Campgrounds on Gull Lake
Campgrounds on Gull Lake: Lakeside Living and Wild Escapes in Minnesota
By Robert Taller
The first time I pulled into the Gull Lake area, it was early September. The air had that perfect Minnesota crispness, and the lake itself—shimmering between the pine trunks—looked like a postcard I’d accidentally driven into. I was just planning to stay two nights, but I ended up camping for five. That’s what Gull Lake does to you.
Located in north-central Minnesota, Gull Lake is one of those rare places where natural beauty meets camping comfort. You’ll find deep forests and sandy beaches just minutes from paved roads and well-stocked general stores. Whether you’re hauling an RV, paddling in with your tent on the back of a kayak, or checking into a rustic cabin with a fireplace, there’s a patch of shoreline waiting for you.
Unique Camping Experiences on Gull Lake
Camping on Gull Lake isn’t just about reserving a spot—it’s about choosing an experience. Over the years, I’ve discovered that this area offers something more than just the typical picnic table and fire ring setup.
Popularity Among Campers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Gull Lake is especially beloved for its diversity. Families come here for organized resorts with swimming beaches and pancake breakfasts; anglers show up year after year for the chance to hook trophy walleye; solo travelers and couples seek out the quieter spots for early morning paddles and long walks in the woods.
What keeps everyone coming back is a rare balance of accessibility and authenticity. You can be at a cozy full-hookup RV site and still feel like you’re in the wilderness—or wake up in a lakeside tent to loons calling and still have coffee from a real espresso machine fifteen minutes later. I’ve experienced both, and I wouldn’t change a thing. An incredible experience can be had at Camping at Folsom Lake.
Top Campgrounds Around Gull Lake
After multiple trips over the past ten years, I’ve spent time at nearly every major campground around Gull Lake. Each one has its own character—and each suits a different type of camper. Here’s what I’ve learned about the most popular spots:
Gull Lake Recreation Area
Run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this is one of the best-managed campgrounds I’ve seen anywhere in the Midwest. The sites are laid out carefully, giving you both space and lake views.
It’s nestled right along the Mississippi River headwaters, with access to Gull Lake via a channel, making it perfect for paddlers and anglers alike. There are tent and RV sites, clean bathhouses, shaded trails, and a boat ramp close by.
My favorite thing here is the quiet. Even on summer weekends, it never feels overcrowded. And if you’re an early riser like me, the sunrises over the lake from site #21 are unforgettable.
Pike Point Resort
Pike Point is the definition of “Minnesota nice”. Family-owned and operated, it’s got a low-key, nostalgic vibe that reminded me of summer trips from my childhood. Think wooden cabins with screen doors, the smell of fresh-cut firewood, and neighbors who wave as they walk past.
They offer seasonal RV sites, weekly cabin rentals, and limited tent camping. The dock system is well-maintained, and they have boat rentals for visitors who want to explore the full expanse of Gull Lake.
It’s not fancy—but that’s the point. It’s real, it’s friendly, and it puts you right on the water with no pretenses.
Eagle Ridge Resort
If you want modern comforts and a bit more structure, Eagle Ridge is a great choice. This resort-style campground offers spacious RV sites, some with full hookups, as well as log-style cabins with lake views.
There’s a lot to do on-site: swimming beach, volleyball courts, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and even a fishing dock that’s lit at night. I met a couple there who’d been coming every June for fifteen years, and after just one night, I could see why.
What sets Eagle Ridge apart is how well it caters to multi-generational groups. Grandparents, toddlers, and teens all find something to enjoy, which isn’t easy to pull off.
Gull & Love Lake RV Park
A bit more removed from the main boat traffic, this park is perfect if you’re looking for a quieter base camp. It borders both Gull Lake and Love Lake, offering a dual-lake experience that’s ideal for fishing, canoeing, and watching wildlife.
The RV sites are level and shaded, with reliable utilities and access to a small clubhouse with games and laundry facilities. There’s also a sandy swim area, and while it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a big resort, it’s a hidden gem for those who just want to relax without distraction.
Activities and Attractions Near Campgrounds
Gull Lake isn’t just a pretty place to park your camper — it’s a playground for just about any kind of outdoor adventure you’re into. From sunrise paddles to dinner by the marina, every day has something to offer if you know where to look. When I was around Detroit Lake in Minnesota I felt at one with nature.
Water-Based Activities
There’s no wrong way to enjoy Gull Lake’s 9,400 acres of open water, but there are definitely some memorable ones. I’ve launched a canoe at dawn, joined sunset pontoon floats with local campers, and cast for bass from a dock in the middle of a thunderstorm — all unforgettable.
Boat-In and Paddle-Up Campsites
One of the most exciting discoveries I made in recent years was that a few campgrounds — especially those on the quieter northern shoreline and on Love Lake — offer paddle-in access. These sites are reachable only by boat or kayak, which makes them quieter, more scenic, and, in my opinion, better for stargazing.
