Beach Camping in Minnesota
Discover the best beach camping across Minnesota. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Gull Lake Recreation Area
Campers launch kayaks directly into the pristine waters where Gull Lake meets the river, with swimming beaches framed by towering pines and watched over by soaring eagles.
Fall Lake
This isn't a beach camping destination—Fall Lake sits deep in Minnesota's Northwoods, where towering pines meet pristine wilderness waters rather than sandy ocean shores.
Whiteface Reservoir
Crystal-clear waters lap against sandy swim beaches where 4,980 acres of shimmering reservoir meet the forest edge, inviting campers to dive in just steps from their sites.
About Beach Camping in Minnesota
Beach camping Minnesota offers an unexpected treasure trove of sandy shorelines and pristine waters that rival coastal destinations, from the legendary white sands of Lake of the Woods to the rugged beauty of Lake Superior's North Shore. The Land of 10,000 Lakes lives up to its name with exceptional beach camping opportunities spread across diverse regions, each offering its own character and charm.
Best Time
The prime beach camping season in Minnesota runs from mid-June through August when water temperatures reach comfortable swimming levels, typically 65-75°F in most lakes and reservoirs. July and August offer the warmest conditions with air temperatures in the 70s-80s and the most reliable sunny weather, making these peak months for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in Minnesota
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites well in advance for summer weekends, especially at popular destinations in the Brainerd Lakes area and Lake Superior's North Shore, as prime beach sites book up quickly.
- 2Bring insect repellent and consider a screened shelter for evening hours, as mosquitoes and biting flies can be active near water from late May through July, particularly in forested areas.
- 3Pack layers even in summer, as northern Minnesota evenings can cool significantly, and Lake Superior's North Shore experiences dramatic temperature swings and sudden weather changes.
- 4Water shoes are essential for many Minnesota beaches, particularly on Lake Superior where rocky entries are common, and they're helpful for navigating zebra mussel shells present in some southern lakes.
Beach Camping in Minnesota FAQ
We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Minnesota based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Minnesota is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Minnesota, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular Minnesota Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Minnesota book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Gull Lake Recreation Area
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