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67 campgrounds and RV Parks near Staples, MN. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
67 campgrounds
4235 campsites
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From $17/night
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Best campgrounds near Staples, MN
Dower Lake Recreation Area
Staples, MN (2 miles away)
Fishtrap Camping and RV Resort
Minnesota (15 miles away)
Gull and Love Lake RV Park
Brainerd, MN (24 miles away)
Main - Crow Wing State Park
Brainerd, MN (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(59 sites)
+5
Upper Cullen Resort and Campground
Pequot Lakes, MN (26 miles away)
$$$$$
(56 sites)
+10
Camp S'more Campground
Long Prairie, MN (27 miles away)
$$$$$
(26 sites)
+3
Fritzs Resort Campground and Golf Course
Nisswa, MN (27 miles away)
$$$$$
(92 sites)
+9
Sullivans Resort and Campground
Brainerd, MN (28 miles away)
$$$$$
(50 sites)
+2
Lazy Days Campground
Minnesota (29 miles away)
$$$$$
(99 sites)
+5
Wildwedge Golf and RV Park
Pequot Lakes, MN (29 miles away)
$$$$$
(31 sites)
+7
Huntersville State Forest - Shell City Horse Camp
Menahga, MN (30 miles away)
$$$$$
(35 sites)
Head Of The Lakes Resort
Osakis, MN (31 miles away)
$$$$$
(25 sites)
+10
Most common amenities
Showers Grills Playground Internet Pet friendly Laundry Tables Toilets Firewood Dump station
Campgrounds near Staples, Minnesota
Staples sits in central Minnesota's lake country, straddling Todd and Wadena counties along the Crow Wing and Mississippi river systems. The area is a practical base for RV travelers who want lake access, state forest trails, and small-town services within short drives.
Camping options run from developed city and private parks with electric or full hookups to primitive state forest sites with vault toilets only. Dower Lake Recreation Area sits two miles west of town on a 54-acre city-run park with a sandy swim beach and boat launch. Fishtrap Camping and RV Resort offers full-service sites, heated pools, and a marina on Fish Trap Lake in nearby Cushing. Camp S'more Campground near Long Prairie provides full-hookup sites suited to larger rigs.
For riders and rustic campers, Huntersville State Forest - Shell City Horse Camp provides basic sites along the Shell River with access to 24 miles of horse trails. Round Bay Resort rounds out the lake-focused options for families staying longer.
Things to do near Staples
Water recreation drives most trip planning. Dower Lake Recreation Area features a sand swimming beach, two docks, a public boat launch, and what the city bills as Minnesota's longest fishing pier at 612 feet. Free canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats are available for guests at Fishtrap Camping and RV Resort, along with heated pools and a fishing pier at the marina.
On land, families can play the 9-hole disc golf course, basketball court, sand volleyball court, and horseshoe pits at Dower Lake, and hunt geocaches hidden around the park. Huntersville State Forest opens up hiking on roughly 150 miles of logging trails plus paddling on the Crow Wing and Shell rivers, with 59 miles of off-highway motorcycle trails for motorized recreation.
Camping spots and RV parks near Staples, MN
When to visit Staples
- spring
March - May
52° / 28°F 55 mmIce-out and mud season; sites open in May.
- summer
June - August
79° / 55°F 103 mmPeak bookings; lake sites fill weeks out.
- fall
September - November
54° / 30°F 55 mmFewer bugs; peak color late September.
- winter
December - February
21° / 1°F 22 mmFrigid and snowy; most campgrounds closed.
Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October, with limited winter accessibility. Peak season runs mid-June through late August, when warm days and long daylight make lake sites fill quickly on weekends. Reservations for waterfront sites should be made well ahead during this window.
Late spring brings ice-out on area lakes, walleye and bass action, and cooler nights that still dip toward freezing into May. Black flies and mosquitoes appear in warmer months near lake shorelines, so campers should pack repellent. Early fall is a strong shoulder season: bug pressure drops, deciduous color typically peaks in late September and early October, and sites are easier to book.
Winter operations are rare at private and city parks. Huntersville State Forest stays open year-round for uses such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, but expect gravel access roads, deep snow, and no drinking water at rustic sites.