You’ll want to pack light and use dry bags. I brought a solo tent, camp stove, and minimal gear — and it turned into one of the most peaceful nights I’ve ever had, surrounded only by water and wind in the trees.
Land-Based Recreation
If your feet are more comfortable on solid ground, Gull Lake won’t let you down. Nearby you’ll find the Paul Bunyan State Trail, which is great for biking and light hiking, with multiple entry points near the campgrounds.
There’s also easy access to wildlife management areas and birding platforms where I’ve spotted everything from bald eagles to sandhill cranes. And if you’re camping with kids or need a low-key activity after lunch, many resorts offer volleyball, horseshoe pits, or nature scavenger hunts that feel anything but manufactured.
Local Dining and Shopping
After a day outdoors, a good meal or cold drink can feel like a reward — and Gull Lake’s nearby towns deliver. In Nisswa, just minutes from most campgrounds, you’ll find cozy cafés like StoneHouse Coffee, where I’ve spent rainy mornings journaling and eavesdropping on fishermen swapping stories.
For dinner, Zorbaz on Gull Lake is a quirky lakeside institution with pizza, tacos, and a fantastic view. If you’re looking for something quieter, Sherwood Forest offers rustic elegance, firelit ambiance, and the best walleye I’ve had in the region.
As for shopping, Downtown Nisswa is packed with small outfitters, art galleries, and outdoor gear shops. I always find something I didn’t know I needed — last time it was a handmade paddle.
Best Times to Visit
Knowing when to visit Gull Lake can define your whole camping experience. I’ve come through in every season, and each offers something unique — you just have to know what to expect.
Seasonal Highlights and Weather Considerations
The traditional camping season runs from late May through early October, with July being the most popular and September the most underrated.
- Spring is beautiful, with cool mornings and fewer bugs.
- Summer brings families, sunshine, and full campground schedules.
- Fall offers fiery colors and quiet mornings — my personal favorite.
Winter Camping and Ice Fishing Retreats
While most people pack away the gear after October, a few brave souls (myself included) stay for winter camping. Some resorts remain open year-round, offering heated cabins, ice fishing shanty rentals, and access to snowmobile trails.
The lake transforms. Silent, snow-covered, and still — it’s a different kind of magic, especially with a sauna and a thermos of coffee waiting back at your tent or cabin.
Tips and Recommendations
No two camping trips are alike, but a little local knowledge goes a long way when choosing where to stay around Gull Lake.
Choosing the Right Campground for Your Needs
If you’re bringing a family and want amenities, playgrounds, and planned activities, Eagle Ridge Resort is a strong pick. It’s lively, organized, and has a little something for every age.
For seclusion and nature, head to Gull Lake Recreation Area or Gull & Love Lake RV Park. They offer more trees, more privacy, and less foot traffic.
Couples or solo campers should look into Pike Point or any boat-in tent sites. These offer that calm, introspective atmosphere where you can slow down and simply listen to the lake breathe.
Always call ahead and ask about your specific needs — shade, electricity, lake access — because the best campsite is the one that fits your rhythm. I would also recommend Indian Lake in Ohio if you haven’t been there before.
15+ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I reserve specific campsites at Gull Lake campgrounds?
Yes, many public and private campgrounds allow you to select specific sites during booking.
2. Are dogs allowed at the campgrounds?
Most are pet-friendly with leash requirements. Some cabins may have restrictions.
3. Is fishing from the shore possible without a boat?
Absolutely. Many campgrounds have piers or shoreline access ideal for bank fishing.
4. Do any campgrounds rent boats or kayaks?
Yes, especially Eagle Ridge and Pike Point. Rentals include paddleboards, canoes, and pontoons.
5. What kind of fish can I catch in Gull Lake?
Walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill are common here.
6. Are there shower facilities at the campgrounds?
Yes, nearly all developed campgrounds offer hot showers and clean restrooms.
7. Is there cell phone reception around the lake?
Generally yes, though coverage may dip in more wooded or remote areas.
8. Can I swim anywhere in the lake?
Swimming is allowed in most areas, with designated beaches near the major resorts and campgrounds.
9. Are there quiet hours at the campgrounds?
Yes, typically 10 PM to 7 AM. Enforcement depends on the location, but most visitors are respectful.
10. Do I need a permit for a paddle-in campsite?
For most public boat-in or paddle-up sites, a reservation or backcountry permit is required.
11. Is alcohol permitted at campsites?
In most private campgrounds, yes — though public areas may restrict open containers.
12. Are there grocery stores nearby?
Yes, several stores in Nisswa and Brainerd offer full supplies, including bait and camp gear.
13. Can I charge electronics at tent sites?
Only at select sites with electrical hookups. Otherwise, use central charging stations or bring a power bank.
14. Are there seasonal events around Gull Lake?
Yes, summer brings live music, festivals, and fireworks. Fall features harvest weekends and local markets.
15. Is winter camping safe on Gull Lake?
Yes, with the right gear. Cabins with heat are recommended, and ice conditions should be verified daily.
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