Your Ultimate Guide to Campgrounds Near Duluth, MN
Welcome to Duluth, Minnesota, where the rugged beauty of the North Shore meets the charm of Lake Superior. Whether you're an RV enthusiast, a tent camper, or seeking a luxurious glamping experience, the campgrounds near Duluth, MN, offer a perfect base for exploring this outdoor paradise. From hiking trails to waterfront views, our comprehensive guide covers the best camping options, amenities, activities, and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Why Camp in Duluth, MN? The Appeal of the North Shore
Duluth is a gem of the Midwest, blending urban vibrancy with unparalleled natural beauty. Nestled along Lake Superior, the city offers access to the scenic North Shore, where you can explore waterfalls, hike the Superior Hiking Trail, or kayak the St. Louis River. Camping near Duluth, MN, puts you minutes from attractions like Canal Park, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and Spirit Mountain, while immersing you in nature. Whether you're a family seeking adventure, a couple craving a romantic getaway, or a solo traveler looking for solitude, Duluth's campgrounds cater to all.
Top Campgrounds Near Duluth, MN: A Detailed Breakdown
Indian Point Campground
Location: 7000 Pulaski St, Duluth, MN 55807 (1 mile from Spirit Lake Marina, 10 minutes from downtown Duluth)
Type: RV, tent, and glamping (yurts and cabins)
Amenities:
- Full hookups (water, electric, sewer) for RVs; partial hookups (electric/water) and tent sites available
- Modern restrooms, hot showers, and laundry facilities
- Camp store with firewood, ice, and camping essentials
- Free Wi-Fi for remote workers or sharing trip photos
- Fire pits and picnic tables at every site
- Pet-friendly (leash required; pet fee may apply)
Activities: Rent kayaks or canoes to paddle the St. Louis River, bike the nearby Willard Munger State Trail, or visit nearby attractions like the Lake Superior Zoo (1.5 miles) and Canal Park (5 miles). The campground’s proximity to Lake Superior offers stunning sunrise views.
Pricing: $30–$70/night (tent sites start at $30, full-hookup RV sites up to $70). Additional $5/night for extra guests or pets.
Booking: Highly recommended to reserve in advance, especially June–August. Book online at duluthindianpointcampground.com or call 218-628-4977.
Pro Tip: Book a waterfront site for easy access to kayaking and serene river views. Arrive early to catch the sunset over Lake Superior.
Spirit Mountain Campground
Location: 9500 Spirit Mountain Pl, Duluth, MN 55810 (10 miles from downtown Duluth)
Type: RV and tent camping
Amenities:
- 73 sites: 39 with water/electric (20/30 amp), 34 electric-only
- Two 24-hour shower buildings with flush toilets
- Fire pits, picnic tables, and a camp store (firewood, ice, snacks)
- Dump station for RVs
- Pet-friendly (no fireworks or ATVs allowed)
Activities: Located at Spirit Mountain Adventure Park, offering an alpine coaster, zip line, mini-golf, and disc golf. Direct access to the Superior Hiking Trail and mountain biking trails. Downtown Duluth and Canal Park are a short drive away.
Pricing: $56–$61/night (plus tax); extra vehicles $5/night.
Booking: Book online at spiritmt.com or call 218-624-8544.
Pro Tip: Choose a site on the upper tier for breathtaking views of Lake Superior and St. Louis Bay. Bring bikes for the on-site trails.
Jay Cooke State Park
Location: 500 E Hwy 210, Carlton, MN 55718 (15 miles from Duluth)
Type: RV, tent, backpacking, and group sites
Amenities:
- 79 drive-in sites (21 with 30/50 amp electric), 4 walk-in sites, 2 backpack sites
- Flush toilets, hot showers, and vault toilets
- Fire rings and picnic tables at all sites
- No Wi-Fi; limited cell service for a true wilderness escape
- Pet-friendly (leash required)
Activities: Famous for its historic swinging bridge over the St. Louis River, Jay Cooke offers 9 miles of hiking trails, whitewater kayaking, and wildlife viewing (deer, black bears). Perfect for nature lovers seeking a rugged experience.
Pricing: $20–$40/night (electric sites higher).
Booking: Reservations required for most sites; book via dnr.state.mn.us or call 1-866-857-2757.
Pro Tip: Visit in early October for vibrant fall colors and fewer crowds. The swinging bridge is a must-see!
Other Notable Campgrounds
- Buffalo Valley Campground: 2586 Guss Rd, Duluth, MN 55810. Features 63 sites (20 tent-only), full hookups, and access to the Munger State Trail. Amenities include volleyball courts, a pavilion, and Wi-Fi. $40–$70/night. Pet-friendly. buffalohouseduluth.com.
- Fond du Lac Campground: 13330 West 3rd St, Duluth, MN 55808. Waterfront RV and tent sites along the St. Louis River. Offers kayak rentals, Wi-Fi, and a playground. $30–$60/night. Family-friendly. Call 218-206-4747.
