Top Places to Camp in Minnesota

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

The Boundary Waters is a massive wilderness reserve for campers with experience. It lacks the comforts of civilization, but more than makes up for it in adventure and raw natural splendor. Within this campground, there are thousands of miles of shoreline, hiking trails, and canoe routes.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Afton State Park

Less than half an hour from St. Paul, Afton State Park is a great place to camp for all from first-timers to full-timers. With horseback riding, canoe routes, and bike trails, there is much to do around the park while being close to the Twin Cities.

Afton State Park

Jay Cooke State Park

This picture-perfect campground is a fantastic place for hikers with over 50 miles of trails. Views of the wildflowers, fall colors, and the St. Louis River are staples of the wonderful park.

Jay Cooke State Park

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

This park is more than just a historic lighthouse on Lake Superior. With hiking trails along the shoreline and 28 miles of bike trails, Split Rock is certainly worth a visit.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Tettegouche State Park

One of the only Minnesota State parks to offer rock climbing, Tettegouche is a unique and scenic experience with plenty of space for RV camping. Exploration of this magnificent park is a must. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are also opportunities for mountain biking and a nearby golf course.

Tettegouche State Park

Bear Head Lake State Park

For those who wish to see Minnesota wildlife up close, Bear Head offers just that. It is a thriving home to eagles, moose, wolves, and black bears. This park offers a lake for canoeing and fishing, and 14 miles of hiking trails through the wilderness.

Bear Head Lake State Park

Lake Maria State Park

Lakes, forests, and rolling terrain, all traversable through 14 miles of hiking trails, as well as some horseback access. With fewer campsites than most state parks, Lake Maria is perfect for those who want an uncrowded, peaceful camping experience.

Lake Maria State Park

Scenic State Park

Scenic boast gorgeous, clear lakes, and a pristine wilderness area. With plenty of campsites, finding the perfect spot is always possible. This park offers backpacking, snowmobiling, hiking, and very few bugs.

Scenic State Park