Banning State Park — RV Camping in Sandstone, MN

Banning State Park offers a stunning natural retreat along the Kettle River near Sandstone in Pine County, Minnesota. The park is celebrated for its dramatic whitewater rapids—including the iconic Hell's Gate—making it a magnet for kayakers and canoeists, while its well-maintained trail network draws hikers through scenic gorges, pine forests, and past the fascinating ruins of an early 20th-century sandstone quarrying town. Campers enjoy a full-featured campground with electrical hookups (30-amp), water hookups, a dump station, showers, toilets, picnic tables, and grills, making it equally welcoming for tent campers and big rig RVs. A playground keeps younger visitors entertained, and firewood is available on-site for evening campfires. The surrounding landscape features exposed sandstone outcroppings, dense boreal forest, and river vistas that deliver quintessential Minnesota north woods beauty. Located just off Interstate 35, Banning State Park is easily accessible from the Twin Cities metro area, making it a popular weekend escape. Reservations can be made through the Minnesota DNR's online reservation system. Whether drawn by adventure on the river or the serenity of the forest trails, visitors find this park a memorable destination in the heart of Minnesota's Northland.