Top 10 Campgrounds with Boat Launches in Minnesota

Those planning to go camping in Minnesota will most likelywant to stick to the warmer months. While Minnesota is beautiful in the colder seasons, winter that far north can be harsh, especially if you aren’t used to cold-weather camping. Late spring to early fall is the sweet spot for most campers heading to the North Star State.

Minnesota has great waterfront access, so watersports enthusiasts will be right at home. Hiking and camping in Minnesota are often underrated since some of the best spots can take work to get to, but they’re worth the extra effort. Minnesota has plenty of trails to take in and even offers a 310-mile thru-hike, the Superior Hiking Trail.

There’s only one true national park in Minnesota, and it requires a good deal of planning to find your way there. If you’re willing to commit to a trip to Voyageurs National Park, you’ll be well-rewarded for your efforts, both in views and lack of standard national parks crowding.

Routinely one of the least-visited parks in the U.S., Voyageurs is a great place for adventurers seeking solitude when camping in Minnesota.

Voyageurs National Park

It takes a boat or water taxi ride to get to this Minnesota national park, so Voyageurs quickly weeds out the less enthusiastic. If you’re willing to put in the work, Voyageurs National Park has one of the more unique ecosystems of all national parks. You’ll be transported through dense forests, wetlands, and even get to see parts of the Arctic Watershed.

Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway has long been a go-to destination for those heading north to enjoy the waterways. This watersports playground offers more than 200 miles of river to paddle through, float on, or just sit by while enjoying the sun.

You’ll have plenty of riverside campsites available, though they’re not amenity-rich and thus better suited for those looking for primitive camping in Minnesota.

Superior National Forest

Near the Canadian border lies a massive national forest, perfect for hiking, fishing, and camping in Minnesota. Avid watersports enthusiasts will recognize Superior National Forest as the site of the Boundary Waters, one of the best wilderness areas in the U.S. for both paddling and camping.

Chippewa National Forest

One of the Chippewa National Forest’s biggest offerings is its diversity of camping options. Those looking for an authentic, rugged nature experience can easily find it here. Fear not if your plans for camping in Minnesota list comfort as a higher priority; the Chippewa can still deliver.

If you’re planning on staying in a more comfortable, developed campground, note that these are open seasonally from May 1 to October 1.

Tettegouche State Park

Pronounced “tet-a-gooch,” if you were curious. This state park is near Lake Superior and easy to add to any itinerary in the northeastern part of the state. No matter the season, you’ll get great views of Lake Superior, as well as the waterfalls within the park’s boundaries.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

While there’s plenty to do at this park, Gooseberry Falls themselves are easily the biggest draw here. The hike is less than an hour each way with plenty to see along the trail. This is a solid option for camping in Minnesota if you want shaded spots in the woods with minimal amenities and distractions.

Jay Cooke State Park

What makes Jay Cooke unique is the history here. There’s a historic inn on-site with proximity to the crowd-favorite Swinging Bridge. A visit to the bridge gives you views of the St. Louis River, and a hike to Oldenburg Point gives you great views of the entire St. Louis River Valley.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

If you really put your mind to it, you could walk from the Gooseberry Falls lakeshore to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. The whole 14.6-mile section will have you pass through Split Rock and end up at the Beaver River. If you aren’t game for a half-marathon and change, you’ll want to at least see the namesake lighthouse and take in the Split Rock River Overlook.