How much does camping cost at Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Cross Lake Recreation Area range from $24-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cross Lake Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Cross Lake Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cross Lake Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Cross Lake Recreation Area has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Cross Lake Recreation Area is open May 14 to October 14. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, Cross Lake Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Cross Lake Recreation Area have?

Cross Lake Recreation Area has 122 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cross Lake Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Cross Lake Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Cross Lake Recreation Area include Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cross Lake Recreation Area

4.54

924 reviews

35507 County Rd 66

Top 23% in MNSummer

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,234 ft

Price

$24 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

122 campsites

Season

The Campground will ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,234 ft

Price

$24 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

122 campsites

Season

The Campground will ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Cross Lake Recreation Area

$24.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

FULL HOOK-UP: $40.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $32.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation...

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

651-290-5793

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

35507 County Rd 66

Cross Lake Recreation Area

35507 County Rd 66

Nearby places

Brainerd (approximately 28.2 miles, about 35 minutes driving)

Crosslake (adjacent)

Baxter (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes).

Weather at Cross Lake Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Cross Lake Recreation Area

Best season: summer. Summer offers warm, stable weather and the fullest set of recreational opportunities—think swimming, boating, paddling, and peak fishing on Cross Lake—while all campground facilities and boat launches are open. Daytime highs typically sit in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F with water temps comfortable for swimming (low 70s°F), making it ideal for family beach days and long evenings around a campfire. Expect higher weekend crowds and busy boat traffic, so reserve sites and plan launches on weekday or早-m Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in MN

Peak season with best weather, warm water and many activities; reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 14 to October 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The Campground will close 15-OCT-2026 for the remainder of the season. This includes all dump stations, all restrooms, and water spigots. At this time, the main boat ramp is expected to remain available throughout October.

About Cross Lake Recreation Area

Cross Lake Recreation Area sits on the shores of Cross Lake in the Mississippi River Headwaters region near Crosslake, Minnesota. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this large campground offers full-hookup RV sites and tent camping with electric and water hookups amid mature trees and rolling foothills. Campers fish, boat, swim, and bike while enjoying picturesque sunsets over the water and easy access to nearby shops.

Cross Lake Recreation Area accommodates diverse camping preferences with options for RVs, tents, and group camping. Primitive camping is limited, but tent sites are dedicated, albeit criticized for strict rules.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers warm, stable weather and the fullest set of recreational opportunities—think swimming, boating, paddling, and peak fishing on Cross Lake—while all campground facilities and boat launches are open. Daytime highs typically sit in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F with water temps comfortable for swimming (low 70s°F), making it ideal for family beach days and long evenings around a campfire. Expect higher weekend crowds and busy boat traffic, so reserve sites and plan launches on weekday or早-m Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1234 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies wooded terrain along Cross Lake's shoreline, with mature pines providing shade across much of the property. Cross Lake connects to the broader Whitefish Chain, a network of 13 natural lakes covering 13,660 acres with 119 miles of combined shoreline. Elevation sits at 1,234 feet. The setting mixes northern pine forest with glimpses of prairie edge ecosystems shaped by glacial activity. Reviewers frequently mention picturesque sunsets over the water and the pleasant sound of waves along the beach.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available on-site; accommodations are strictly camping-focused.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger-led activities, such as nature bingo for kids, and educational exploration of nearby attractions like the 'Chippewa Lookout' enhance cultural engagement.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through the contact center at 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilityAccessibility features include accessible campsites, fishing docks, flush toilets, parking spaces, picnic areas, and showers. Adaptive amenities cater to individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe sites offer a mix of sizes, ranging from standard to large, accommodating various camping setups such as RVs, tents, and group activities.

PrivacyPrivacy varies greatly across campsites. Some areas are described as spacious and secluded, while others are criticized for lack of foliage or proximity to roads, leading to noise and a 'parking lot' feel.

Total Campsites122 campsites

Need help booking Cross Lake Recreation Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Cross Lake Recreation Area boasts an impressive array of amenities to cater to diverse camper needs. The campground has 122 sites, with 97 offering electrical hookups. These are complemented by accessible hot shower facilities, accessible flush toilets, a dump station, picnic shelters, and accessible fishing piers. Additional features include a butterfly garden, firewood availability, paved roads, campfire rings, picnic tables, and water, sewer, and full hookups for select sites. Notably, there are two onsite beaches and floating docks for boat parking. The nearby town of Crosslake offers convenient access to shopping and dining.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Cross Lake Recreation Area can enjoy a wide array of recreational activities, both water-based and land-based. Popular options include boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking, swimming, picnicking, and engaging in ranger-led educational programs. The proximity to the Whitefish Chain of Lakes adds appeal with access to 13 natural lakes spanning 13,660 acres.

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

924 reviews

Top-Rated

Cross Lake Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Cross Lake Recreation Area is highly popular, earning a general sentiment score of 4.47 from visitors. Most campers praise the beautiful scenery, spacious campsites, and excellent amenities. However, frequent complaints center around restroom cleanliness, strict rules, and high weekend traffic.

Review Summaries

Based on 924 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlight the picturesque sunsets, mature trees, well-maintained facilities, clean campsites, and accessibility to local shops. Many reviews commend the family-friendly atmosphere, spacious...

Based on 924 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints often include restroom and shower cleanliness, noise from RV generators or traffic near roads, lack of privacy, and strict enforcement of rules such as 'no parking on grass.' Several users...

Based on 924 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites mentioned include: - Site 106: praised for open group-friendly design. - Site 12: noted for its beauty despite heat concerns. - Site 114: criticized for restroom cleanliness and...

Based on 924 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bikes, reserving sites well in advance, avoiding weekends for quieter experiences, and choosing lakeside sites for better views. Reviews suggest visiting local attractions...

Based on 924 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are overwhelmingly positive due to activity availability, but issues like crowded beaches and noise are recurrent. Fall reviews describe serene, less-crowded experiences with vibrant...

Based on 924 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The sunsets over the lake are very lovely.' - Karen Plante 2. 'Simply marvelous.' - Jim Loisel 3. 'The campground and site was great. Beautiful place. Very clean.' - Robert R. 4. 'A quiet, shady...

Based on 924 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews mention accessible features like fishing docks and flush toilets. However, concerns about the lack of accessible docking options for smaller boats were noted.

Based on 924 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but strict leash policies are enforced, sometimes frustrating users. Multiple reviews describe pets enjoying the campground environment.

Based on 924 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want full-service RV camping with boating and swimming on Cross Lake and don't mind gravel tent pads.

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You need pristine restroom facilities or prefer pitching your tent on grass instead of gravel.

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Mississippi River Headwaters - Cross Lake

Cross Lake Recreation Area

About Mississippi River Headwaters - Cross Lake

Context for the broader area surrounding Cross Lake Recreation Area, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

You will find something unique about a vacation in Minnesota's lake country. The six unique lakes, Gull Lake, the Whitefish Chain (Cross Lake), Big Sandy Lake, Pokegama Lake, Leech Lake, and Lake Winnibigoshish, are roughly bounded by a triangle from Brainerd to Bemidji to Grand Rapids in central Minnesota. Campfires and sunsets and the peacefulness of the water make each day a special event. From the first days of summer to the golden days of fall, and throughout the year, visitors to the Mississippi River Headwaters Lakes Project enjoy a special experience that is Minnesota at its best. Visit our web site for more information and directions and maps to the lakes.