Cross Lake Recreation Area

Are you a Minnesotan yearning for that classic "Up North" experience, filled with serene lake views, tall pines, and endless opportunities for family fun? Look no further than Cross Lake Recreation Area, a cherished campground nestled in the heart of Crosslake, MN. For decades, this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility has been a beloved destination for families, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and well-maintained amenities that make for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Cross Lake Recreation Area is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a vibrant community hub where generations of families have created lasting memories. Visitors consistently praise its welcoming atmosphere, with rangers who genuinely "engage with the kids," fostering a sense of wonder and connection to nature. Beyond the friendly faces, the area boasts picturesque sunsets, beautiful beaches, and well-maintained campsites, earning it a reputation as a "wonderful and family friendly park." Whether you're drawn to the sparkling waters of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, the peaceful trails, or simply the joy of watching crayfish by the dam, Cross Lake Recreation Area offers a quintessential Minnesota camping experience.

Cross Lake Recreation Area is ideally situated at 35507 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA. This prime location places it directly on the eastern bank of Cross Lake, part of the renowned Whitefish Chain of Lakes in Central Minnesota's popular lakes area. The Whitefish Chain boasts over 13,660 acres of water and 119 miles of scenic shoreline, offering unparalleled opportunities for boating, fishing, and water-based recreation.

Accessibility to the campground is excellent, making it a convenient destination for Minnesotans. From Brainerd, visitors can easily reach Crosslake via Highway 25 and County Road 3. The campground's entrance on County Road 66 is straightforward to find. A significant advantage of this location is its proximity to the town of Crosslake. The city of Crosslake is "within walking distance" from the recreation area, providing campers with easy access to local shopping, a paved walking and biking trail, numerous restaurants, and other town activities. This means you can enjoy the feeling of being "out in the woods" within the campground, yet still have the convenience of urban amenities just a short stroll or bike ride away. The well-maintained roads within the campground are also noted as good for scooters and bikes, further enhancing on-site accessibility and exploration.

Cross Lake Recreation Area, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provides a comprehensive array of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its guests.

• Campsites: The sizable campground features 121 campsites, accommodating both RVs and tents.
• Electrical Hookups: 91 campsites are equipped with electric hookups, with some also offering water hookups.
• Restrooms and Showers: Two accessible hot shower facilities and clean flush toilets are available, consistently praised by visitors for their cleanliness and maintenance.
• Dump Stations: Convenient dump stations are provided for RV waste disposal.
• Boat Ramps: Two boat ramps offer easy access to Cross Lake and the Whitefish Chain for boating enthusiasts.
• Swimming Beach: A beautiful, well-maintained sandy beach area is available for swimming and sunbathing.
• Picnic Shelters: Two group picnic shelters (one upstream, one downstream of the dam) are available, perfect for larger gatherings. Individual picnic sites are also scattered throughout the area.
• Playground Areas: Several playground areas are on-site, providing entertainment for children.
• Accessible Facilities: The recreation area includes accessible fishing docks and other handicap-accessible facilities.
• Canoe Access: Canoe access is available along both shores of the Pine River downstream from the dam.
• Ranger Engagement: Park rangers actively engage with children, adding a unique and family-friendly dimension to the experience.
• Designated Boat Beacihing Areas: Specific areas are designated for beaching boats.
• Firewood Availability: Certified or approved firewood is often available for purchase in the campground.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash (no longer than 6 feet) and attended, with owners responsible for clean-up.

Cross Lake Recreation Area stands out for its exceptional natural features and well-thought-out amenities that cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, especially families.

• Direct Access to Whitefish Chain of Lakes: The prime feature is its location on Cross Lake, providing direct access to the expansive and beautiful Whitefish Chain of Lakes, ideal for boating, fishing, and water sports.
• Picturesque Sunsets: The eastern bank location offers stunning sunset views over Cross Lake, creating memorable evening experiences.
• Beautiful Sandy Beach: A well-maintained sandy beach area provides a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxed lake enjoyment.
• Engaging Ranger Programs: The active engagement of park rangers with children adds a unique educational and fun element for families.
• Clean and Spacious Campsites: Visitors consistently praise the campground for its "clean" and "spacious" campsites, many of which are "shaded beneath a thick, varied canopy of trees," offering a sense of being in the woods despite proximity to town.
• Excellent Facilities: The "clean restrooms" and "accessible hot shower facilities" are frequently highlighted as top-notch, enhancing guest comfort.
• Abundant Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the area offers fishing (including accessible piers), hiking, biking trails (connecting to the Paul Bunyan Trail), and opportunities for spotting crayfish near the dam.
• Proximity to Crosslake Town Amenities: The ability to walk or bike into Crosslake for dining, shopping (including local ice cream shops and gift shops), and other town activities is a significant convenience.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds, ranger interactions, and a safe setting, it's consistently rated as an excellent choice for families with children, even for beginning campers.
• Well-Maintained Park: The overall upkeep and cleanliness of the campground, from sites to common areas, receive consistent positive feedback.

Address: 35507 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA

Phone: (651) 290-5793

Mobile Phone: +1 651-290-5793

For campsite reservations, it is recommended to visit Recreation.gov or call their toll-free reservation line at (877) 444-6777 (TDD: 1-877-833-6777).

For Minnesotans, Cross Lake Recreation Area embodies the very essence of a perfect "Up North" getaway, making it an exceptionally suitable and cherished local destination. Its longstanding reputation as a "wonderful and family friendly park," with visitors returning for "almost 40 years," speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and deep connection with the community. Locals understand the value of direct lake access, and Cross Lake provides just that, opening up the vast recreational opportunities of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes right from your campsite. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply enjoy a refreshing swim, the pristine waters are literally at your doorstep.

The campground’s blend of natural beauty and practical amenities caters perfectly to the preferences of Minnesota residents. The spacious, shaded campsites offer that desired "out in the woods" feel, while the consistently clean restrooms and hot showers provide the comforts of home. For families, the engaging park rangers, multiple playground areas, and safe environment ensure that children are not only entertained but also learn to appreciate the outdoors. This makes it an ideal spot for introducing younger generations to the joys of camping, building memories that often last a lifetime.

Furthermore, the unique balance of being immersed in nature while still having immediate access to the vibrant town of Crosslake is a significant advantage for locals. The ability to walk or bike to grab ice cream, explore local shops, or dine at a restaurant adds a layer of convenience that elevates the camping experience. This means less time planning complex logistics and more time enjoying what truly matters: quality time with family and friends amidst Minnesota's breathtaking natural landscapes. For a hassle-free, memorable, and authentically Minnesotan outdoor adventure, Cross Lake Recreation Area stands out as a prime choice for residents seeking the very best of their home state.

Cross Lake Recreation Area

35507 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA