Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” offers some of the most breathtaking outdoor experiences in the United States. With its vast forests, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, Minnesota is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and campers. Whether you’re an avid backpacker, a family looking for a weekend getaway, or someone in search of solitude in nature, Minnesota has the perfect camping destination for you. Here are some of the top-rated best camps in minnesota for your next outdoor adventure.
1. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Location: Northern Minnesota
Highlights: The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a vast wilderness area spanning over a million acres, with thousands of interconnected lakes and streams. It offers unparalleled opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and camping. The pristine beauty of the wilderness, combined with the abundance of wildlife, makes it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Camping Options: There are numerous campgrounds and backcountry campsites throughout the BWCAW, ranging from developed campgrounds with amenities to remote backcountry sites accessible only by canoe or hiking. Popular entry points include Ely, Grand Marais, and Gunflint Trail.
2. Itasca State Park
Location: Northern Minnesota
Highlights: Itasca State Park is Minnesota’s oldest state park and is famous for being the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Visitors can walk across the iconic Mississippi Headwaters, where the river begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Camping Options: Itasca State Park has several campgrounds, including drive-in campsites, walk-in sites, and group campsites. The park also offers cabins and camper cabins for those looking for a more comfortable camping experience.
3. Gooseberry Falls State Park
Location: North Shore of Lake Superior
Highlights: Gooseberry Falls State Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and scenic overlooks along the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior. Visitors can hike along the river gorge, explore the waterfalls, and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
Camping Options: The park offers drive-in campsites, backpacking sites, and group campsites. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, and a visitor center with interpretive exhibits.
4. Voyageurs National Park
Location: Northern Minnesota
Highlights: Voyageurs National Park is a water-based park consisting of four large lakes and numerous smaller ones, as well as over 500 islands. Visitors can explore the park by boat, canoe, or kayak and enjoy fishing, wildlife watching, and stargazing.
Camping Options: The park has drive-in campsites, boat-in campsites, and backcountry campsites accessible only by water. Amenities vary depending on the campsite, but most have picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.
Conclusion
Minnesota is a camper’s paradise, with its diverse landscapes, pristine wilderness, and abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a remote backcountry campsite or the convenience of a drive-in campground with amenities, you’ll find the perfect camping destination in Minnesota. So pack your gear, hit the road, and discover the natural beauty of the Land of 10,000 Lakes.