The best camping near Bowstring State Forest

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

Discover Bowstring State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.  

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Bowstring State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Bowstring State Forest

99%
(73)

Harvest Loon Camp

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Outing, MN
📌Update: Cabin now complete with an indoor shower and toilet. ❄Cabin is now available year-round. 🌲 Picturesque lakeshore property located on 24 acres, with almost 2,000 feet of lake access right in front of the cabin. ⛵Lake public access is located at the end of the cabin driveway. Kayaking State Land surrounds Harvest Loon Camp for peace and relaxation. 🏕 Serene, peaceful and unrivaled privacy. Water sports and trails for hiking and quads make Harvest Loon Camp the perfect spot to relaxation and fun. 😊Radiant heat, wood stove, air conditioning and fans. 🔥Wood available for use with woodstove and campfires. 🛌 Campers WILL NEED to provide own bedding, (pillows, linens, blankets) for twin bunk, twin daybed and trundle and queen sized bed depending on sleeping needs. Also bring your own towels. 🍳 Kitchen has antique pots, pans, utensils, coffeepot, microwave, toaster, stove and refrigerator for your use. 🌟 Gorgeous furnished porch to watch wildlife. Grocery store within 5 miles. 🦆 This location is also perfect for horseback riding.
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$125
 / night
100%
(1)

Two Rivers RV and Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · La Prairie, MN
Escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in nature with your family at Two Rivers RV & Campground! Our Campground is located on over 50 acres at the confluence of the Mississippi and Prairie Rivers. A forest of mixed hardwoods and conifers cover the area, housing an abundance of wildlife including deer, bald eagles, porcupines, rabbits, chipmunks and many others. Wild blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries grow seasonally on the forest floor. The tall bluff along the river allows beautiful views of the river. The river has abundant fishing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. The Prairie River and Mississippi River offer great opportunities for boating and fishing. Anglers will find Walleye, Northern Pike, Catfish, Large and Small mouth Bass among other species. Birders enjoy viewing Bald Eagles, Hawks, Ducks, Geese and many other species from the trails of the park.
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$44
 / night
100%
(1)

Tamarack Ponds

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Deer River, MN
Welcome to Tamarack Ponds Camping, your gateway to the pristine beauty of Itasca County, Minnesota. Nestled on 40 acres of private land adorned with ancient cedar, ash, and black spruce trees, our campground offers a serene nature retreat. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, where the melodies of wildlife fill the air, creating a symphony of natural sounds. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have you covered with carefully curated camping spots. Two tenting spots equipped with fire pits and cooking grates provide the perfect setting for a cozy evening under the stars. For RV enthusiasts, we offer 1-2 spacious spots complete with 20, 30, and 50-amp electric hookups, a movable fire pit, ensuring a comfortable stay amid the wilderness. Situated between the charming towns of Cohasset and Deer River, and just minutes from the bustling hub of Grand Rapids, our private property campground offers easy access to a wealth of outdoor adventures. Explore world-class fishing lakes, traverse ATV trails, or embark on scenic hikes through lush forests—there's something for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. Fishermen and women are welcome to park here as their base camp, RV style fish houses are welcome. *FYI, this private property has a cabin and outbuildings on it, and the owner may be there while you stay. At Tamarack Ponds Camping, we invite you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. Join us for an unforgettable camping experience in the heart of Itasca County.
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$20
 / night
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(12)

The Heart of Paul Bunyan Forest

1 site · RV2 acres · Laporte, MN
This has been a special property for us, its 2 private acres in the heart of the forest. Make sure you have a compass! This is prime property, especially if you are an ATV or OHM enthusiast! This puts you in the heart of it all! 10 minutes from Stomping Grounds, Akeley and Fort Benedict Outpost!IMPORTANT NOTE - Rustic Seclusion is not for Everyone. This is for unplugging and enjoying the finer things in life. If that's you, this is your paradise. You must drive to Fishing and Swimming from here.  Under 15 minutes to Akeley or Walker. Learn more about this land:We are very excited to share this super Private 2 acre property in the heart of the Paul Bunyan forest within 200 yards of the ATV trailheads in both directions. Very Awesome camping for those that just want to get away! If you don't ride, that's ok, you will never find a better forest cleanse than planting yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of natural forest! Property has 3 cleared spots for Campers and multiple spots for tents. There is an AFrame on the property that you will not have access to. You get this spot all to yourself!
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$50
 / night
83%
(3)

Trails Inn Quadna Motel & RV Park

62 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Hill City, MN
Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel and RV Park offers guests a rustic retreat nestled in the natural beauty of Hill City, Minnesota. Here's what guests can expect: Scenic Surroundings: Immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings of Quadna Mountain, with its lush forests, area lakes, and breathtaking views. Accommodations: The motel offers comfortable and cozy rooms, while the RV park provides spaces for those traveling with their own accommodation. Whether staying in a room or an RV, guests can expect clean, well-maintained facilities. Outdoor Activities: There's no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and biking along scenic trails to fishing and boating on nearby lakes. The terrain also offers opportunities for ATV riding, mountain biking, and snowmobiling in the winter months. Relaxation: For those seeking relaxation, unwind by a campfire in the evenings to share stories and stargaze. Community Atmosphere: Trails Inn fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where guests can connect with fellow travelers and exchange tips and recommendations for exploring the area. Overall, Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel and RV Park provides a perfect getaway for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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$20
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Wildlife Orchard

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Grand Rapids, MN
Come stay at our peaceful farm in the forest! We are passionate about the natural world and cultivating our own food. Our farm is focused on a diversity of crops and animals while maintaining the beautiful wild setting we live in. We want to share the knowledge we are gaining as well as welcome interested people to experience the beauty of Northern Minnesota's woods, wilderness, and waters. Come to explore, relax, have fun, and recharge in a quiet natural setting. Learn more about this land: Rural old growth forest campsite connected to 7,287 acre state forest with hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing trails. Small diverse farm to visit- chickens, sheep and bees. Orchards and gardens with countless flowers, fruit trees and bushes, and vegetables. Greenhouse to tour. Beach 5 miles away- large beautiful lake for swimming. 6 person sauna, outhouse, fire pit, and walking trails on property.
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$50
 / night

The best camping near Bowstring State Forest guide

Overview

About

The trail reigns supreme in Bowstring State Forest. Leave your cars behind and follow thy pavementless paths deep into the heart of this magical forest. Be ye on foot, mountain bike, or cross-country skis, the trails within Bowstring will lead ye hither to scenic vistas, tranquil wetlands, and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Forget not thy photographical supplies, for the terrain and wildlife found within the bounds of this hallowed land are a sight to behold. Bring thy friends, bring thy family, and have ye a merry time!

When to go

The best times to visit Bowstring State Forest are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for exploring, but be prepared for busier trails. Winter can be harsh, so ensure you're equipped for snow activities if you venture during this season.

Know before you go

  • Check the latest park updates for road and campsite improvements before your visit.
  • Heavy machinery may be operating in certain areas; stay informed to avoid disruptions.
  • Remember to call ahead or check online for campsite availability and reservations.
  • For any inquiries, the park's contact information is readily available for your convenience.
  • Sign up for email updates to stay informed about events and changes within the park.

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