The best camping near Savanna State Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Savanna State Forest adventure.

Discover the natural allure of Savanna State Forest.

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Community favorites near Savanna State Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Savanna State Forest

Hay Lake Campground

20 sites In Savanna State Forest

from

$14

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Savanna State Forest

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Hidden Pines

5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Kerrick, MN

Come get away in our grove of balsam pine trees in a rural area with lots of wildlife to see and hear. We have 5 primitive campsites, one for large groups and three for smaller more private camping and one drive in site for camping out of vehicle or tent . We offer un mapped hiking trails onsite and there is plenty of activities to do within 10 to 15 miles from camp. Activities include swimming at local beaches, Nemadji State Forest, General CC Andrews State Forest, ATV riding, lots of great fishing lakes, several rivers for kayaking and canoeing, local restaurants, coffee houses, movie theater, general store, shopping, antiques/craft, grocery, gas, local brewery, agate center, fire museum. The land was purchased by the Sway family in the late 70's from a farmer and has been in the family since. We are one of the 4 current land owners of this property and plan to keep the land in the family as long as we can. Our home was built in 2011 on part of the property. Since living here we have used the land for hiking, gardening, wood harvesting, selling Christmas trees, and now we are excited for our new adventure of opening a small part of our land for camping. We are excited for you to enjoy our land as much as we do.

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KJ|eventyr

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Duluth, MN

Located 14 miles outside of Duluth’s Canal Park area, we have the perfect location for privacy, as well as, being close enough to enjoy Duluth’s many tourist attractions. We are also near multiple popular hiking, biking and skiing areas and state parks, such as Jay Cooke State Park and Spirit Mt. Our private apartment offers a deck overlooking our pond and forest area, with all the amenities of home and the natural atmosphere of camping. Our Forest Camper also offers many amenities in a smaller package.

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Pondside Clayworks

12 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Esko, MN

Discover our private property in Esko, MN, offering a peaceful retreat. Please note that there are no water or electric hookups, and there is no onsite public restroom or facilities. Situated near Jay Cooke Park, Lake Superior, and the Lake Superior Hiking Trail, you'll find an abundance of outdoor activities nearby. The city of Cloquet, where you can access essentials like Walmart and grocery stores, is conveniently close. As this is our family's home and property, we kindly ask for quiet and respectful behavior. Be aware of a nearby train track, and be prepared for occasional train sounds. Feel free to share the space with our two friendly dogs – Bernice, a large Bernedoodle, and her sister/sidekick, Selena, a small Yorkie Bichon. They roam freely on our property, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. We look forward to hosting you in our family-friendly environment!

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The Hamlet Lake Homestead

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Deerwood, MN

The Hamlet Lake homestead is our 10-acre family home with two unique and private hip-camp sites. The Hamlet Lake Bunkhouse is located to the west of our home in its own secluded parcel next to the lake. The Camp on Hamlet Hill is to the north of our home, on a remote flat hill at the top of our property, on a hill over Cedar brook. with 300-acre, (private) Hamlet Lake in front, and the wide portion of the 20-mile Cedar brook in the back. We are a large "homesteading" family, with chickens, ducks, and a garden. The campsite is a private 1/2 acre clearing, surrounded by woods with a firepit, grill, cooking utensils, and an outhouse. (Tents are available for a small additional cost). There is an outdoor water pump below the hill. Guests can access the waterfront and beach in front, with the use of the swim raft, lily pad, fishing dock, canoe, kayak, and paddle boards included. At nearly 100 feet deep, Hamlet lake also boasts excellent fishing. Our home is located 6 miles from Crosby, with the world-class Cuyuna Lakes 50-mile mountain bike trail system. Crosby is a growing tourist town with many new and unique restaurants, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities. The paved bike trail begins 3.5 north of us. Milacs lake is 10 miles to the south.

