Best Campgrounds in Minnesota: 2026 Guide

Minnesota earns its "Land of 10,000 Lakes" nickname honestly — the actual count is closer to 12,000. The Superior National Forest stretches across the northeast, holding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and some of the most pristine lake camping on the continent. South of the iron range, the Chippewa National Forest covers another million acres of lake-studded northwoods. If your idea of camping involves paddling to your site and hearing nothing but loons, Minnesota is the place.

Why Minnesota Stands Out

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the crown jewel — over a million acres of interconnected lakes and portage routes where motorboats are banned and the only sounds are paddles and wildlife. But you don't need a BWCA permit to camp well in Minnesota. The Superior National Forest campgrounds that ring the wilderness boundary offer drive-in access to the same pristine lakes and boreal forest. Farther west, the Chippewa National Forest wraps around Cass Lake, Winnibigoshish, and dozens of smaller lakes with campgrounds that feel remote but are easily accessible.

Top Campgrounds to Explore

Birch Lake Campground

In the Superior National Forest near the Boundary Waters gateway town of Ely, Birch Lake is ideal for relaxing while enjoying the edge of true wilderness — just 13 miles from town.

East Bearskin Lake Campground

On its namesake lake at the edge of the BWCA near Grand Marais, East Bearskin is perfect for visitors who want Boundary Waters scenery with the convenience of a developed campground.

Echo Lake

On the remote Echo Trail west of the Superior National Forest near Cook. This quiet campground sits where the pavement gives way to boreal solitude — loons are guaranteed.

Crescent Lake

An undeveloped lake surrounded entirely by Superior National Forest near Tofte, with waterfront campsites and easy access to fishing in true North Shore backcountry.

Cass Lake Loop

Part of the Norway Beach Recreation Area on beautiful Cass Lake in north-central Minnesota, offering excellent boating and fishing on one of the state's most celebrated lakes.

Deer Lake

On scenic Cut Foot Sioux Lake next to Lake Winnibigoshish in the Chippewa National Forest near Deer River. Boating, walleye fishing, and eagle watching draw visitors all summer.

Clubhouse Lake

A peaceful namesake lake in the Chippewa National Forest near Deer River, perfect for fishing and canoeing in a scenic northwoods setting away from the larger lake crowds.

Cross Lake Recreation Area

In central Minnesota's popular lakes area near Crosslake, known for picturesque sunsets, beautiful beaches, and well-maintained campsites on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes.

Planning Tips

BWCA permits are required for overnight wilderness camping and fill up fast — apply in January for summer trips. National forest campgrounds outside the BWCA don't require permits but still book up on summer weekends. Bug season peaks in June; July and August are more comfortable. Water temperatures are swimmable from late June through August. Fall color peaks in late September and the campgrounds thin out beautifully. Bring layers — Minnesota nights are cool even in midsummer.

Find More

Browse all Minnesota campgrounds on our Minnesota camping page, or explore the full campground directory to plan your next trip.