Sunset at Cross Lake Recreation Area

Cross Lake Recreation Area

Open

Open for the 2026 season as of May 14. The campground closes October 15, 2026. Water spigots and dump station close after October 15. All reservations must be made through Recreation.gov. Check-in required within 24 hours of scheduled arrival. Stay limited to 14 days within any 30-consecutive-day period.

About

Cross Lake Recreation Area sits on the eastern shore of Cross Lake, one of 13 interconnected lakes forming the Whitefish Chain in Minnesota's popular lakes country. The campground provides access to 13,660 acres of water and 119 miles of scenic shoreline that help form the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the facility offers 122 well-maintained campsites, with 97 featuring electric hookups (30/50 amp) and some including water hookups. The recreation area caters to water enthusiasts with a boat ramp, floating docks for boat parking, two sandy swimming beaches, and two accessible fishing piers. Campers can enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, and fishing throughout the interconnected lake system. On land, amenities include two accessible hot shower facilities, a dump station, playground, and two picnic shelters. The campground's location adjacent to the city of Crosslake puts shopping, dining, and a paved bike trail within walking distance. Sites are wooded with gravel driveways, accommodating RVs up to 70 feet on larger sites. The area is also close to Crow Wing State Park, where visitors can view the Mississippi River from the historic Chippewa Lookout.

Directions

From Brainerd, Minnesota on Highway 25, turn right on County Road 3 and travel north to Crosslake. The campground entrance is to the left at the intersection of County Roads 3 and 66.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station Yes
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups Yes
Water Hookups Yes
Sewer Hookups No
Camp Store
Price $24 - $32

Vehicle

Max RV Length 100ft
Max Trailer Length 82ft
Big Rig Friendly Yes
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (651) 290-5793

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Availability

Photos

Sunset at Cross Lake Recreation Area
Enjoying a sunny day
kids with worms!
Good Catch!
Dam at Cross
campsites
Sunsets at Cross Lake Recreation Area
Sunset from fishing pier
Interp Building
Main Fishing Pier at Cross Lake

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