Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota

Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota

Discover the best swimming campgrounds across Minnesota. Beat the heat at campgrounds with pristine swimming spots. Lakes, rivers, beaches, and swimming holes just steps from your campsite.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Summer (June-September)
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Fall Lake
Star
4.8
(597)
Fall Lake
Ely
Superior National Forest

Crystal-clear waters lap against sandy shorelines where families splash in the refreshing embrace of this pristine northwoods lake. Kids wade safely in shallow coves while parents lounge on natural beaches, soaking in the same wilderness beauty that makes the Boundary Waters legendary.

Tents
RVs
2
Gull Lake Recreation Area
Star
4.7
(539)
Gull Lake Recreation Area
Brainerd
Mississippi River Headwaters - Gull Lake

Swimmers dive into crystal-clear Gull Lake waters from sandy shores where families gather for all-day lake adventures. The spacious swimming area welcomes splashers of all ages, from toddlers wading in shallow waters to experienced swimmers exploring deeper sections.

Tents
RVs
3
Whiteface Reservoir
Star
4.7
(275)
Whiteface Reservoir
Aurora
Superior National Forest

The 4,980-acre reservoir features sandy swim beaches where families splash in clear, refreshing waters surrounded by towering pines and wilderness shoreline. Children wade safely in shallow areas while parents relax on the sand, creating the quintessential Northwoods summer memory.

Tents
RVs

About Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota

Swimming camping Minnesota offers an unparalleled experience across the Land of 10,000 Lakes, where crystal-clear waters meet pristine wilderness settings perfect for family adventures and wilderness escapes alike. From the legendary Boundary Waters gateway at Fall Lake to the family-friendly shores of Gull Lake Recreation Area in the Brainerd Lakes region, Minnesota's swimming campgrounds provide access to some of the cleanest, most refreshing lake waters in North America.

Best Time

The prime swimming camping season in Minnesota runs from mid-June through late August, with July and early August offering the warmest water temperatures and most reliable weather. Memorial Day weekend through mid-June sees lakes warming up but water temperatures often remain in the 60s, better suited for hardy swimmers.

Activity Highlights

  • Lake and river swimming access
  • Natural swimming holes
  • Beach and waterfront sites
  • Family-friendly swimming areas

Campground Locations

Showing top 16 campgrounds near Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota

Map of campgrounds near Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota
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Map Key
1
Fall Lake
2
Gull Lake Recreation Area
3
Whiteface Reservoir
4
Fenske Lake Campground
5
Ninemile Lake Campground
6
Clubhouse Lake
7
Birch Lake Campground
8
Group Campground
9
Camper Cabins Campground
10
Camper Cabins And Yurts Campground
11
North Star
12
Remote Campsites Campground
13
Group Campground
14
Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground
15
Harriet Lake Rustic Campground
16
Cass Lake Campground Loop
View all 116 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming in pristine glacial lakesBeach lounging and sunbathingKayaking and canoeingStand-up paddleboardingFishing for walleye, bass, and northern pikeHiking lakeside trails

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular swimming campgrounds like Gull Lake Recreation Area and Fall Lake at least 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends, as lakefront sites book quickly.
  • 2Bring water shoes for rocky shorelines common in northeastern Minnesota, while sandy-bottom lakes in central regions allow barefoot swimming.
  • 3Pack reef-safe sunscreen as Minnesota prioritizes water quality protection, and consider a shade shelter for beach time since lakeside sites often have limited tree cover near swimming areas.
  • 4Always check current water quality reports through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, though featured campgrounds consistently maintain excellent clarity.
16 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota

Swimming Campgrounds in Minnesota FAQ

We've ranked 20+ swimming campgrounds in Minnesota based on water access, swimming areas, safety, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds on lakes, rivers, and beaches with designated swimming areas.
Swimming safety varies by location. Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during peak season. Always check for posted warnings, water conditions, and currents before swimming. Never swim alone.
Summer (June-September) is the best time for swimming camping in Minnesota. Water temperatures are warmest and swimming areas are typically staffed. Some mountain lakes may be too cold for swimming even in summer.
Availability Alerts

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