The Best 8 Family Campgrounds in Minnesota
Planning a family camping trip in Minnesota? You’re in the right place. With its 10,000+ lakes, scenic forests, and wide range of family-friendly campgrounds, Minnesota is one of the best destinations for outdoor adventures with kids.
From state parks with hiking trails and crystal-clear lakes to private campgrounds packed with amenities and activities, there’s something here for every kind of family. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire, exploring wooded trails, or spending the day on the water, these Minnesota campgrounds make it easy to relax, explore, and create lasting memories together.
As parents ourselves, we know what makes or breaks a family camping trip. Here’s what we look for when choosing the best campgrounds in Minnesota:
Clean Bathrooms
A must—especially for tent campers. Well-maintained restrooms and showers make a huge difference, even if you have an RV.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Playgrounds, easy hiking trails, and optional organized activities help keep kids engaged (and give parents a chance to relax).
Campsite Privacy
No one wants to feel packed in. We love campgrounds that offer a bit of space so you can truly unwind and feel connected to nature.
Pro Tip:
Bring an outdoor mat to place just outside your tent or RV entrance. It creates a clean spot to step onto, keeps dirt and sand out of your sleeping area, and gives kids a place to drop shoes and gear. It’s a simple upgrade that makes your whole campsite feel more organized and comfortable.
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With those priorities in mind, here are some of the best family-friendly campgrounds across Minnesota.
Trails RV Park (Walker, MN)
Open from early May through October, Trails RV Park is a full-service campground in north-central Minnesota, near the Chippewa National Forest. It’s a great home base for families who love to stay active—once you’re set up, you’re just 10 minutes from the Paul Bunyan State Trail, offering over 120 miles of scenic paths to explore.
Back at the campground, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. From the heated pool to the game room and sports courts, it’s an easy place for families to settle in and enjoy downtime. The campground is also bike-friendly and designed with families in mind, making it a comfortable and convenient spot for both short stays and seasonal camping.
Why Families Love It
- Heated pool and pavilion with game room for all-ages fun
- Close to Paul Bunyan State Trail with 120+ miles of hiking and biking
- Safe, bike-friendly campground layout for kids
- Playground, sports courts, and planned children’s activities
Good to Know
- Open seasonally from early May through October
- Offers both seasonal and short-term (daily) campsites
- Clean, modern restrooms with private dressing areas
- Coin laundry and WiFi available
- Pets welcome (fee applies)
Campsite Details
RV/Trailer Sites
- 106 total campsites
- Mix of seasonal and daily sites
- Full hookups: water, sewer, 20/30/50 amp electric
- Cable TV available
- Picnic table and fire ring at each site
Fritz’s Resort Campground (Nisswa, MN)
Family-owned and operated, Fritz’s Resort Campground lives up to its tagline—“a great place for family fun.” Located in the heart of Minnesota’s lake country, this campground is built for active, outdoors-loving families, with a wide range of amenities and activities for kids of all ages.
The private sandy beach is a standout feature, offering the perfect spot to spend the day swimming, relaxing, or playing along the shoreline. Families can bring their own boat (with a public launch just a mile away) or rent one right at the campground—both motorized and non-motor options are available. Between the beach, sports courts, and recreation hall, there’s always something to do.
Campsites are spacious and well-equipped, and with two shower and laundry facilities on-site, it’s easy to stay comfortable throughout your stay. For families who prefer a little more convenience, Fritz’s also offers fully equipped cabins in a range of sizes.
Why Families Love It
- Private sandy beach with swimming area
- Boat rentals available (motorized and non-motor)
- Two playgrounds plus multiple sports courts
- Recreation hall with game room for indoor fun
Good to Know
- Family-owned and operated campground
- Two shower and laundry facilities for convenience
- Public boat launch located just 1 mile away
- Spacious campsites for tents and RVs
- Cabins available with linens and air conditioning
Campsite Details
Tent & RV Sites:
- 92 total campsites
- 30/50 amp electric and running water
- Picnic table and fire ring at each site
Cabins:
- 5 cabins available
- 1–4 bedroom options (sleep 2–10)
- Air conditioning and WiFi included
- Picnic table and fire ring
Two Rivers Campground & Tubing (Royalton, MN)
If your ideal family camping trip includes equal parts relaxation and high-energy fun, Two Rivers Campground & Tubing delivers. Set in the scenic Platte River Valley, this campground is best known for its tubing experience—where you can float the river and enjoy an easy, family-friendly adventure with shuttle service included.
Beyond the river, the campground is packed with activities that keep kids moving all day long. From two resort-style pools (complete with waterslides) to mini golf and sports courts, there’s no shortage of ways to stay entertained. Campsites are tucked among tall trees, offering a more private, shaded setting that makes it easy to unwind after a full day of activity.