How to book campgrounds near Staples
Reservation systems vary by operator. Dower Lake Recreation Area takes online bookings through Campspot, with check-in after 1 p.m. and check-out by 11 a.m.; seasonal sites are handled by phone with the city. Private resorts including Fishtrap Camping and RV Resort, Camp S'more Campground, and Round Bay Resort book directly through their own websites or by phone.
Minnesota state forest campgrounds operate differently. Shell City Horse Camp inside Huntersville State Forest is primitive, and all sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with a self-registration kiosk at the entrance, so arriving early on Fridays is important during summer holidays. Booking six to eight weeks out is typical for full-hookup summer weekends.
What to expect on site
Expect a range of site types. Full hookup service exists at private resorts like Fishtrap Camping and RV Resort and Camp S'more Campground. Dower Lake offers 15- to 50-amp electric sites without individual water hookups; potable water comes from a central station and there is a dump station for registered campers. State forest sites at Shell City are primitive: cleared area, fire ring, table, vault toilets, and shared drinking water.
Cell service can be spotty in more remote spots, especially deeper in Huntersville State Forest. Access is paved to most private parks; the final approach to Shell City runs on gravel roads about four miles off paved Route 18. Pets are generally allowed on leash. Firewood is often available on site, sometimes free at Dower Lake with a donation.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Staples, MN
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Staples, MN?
RV rental in Staples is one of the most affordable ways to explore central Minnesota's lake country. Travel trailers typically start around $90 to $150 per night, campervans run $125 to $200, and larger Class C motorhomes range from $175 to $300 per night depending on size and season. For a cheap RV rental Staples getaway, book mid-week and avoid the July fishing opener and Labor Day weekend spikes. Pro tip: bundling a travel trailer with host delivery to Dower Lake Recreation Area often costs less than driving a big motorhome yourself, since you skip the fuel and the learning curve. Message a few hosts to compare add-ons like generators and bedding kits.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Staples,MinnesotaWhat license do I need to rent an RV in Staples?
Good news: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Staples. Minnesota does not require a commercial driver's license or any special endorsement for personal RVs, even larger Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels. To book on RVezy, the approved driver is generally required to be 25 or older, and ID verification happens right inside the platform during checkout. Visiting from outside the U.S.? Pick up an International Driving Permit from your home country's auto association before you fly in. Once you're verified, you're cleared to pick up the keys and start your Staples RV trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs the RV covered if something happens during my trip in Staples?
Yes, every RVezy booking in Staples includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can hit Highway 10 with peace of mind. The protection plan covers eligible damage to the RV during your rental, and you choose your coverage level during checkout, not the host. That means you decide how much financial cushion feels right for your Staples RV trip, whether you're heading 30 minutes to the Crow Wing River or doing a longer loop through the Brainerd Lakes. Pick your plan, confirm the booking, and focus on packing the fishing rods.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat if I need to cancel my Staples RV rental?
Booking is low-risk because RVezy, not the individual host, sets the cancellation policy for every rental. There's a money-back grace period right after booking, with additional refund options depending on how far in advance you cancel. That means you can lock in your dates for prime walleye season or the Staples 4th of July celebration with clear expectations. Full policy details are on the RVezy Help Center and inside your booking confirmation. If your plans shift, contact RVezy support and they'll walk you through your options step by step.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a Staples RV trip?
Absolutely, and Staples is a fantastic dog town. Filter for pet-friendly RV rental Staples listings on RVezy and you'll find plenty of hosts who welcome four-legged guests, sometimes with a small pet fee. Once you're here, your pup will love the swimming beach and fishing pier at Dower Lake Recreation Area, the wooded trails at Pine Grove Park, and the open shoreline along the Crow Wing River. Many area campgrounds also allow leashed pets on site. Pro tip: message the host before booking to confirm pet rules and ask if they'll throw in a mat or outdoor tie-out to make your dog feel right at home.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/pets.htmlCan the RV be delivered to my campsite or cabin in Staples?
Yes, RV delivery in Staples is one of the easiest ways to start your trip, especially if you're new to RVing. Many local hosts will tow a travel trailer or fifth wheel directly to your campsite at Dower Lake Recreation Area, a private resort on the Crow Wing River, or even a family cabin, then level it, hook up water and power, and walk you through every system. You just show up with groceries. Delivery fees usually depend on mileage from the host's location, so picking a campground close to Staples keeps costs down. Use the Delivery filter on RVezy to see which listings offer it before you book.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Staples,MinnesotaHow far can I drive my RV rental from Staples?
