Camping fees and reservations
DNR is working to modernize payment options for state forest camping. In summer 2025, an on-site survey of state forest campers will be conducted. If you are approached by a survey taker in a state forest campground this summer, we hope you'll participate and share your feedback with us.
Starting in 2026, all forest campgrounds that previously did not charge a camping fee will charge $17 per night ($22 for equestrian).
Affected campgrounds:
- Beltrami Island State Forest
- Grand Portage State Forest
- Kabetogama State Forest
- Pat Bayle State Forest
- Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
Why will DNR be charging a fee in these sites?
- Camping fees help ensure quality, safety, and access to state forest campgrounds. These funds support the infrastructure and services that make camping enjoyable for all visitors.
- Camping in Minnesota’s state forest campgrounds is a beloved tradition. As camping grows in popularity, state forest campgrounds play a key role in connecting people to the outdoors.
- Most of Minnesota’s state forest campgrounds already have a camping fee in place. This long-standing practice reflects the value of the experience and brings consistency across the system.
- Technological improvements make fee collection more efficient and user-friendly.
A camping fee is charged in state forest campgrounds with developed facilities that include drinking water, garbage containers, and toilets. Fees include taxes.
- Individual campsites are $17 per night. No reservations required or available.
- Equestrian campsites are $22 per night. No reservations required or available.
- Group campsites are $50 per night. Call the state forest contact for reservation information.
How to pay camping fees for individual and equestrian campsites in state forests
To improve security and reduce risk of theft, DNR longer accepts self-payment envelopes on site. Campsite fees should be paid online. State forest campgrounds that don't have WiFi or cell service also offer a mail-in payment option.
How to pay camping fees:
Occupy campsite
Pay fee online
Add payment card to campsite post
There is no advance payment of camping fees, campers must occupy the campsite first. Once paid, camping fees are final, there are no refunds.
Camping fees in state forests cover cleaning, maintenance and services. Failure to pay camping fees may result in additional penalties and/or removal from the campsite.
No fees are charged for other recreational use of state forests.
Learn more about different kinds of camping in state forests
Events
A permit is required from a Parks and Trails area specialist to hold an event on state forest land. The DNR may charge a fee for the use of the land. Security such as a bond or cashier's check may be required to ensure that cleanup, sign removal, damage, repairs, and other actions are completed.
For emergencies or authorized special events, the DNR may provide temporary exceptions to this rule for a specific state park, forest campground, forest day use area, or state forest land. Notice of the exception will be posted at the site. For more permit information or to obtain a permit, contact a DNR Parks and Trails office.