The Ultimate Minnesota RV Camping Guide

• Three waterfalls (Upper, Middle, Lower) steps from the campground
• Full visitor center with naturalist programs and a Nature Store
• Direct Lake Superior shoreline and the paved Gitchi-Gami bike trail

• No electric, water or sewer hookups at any of the 70 sites
• 40-foot RV length limit
• Extremely popular — summer weekends book out fast on the 120-day window

Families and self-contained RVers who want the North Shore's best-known waterfalls within walking distance of camp.

RVs that need electric or water hookups, since none exist at any site.

The Fifth Falls hike along the Gooseberry River gorge, a signature loop from the visitor center.

No single recurring event; spring snowmelt brings peak waterfall flow and late September brings strong fall color through the river gorge.

• 70-foot pull-through-capable electric sites — genuinely big-rig friendly
• Steps from the historic Split Rock Lighthouse and Pebble Beach
• New (2022), modern shower and bathroom building

• No dump or fill station at the campground itself
• Highest nightly rate of any Minnesota state park campground
• High demand for electric drive-in sites — book early

RV travelers who want a big-rig-capable electric site paired with Minnesota's most iconic lighthouse.

Campers who need an on-site dump/fill station, since Shipwreck Creek has none.

Touring the historic Split Rock Lighthouse and skipping stones on Pebble Beach at sunset.

The annual Edmund Fitzgerald beacon-lighting commemoration each November 10 at the lighthouse, honoring the 29 lost crew members.

• Shovel Point sea-cave and cliff scenery unmatched on the North Shore
• Most drive-in sites have electric hookups
• Only Minnesota state park with winter-operational showers

• Rugged terrain, less suited to very young children or limited mobility
• 60-foot combined vehicle length cap
• No official swimming beach comparable to other North Shore parks

Hikers and rock climbers who want dramatic Lake Superior cliff scenery.

Families wanting a swimmable sandy-beach home base — Tettegouche's shoreline is rocky and cliff-dominated.

The Shovel Point overlook, with views of sea caves, a sea stack, and the mouth of the Baptism River.

No single recurring event; rock-climbing season (summer) and fall color from the Shovel Point overlook are the park's signature draws.

• Easy, scenic waterfall trail loop directly from the campground
• Pull-through electric sites available
• Year-round camping with a heated trail center

• 35-foot RV length cap, shorter than some other North Shore parks
• Smaller campground (41 drive-in sites) than Gooseberry or Grand Marais
• No dedicated swimming beach in official park materials

Families and RVers who want an easy in-and-out waterfall hike right at camp with year-round access.

RVs longer than 35 feet, per the park's published limit.

The Lookout Mountain Trail overlook, with views of Lake Superior, the Cascade River Valley and the Sawtooth Mountains.

No single recurring event; the DNR highlights fall color viewing from the Lookout Mountain overlook as a signature seasonal experience.

• Direct access to the famous Devil's Kettle waterfall
• Small, quiet, semi-modern campground with showers and flush toilets
• Superior Hiking Trail access on-site

• Summer-only campground (mid-May–mid-October), no electric hookups
• Smallest state park on this list — books up during fall color season
• Fewer amenities and programs than Gooseberry or Tettegouche

Hikers making a dedicated trip to see the Devil's Kettle waterfall who want a small, quiet, no-frills campground.

Campers wanting hookups or a large, amenity-rich campground — this is the smallest, most rustic state park option on this list.

The Devil's Kettle waterfall, where the Brule River splits and one branch appears to vanish into a volcanic pothole.

Fall foliage season is explicitly called out as the park's peak, high-demand period; migrating hawks also congregate along the Lake Superior shore in early fall.

• Full hookups with 50-amp service and lakeside RV sites directly on Lake Superior
• Extensive family amenities — playground, ball field, Rec Hall, nature area
• Walking distance to downtown Grand Marais restaurants and shops

• Highest nightly rates of any campground on this list, especially lakeside full-hookup sites
• About half the sites are seasonal/first-come drop-in only
• Dense, in-town setting rather than a wilderness feel

RV families wanting full hookups, a marina and playground amenities within walking distance of downtown Grand Marais.

Campers seeking a quiet, rustic, wooded experience — this is a large, amenity-dense, in-town municipal campground.

The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at the adjacent Parkside Public Water Access, one of only four ADA-accessible kayak docks in Minnesota and the only one on the North Shore.

No single recurring campground event; reservations are recommended June–September when the marina, bathhouses and full site inventory are open.

• Iconic 126-foot Swinging Bridge over the St. Louis River gorge
• Over 400 ranger-led naturalist events annually
• Close to Duluth/Twin Ports with 50+ miles of trails

• Only 21 of 83 main sites have electric hookups
• No direct Lake Superior shoreline camping — this is a river-gorge park
• No officially published RV length limit, so oversized rigs should call ahead

Duluth-area day-trippers and families who want dramatic river-gorge scenery and heavy naturalist programming close to the Twin Ports.