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Harvest Loon Camp

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Outing, MN

📌Update: Cabin now complete with an indoor shower and toilet. ❄Cabin is now available year-round. 🌲 Picturesque lakeshore property located on 24 acres, with almost 2,000 feet of lake access right in front of the cabin. ⛵Lake public access is located at the end of the cabin driveway. Kayaking State Land surrounds Harvest Loon Camp for peace and relaxation. 🏕 Serene, peaceful and unrivaled privacy. Water sports and trails for hiking and quads make Harvest Loon Camp the perfect spot to relaxation and fun. 😊Radiant heat, wood stove, air conditioning and fans. 🔥Wood available for use with woodstove and campfires. 🛌 Campers WILL NEED to provide own bedding, (pillows, linens, blankets) for twin bunk, twin daybed and trundle and queen sized bed depending on sleeping needs. Also bring your own towels. 🍳 Kitchen has antique pots, pans, utensils, coffeepot, microwave, toaster, stove and refrigerator for your use. 🌟 Gorgeous furnished porch to watch wildlife. Grocery store within 5 miles. 🦆 This location is also perfect for horseback riding.

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Medicine Creek Farm

2 sites · Lodging160 acres · Finlayson, MN

At Medicine Creek Farm, we raise grass fed beef and lamb and pastured pork and eggs. We direct-market our food to customers in the Twin Cities and Duluth, primarily through our website. We have been moved and inspired by soil health and what we've learned of regenerative agriculture's ability to heal the land. Hannah manages the daily farm operations, taking care of the animals and moving fences and flocks through the pastures to improve the soil. Meanwhile Jason has been hard at work building our farm infrastructure including our house, shed, remodeled camper trailer, and rebuilding an 1880s timber frame barn where we host our farm stay.

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Moosehorn Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents330 acres · Kettle River, MN

Discover a serene woodland campsite with expansive trails perfect for ATVs, Side by Sides, biking, and hiking adventures. With ample space for you and your companions, relish breathtaking stargazing views and seize the opportunity to paddle in the nearby Kettle River with your kayak or canoe. Access the campground via the southern entrance, where you'll find a spacious gravel road tailored for your vehicles' convenience, complete with a secure gate to ensure your privacy. Upon arrival, you'll receive a lockbox code for added security.

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Whispering Pines

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Cotton, MN

Discover Your Perfect Outdoor Escape at Whispering Pines in Northeastern Minnesota's Lake Country Experience the tranquility of Whispering Pines, a hidden gem nestled in a picturesque Balsam and Spruce forest. Whether you’re craving the warmth of a crackling fire under the stars or an adventure along its scenic trails, this property offers a nature-filled retreat for all seasons. Settle into one of two well-appointed camping areas, each with its own firepit, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Located just 40 minutes from Duluth and the Iron Range, Whispering Pines blends the peace of the wilderness with easy access to local attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the property’s proximity to the Cloquet Valley State Forest, just across the road, offering hiking, snowmobiling, and over 20 miles of off-road vehicle trails. Birdwatchers, prepare to be amazed by the variety of species that frequent the property, or head over to the world-renowned Sax Zim Bog, only 20 minutes away. Anglers will appreciate nearby lakes with public access for a great day of fishing. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Whispering Pines offers the best of Minnesota's lake country. Book your getaway today and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

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East Lake Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents174 acres · Palisade, MN

Our land is very special with positive energy vibes. If you're looking for a relaxing place to watch the diamonds dance on the lake, listen to the birds sing and watch the butterflies dance around n the meadow, you'll instantly start to relax. Learn more about this land: We offer TWO campsites, Meadow and Oak. Meadow is in an open meadow hill alongside forest and wetland, situated next to West Lake with dock access. Paddle to Waukenabo Lake through the channel. View the eagle's nest. Campfire ring in both sites. Oak is secluded and right on West Lake. Access [5-minute walk] to outhouse "Scheissplatz" known as the cleanest and cutest in Aitkin County. Fresh well water available to all campers. Bring your container to fill up for the freshest Wasser! Wood can be gathered from the forest floor or any dead tree branches. No cutting of live trees. You may bring your own wood as long as you burn it all up. You can walk to the our pole shed, "Steinbeck" and pet the animals. We have a horse "Buddy", donkey "Archer", two goats "Frank & Randy", eleven sheep "Lorraine, Mabel, April, Lynn and Princess Mary Margaret just to name a few! We have 3 egg laying hens named "The Ladies", and our Brittany Spaniel dog., "Benji." You can hike through the woods. We are situated in 174 acres and adjacent to state forest land. The loons call in the evening and life is good relaxing at East Lake Ranch. Great first time experience for kids. Learn about our shoreline by clicking: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/woodlands/harvesting-wild-rice.html

