The best camping near St. Croix State Forest

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

Discover the natural splendor of St. Croix State Forest.  

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near St. Croix State Forest

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SOL VIND - Lakeside Camping Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Isle, MN
Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over Lake Mille Lacs, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Step onto the sandy beach from your campsite and surround yourself with the soothing sounds of nature and the lapping of the lake's waves to help you unwind and connect with the outdoors. We have kayaks and paddle boards available, as well as a dock for fishing and swimming fun. There is a communal firepit on the beach, along with two portable fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis. We are close to Father Hennepin and Kathio State Parks, where you can enjoy wildlife and hiking. There is a bowling alley in town along with a city park. Local fishing launches are available and ATV rentals with nearby trails provide even more opportunities for adventure. There are also boutiques and shopping in Isle as well as nearby towns of Wahkon and Aitkin. Adding to the welcoming atmosphere, are two friendly dogs – Frank, a Goldendoodle, and his sister/sidekick, Lucy, a Mini Goldendoodle. They roam freely on part of our property with the help of an invisible fence. Feel free to shoo them away if they bother you or if any other rogue neighborhood dog wanders over. On this property you can have your pets off leash but please contain your pet as you see fit with other pet personalities. Sometimes, like humans we don't all get along. Please clean up after them as they roam the property and respect others campers/neighbors spaces. Keep your dog within your sight at all times. When we camp, we value privacy, and we'll ensure the same for you. Upon arrival, please head directly to your campsite or cabin. We can communicate through messaging to assist you with anything you need. ***Campers must back campers in from the tar (Vista Rd). Guests will need to be self contained, take waste with them and leave no trace. ***Attention Summer Guests: Swimmer's Itch Prevention*** During the warmer summer months, please be aware of the potential for swimmer's itch in our lake. To help prevent it, follow these guidelines: 1. Apply Water Repellent Substances: Waterproof sunscreen, or other skin oils (put a layer of something between them and you). 2. Dry Off Immediately: As soon as you get out of the water, dry off with a towel. Do not let the water evaporate off your skin!
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$40
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Trails End Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents185 acres · Hinckley, MN
Discover serenity at Trails End Retreat, a secluded haven nestled amidst the natural beauty of the countryside. Settle into our private campsite, perched just beyond the hayfield at the edge of tranquil woods and enchanting wetlands. Explore miles of diverse terrain where encounters with deer, grouse, turkey, and other wildlife are a daily delight. Our peaceful clearing offers the perfect space to unwind and enjoy nature in its purest form, where you can feel free to relax and embrace the laid-back vibe. Accessible by car or truck via a scenic trail along the hayfield, or by hiking/mountain biking. Trails End Retreat encourages you to reconnect with nature and fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, where the atmosphere fosters both peace and creativity under the open skies and starry nights. Whether you seek solitude or prefer to share the experience with like-minded free spirits, Trails End Retreat promises an authentic and enriching camping experience, where you're welcome to relax and enjoy life's simple, natural pleasures.
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$26.25
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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.
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$122.85
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98%
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The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

5 sites · Lodging8 acres · Pine City, MN
Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!
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$102
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99%
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Hoppensteadt Hills

4 sites · Lodging37 acres · Amery, WI
Come stay at our 37 acers of wooded land alongside of the Apple River. Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature amongst the rolling hills. This property has been in our family for generations. Come, stay and enjoy our property as we have for over 80 years. We provide secluded campsites with easy access and parking next to each site. Enjoy walking through our park- like trails which run throughout the woods. Listen to the wildlife, sit by the campfire, or enjoy canoeing, kayaking, or fishing on Apple River, and many other nearby lakes that our town has to offer. Downtown Amery is 2 miles away from the property. Enjoy small-town attractions, such as breweries, gift, antique, and thrift shops, outdoor music, grocery stores, coffeeshops, local restaurants, and bars. You can take a day trip to many of other small towns nearby, such as: - Taylor Falls, for hiking or daily river cruises on St Corix River. Located 20 minutes west of Amery. - Balsam Lake, for shopping, eateries, restaurants, and boating. 20 minutes NW of Amery. -Osceola, take a hike and enjoy the views of Cascade Falls. Stroll around downtown's many shops located 20 minutes due west of Amery. -Marine on St. Croix, 30 minutes west. -Stillwater which is under 45 minutes west. We are just over an hour from the Twin Cities. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS- Apple River-boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Access through public landing in downtown Amery 1 mile away. Cat Tail Trail-part of the Wisconsin State trail system. ½ mile from Hoppensteadt Hills. Must obtain trail sticker. 4 wheeling, side by side, hiking. Deer Lake Winery- Deer Lake-8 miles away. Balsam Chains of Lakes, - Balsam Lake, WI- 10 Miles away. Balsam Lake Beach- Balsam Lake, WI-10 miles away. Ahlgren Wildlife Preserve- Balsam Lake, WI- 12miles away. Dancing Dragonfly Winery-St. Croix Falls, WI-12 miles away. Taylors Falls canoe and Kayak Rental- Taylor Falls, MN, 12 miles away. Eric’s Canoe/Kayak rental-St. Croix Falls, WI-14 miles away. Canoe on the St. Croix Scenic Riverway. Interstate Park-St. Croix Falls, WI/Taylors Falls, MN-16 miles away. Cascade Falls- Osceola, WI-17 miles away. Osceola St. Croix Valley Railway- Osceola, 17 miles away. Osceola Bedrock Glades State Natural Area, and Standing Cedars State Natural Area_ Osceola
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$36
 / night

The best camping near St. Croix State Forest guide

Overview

About

While there’s no shortage of fun to be had at St. Croix State Forest, one of its coolest features is its easy access to St. Croix State Canoe Route, a nationally designated wild and scenic river that's perfect for traversing Minnesota by boat. If you’re sticking around after all, though, be sure to check out the huge variety of trails this place has to offer—they’ve got paths suited for everything from dogsledding and snowmobiling to skiing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Located within the largest state park in Minnesota on nearly 34,000 acres, St. Croix also has the largest collection of New Deal projects in the state—great spots to bring your lunchtime picnics! You can also fish for trout in Lake Clayton, or visit in the fall to forage for wild mushrooms. Be sure to pack your heavy coats, though—this former fur trading post near Lake Superior gets a brisk northerly chill you’ll wanna be prepared for.

Notable campgrounds

  • The Walter Stark Horse Campground: A perfect retreat for equestrian lovers with scenic trails and serene campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as the Walter Stark Horse Campground is a popular destination for nature lovers.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect campsite.

When to go

The best time to visit St. Croix State Forest is during the summer and fall when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Winter can be harsh, making some areas less accessible, but it offers a pristine snowy landscape for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Know before you go

  • Check the forest's website for any road or campsite improvements that may affect your visit.
  • Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife by reviewing safety guidelines.
  • Accessibility may vary across different areas of the forest, so plan accordingly.
  • Heavy machinery may be operating during certain periods for maintenance, impacting the tranquility.
  • For any inquiries, the forest's contact information is readily available for potential visitors.
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