Campers specifically wanting direct Lake Superior shoreline at their site.

Crossing the historic Swinging Bridge, a 200-foot suspension bridge with a 126-foot span over the St. Louis River gorge.

No single recurring event; fall foliage over the river gorge and the park's 400+ annual naturalist programs are its strongest year-round draws.

• Full-hookup sites (water/electric/sewer, up to 50 amp) directly on Lake Superior
• On-site playground and boat launch
• Walking distance to downtown Two Harbors

• Located at a highway/park road junction — more developed, less secluded setting
• No officially published RV length limit; call ahead for large rigs
• Official pet policy specifics not published online

RV travelers wanting full hookups directly on Lake Superior within easy walking distance of downtown Two Harbors.

Campers wanting a quiet, wooded or backcountry feel — this is a large, highway-adjacent municipal campground.

Direct beach and boat-launch access onto Lake Superior's Burlington Bay, steps from downtown Two Harbors' lighthouse and shops.

No single recurring event; the campground operates seasonally mid-May through mid-October alongside the marina's summer boating season.

• Direct boat access into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
• Full-service amenities — store, showers, flush toilets, canoe rentals
• Sand swimming beach and a 1.5-mile hiking trail

• No full hookups — electric only at select sites, no sewer
• Popular BWCA-adjacent sites book up fast in peak summer and the walleye opener
• Some sites are tent-only, non-electric

Paddlers who want a drive-in base camp with direct access into the Boundary Waters.

RVers who need full hookups (water/sewer) at the site.

Launching a canoe directly into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness from the campground boat landing.

The early-May Minnesota walleye fishing opener and the May–September BWCA paddling season are the campground's peak draws.

• Nationally recognized clear-water swimming lake
• Camper cabins and a full guesthouse rental in addition to drive-in sites
• Strong wildlife-watching reputation — bears, eagles, wolves, moose

• Electric-only hookups, no sewer/water at site
• Fewer big-rig amenities than a private RV resort
• Popular in summer — book ahead

Families wanting a quieter, wildlife-rich lake-swimming park near Ely.

Full-hookup RVers, since sites are electric only with no sewer.

The park's wildlife-watching reputation — bear, eagle, wolf and moose sightings are regularly reported here.

Summer swimming and paddling season, when the park's bear and eagle viewing reputation peaks.

• Nationally recognized swimming beach on Sturgeon Lake
• Two distinct campgrounds (89 total sites) offering electric or rustic choice
• Strong mountain biking and multi-lake paddling/boating network

• No full hookups anywhere in the park
• Beatrice Lake loop is fully rustic (no electric)
• Fire restrictions can affect backcountry sites seasonally

Families wanting an award-winning sand beach plus a choice of electric or rustic camping.

RVers needing full hookups — electric is available at only one of the two loops.

Swimming or watching the sunset at the Sturgeon Lake beach, ranked among the top beaches in North America.

Peak summer swimming season; also popular for fall mountain biking and winter snowshoeing.

• River frontage with good fishing access
• Some larger pull-in spurs suitable for bigger RVs
• Quieter, smaller (31-site) alternative to nearby Fall Lake

• Fewer than half the sites have electric; none have water/sewer hookups
• Smaller campground fills up during peak season
• Less family infrastructure (no big playground or beach complex) than Fall Lake

Anglers and canoeists wanting a quieter, smaller riverside alternative to Fall Lake.

Families wanting a large sand swimming beach or campers who need full hookups.

The 1-mile Kawishiwi River Forest Trail along the riverbank.

Summer fishing season for northern pike, perch and walleye.

• Only state park campground paired with a historic underground mine tour
• Big lake (Vermilion) fishing and boating access
• Recently expanded capacity shows active DNR investment in the park

• Electric-only hookups, no water/sewer at site
• Mine tours run on a seasonal schedule — confirm dates before visiting
• The newer Pyrite Campground area may add OHV-related noise nearby

Families wanting to combine a unique underground mine tour with lakeside camping and fishing.

Campers wanting full hookups or guaranteed quiet near the OHV-oriented Pyrite Campground area.

The guided tour into the historic Soudan Underground Mine — Minnesota's oldest and deepest iron mine.

Underground mine tours resume Memorial Day weekend through fall; the new Pyrite Campground opened June 2026 with a direct connection to the Prospectors OHV Trail.