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The Forest Container

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Deerwood, MN

Tree house, tiny home, shipping container, luxury hotel - the Forest Container is all of these things. Set in a lush forest valley, this is an incredible and unique place to stay. The property is within the Cuyuna mountain bike area, between the Yawkey and the Cruser's Kettle trailheads. There is a fire ring as well as a great deck upon which you can camp or otherwise relax and enjoy the view of the forested valley. The container is heated and cooled, and the container has a luxurious warm tiled shower, sink, toilet (cassette style), power and of course, as pictured, a beautiful small bedroom and living room. Coffee machine and mini fridge included on the deck. 👍🏼

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Wise Woods on Fool Lake

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · MN

Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf.com/ Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com/ Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity

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Bundo's Cabin

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Finlayson, MN

This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was harvested and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and out, there are so many ways to relax and connect with loved ones during all seasons at Bundo's Cabin. Learn more about this land: Where the forest meets the field. Unplug and relax at Bundo's Cabin with extraordinary views of wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities. The modern yet cozy cabin has electricity and features a front patio, an external outhouse and outdoor rainwater bucket shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a sleeping loft with a reading nook. No matter the season, this cabin is a wonderful, cozy, and clean, place to relax and unwind. Feel free to roam around the 10-acre property and explore the 80 acres of state land to the north. Deer, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, owls, eagles and more are likely to be seen or heard. Explore, Banning, Moose Lake, and Father Hennepin State Parks which are all within 30 minutes, and return to the cabin to read, play games, listen to records, have a fire, and relax. The kitchen provides you with everything you need to prepare your meals including a refrigerator, small freezer, stove, oven, cookware, cutting boards, sink, seasonings, oil, and coffee. Water for washing is available from an electric pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps from the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a user-friendly heat pump and gets the cabin to your desired temperature very quickly. We are grateful to honor the Dakota and Anishinaabe people whose land we occupy by donating $10 from every booking to the Makoce Ikikcupi Land Recovery Project. This project is actively working to return the land to the indigenous people from whom it was stolen. You can learn more about this project in reparative justice at www.makoceikikcupi.com.

The best camping near Savanna State Forest guide

Overview

About

You think the Oregon Trail was tough? Centuries before folks were traversing the country for gold, Native American tribes in Minnesota were using the Savanna Portage to get between the Mississippi River and Lake Superior. This northern Minnesota taste of history is in Savanna State Forest, just outside the coastal town of Duluth. The gnarly path was nearly impossible to travel before a wooden boardwalk was built over the peat bogs and foggy marshes, a trail that’s now on the National Register of Historic Places and open for walking.

There’s also all sorts of water recreation to be had at the forest’s Big Sandy Lake, where cranes and swans roam free. At the end of the day, fall asleep to the gentle hooting of owls at the private, dispersed campsites at Hay Lake Campground, where you and your friends can pretend you’re resting along your journey to Lake Superior!

Notable campgrounds

The Walter Stark Horse Campground – A serene getaway for equestrian lovers and campers alike.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as the Walter Stark Horse Campground is a sought-after destination.
Keep an eye on the official website for updates on campground improvements and the best time to visit.
Consider visiting during weekdays for better chances of availability.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Savanna State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, while winter offers a quiet, frosty escape. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.

Know before you go

Check the latest updates on road and campsite improvements before your trip.
Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife by reviewing safety guidelines.
Accessibility may vary across different areas of the forest; inquire ahead for specific needs.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for activities like fishing or hunting.
Remember to pack out your trash and respect the forest's pristine environment.