Why Families Love It
- River tubing experience with shuttle included
- Two large pools, including one with waterslides
- Wide variety of activities: mini golf, sports courts, and more
- Shaded, more private campsites surrounded by tall trees
Good to Know
- 142 total campsites available
- Full hookup sites for RVs
- Clean restrooms and shower house on-site
- Planned activities for kids and families
- Dog park available for pets
Campsite Details
Tent & RV Sites:
- 142 campsites
- Full hookups available
- Picnic table and fire ring at each site
Trying to keep your tent clean (especially with kids)?
This guide walks through simple ways to keep dirt, sand, and moisture out of your setup:
How to Keep Your Tent Clean and Dry While Camping
Kamp Dels (Waterville, MN)
Just an hour south of the Twin Cities, Kamp Dels is less of a campground and more of a full-on family camping destination. If your crew loves having nonstop things to do, this is the kind of place where you can stay busy from morning to night without ever leaving the grounds.
The highlight is the on-site waterpark, packed with waterslides, splash pads, and pools that kids will gravitate to immediately. But that’s just the beginning—there’s also a petting zoo, access to Lake Sakatah with a half-mile of shoreline, and a long list of included water activities like kayaks, canoes, aqua bikes, and paddle boats. It’s the kind of campground where you can fill your entire day without needing to plan a thing.
Despite all the activity, the campsites themselves are simple, flat, and grassy—perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. And with quiet hours strictly enforced, families can count on a good night’s sleep after all that fun.
Why Families Love It
- Huge on-site waterpark with slides, splash pads, and pools
- Lake Sakatah access with swimming, boating, and fishing
- Many activities included in the nightly camping fee
- Petting zoo and wide variety of family-friendly amenities
Good to Know
- Located about 1 hour south of the Twin Cities
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced at night
- Some activities require an additional fee (arcade, mini golf, batting cages, etc.)
- Shuttle service available around the park
- Laundry facilities on-site
Campsite Details
Tent & RV Sites:
- 120 total campsites
- Most sites are full hookup (18 electric-only sites)
- Flat, grassy sites
- Picnic table and fire ring at each site
Kiesler’s Campground & RV Resort (Waseca, MN)
Open from late April through early October, Kiesler’s Campground & RV Resort is all about creating those high-energy, memory-filled family camping experiences. If your ideal trip includes organized fun, meeting other families, and a packed activity schedule, this is a spot worth considering.
The campground is known for its full calendar of planned events—from sports tournaments and crafts to themed weekends and even messy relays that kids absolutely love. There’s always something happening, and families are encouraged to jump right in. They even offer weekly prizes (up to $500), adding an extra layer of excitement for kids and adults alike. With so many shared activities, it’s easy for kids to make friends and stay engaged all week long.
Why Families Love It
- Full schedule of planned activities, events, and themed weekends
- Weekly prizes and games that keep kids engaged
- Great social atmosphere—easy for kids to meet and play together
- Wide variety of on-site recreation and entertainment options
Good to Know
- Open seasonally from late April through early October
- Download their app to keep up with daily activities and schedules
- Mix of included activities and some paid options (mini golf, pontoon rentals)
- Clean, modern restrooms and shower house
- WiFi and on-site gift store available
Campsite Details
Regular (Non-Seasonal) Tent & RV Sites:
- 93 campsites
- Water and electric hookups (sewer at select sites)
- Cable TV available at select sites
- Picnic table and fire ring
Seasonal RV Sites:
- 281 campsites
- Water and electric hookups (sewer at select sites)
- Cable TV available at select sites
- Picnic table and fire ring
South Isle Family Campground (Isle, MN)
If your ideal camping trip is more about slowing down and enjoying simple family time, South Isle Family Campground offers a quieter, more laid-back experience. Family-owned and operated since 1991, this campground focuses on creating a welcoming, easygoing environment where kids can play and parents can truly relax.
One of the standout features here is that many of the activities are included—families can enjoy paddle boats, the heated pool, and even rides on the Rainbow Express train without worrying about extra costs. The themed weekend schedule adds just enough structure and fun, while still keeping the overall vibe relaxed and family-first.
Why Families Love It
- Relaxed, low-key atmosphere perfect for unplugging
- Many activities included (paddle boats, pool, train rides)
- Themed weekends with fun, family-friendly events
- Long-standing, family-owned campground with a welcoming feel
Good to Know
- Family-owned and operated since 1991
- Smaller campground with a quieter, less crowded feel
- Mix of dry and water/electric sites available
- Recreation hall, playground, and sports courts on-site
- Fish cleaning house available for anglers
Campsite Details
Regular (Non-Seasonal) Tent & RV Sites:
- 43 campsites
- Dry sites and water/electric options available
- Picnic table and fire ring
Seasonal RV Sites:
- 85 campsites
- Three hookup options:
- Water/Electric/Sewer
- Water/Electric with honey wagon service
- Water/Electric without honey wagon service
- Picnic table and fire ring
Wild River State Park (Center City, MN)
For families who want to truly immerse themselves in nature, Wild River State Park offers a more classic, back-to-basics Minnesota camping experience. Set along 18 miles of the St. Croix River, this park is ideal for outdoor-loving families who would rather spend their days hiking, paddling, and spotting wildlife than hanging out at a pool.