• Large rustic campground (~61–63 sites) directly on Kabetogama Lake
• Swimming beach and boat ramp on-site
• Closest drive-in gateway camping to Voyageurs National Park's Kabetogama Lake visitor services

• No hookups of any kind, no dump station
• First-come, first-served only — cannot reserve ahead
• Vault toilets only, no showers

Budget-minded campers who want lake access and a drive-to gateway to Voyageurs National Park's boat tours.

Campers who want to guarantee a site in advance, since there is no reservation system.

Easy access to Voyageurs National Park's Kabetogama Lake boat tours and NPS ranger interpretive programs just minutes away.

Summer (May–September) for Voyageurs National Park boat tours, ranger-led programs, and Kabetogama Lake swimming.

• Completely free camping
• Quiet, uncrowded — only 5 sites
• Direct access to Kawishiwi Lake for paddling and fishing

• No potable water — lake water must be treated or filtered
• Vault toilet only, no showers
• Only 5 sites with no reservation system, so availability isn't guaranteed

Solitude-seeking paddlers and anglers wanting a free, quiet, low-traffic site near BWCA entry points.

Families needing showers and flush toilets, or big-rig RVs.

Launching a canoe directly onto quiet Kawishiwi Lake from your campsite.

Summer fishing season for walleye, northern pike and perch; confirm access-road conditions seasonally with the ranger district.

• True full hookups (water/sewer/electric) with pull-through big-rig sites
• Full resort amenities — pool, hot tub, sauna, laundry, showers, multiple restaurants
• Discounted marina and boat launch access to Lake Vermilion

• Casino/resort setting is far less "wilderness" than nearby forest or state park options
• Nightly rate plus separate resort fees and taxes
• Can be busier and noisier than forest campgrounds near the entertainment complex

RVers who want true full hookups and pull-through big-rig sites plus resort amenities on Lake Vermilion.

Campers seeking a quiet, rustic wilderness experience — this is a casino resort setting.

The discounted marina boat launch onto Lake Vermilion, a top-tier Minnesota walleye and muskie lake.

Summer boating and fishing season on Lake Vermilion; the resort and casino operate year-round.

• Minnesota's oldest state park, with over 32,000 acres and 100+ lakes
• Iconic Mississippi River headwaters walk-across experience
• Historic Douglas Lodge offers dining and additional lodging nearby

• Park-specific hookup/RV-length detail wasn't independently confirmed — call the park office for large rigs
• High visitor volume at Minnesota's most historically significant state park
• Large park size (32,000 acres) means longer drives between campground and attractions

Families and history-minded travelers who want to combine RV camping with walking across the start of the Mississippi River.

Campers wanting a guaranteed full-hookup pull-through site without calling ahead to confirm.

Walking across the Mississippi River at its literal source — a signature Itasca experience.

No single confirmed recurring event; the park highlights year-round naturalist activities, summer headwaters wading, and fall color.

• Officially published 50-foot RV length limit with dedicated pull-through/electric sites
• Sandy swim beach plus a unique tamarack bog boardwalk with native orchids and pitcher plants
• Close to Bemidji for supplies, dining, and the Paul Bunyan and Babe statues

• Showers and dump station only operate mid-May through mid-October
• No pets allowed in the 4 camper cabins
• 95-site campground can feel busy in peak summer

Families wanting a full-amenity, big-rig-friendly lake campground close to the city of Bemidji.

Campers seeking backcountry solitude — this is one of the more developed, higher-traffic parks in the region.

The bog boardwalk through the spruce-tamarack bog, with native orchids and insect-eating pitcher plants at peak bloom in late spring/early summer.

Late spring–early summer for peak wildflower and orchid bloom in the bog.

• Direct marina and stone jetty access to Lake of the Woods, a premier walleye/sauger fishery
• White sand swimming beach
• One of four known breeding areas for the rare piping plover

• Very remote northern location near the Canadian border — a long drive from most of Minnesota
• Shower building and dump station only open mid-May through the end of September
• Electric/non-electric site split not independently confirmed

Anglers and birders seeking a remote Lake of the Woods basecamp with real marina access.

Campers wanting quick access to services — Williams and the park are far from major towns.

The stone jetty and marina on Zippel Bay, offering protected access to one of the largest lakes in the state.

Spring and summer for piping plover nesting and birding.

• One of Minnesota's best-preserved tallgrass prairie remnants, adjacent to Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
• Close to Fargo-Moorhead for supplies and services
• Historic 1930s WPA-built structures on the National Register of Historic Places

• Swimming pond has been closed since 2018
• Site/hookup specifics rely partly on third-party sources — confirm at booking
• Flat, open prairie terrain offers less shade and privacy than forested parks

Campers wanting a quiet, prairie-ecosystem experience close to Fargo-Moorhead.

Swimmers, since the park's swimming pond has been closed since 2018.

The remnant tallgrass prairie and rare wildflowers, including the western prairie fringed orchid, alongside greater prairie chicken habitat.