- Amnicon Falls State Park: 4279 County Hwy U, South Range, WI 54874 (30 miles from Duluth). Rustic with 35 sites, vault toilets, and no hookups. Known for its waterfalls and hiking trails. $15–$30/night. dnr.wisconsin.gov.
- Pattison State Park: 6294 S State Rd 35, Superior, WI 54880 (30 minutes from Duluth). Home to Big Manitou Falls (Wisconsin’s highest waterfall) and 59 campsites (18 with electric). $15–$35/night. Great for families. dnr.wisconsin.gov.
- UMD Recreational Sports Outdoor Program Campground: Primarily for rustic tent camping. Offers basic sites for groups and students near Bagley Nature Area. $15–$25/night. Contact UMD at 218-726-7128.
Choosing the Right Campground for Your Adventure
RV Camping vs. Tent Camping
RV Camping: Perfect for travelers seeking convenience. Indian Point and Buffalo Valley offer full hookups, Wi-Fi, and proximity to Duluth attractions. Look for sites with 30/50 amp service if you have a larger RV.
Tent Camping: Ideal for immersion in nature. Jay Cooke State Park and Amnicon Falls provide rustic sites with minimal amenities for a true wilderness experience.
Amenities Checklist
Consider what’s essential for your trip:
- Must-Haves: Fire pits, picnic tables, drinking water, restrooms.
- Nice-to-Haves: Hot showers, laundry, Wi-Fi, playgrounds, camp store.
- Luxury: Glamping options (yurts at Indian Point) or full RV hookups.
Family-Friendly vs. Secluded Getaways
Family-Friendly: Buffalo Valley and Fond du Lac offer playgrounds, group pavilions, and kid-friendly activities like biking and fishing.
Secluded: Jay Cooke’s walk-in sites or dispersed camping in Superior National Forest (e.g., Carrol Truck Trail) provide peace and quiet.
Pet-Friendly Options
Most campgrounds near Duluth, MN, including Indian Point, Spirit Mountain, and Jay Cooke, welcome pets with leash policies. Check for pet fees (typically $5–$10/night) and restrictions on certain trails or beaches.
Essential Tips for Camping Near Duluth
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is ideal for warm weather and water activities, but sites book up fast. Fall (September–October) brings vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures. Spring offers wildflowers but muddy trails. Winter camping is possible at select sites like Jay Cooke with proper gear.
Pro Tip: Late September is perfect for fewer crowds and stunning fall colors along the North Shore.
What to Pack
- Rain gear and waterproof boots for unpredictable weather
- Bug spray and head nets for mosquitoes (especially June–July)
- Layers for cool nights (even in summer)
- Hiking boots for rugged trails like those at Jay Cooke
- Binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife (eagles, deer)
- Portable charger for limited cell service areas
Outdoor Activities Near Your Campsite
Duluth is an outdoor playground:
- Hiking: Superior Hiking Trail (access from Spirit Mountain and Jay Cooke), Gooseberry Falls (45 minutes away).
- Fishing: Lake Superior for trout and salmon; St. Louis River for walleye.
- Kayaking/Canoeing: St. Louis River rentals at Indian Point and Fond du Lac.
- Attractions: Glensheen Estate, Great Lakes Aquarium, North Shore Scenic Railroad, Aerial Lift Bridge.
Check out our Duluth Hiking Guide for trail recommendations.
Making Reservations
Book 3–6 months in advance for summer weekends. State parks like Jay Cooke and Amnicon Falls require reservations via their respective DNR websites. Private campgrounds like Spirit Mountain and Indian Point offer user-friendly online booking or phone reservations.
Pro Tip: Check cancellation policies for flexibility, especially for unpredictable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free camping spots near Duluth, MN?
Dispersed camping is available in Superior National Forest, such as Carrol Truck Trail, about 30 miles from Duluth. No amenities, so bring water and pack out all waste. Check thedyrt.com for reviews.
Can I bring my dog to campgrounds in Duluth?
Yes, most campgrounds (Indian Point, Spirit Mountain, Buffalo Valley) are pet-friendly with leash requirements. Confirm pet fees and trail restrictions before booking.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Duluth with full hookups?
Indian Point, Buffalo Valley, and Cloquet/Duluth KOA offer full hookups, modern amenities, and easy access to Duluth attractions.
How far are campgrounds from downtown Duluth attractions?
Most campgrounds are 5–15 miles from Canal Park and downtown, a 10–20 minute drive. Spirit Mountain and Indian Point are closest.
Are there glamping options near Duluth?
Indian Point Campground offers yurts and cabins for a comfortable glamping experience with lake views.
Plan Your Duluth Camping Adventure Today
Camping near Duluth, MN, offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. From the waterfront sites at Indian Point to the rugged trails of Jay Cooke State Park, there’s a campground for every type of traveler. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by Lake Superior or hiking the North Shore, Duluth promises memories that last a lifetime. Start planning your trip today and discover why this region is a camper’s paradise.
Explore Campgrounds Now
