The best camping near Father Hennepin State Park

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

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Discover the natural charm of Father Hennepin State Park.

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Community favorites near Father Hennepin State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Father Hennepin State Park

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Group Camp

6 sites In Father Hennepin State Park

Maple Grove Campground

41 sites · RVs, Tents In Father Hennepin State Park

Lakeview Campground

62 sites · RVs, Tents In Father Hennepin State Park

from

$23

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Father Hennepin State Park

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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.

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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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The little cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Princeton, MN

Great Fall location, Wildlife and less bugs. By far the best time of the year to enjoy camping. You will have the only camp site on the property. You can stay in the small camping cabin in comfort with your own bedding, or sleeping bag for the twin bed in the loft, or the futon on the main level. The cabin only has room for two adults unless you bring a camp pad to sleep on the floor, or squeeze in a child, but you have the comforts of Heat with a small electric heater, or A/C, a Weber grill, small fridge, microwave, and Electricity. Quiet former country farm site, with great wildlife viewing options with walking trails. Only 23 miles to DT St. Cloud and 8 Miles to the Walmart in Princeton for food or supplies. Just a half mile off Hwy 95 and 5 miles from the large Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, with trails and lots of wildlife. Expect to hear Pheasants cackle in the AM, and see Sandhill Cranes or Geese fly over the camp site, or sitting in area fields. Enjoy time around a campfire with folding chairs and a picknick table with plenty of free dry wood in a storage rack.

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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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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!

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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!

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Pioneer Farm on Fish Lake

4 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Harris, MN

Canpers! We have added one more pop up camper for this Memorial Day weekend ! First one gets it! This lakefront farm is a very special spiritual location. Listen to the night life in the woods and loons on the lake. Fall time- the acorns are falling:) BEAT the HEAT at the LAKE! The farm animals are gone now, but there remains a huge barn and outbuildings. Enjoy observing old time architecture! Room for soccer too! Monet tight? We are open to a refund of $20 a day for an hour for farm chores. Chores like mending fences, cutting vegetation, collecting the harvest from the earth, etc. Pay in full thru hipcamp, then we can arrange a task per interest and capabilities!! We're almost seventy now -getting harder to keep things up, ya know! need lots of oak limbs peeled off the bark:)

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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!

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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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Winding Woods on Pine River

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Crosby, MN

Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Outhouse bathroom. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** 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 & 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, Minnesota. 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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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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The Jubilee Homestead

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Stanchfield, MN

Our family at The Jubilee Homestead is looking forward to another great camping season in 2024! This small hobby farm is where I (Esther) grew up and now my husband Joel, our four children, and my parents, are developing it into a self-supporting farmstead and event venue as we raise chickens and Nigerian dwarf goats, and grow a pick-your-own elderberry field. Our oldest son loves to plant and manage a small market garden with our campers in mind, so depending on when in the season you come, you may find some garden treasures to take home! We offer a single site for off-season and winter camping for longer visits at a discounted rate. Please reach out for more information if you're interested. What you can expect when you camp at The Jubilee Homestead: Free firewood Free 20amp electricity hookup at all sites (not enough to run A/C, plenty for everything else) Free water Free farm fresh, free-range eggs to collect yourself in the mornings plus more for sale when available. Free access to broomball court and equipment in barn loft Rustic trail around back of property about 1/4 mile long Playground Dishwashing sink Campers are welcome to enjoy The Milk Room which is our Lounge and Farm Store. You'll find self-serve coffee, hot cocoa, and other options available for purchase, including fresh garden produce when available. There is a microwave, places to sit and visit, and even a game table. Joel and I have co-authored several books (under the pen name J.E. Ribbey) which are also available in the Farm Store. We have an American post-apocalyptic thriller series and a historical fiction series for middle grade readers about the American Revolutionary War. We have a nice, fully private outdoor shower with hot water available for $2.50/shower. Guests can pay on-site via our posted QR codes or cash box. We have Nigerian dwarf goats, chickens, and geese. We also have several apple trees, cherries, and elderberries. We're also available for other events like birthday parties, intimate weddings, and group gatherings at our gazebo and/or 20ft x 40ft party tent. As a homeschooling, home business building family, there is usually a project or two always in the works to join in on if you feel so inclined or just sit back and enjoy the peace of clean air and loving goats! Several lakes in the area provide numerous options for fishing, boating, and hiking. And nothing beats those evening country road walks while agate hunting! Other area attractions include Mini golf in Cambridge, public aquatic center with water slides in Mora, and several state parks an hour or less away.

The best camping near Father Hennepin State Park guide

Overview

About

You’ll think you’re in an episode of the Simpsons when you see the cartoonishly vibrant colors at Father Hennepin State Park. Bright green trees line the pristine sandy beach on the Mille Lacs Lake, all framed by blue skies and even bluer water. Named for a Franciscan priest who visited the area with a French expedition in 1680, the French actually called the area Louisiana (in honor of Louis XIV) when Father Hennepin wrote home to describe its beauty. Hike to Pope’s Point to catch a sunset over the lake, or test out your volleyball skills on the beachside courts. Whatever you do, be sure to pack bug spray—you’ll be on a boggy midwestern lake, after all.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Father Hennepin State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be busy. Winters are cold and quiet, suitable for those seeking solitude amid the snow-covered landscapes.

Know before you go

Highway 67 is permanently closed; follow alternative routes provided by the park for access.
Check the park's official website or contact the park office for the latest information on closures and conditions.
Remember to bring essentials for outdoor activities, including water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
For a smooth visit, use the provided GPS coordinates to navigate to different areas within the park.
Park staff will check in campers directly at their sites, so there's no need to stop at the park office upon arrival.