Spring, for greater prairie chicken activity in the prairie remnant.

• Eight lakes within one park, including a sandy beach at Lake Lida
• Extensive trail system — 25 mi hiking, 20 mi horse trails, 21 mi snowmobile
• Spectacular fall maple color across 9,250 acres of hardwood forest

• Campground/hookup specifics not independently confirmed — call ahead
• Limited office hours reported by regional tourism sources
• Some campers report weaker cell reception

Multi-activity families who want lake swimming plus extensive hiking and horse trails in rolling hardwood terrain.

Travelers who need officially confirmed big-rig hookup specs before booking.

Fall foliage — the maple forest turns brilliant shades of orange, gold and red each autumn.

Fall color season, typically peaking in late September to early October in this part of Minnesota.

• Officially published 50-foot RV length limit with 81 confirmed electric sites across two campgrounds
• Clear, deep lake (up to 163 ft) rated well for swimming and boating
• Close proximity to Alexandria for dining, groceries, and services

• Showers and dump station are seasonal only (mid-May–mid-October)
• No pets allowed in the camper cabins
• Popular Alexandria-lakes-area location can mean high summer demand

Families and RV campers wanting a large, well-developed campground on a genuinely clear, deep lake near Alexandria.

Campers seeking maximum privacy — the Lower Campground sites sit close together near the lake.

The five WPA-era Rustic Style buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

Summer for swimming and boating on the clear, deep lake.

• 94 drive-in campsites with 34 electric hookups — a genuine RV option about an hour from the Twin Cities
• Modern showers, flush toilets and a sanitary dump station on-site
• Direct access to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and an 18-mile-plus trail system

• Only 34 of 94 sites have electric — reserve early if you specifically need a hookup
• Exact maximum RV length isn't confirmed on an official DNR page — call ahead for larger rigs
• Popular weekend park within easy reach of the Twin Cities, so summer weekends book out fast

RV campers wanting a genuine electric hookup option and real hiking trails within about an hour of the Twin Cities.

Campers seeking total solitude — this is a popular, easily reached St. Croix Valley park.

Hiking or biking a stretch of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway trail system along the river bluffs.

Naturalist and evening interpretive programs run regularly through the summer season; check the park's current calendar before you go.

• Entire park listed on the National Register of Historic Places for the Old Crow Wing Village
• Confluence of two rivers offers strong canoe, kayak and fishing access with a boat ramp
• Direct connection to the paved Paul Bunyan State Trail for biking

• Only 12 of 59 drive-in sites have electric hookups
• 45-foot RV length limit is shorter than some other parks on this list
• Sites require backing in

History-and-paddling families wanting a river-confluence campground close to Brainerd with a paved bike trail.

Campers who need a high proportion of electric sites — only 12 of 59 sites have hookups.

The historic Old Crow Wing Village town site — one of Minnesota's most populous towns in the 1850s-60s, now interpreted within the park.

No single confirmed recurring event; river access and historic trails are strongest in summer and fall.

• Over a mile of sandy Mille Lacs Lake beach directly in the park
• Two distinct campgrounds — Lakeview (electric/non-electric) and Maple Grove (more secluded)
• Close to Mille Lacs Lake's noted walleye fishing

• No full hookups (no sewer at sites)
• Max RV length not officially published — call ahead for large rigs
• Maple Grove Campground sites are non-electric only

Families wanting a big sandy Mille Lacs Lake beach close to camp with easy walk-to-water sites.

RVers needing full hookups or long pull-through sites.

Sunset views from Pope Point overlooking Mille Lacs Lake.

Summer swimming season, when the park's mile-plus sand beach and children's interpretive programs are in full operation.

• National Historic Landmark District with 9,000 years of documented human history and an Interpretive Center
• 100-foot fire tower with panoramic views
• Extensive multi-use trail system — hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, horseback

• No full hookups; electric-only add-on
• Max RV length not officially published
• Water access is more river/inland-lake than a resort-style Mille Lacs beach

History-and-nature-minded campers who want a National Historic Landmark district and extensive ski/hike trails.

RVers wanting a beach-adjacent site — the park's water access is river and inland lakes, not the Mille Lacs shoreline.

Climbing the 100-foot observation tower for a panoramic view of the park's forests and wetlands.

Winter — the DNR describes the park's cross-country ski trails as among the best in Minnesota.

• Adjacent to the historic Charles Lindbergh boyhood home and Minnesota Historical Society museum
• 7 miles of scenic Mississippi River-side trails
• Year-round bald eagle viewing opportunities

• Only a portion of sites (about 15) have electric hookups
• Max RV length not officially published
• This park's water feature is a river, not a swim beach

Families combining a campout with the adjacent historic Lindbergh House and Museum, plus quiet river access.

