When it comes to finding the best camping spots in Minnesota, there are plenty of places to choose from. However, if you’re looking for a family-friendly option that offers plenty of activities and amenities, these campgrounds are some of the best in Minnesota.
It can be hard to find a good place to camp with your family. There are so many different Minnesota campgrounds to choose from, and it’s hard to know which one is right for you.
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Not only is it tough to decide where to go camping, but it can also be expensive. Camping fees can add up quickly, and if you’re not careful you might end up spending more than you planned.
The solution is simple – check out these best campgrounds in Minnesota for families. These campsites located in state parks and designated wilderness areas offer plenty of activities and amenities, making them perfect for a fun-filled vacation. Plus, they’re all affordable, so you won’t have to break the bank just to enjoy some time outside.
How to Plan a Family Camping Trip
Camping can be a fun and affordable way for a family to spend time together. However, it doesn’t matter how experienced you are with travel or camping.
No family wants an angry parent or fussy kids to spoil what could have been the perfect trip.
Here are some tips on how to plan a successful family camping trip:
- Choose the right campground. Not all campgrounds are appropriate for families. Make sure to choose one that is specifically designed for camping with kids. It should have facilities like playgrounds and swimming pools that will keep your children entertained. State parks are a great choice for families and tend to be less expensive than nearby privately owned campgrounds.
- Plan your activities in advance. Don’t just assume that because you’re at a campground, your kids will automatically have a good time. Plan out some specific activities that you all can do together, like hiking, fishing, or playing games around the campfire.
- Pack the right gear. Make sure to pack all of the essentials: sleeping bags, tents, cooking equipment, utensils, mosquito repellent, sunscreen. You will also want to pack some things that may not be as obvious like a first aid kit and plenty of bug spray. Check out this Family Car Camping Gear List + Printable Checklist.
- Be prepared for unpleasant weather conditions. Even if it is summertime in Minnesota, it is important that you are prepared for rain or cold weather. You don’t want to end up stuck in a snowstorm or torrential downpour without enough supplies! Also, make sure to pack clothes appropriate for the season. (Tip: pack emergency raincoats in your gear box like these from Amazon that take up every little room.)
- Pack plenty of food and water. Bring an adequate amount of food and water so that your family is properly nourished throughout the trip.
- Bring games and activities for the kids. If your children are bored, they will inevitably get into trouble or misbehave. Make sure you bring some fun outdoor games to keep them occupied throughout the day. Check out our outdoor games for teens and camping charades that are fun for the whole family.
Either way, the one thing I can’t help you pack is positive energy and vibes. I can’t understate that enough. Keeping a positive outlook and energy on any sort of family getaway is critical.
Not just for family vacations but any trip in general. You need to be able to embrace anything that’s thrown at you as well as lift others up when they need some help.
Best Camping in Minnesota State Parks and Wilderness Reserves
If your family is looking for a great place to camp this summer, check out one of these best family-friendly campgrounds in Minnesota:
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Visiting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a right of passage for nearly every Minnesotan. You don’t even have to be an outdoorsy type of person. It’s simply something that each person should experience at least once in their lifetime (especially if you live in Minnesota).
If you’re looking for a truly wild and natural camping experience, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the place to go.
This wilderness and national forest offer over 1,000 miles of canoe routes, as well as plenty of hiking and fishing opportunities. The best part is that the park is only about an hour north of Duluth, making it easy to get to.
Between the forest, lakes, rivers, ponds, and some of the most scenic waterfalls in Minnesota, you will find plenty of places to set up your tent. With hundreds of campgrounds located in the BWCAW, there is no shortage of spots.
Visit Recreation.gov for the latest on fees, quota limits (number of groups entering the area, and current information.
Lake Maria State Park
If you’re looking to camp near the Twin Cities, Lake Maria State Park is one of the best spots in Minnesota. This park offers a number of camping opportunities, including rustic cabins and backpacking sites.
There are also plenty of activities for families to enjoy at this popular park, including sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a children’s playground. There is also a boat launch available that visitors can use to access Lake Maria and enjoy fishing and swimming in this scenic park.
Visit the State Park system website for current activities, planning resources, and make reservations.
Read Next: For a laugh, see these 40 funny camping memes.
Itasca State Park Campground & Cabins
If you’re looking to spend the night camping in the great outdoors, Itasca State Park is one of the best places to do it. This popular Minnesota state park and campground is known for its scenic location along the Mississippi River and offers a number of camping options.
The campground is located near the heart of the Itasca State Park and offers a variety of amenities that include running water, boat docks, and state-of-the-art shower houses.
If you’re looking for a cabin rental during your camping trip, there are four cabins available to rent at this location. Campers also have access to a camp store, playground equipment, and a payphone.
Visit the State Park system website for current activities, planning resources, and make reservations.
Frontenac State Park
If you’re looking for a smaller campground to visit with your family, Frontenac State Park is one of the best camping spots in Minnesota. This park offers 4 campgrounds with 58 drive-in campsites, 19 of which have electric hook ups and a group camp site.
Access to modern facilities can be obtained by driving 10 miles up the road to Camper’s Landing Resort & Outfitter, which has shower houses, laundry facilities, boat rentals, and a convenience store.
Visit the State Park system website for current activities, planning resources, and make reservations.
Read Next: 10 Easy Planning Tips To Help Your Girls Love Camping
Jay Cooke State Park
If you’re looking for a camping site near St Paul, Jay Cooke State Park is one of the best places to camp. This park offers a chance for visitors from all over to spend time outdoors and enjoy Minnesota’s natural beauty.
Campers have access to trails, playground equipment, showers, and restrooms. In addition, this park has a public swimming beach open during the summer months.
To get to Jay Cooke State Park, take Highway 210 north from Duluth. The park is located about 10 miles west of the city of Cloquet.
Visit the State Park system website for current activities, planning resources, and make reservations.
Wabasha Prairie Park Reserve
If you’re looking to get away from the city and enjoy some of Minnesota’s natural beauty, consider camping at the Wabasha Prairie Park Reserve.
This park provides extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation that include biking, fishing, boating, and canoeing. Campers are provided access to modern facilities that include showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and a concession stand.
There are also several hiking trails available for campers who want to explore the park’s scenic landscape.
Read Next: Here’s How to Make This Easy Chocolate Campfire Cake in an Orange
Wild River State Park
Minnesota’s 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.
Interstate State Park
Located along the St Croix River, Interstate State Park is another one of the best places to camp with your family in Minnesota. This park offers a number of different camping opportunities that include RV sites, rustic cabins, and group campsites.
There are also several amenities available to campers, including showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and a boat launch. 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.
Interstate has a great clubhouse in their campground with games and such for kids to borrow.”
Karissa – LFA Reader
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.
William O’Brien State Park
For a camping experience that is both affordable and modern, consider William O’Brien 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 (outside the state park system), amenities, Tripadvisor reviews, and the ability to book online.
Final Thoughts
Minnesota offers many opportunities for visitors who are interested in camping, including rustic cabins, modern facilities with utilities, and sites that are perfect for recreational vehicles.
When deciding where to go camping in Minnesota, consider the activities your family enjoys most and look for campsites that offer those opportunities. For example, if you like hiking and fishing, look for a campsite near a river.
As always, be sure to check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources about campfire rules and other regulations before planning your trip.
Author Bio: Kyle Kroeger is the owner of ViaTraveler.com. ViaTravelers is a destination travel blog providing the best tips, hacks, and itineraries to help you explore the world. Follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and YouTube.
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