There’s no shortage of ways to explore here—miles of trails, canoeing opportunities, and naturalist-led programs help bring the landscape to life. Keep an eye out for hawks, eagles, and owls overhead, and you may even spot tracks from deer, foxes, or otters along the trails. For kids, the visitor center and Junior Park Ranger program add an extra layer of engagement, making this a great choice for families who want both adventure and learning.
Why Families Love It
- 18 miles of St. Croix River access for paddling and exploring
- Extensive hiking trails with wildlife and wildflower viewing
- Educational programs and Junior Park Ranger opportunities
- Variety of unique camping options (canoe-in, backpack, group sites)
Good to Know
- Showers and flush toilets are seasonal (vault toilets available year-round)
- Visitor center with exhibits, gift shop, and ranger programs
- Winter activities available (cross-country skiing and snowshoeing)
- Group campsites available for up to 18 people
- Multiple camping styles, including rustic and hike-in options
Campsite Details
Drive-In Tent & RV Sites:
- 94 campsites
- Good privacy between sites
- Max: 2 tents OR 1 tent + 1 camper
- Winter camping available
Electric Sites:
- 34 campsites
Pull-Through Camper Sites:
- 2 campsites (non-electric)
Backpack Sites:
- 8 campsites
- No water
- ½ to 2 miles hike-in access
Canoe Sites:
- 4 campsites
- Located along St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
- First come, first serve
Horse Camp Sites:
- 20 campsites
- Rustic sites (18 with electricity)
- No showers; picket lines available
Group Camping:
- 9 campsites (tents only)
- Up to 18 people per site
- Rustic (no drive-up access, no showers)
- Hand pump water and vault toilets
Camper Cabins:
- 6 cabins (year-round)
- Sleep up to 6
- Rustic, one-room cabins
- No indoor plumbing; no pets
- Screened porch, heat, and electricity
- Fire ring and grill for outdoor cooking
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park (Preston, MN)
If your family is looking for a camping trip that’s a little more adventurous (and a lot more memorable), Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park delivers something you won’t find anywhere else on this list. The highlight here is Mystery Cave—the longest cave in Minnesota, with over 13 miles of underground passages to explore.
Guided cave tours range from easy one-hour walks to lantern tours and even longer, more advanced experiences. No matter which you choose, one thing to remember—it’s always 48°F inside, so bring layers! Above ground, the park offers even more to explore, from historic Forestville tours to miles of hiking trails, trout fishing streams, and seasonal horseback riding.
Campsites are known for their space and privacy, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploring both above and below ground. With a mix of camping styles and cabin options, it’s a great fit for families who want a little flexibility in how they camp.
Why Families Love It
- Unique cave tours at Mystery Cave (13 miles of underground passages)
- Variety of tour options, from short walks to extended experiences
- Mix of outdoor activities: hiking, fishing, and horseback riding
- Spacious, more private campsites
Good to Know
- Cave temperature stays at 48°F year-round—bring warm clothing
- Guided tours required for cave access (multiple tour options available)
- Showers and dump station are seasonal
- Horse trails require a horse pass
- Visitor center with exhibits and naturalist programs
Campsite Details
Drive-In Tent & RV Sites:
- 73 campsites
- 50 are seasonal sites
Horse Camping Sites:
- 55 campsites
- 23 sites have electricity
Group Camping:
- 2 campsites
- Each accommodates up to 50 people
- Seasonal
- Water spigots, vault toilets, and fire rings
Camper Cabins:
- 5 cabins
- Sleep 5–6 people
- Heat and electricity (year-round)
- No pets
- Picnic table and outdoor grill
Learn more about cave tours:
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/tours/mystery_cave/tours/index.html
Make Camping More Comfortable (and Less Messy)
Camping with kids is incredible—but it also means sand, dirt, mud, snacks, and gear everywhere.
A simple outdoor mat creates a clean, defined space at your campsite—whether you’re at the beach, in the woods, or parked at an RV resort.
Why Families Love Using an Outdoor Mat at Campgrounds
- Keeps sand and dirt out of your tent or RV
- Creates a clean place for kids to play, eat, or hang out
- Comfortable underfoot (especially on gravel or hard ground)
- Easy to shake off, rinse, and pack away
Where You’ll Actually Use It
- Outside your RV or tent as a “front porch”
- At the beach (especially at coastal campgrounds)
- Under picnic tables for meals
- At sports sidelines or day trips during your stay
👉Create a clean, comfortable space at your campsite with a durable outdoor mat designed for real RV living.
