ll find lakeside campgrounds and resorts scattered all over the state, in places that you wouldn’t even expect there to be one!
Minnesota is such a great spot for camping, that at some of the most popular campgrounds, you need to book months in advance to snag a reservation!
Is Dispersed Camping Allowed in Minnesota?
Dispersed camping is when you camp outside of a designated campground with no facilities and away from others.
In Minnesota state forests, dispersed camping is allowed, as long as you follow Leave No Trace principles and standard camping etiquette.
Here are some basic rules to follow:
- Camp at least one mile outside of a designated campground or campsite
- Only camp in places that have already been cleared (don’t cut down vegetation or damage plants)
- Stay at least 100 feet away from any water source
- Remove all garbage when you leave and bury human waste
Here is a list of Minnesota’s state forests, so you can plan your dispersed camping trip.
Conclusion: Lakeside Camping in Minnesota
Minnesota truly has so many amazing places to explore, and camping is one of the best ways to do that.
Each of these campgrounds has access to a lake within less than a mile, making them perfect for a summer weekend spent with family.
I hope that you are able to enjoy some great lakeside camping in Minnesota this summer.
