RVParks.us
Federal Parks State Parks Private Resorts Top Picks Travel Guides Trip Planner Search All Parks
Birch Lakes State Forest Campground
Public Campground

Birch Lakes State Forest Campground

Melrose, Minnesota
4.7 (55 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Birch Lakes State Forest Campground

Campground in Minnesota.

Birch Lakes State Forest Campground offers a peaceful retreat into Minnesota's natural beauty, where towering trees frame pristine waters and the pace of life slows to match the gentle rhythm of the forest. Located within the expansive state forest system, this public campground provides an authentic woods camping experience that appeals to those seeking solitude and connection with nature without excessive development or crowds.

The campground's twenty-nine sites are nestled among mature birch and conifer trees, creating natural privacy between camping areas. This intimate setting makes it an ideal destination for families wanting to introduce children to camping, couples seeking a romantic getaway into nature, and experienced outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the simplicity of forest camping. The natural surroundings provide excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and photography throughout the changing seasons.

Birch Lakes itself is a highlight of the area, offering water-based recreation for those who enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The clear waters and forested shoreline create scenic paddling opportunities, while the lake is known to support healthy populations of northern pike and other freshwater species. Whether you're an angler hoping to land your next catch or simply want to spend peaceful mornings watching the water, the lake provides a focal point for outdoor recreation.

The state forest setting means you're surrounded by miles of natural Minnesota landscape. The area transitions beautifully through seasons, with wildflowers and greenery in summer, brilliant fall colors in autumn, and quiet snow-covered forests in winter. This makes Birch Lakes a destination worth visiting year-round, each season offering distinct pleasures and activities.

The campground's location provides easy access to the broader attractions of Minnesota's forest region while maintaining its peaceful, away-from-it-all character. It's the kind of place where you can disconnect from daily demands and reconnect with what matters most, whether that's time with family, personal reflection, or simply enjoying the therapeutic effects of forest camping. The consistent four-point-seven star rating from past visitors speaks to the quality of the experience and the genuine appeal of this natural setting.
29

Total Sites

4.7

Rating

55

Reviews

Park Details

Total Sites 29

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Melrose is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Minnesota weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Melrose.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Melrose. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Birch Lakes State Forest Campground Reviews

Sign in to Review
G
Vincent Schneider

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Vincent Schneider

Excellent campground that is well kept. Sites were clean, bathrooms were cleaned, stocked and even lit at night view small solar motion lights! Of particular note, the bugs were much lighter than expected, definitely less mosquitos than we were figuring would be there during the wet year we've had! 😊

G
Bradley Boots

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Bradley Boots

Far off of the pavement, a wonderful secluded little camp area. No power or running water but there is a well with a hand pump and the water from it was good. Really recharged my inner self while here. Worth the 12 hour drive to get here. Fishing wasnt good but met a guy who pulled a 3 1/2 lb pike. Nights are super quiet. Facilities are kept clean and neat.

G
Karen Knoke

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Karen Knoke

Very clean campground and the hosts are very nice! Sites are spaced out so you’re not right next to your neighborhood which we appreciated. Most sites also have a personal trail to the lake. They also have a boat dock to the beautiful lake, we went paddle boarding there and had a great time. The campground itself was a bit out of the way down a gravel road which was a nice getaway from busy life.... Very clean campground and the hosts are very nice! Sites are spaced out so you’re not right next to your neighborhood which we appreciated. Most sites also have a personal trail to the lake. They also have a boat dock to the beautiful lake, we went paddle boarding there and had a great time. The campground itself was a bit out of the way down a gravel road which was a nice getaway from busy life. Definitely would visit again.

G
Janae Alyse

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Janae Alyse

This was a lovely and well kept campground. Our site was in the South Loop (#29) with lake access about 15 feet away - perfect for canoeing and day trips on the water. There was generous space between campsites with lots of tree coverage for privacy. Just like every other campground in northern MN in mid/late Spring, it was extremely buggy with mosquitos and gnats. Bug head nets, bug spray, and sc... This was a lovely and well kept campground. Our site was in the South Loop (#29) with lake access about 15 feet away - perfect for canoeing and day trips on the water. There was generous space between campsites with lots of tree coverage for privacy. Just like every other campground in northern MN in mid/late Spring, it was extremely buggy with mosquitos and gnats. Bug head nets, bug spray, and screen shelters recommended! The site host was attentive and had firewood for sale for $8/bundle. We enjoyed a day trip to downtown Ely, which was about a 30 min drive. If headed into town, I definitely recommend checking out the Bass Lake Trailhead waterfall, Dorothy Molter Museum (with a cold root beer), and the International Wolf Center.

G
Emily Montgomery

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Emily Montgomery

Wonderful spot up North. Very well maintained campground with amazing camp hosts. Many campsites have access to the lake, which was wonderful for a swim. (As long as you can scramble down a couple rocks, or walk through a short trail.) The cabins are new to the campsite, and we were very fortune to snag one up for a stormy weekend.

Own or manage Birch Lakes State Forest Campground?

Claim this listing for free to update info, respond to reviews, add real photos, and start accepting online bookings.

Claim This Listing — Free
RR

Ranger Rex

Your RV Park Expert

Online
RR

Howdy! I'm Ranger Rex, your RV park expert. Ask me anything about campgrounds, state parks, national parks, or planning your next adventure!

RR

Powered by AI · Responses may not be 100% accurate