The best camping near Banning State Park

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

100% (4 reviews)

From white-water rafting to rock climbing—thrills are easily found at this state park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Banning State Park

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Banning State Park

100%

(4)

Banning Campground

34 sites · RVs, Tents In Banning State Park

from

$23

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Banning State Park

97%

(301)

The Camps at the Vineyards

18 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Ogilvie, MN

This is a 10-acre part of a larger 110-acre property. This section is reserved for tents, camping vans, and small trailers 20' or less. The river is great for small children to wade and swim in during the summer. During spring, the water is up higher for kayaks and canoes. Your hosts live at 1010 205th Ave. It is just a vineyard for now. the winery we hope will be built in 2025.

96%

(134)

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.

95%

(73)

Wild Vines Campground

25 sites · Tents6 acres · Taylors Falls, MN

With some of the oldest vines in Minnesota, (1994) Wild Mountain Winery has been in operation since 2010 as a premier winery. Nestled on the second highest point in Chisago County, we offer picturesque views and quiet, natural setting. With both food, beer, cider and wine to sample, you will find something that makes you smile. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the setting you choose; in the vines of our 6 acres of vineyard, or in the woods next to the winery. Enjoy all the amenities of the winery with a short walk to your cot, hammock or sleeping bag. No "drive-in" sites available, but we provide pull carts or courtesy shuttle upon request. Close to Wild Mountain Ski and Water park. Each site offers a fire ring. On site bathrooms and potable water. Camp any day of the week. Check in- Friday 2:00, or by special request Sat/Sun 12:00 Weekdays 12:00 Check out- 11:00

100%

(36)

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.

99%

(53)

Evergreen Oasis Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Lindstrom, MN

Enjoy our 20-acre alpaca, sheep and u-pick flower farm located in Center City, Mn. Spend time with the animals, cutting flowers and even shopping in our barn market (when in season) We are surrounded by local hiking, swimming, fishing, shopping, breweries, state parks and more. As hosts we can be as interactive as you want!

100%

(3)

Into The Woods

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Webster, WI

Glamping in a geodesic dome on 4 private tree-filled land. Though no electricity or water access, this unique property does have a 20ft diameter domed structure with a bed, compostable toilet and a solar powered ceiling fan. Sitting on the deck or around the fire, you will see nothing but birds and trees

84%

(16)

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!

98%

(104)

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

4 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!

97%

(19)

Holiday Road

5 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. We are close to Father Hennepin (closed for repairs) 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. End your days with a cozy campfire and stargaze under a clear night sky. We have three campsite spots, a rustic one-room sleeping cabin with a sawdust loo, as well as a guest cabin with a bathroom and shower. There is also an outhouse on site. 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 shew them away if they get in your business. 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. 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 road. Enjoy your stay! Guests will need to be self contained, take waste with them and leave no trace. ***Seasonal Winter Camping Guests starting October 14th water will be shut off*** Seasonal winter camping is a unique experience, quite different from the usual camping trips you might be used to. In this setup, there won't be any running water or indoor toilets, so you'll need to rely on an outhouse or bring your own portable toilet for your bathroom needs. Since the water systems are shut off during winter, you'll have to bring your own water supply or melt snow for drinking and cooking. On the plus side, there is a space heater provided for those booking a stay in the Hygge Hus, which will help keep you warm. You'll definitely want to dress in layers and have good insulation to stay comfortable. One of the best things about winter camping is the solitude—you'll likely have the whole place to yourself, as not many people choose to camp in the cold. It can be a peaceful and serene experience, perfect for those who enjoy the quiet and beauty of winter landscapes and of course ice fishing and other activities. Just be prepared for the challenges that come with the cold weather! ***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: Use petroleum jelly, waterproof sunscreen, or other skin oils (put a layer of something between them and you). These can help reduce the ability of the Cercariae to penetrate your skin. 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, as this can increase the risk of swimmer's itch. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy swimming in our beautiful lake with less worry. Stay safe and have fun!

99%

(81)

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.

100%

(9)

O'Dalaigh Hideaway

1 site · Tent2 acres · Pine City, MN

Tent site is on a vacant lot next to our cabin lot on the Snake River East of Pine City MN. This lot has the better river view and experience as its a small peninsula that juts out to the river with rapids. There is a swimming area right next to the campsite or feel free to jump into the rapids if you want a rush. River is not deep most of the year and there is fishing right there as well, mostly large and small mouth bass. There is parking off the road and a short walk to the campsite, just follow the sounds of the river. A small wagon is provided to help with getting gear down to the river tent site. There is an outhouse on the cabin property and a trail leading to it. It's about a 50 yard walk from the parking area and about 100 yards from the tent site. If you want something more convenient, feel free to bring your own. Firewood is available for sale onsite or feel free to clean up dead wood lying around on the trail at no cost, note that it is more than likely freshly cut and wet but will burn if the fire is hot enough. We also have have kayaks if your interested in exploring the river. Most folks take either a 4 hour (from Pine City) trip or a shorter 1.5 hour one is available, both come right to the tent site (you don't want to miss or you'll end up at the St. Croix!). You can also start at the tent site and take the 4+ hour trip to the St. Croix river - but you will need to arrange transportation back along with the Kayaks. If you do not have a second vehicle to either take you to the starting point or if you cannot haul kayaks, arrangements for us to haul the kayaks and riders to the starting or pickup point can be made for a nominal fee if we are available. The tent site is right next to rapids on the Snake river. If you struggle sleeping to the sound of rushing water, this may not be for you!

93%

(21)

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.

The best camping near Banning State Park guide

Overview

About

Rocky gorges, waterfalls, and forested riverbanks set the scene for adventures in Banning State Park. Grab your canoe, kayak, or raft and tackle the gnarly rapids of the Kettle River—Blueberry Slide, Hell’s Gate, and Dragon Tooth are famous for their thrilling hairpin turns and dramatic scenery. Afterward, hit the trail to explore Banning Sandstone Quarry, Wolf Creek Falls, and Robinson’s Ice Cave; scale 40-foot cliffs overlooking the river; or bring your snowmobile or skis for a winter excursion. Campers can snag a spot at the small campground, pitch a tent at the five canoe-in campsites, or check into the camper cabin.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of the park’s 33 campsites (11 with electric hookups) in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website. Watercraft campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
Campsite reservations open 120 days in advance, and same-day bookings are possible.
Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book your spot as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

When to go

Paddling season at Banning State Park runs from April through September, and the park can get busy, especially on weekends. Parking fills up quickly, so plan an early morning or late afternoon arrival to secure a spot. Banning State Park Campground is open from April through mid to late November. Winter visits are equally enjoyable with options for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, but expect minimal facilities if you visit in the off-season.

Know before you go

Banning State Park is set 93 miles north of Minneapolis or about a 1.5-hour drive away.
Vehicle permits are required for all Minnesota state parks, in addition to camping reservation fees. Permits can be purchased in advance via the Minnesota State Parks website.
Park facilities include a gift shop, vault toilets, and picnic areas. Flush toilets and showers are available at the campground in season only.
There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Banning State Park.