Minnesota state parks and recreation areas have a variety of camping and lodging options for an unforgettable overnight stay this winter.

Whether people are looking to ski in and out of a cabin, wake up to frost-covered forests, or simply enjoy the peace of a crackling fire, Minnesota state parks offer the ultimate winter escape.

Camper Cabins

When winter sets in, you can cozy up in a camper cabin at a Minnesota state park or recreation area. Parks including Jay Cooke, Afton, Lake Bemidji, Whitewater, and Wild River all have winter cabin options making it possible to enjoy the beauty of the season without sacrificing comfort. These heated, rustic retreats offer the perfect balance of comfort and adventure, providing a warm home base for winter explorations or simply unwinding in the beauty of nature.

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While not all camper cabins are available year-round, many that are can be found near popular winter trails and scenic overlooks. You can step outside the door and easily enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or a winter hike.

Inside the cabins, you will find amenities like bunk beds, tables, and benches. All campers need to bring is bedding, cookware, and a sense of adventure. Most cabins also come with a fire ring and picnic table outside, giving the option to toast marshmallows or gather around a crackling fire under the stars. Find details on the DNR’s camper cabin webpage.

Yurts

Yurts are round, insulated, all-season canvas structures with wood floors, woodstoves and basic furnishings. Firewood is provided in winter months, so yurts are a great way to explore the outdoors all day then spend the night toasty warm. Like camper cabins, yurts offer bunk beds, a table and chairs or benches, plus a fire ring and picnic table outdoors.

Yurts are available year-round at three locations: Afton and Glendalough state parks and Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Find more information on the DNR’s webpage about yurts.

Winter Camping

Winter camping might sound daunting at first, but for those who embrace the challenge, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience Minnesota’s natural beauty. While winter camping might be more physically demanding than its summer counterpart, it offers a rare sense of peace and accomplishment.

Be sure to check park-specific details before heading out, as water access, restroom availability, and plowed campsites vary by location. For first timers, it’s always a good idea to call the park to confirm conditions.

Join the Winter Camping Workshop

Since 2015, Tettegouche State Park has hosted a day-long winter camping workshop for beginners. The workshop provides step-by-step guidance on everything from dressing for the weather to building snow shelters like a quinzhee — a kind of snow cave that can stay surprisingly warm inside. It’s also a chance to experiment with different options, such as using a “hot tent” with a small wood stove.

To learn more, visit DNR’s winter camping webpage to see which parks offer winter camping, or check out the Tettegouche State Park page for details on the workshop scheduled for February 8th.

Planning & Safety Tips

Being prepared is key to making a winter overnight trip to a state park or recreation area successful and fun.

  • Book early: Camper cabins, yurts and lodging suites are very popular even in winter months and often fill quickly for weekend dates. Consider a weekday stay for more availability. Make reservations on the DNR website.
  • What's provided: Be aware of what amenities are available. Camper cabins and yurts require visitors to bring their own bedding, but lodging suites do not. Visitors should familiarize themselves with amenities before packing. Visit the park's website or call the ranger station for more information.
  • Water access: Check the park website or talk with park staff to confirm where water will be available. Some campground bathrooms and spigots will be shut off for the winter.
  • Check weather: Before heading out, check the forecast and pack for the conditions.
  • Dress in layers: Choose moisture-wicking materials and bring extras to stay dry and warm.

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