You've got serious range from Staples thanks to its spot right on Highway 10 in central Minnesota. The Brainerd Lakes Area is just 35 miles east, Itasca State Park (headwaters of the Mississippi) is about 75 miles northwest, Detroit Lakes is roughly 80 miles west, Alexandria sits 55 miles south, and Duluth's North Shore is about 150 miles northeast. Each host sets their own mileage policy, and some offer RV rental with unlimited mileage, which is great for a longer Minnesota loop. Always check the daily mileage allowance on the listing and message the host if you're planning a big trip. They'll often work with you on a custom mileage package.
dot.state.mn.us/maps/Where are the best campgrounds near Staples to park my RV?
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to RV camping near Staples. Dower Lake Recreation Area, right in town, offers electric sites and a sandy swimming beach with a long fishing pier. Crow Wing State Park, about 40 miles east near Brainerd, has wooded RV sites along the Mississippi River. Father Hennepin State Park on Mille Lacs Lake (about an hour south) is another classic. For a resort feel, try Stony Point Resort or Shamp's Resort & Campground in the surrounding lake country. Pro tip: Minnesota state park sites release on a rolling 120-day window through the DNR reservation system, so set a calendar reminder and book early for summer weekends.
dnr.state.mn.us/reservations/index.htmlWhen is the best time of year for a Staples RV trip?
Late May through early October is the sweet spot for a Staples MN RV trip, with peak conditions from mid-June through August. Summer highs run 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit with warm lake water and long daylight hours perfect for river tubing on the Crow Wing. September is the local insider's pick: bug-free, fall colors peaking the last two weeks of the month, daytime temps in the 60s and 70s, and dramatically lower rates. Winters drop well below zero with heavy snow, so most casual RV trips wrap by mid-October. If you want a quieter shoulder-season trip, target the week after Labor Day when campgrounds open up and walleye fishing is on fire.
weather.gov/dlh/I've never rented an RV before. Will I be okay?
You'll be totally fine, and Staples is actually a great place for a first time renting an RV. Roads here are wide, traffic is light, and Highway 10 is a calm, straight cruise compared to a metro area. Every RVezy host gives you a hands-on walkthrough at pickup, covering how to use the slide-outs, awning, water system, propane, and dump valves, plus tips on backing into your campsite. You can also message the host before booking with any questions about the rig. 24/7 roadside assistance is included if anything pops up on the road. Start with a travel trailer at Dower Lake (just 5 minutes from town) for an easy first night.
dot.state.mn.us/safety/What happens if I have a breakdown or problem on the road near Staples?
You're never on your own. Every RVezy booking includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the protection plan, so a flat tire on Highway 371 or a dead battery at a Brainerd Lakes campground is one phone call away from help. Your host is also just a message away for quick questions about quirks specific to their RV, like how to reset the inverter or relight the water heater. For medical or vehicle emergencies, dial 911. Pro tip: snap a photo of the RV's VIN, license plate, and propane tank info at pickup and save them in your phone, so you can rattle them off fast if you ever need to call for service.
rvezy.com/insurance-and-protectionCan I take my Staples RV rental into Canada or other states?
Many hosts allow cross-border and interstate travel, so a big loop is definitely on the table. Popular routes for an RV road trip from Staples include heading north to Voyageurs National Park (about 4 hours) or up into Ontario, west to the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota (about 9 hours), east to Wisconsin's Apostle Islands, or south to Iowa and beyond. Travel to Mexico is not permitted under RVezy's coverage. For Canada trips, message the host directly from the listing to confirm cross-border permission before booking, and bring your passport. Hosts who welcome longer trips often note it in their listing description, so look for that as you browse.
cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-goWhat kind of gas mileage and fuel budget should I plan for?
Plan ahead and you won't be surprised at the pump. Class C motorhomes from Staples typically get 8 to 12 miles per gallon, Class A rigs land around 6 to 10 MPG, and a smaller campervan rental Staples MN setup can stretch to 15 to 20 MPG. If you're towing a travel trailer with your own truck or a host-provided tow vehicle, expect 10 to 14 MPG. Minnesota gas prices generally run a little under the national average, with stations in Staples, Motley, and Wadena along Highway 10 being your easy fill-up stops. Budget roughly $0.30 to $0.50 per mile in fuel for larger motorhomes, then add campground fees of $25 to $55 per night for the full picture.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Staples?