Campers wanting lake swimming — this park's water feature is the Mississippi River, not a beach.

The restored 1906 Lindbergh family home and museum, tied to aviator Charles Lindbergh's final public address there in 1973.

Fall, for eagle and hawk migration viewing along the Mississippi River corridor.

• 61 campsites with 18 electric hookups accommodating RVs up to about 55 feet, plus pull-through sites
• Genuinely quiet and far less crowded than the Brainerd Lakes-area parks
• Swimming, fishing on four lakes, 27 miles of hiking and mountain-bike-friendly dirt trails

• Electric hookups limited to 18 of 61 sites — reserve early if you need one
• About 50 miles west of Duluth, so it's a longer drive for most Twin Cities campers
• Fewer nearby dining and shopping options than lake-resort-area parks

RV campers wanting real electric hookups in a quiet, four-lake wilderness park without Brainerd Lakes-area crowds.

Campers who want to be close to restaurants, shopping or a resort town — this is a genuinely remote park.

Standing on the Continental Divide — one of the few spots in Minnesota where water splits toward the Gulf of Mexico or Lake Superior.

No single confirmed recurring event; fall color along the Continental Divide Trail and summer swimming at Loon Lake are the park's strongest seasonal draws.

• Pull-through electric sites — easier RV access than many Minnesota state parks
• Five lakes offer varied water recreation in one park
• Strong year-round naturalist programming and a CCC-built stone interpretive center

• No full hookups (electric only, no sewer)
• Max RV length not officially published
• Only 6 sites available for winter camping in the off-season

Families wanting the most activity-rich West Central Minnesota state park with pull-through electric RV sites.

Campers seeking full hookups (sewer) — Sibley offers electric only.

Climbing to the Mount Tom observation deck for a 360-degree view of the park's oak, cedar and maple forests.

Summer, for the park's five-lake water recreation and daily naturalist programs at the historic interpretive center.

• Quiet, small 347-acre park with minimal crowds
• Strong walleye, northern pike, bass and sunfish fishing directly from a wooden pier
• Notable birdwatching — pelicans, herons, egrets and occasional bald eagles

• Small campground with limited electric sites (only 6 confirmed)
• Street address not independently verified from an official source
• Max RV length not officially published

Campers wanting a small, quiet, uncrowded West Central Minnesota lake park with strong fishing and birdwatching.

Campers wanting a large campground with many amenities and activities — this is one of Minnesota's smallest state parks.

The memorial marker for the Broberg family, Swedish immigrant settlers whose story is documented at the park.

Spring, for bird and wildflower viewing.

• Major fall waterfowl and bald eagle migration viewing on a 5,000-acre lake
• Electric semi-modern campground with hot showers
• Three year-round heated camper cabins, including a wheelchair-accessible unit

• Street address not independently verified from an official source
• No full (sewer) hookups confirmed
• Max RV length not officially published

Campers and birders drawn to major fall waterfowl and bald eagle migration viewing on a large prairie lake.

Campers wanting full hookups (sewer) — only electric semi-modern service is confirmed.

Fall waterfowl migration on Lac qui Parle Lake, when large concentrations of geese, ducks and bald eagles gather.

Fall waterfowl migration season, a defining feature of this park.

• Direct access to Gull Lake, one of the Brainerd Lakes area's most popular boating and fishing lakes
• All sites have 30/50-amp electric service
• Wooded, well-spaced sites with swimming beach, boat ramp and interpretive trail on-site

• No sewer hookups at sites — only a fill station at the campground entrance
• Showers and drinking water only available seasonally (May 14–Oct 15)
• Current nightly pricing not published online — call or check Recreation.gov for a quote

RVers and boaters who want an affordable, electric-hookup Corps of Engineers campground directly on popular Gull Lake.

Campers wanting full (sewer) hookups at every site — none are available at individual sites.

Watching sunset over Gull Lake from the campground's hiking trail.

Summer boating and swimming season on Gull Lake, the campground's primary recreational draw.

• Full hookups plus an indoor heated pool and sauna
• Sandy North Long Lake beach with boat ramp and dock slips
• Daily/nightly site rental offered in addition to seasonal sites, with spring/fall discounts

• Pets not allowed for nightly or daily campers — only seasonal guests
• Exact nightly pricing not published online — call ahead for a quote
• Max RV length not officially published

Families wanting a full-hookup, amenity-rich private resort on North Long Lake with an indoor pool as a rain-day backup.

Travelers bringing pets on a short nightly stay — pets are restricted to seasonal guests only.

The indoor heated pool and sauna, a standout amenity for a lake resort campground.

No specific recurring event confirmed; peak season runs through summer when the beach and pool are both in use.

