Minnesota / Crow Wing County / Crosslake

Cross Lake Recreation Area

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground will reopen for the 2026 camping season on May 14. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Cross Lake Recreation Area is a well-maintained Army Corps of Engineers campground situated among towering pines on the eastern shore of Cross Lake, part of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes in central Minnesota. The recreation area provides 122 campsites, with 97 offering electric hookups, accommodating both RV and tent campers. The campground is renowned for its picturesque sunsets, well-kept facilities, and extensive recreational opportunities. The recreation area features two sandy swimming beaches, two boat ramps with floating docks for boat parking, and two accessible fishing piers providing angling access to both Cross Lake and the Pine River. Additional amenities include two accessible hot shower facilities, a playground, two picnic shelters, and a dump station. The Whitefish Chain of Lakes encompasses 13 natural lakes with 13,660 acres of water and 119 miles of scenic shoreline, forming part of the Mississippi River Headwaters. The campground's location adjacent to the city of Crosslake makes it convenient for campers to access shopping, dining, and paved bike trails within walking distance. The area offers excellent opportunities for boating, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Nearby attractions include Crow Wing State Park with its historic Chippewa Lookout overlooking the Mississippi River.

Directions

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

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