For summer weekends, book as early as you can. Minnesota DNR state parks (Crow Wing, Father Hennepin, Itasca) release reservations on a 120-day rolling window, and prime Friday and Saturday sites for July and August often vanish within minutes of opening. Dower Lake Recreation Area in Staples is managed by the city and tends to book up by late spring for peak weeks. Private resorts around the Brainerd Lakes Area also fill fast for the Crow Wing County Fair and fishing opener. Pro tip: if a state park is full, log in Sunday or Monday mornings, that's when many cancellations get released back into the system.
dnr.state.mn.us/reservations/index.htmlWhat are road and driving conditions like around Staples?
Driving around Staples is refreshingly low-stress. Highway 10 is the main four-lane corridor, and surrounding county roads are well-maintained, mostly flat, and lightly trafficked. The main things to watch for are deer (especially at dawn and dusk), occasional logging trucks on county roads, and summer thunderstorms that can pop up quickly in central Minnesota. Winter brings snow, ice, and sub-zero temps from late November through March, which is why most RV trips here are May through October. Pro tip: check 511mn.org before you head out for live road conditions and construction alerts on Highways 10, 371, and 64. Take it slow on gravel approaches to lakeside resorts, especially after rain.
511mn.org/What hookups and dump stations can I expect at Staples campgrounds?
Most campgrounds near Staples make it easy to stay comfortable. Dower Lake Recreation Area offers electric hookups (20/30/50 amp at many sites) plus shared water spigots and a dump station. Crow Wing State Park has electric sites, modern restrooms, showers, and a dump station near the entrance. Private resorts like Shamp's typically offer full hookups (water, sewer, electric) at most pull-thrus. For freshwater fills and dumping on the road, Holiday and Casey's stations along Highway 10 are reliable stops, and several Brainerd-area Cenex stations have RV dumps for a small fee. Pro tip: top off your fresh tank before leaving Staples, since smaller lake resorts sometimes have limited water access at individual sites.
dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/camping.htmlWhat's inside a typical RV rental from Staples?
You'll feel right at home. A typical motorhome rental Staples comes with a real bed (or two), a full kitchen with fridge, stove, microwave, and sink, a bathroom with toilet and shower, dining seating, and climate control with both furnace and air conditioning, which you'll appreciate during a humid July night by Dower Lake. Most rigs include seatbelted travel seats for everyone in your party, a TV, and outdoor speakers or an awning for campsite hangouts. WiFi and generators vary by listing, so check the amenities section or filter for them. Many hosts also offer add-on kitchen kits, linens, and camp chairs so you can travel light and just pack clothes.
dot.state.mn.us/cvo/What add-ons and pickup options should I look for when I rent an RV in Staples?
The right add-ons turn a good trip into a great one. When you rent an RV in Staples, popular extras include generators ($25 to $50/day), bedding and towel packages ($25 to $75 flat), camp chairs and outdoor rugs, bike racks, and propane fire pits, perfect for chilly Crow Wing River evenings. Many hosts offer delivery to nearby campgrounds for a per-mile fee, which is the easiest pickup option for first-timers. Mileage policies typically range from 100 to 150 free miles per day, with extras priced around $0.35 to $0.50 per mile. Pro tip: if you're planning a longer loop to Itasca or Voyageurs, ask the host upfront about a flat mileage upgrade, it's often cheaper than paying overages later.
dot.state.mn.us/maps/How do payment and the security deposit work on RVezy?
Payment is straightforward and fully online, no cash exchanged with the host. When you book your RV rental in Staples, you pay through RVezy with a credit or debit card, and your rental total covers the nightly rate, host fees, taxes, and your chosen protection plan. A separate refundable security deposit is held on your card before the trip, with the amount set by the host and shown clearly on the listing before you confirm. As long as you return the RV in the agreed condition, the deposit is released after the trip. Pro tip: take a quick walk-around video at both pickup and drop-off, it's the easiest way to keep everything smooth.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-works