• About 20-25 minutes from downtown St. Paul
• Unique filtered swimming pond and beach plus horse trails and an archery range
• Regular Saturday-night naturalist programs for campers

• No full (sewer) hookups at individual sites
• Pets are not allowed in the campground area
• Rustic loop has only basic facilities

Twin Cities-area families wanting an easy, close-in campground with a real swimming beach and evening programs.

RVers wanting full sewer hookups at every site — Lake Elmo has no full-hookup sites.

The filtered, sandy-beach swimming pond — a standout, kid-friendly feature not found at most metro campgrounds.

Saturday-night campground naturalist programs, Memorial Day through Labor Day.

• Largest, most amenity-rich metro-area public campground — 203 sites plus 5 camper cabins
• On-site golf, beaches and rental equipment (bikes, boats, fishing rods)
• Regular naturalist programs and the seasonal "Baker Boo" Halloween event

• Only about half of sites have electric hookups; none have full sewer
• Seasonal only (2026 season runs April 24–October 18)
• Popular west-metro location can mean summer-weekend demand

Families wanting a full-amenity regional-park camping experience — beach, golf, trails and cabins — in the west metro.

Campers who specifically need a hookup at every site — only about half of Baker's 203 sites have electricity.

"Baker Boo," Three Rivers' Halloween-themed campground event with site decorating, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating.

Saturday Naturalist Programs, 7pm every Saturday (plus 2pm on the first and third Saturdays), Memorial Day through Labor Day.

• On the federally designated St. Croix Wild & Scenic River
• Fully accessible 1.5-mile interpretive Riverside Trail
• Rustic camper cabins available as a tent-camping alternative

• Lake Alice swimming beach is currently closed for a lake drawdown
• One of Minnesota's most-visited parks, so summer weekend sites fill quickly
• Riverway Campground closes October–April; only Savannah stays open year-round

Families wanting an easy, scenic St. Croix River park with accessible trails and camper cabins close to Stillwater.

Swimmers counting on the beach being open, since Lake Alice beach is currently closed.

The Riverside Trail — a 1.5-mile fully accessible, interpretive path along the St. Croix River.

Winter, for 12 miles of groomed cross-country and skate-ski trails; fall for river-bluff color.

• Minnesota's largest state park (nearly 34,000 acres) with a National Historic Landmark CCC/WPA district
• Three distinct campgrounds plus a dedicated equestrian camp
• Confluence of two rivers (St. Croix and Kettle) for varied paddling

• Farthest drive from the Twin Cities of the metro-adjacent parks on this list (about 75-90 minutes)
• Old Logging Trail and Paint Rock Springs campgrounds aren't well suited to big rigs
• Remote, rural setting means fewer nearby services than closer-in parks

Families and groups wanting Minnesota's largest state park with multiple campgrounds and an enormous trail system.

Visitors wanting a quick, close-to-metro weekend, or big rigs planning to use the smaller campgrounds.

Climbing the park's historic fire tower for panoramic views over the St. Croix River valley.

Fall for river-bluff foliage along the St. Croix and Kettle Rivers; winter for cross-country skiing.

• Closest of the St. Croix Valley state parks to the Twin Cities (about 1 hour)
• Unique glacial pothole formations found almost nowhere else in the world
• Rock climbing, canoeing and scenic excursion boat tours all in one small park

• Smallest campground in this group (37 sites total)
• Rugged, hilly terrain limits accessibility in parts of the park
• A popular day-trip destination, so trailheads and parking can be crowded on weekends

Visitors wanting dramatic river-gorge scenery, rock climbing and unique glacial geology within about an hour of the Twin Cities.

Big-rig RVers or families with very young children who need flat, stroller-friendly terrain near steep cliff areas.

The "Glacial Gardens," including the 60-foot-deep "Bottomless Pit" pothole.

Fall, for St. Croix gorge foliage best viewed via the park's excursion boat tours.

• Budget-friendly rates ($22-$24/night)
• Quiet, 57-site rustic campground directly on Lake Auburn
• Close to the southwest metro (Victoria, Chanhassen, Chaska)

• No electricity or showers anywhere in the campground
• Generators restricted to sites 35-45 only
• Much smaller and more basic than Baker Campground

Tent campers and minimalist, self-contained RVers wanting a quiet, budget rustic lake campground in the southwest metro.

RVers who need electric hookups or shower facilities — this is a fully rustic campground.

Paddling the unguarded Lake Auburn beach at sunrise via the park's canoe and kayak rentals.

Peak season runs May 24–September 1; shoulder-season weekends (September-October) are good for quieter fall-color camping.

• True full-hookup sites with 50-amp service and pull-throughs up to 75 ft
• Resort-style amenities — pool, mini-golf, fenced dog park, game room
• Close to Mall of America, US Bank Stadium and the Minnesota State Fair

• Seasonal only (open April 15–October 15)
• No natural lake or river access on-site
• Nightly rates aren't posted publicly — call or use the booking tool for a quote

RVers wanting full-hookup, big-rig-friendly convenience with resort-style amenities and fast access to Twin Cities attractions.

Campers seeking a natural, wilderness or lakefront experience — this is a suburban, amenity-focused private park.

The seasonal heated pool and complimentary holiday-weekend hayrides.

Summer (Memorial Day–Labor Day), when the pool and full activity schedule are running.

• Full hookup (water/sewer/30-50 amp) sites with published max lengths up to 48 ft — genuinely big-rig friendly
• Staffed swimming beach, visitor center and nearly 2,000 acres of trails in one park
• Close to the Twin Cities metro (Eagan/Apple Valley) with easy highway access

• Season is short (May 1–Oct 11) — no shoulder-season or winter camping
• Cancellations under 48 hours are non-refundable, and the $8 reservation fee is non-refundable regardless
• No camper cabins or yurts at this location

RVers and families wanting a full-hookup, big-rig-capable campground with lake swimming just minutes from the Twin Cities.

Campers seeking a remote or rustic wilderness feel — this is a busy, developed suburban regional park.

West Loop pull-through sites 56-58, the campground's premium full-hookup big-rig sites.

Peak summer season (June-August) for Schulze Lake Beach swimming and the park's boating, kayaking and paddleboarding.

• Sandy swimming beach open Memorial Day through Labor Day
• Staffed visitor center with interpretive programs and free gear loans
• Six scenic bluff overlooks and 10 miles of hiking trails

• No full-hookup (water/sewer) sites — electric only at developed sites
• Published RV length (~50 ft) is on the shorter side versus other parks
• Popular summer weekends near Rochester/Winona can fill up

Families wanting trout fishing, an easy swimming beach and staffed naturalist programs close to Winona and Rochester.

RVers wanting full hookups — this campground is electric-only.

Chimney Rock Trail overlook / Inspiration Point, the park's only vantage point with no visible signs of civilization.

Interpretive naturalist programs and a bird-feeding station at the year-round Whitewater Valley Visitor Center.

• Guided tours of Minnesota's longest known cave, a constant 48°F year-round
• Historic 1800s village with costumed interpreters
• Dedicated 55-site equestrian campground for horse camping

• No published max RV length — call ahead to confirm your rig fits
• More electric sites are in the equestrian loop, not the main campground
• Cave tours and village tours are separately reservable and ticketed

Families or groups wanting a unique underground cave tour combined with camping and horseback trails.

RVers seeking a lakefront setting or a guaranteed published max RV length.

A guided Mystery Cave tour through stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone and underground pools.

Weekend interpretive tours of Historic Forestville, the restored 1800s village operated by the Minnesota Historical Society.

• One of the few Minnesota state parks with a live bison herd
• 100-foot Sioux quartzite cliff and prairie ecosystem unique in the region
• Electric hookups plus a sanitary dump station for RVs

• No confirmed swimming beach or lake/river water access
• More exposed, prairie terrain with less shade than bluff-country parks
• Located farther west, away from the Root River Trail cluster

Visitors who want to see a real, free-roaming bison herd and quartzite cliff prairie landscape.

Campers wanting shade or water recreation — the park is open prairie with no confirmed swimming access.

Viewing the park's free-roaming bison herd against the Sioux quartzite cliff backdrop.

Prickly pear cactus bloom, June-July, per Explore Minnesota's official park profile.

• Sand-bottom swimming pond within the park
• Pull-through electric sites (30/50-amp) for easier RV setup
• Historic WPA/CCC stone structures add character

• Third-party max-RV-length figures are inconsistent — call ahead for large rigs
• Non-electric loop is tent-oriented, not ideal for larger trailers
• Floodplain terrain means occasional wet trail conditions

Families who want a swimming pond right in the campground plus easy river tubing and canoeing near New Ulm.

Campers seeking total seclusion — sites are close to New Ulm and can feel more social than remote bluff-country parks.

Swimming at the sand-bottom pond, a signature feature not found at most other parks on this list.

Summer swimming and tubing season on the Big Cottonwood River; winter cross-country ski rentals available on-site.

• Rare self-guided bison drive through a 325-acre range in your own vehicle
• Twin waterfalls with an accessible paved trail and footbridge
• Historic 19th-century Seppmann windmill on site

• Electric hookup sites are a small fraction of total campsites — verify availability directly
• Bison drive closes weekly for maintenance (Wednesdays) and is weather/seasonal-dependent
• Campground is undergoing DNR modernization planning, so configuration may change

Families and RV travelers who want a self-guided bison drive plus a scenic waterfall walk close to Mankato.

RVers who specifically need a guaranteed electric site — electric availability here is limited relative to site count.

The self-guided bison drive — visitors tour the 325-acre bison range in their own vehicle with pre-recorded interpretive content.

Bison drive open season (spring through fall, closed Wednesdays for maintenance).

• Bluff-top overlooks of Lake Pepin, one of the widest points on the Mississippi River
• 260+ recorded bird species — a nationally notable migration viewing spot
• Flush toilets and hot showers May-October, with off-season vault toilets

• No direct beach or swim access confirmed from official sources
• Bluff terrain means some trails are steep with stairs and switchbacks
• Smaller electric-site count (19) relative to total campground size

Bird watchers and photographers wanting dramatic bluff-top views of Lake Pepin and the Mississippi Flyway.

Campers wanting direct lakeside or beach access — the park sits on bluffs above Lake Pepin.

Bald eagle and songbird migration viewing from the bluff-top trails overlooking Lake Pepin.

Spring and fall bird migration season — the park is recognized as one of the best U.S. locations to view migrating birds including bald eagles.

• Spring-fed trout stream runs directly through the campground valley
• Playground, sand volleyball and a birding-kit checkout program at the park office
• Seasonal heated camper cabin option

• Small electric-site count (16 of 48) — book early for hookups
• Deep valley and bluff setting can mean limited cell signal
• Campground operates seasonally (early May-early November)

Anglers and quiet-nature families wanting a shaded, spring-fed valley setting close to the Root River Trail corridor.

Big-rig RVers wanting large pull-through electric sites — this is a smaller, more rustic campground.

Fishing or walking along Beaver Creek, fed by "Big Spring," through a maple-basswood and oak forest valley.

Spring wildflower bloom and migratory songbird season.

• Rare canoe-in remote campsite option (5 sites) for a paddle-access experience
• Major waterfowl migration wetland, strong for birdwatchers
• Quieter and less crowded than the larger bluff-country parks

• No pull-through sites — back-in only
• Smaller campground overall (55 total sites) with a modest electric-site count (18)
• DNR is reviewing a management plan amendment, so future facility configuration could shift

Paddlers and birdwatchers who want a quieter state park alternative with genuine canoe-in campsites.

RVers wanting pull-through convenience — no pull-through sites are offered here.

Paddling a canoe to one of the park's five secluded canoe-in campsites on the south side of the lake.

Fall waterfowl migration — Rice Lake is a major wetland area attracting migrating birds, prime for birdwatching.

• Direct, on-site canoe, kayak and tube rentals and shuttle service on the Root River
• Full hookup RV sites — the only full-hookup private option in this cluster of nine bluff-country campgrounds
• Bike rental and direct access to the paved Root River State Trail

• No officially published max RV length — confirm your rig size directly with the campground
• 2-night minimum stay required on weekends
• Extra-guest fees apply beyond the base site rate

Families and cyclists wanting direct Root River State Trail and river-tubing access with full-hookup RV convenience.

Campers seeking solitude — this is a large, activity-programmed campground with a busy family atmosphere.

Renting a canoe, kayak or tube directly from the campground for a Root River paddle, with shuttle service included.

Summer Root River State Trail biking season, alongside weekly live music and BINGO nights.

• 34 full-hookup sites with 50-amp service and pull-through options
• Direct walking access to the unique black sand beach on Lake Superior
• On-site showers, free WiFi, playground and nature trails

• No dump station on-site despite full hookups -- nearest dump is uphill in Silver Bay
• Loops near Highway 61 report highway noise and weekend traffic
• No official maximum RV length published -- call ahead for very large rigs

Big-rig travelers wanting full hookups and an easy walk to a one-of-a-kind Lake Superior beach.

Campers seeking maximum quiet and seclusion should avoid the highway-adjacent loops.

Walk the black sand beach at sunrise over Lake Superior.

No single recurring event; the campground's peak overlaps with North Shore fall color season (late September–early October).

• 50 dedicated RV/trailer sites with full hookups (50-amp) and pull-throughs
• On-site laundry, showers, camp store, dump station and WiFi
• Direct access to the Munger Trail and Superior Hiking Trail

• Set in the St. Louis River basin, not a beach/scenery-forward Lake Superior setting
• Mix of full-hookup and electric-only sites -- confirm hookup type when booking
• No dedicated online booking portal -- reservations by phone or email

Families and couples wanting a full-service RV base to explore Duluth, Canal Park and Lake Superior attractions.

Campers wanting a wilderness or beach-forward Lake Superior setting should look elsewhere.

Bike the Munger Trail to the Aerial Lift Bridge and watch a laker enter the canal.

No single recurring event; the campground fills fastest around Grandma's Marathon (June) and Bayfront Blues Festival (August) weekends.