Lipon Campground

For Minnesotans seeking a diverse and well-equipped camping experience in one of the state's most cherished natural landmarks, Lipon Campground, known officially as Camp Itasca, offers an excellent solution. While the name "Lipon Campground" might not be as widely recognized, it refers to a privately-operated campground that provides a robust and comfortable base for exploring the wonders of Lake Itasca and the surrounding Itasca State Park. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this campground, helping local users in Minnesota plan their next memorable outdoor adventure.

Itasca State Park, established in 1891, stands as Minnesota's oldest state park and a true ecological and historical gem. It encompasses over 32,000 acres, featuring more than 100 lakes, pristine old-growth forests, and a rich array of wildlife. Its most famous feature, the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, allows visitors to literally walk across the humble beginnings of one of the world's great rivers. While the park has its own state-run campgrounds, privately-owned establishments like Camp Itasca (which appears to be the most prominent campground associated with the "Lipon Campground" search and address) near Lake Itasca play a crucial role in accommodating the high demand for camping in this popular region. Camp Itasca offers a blend of natural beauty with a wider range of amenities, making it a highly suitable option for various camping styles, from rustic tenters to large RVs.

Lipon Campground, commonly known as Camp Itasca, is located at 27120 State Hwy 200, Shevlin, MN 56676, USA. This address places it conveniently near the iconic Itasca State Park and Lake Itasca, within the broader Lake Itasca/Park Rapids region of north-central Minnesota. For Minnesotans traveling from major metropolitan areas like the Twin Cities, the drive is typically manageable, usually taking around 3 to 4 hours. Primary routes such as US-10 W and US-71 N provide straightforward access to the area.

The campground's location on State Highway 200 makes it highly accessible by vehicle, whether you're pulling a large RV, a camper trailer, or arriving with just a tent and car. Unlike some more remote wilderness campsites, Camp Itasca offers direct drive-in access to its sites, ensuring ease of setup and convenience for bringing in all your camping gear. Given the popularity of the Itasca area, especially during the peak summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and on weekends, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance. Camp Itasca's official website or direct phone line would be the best resources for checking availability and securing your spot. While Itasca State Park itself requires a vehicle permit for entry, staying at a private campground nearby means you would acquire this permit separately if you plan to visit the park's attractions.

The surrounding area features well-maintained roads that provide easy access to Itasca State Park's main entrances, numerous lakes, and charming local towns like Park Rapids and Bagley, ensuring that day trips and exploration are convenient.

Camp Itasca (Lipon Campground) stands out for offering a comprehensive suite of services, catering to a wide range of camping preferences, from full-service RVs to traditional tent camping.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground boasts a variety of sites, including those with full hookups (water, sewer, and 30/50 amp electric service), sites with water and electric only (20/30 amp), and primitive tent sites for a more rustic experience. This ensures that whether you're in a large motorhome or a small tent, there's a suitable spot for your stay.

• Modern Bathhouse: A clean and well-maintained bathhouse with flush toilets and hot showers is available, providing comfort and convenience, a welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities. This is particularly beneficial for tent campers or those in RVs without full onboard facilities.

• Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a sanitary dump station is available for wastewater disposal, making it easy to manage your rig's grey and black water tanks.

• Potable Water Access: Fresh, potable drinking water is readily available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to clean water for cooking and consumption.

• Firewood and Ice Sales: Essential camping supplies like firewood and ice are typically available for purchase at the campground office or store, saving campers a trip into town. It's important to buy local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.

• Recreational Facilities: While specific details can vary, many private campgrounds like Camp Itasca offer additional recreational amenities. These might include a playground for children, open grassy areas for games, or communal spaces for gathering. Its 40 beautiful acres suggest ample space for various activities.

• Wi-Fi Access: Some modern campgrounds provide Wi-Fi access, often in designated areas, allowing campers to stay connected if needed, though the focus remains on outdoor enjoyment.

Lipon Campground (Camp Itasca)'s prime location near Lake Itasca and within the larger Park Rapids area offers numerous features and highlights that make it an attractive destination for Minnesota campers.

• Proximity to Itasca State Park and Mississippi Headwaters: A major draw is its very close proximity to Itasca State Park, including the iconic Headwaters of the Mississippi River. Campers can easily walk or bike into the park to experience this historic landmark, explore its visitor centers, and learn about the river's journey.

• Direct Access to Biking and Walking Trails: The campground offers direct access to the extensive network of biking and walking trails that crisscross the Itasca State Park area. This includes the famous 16-mile paved bike trail within Itasca State Park and potentially connections to other regional trails, making it ideal for cyclists and hikers.

• Nearby Lake Access and Water Activities: While not directly on Lake Itasca, the campground advertises nearby canoe access to the Mississippi River and proximity to various lakes. This means abundant opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the surrounding waters. Many lakes in the area are known for good fishing, including species like walleye, northern pike, and panfish.

• Spacious and Scenic Environment: With 40 acres of grounds, the campground likely offers spacious sites nestled among trees, providing a natural and serene environment. This allows for a sense of privacy and immersion in the north woods ambiance.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds offering diverse site types and amenities like bathhouses often cater well to families. The blend of comfortable facilities and access to outdoor activities makes it an ideal spot for family vacations.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The heavily forested areas around Lake Itasca and Itasca State Park are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, bald eagles, and loons. Campers have the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat. Proper food storage is always advised in bear country.

• "The Mountain" Feature: The campground's website mentions "The Mountain" as a feature. While details are scarce, this could refer to a prominent natural elevation or a designated recreational area within the campground, potentially offering views or a unique recreational spot.

For direct inquiries, reservations, and the most up-to-date information on Lipon Campground (Camp Itasca), the following contact details are publicly available:

Address: 27120 State Hwy 200, Shevlin, MN 56676, USA

Phone: 218-266-3990

Email: campitasca@msn.com

Website: It is recommended to visit Camp Itasca's official website (campitasca.com) for online reservations, detailed site maps, current rates, and any specific rules or seasonal opening hours. This is the best resource for planning your stay effectively.

For Minnesotans, Lipon Campground (Camp Itasca) offers a highly suitable and appealing option for a camping getaway, striking an excellent balance between convenience, comfort, and access to the state's renowned natural attractions. Its location near Lake Itasca and within easy reach of Park Rapids makes it an ideal destination for various reasons.

Firstly, its proximity to the iconic Mississippi Headwaters and Itasca State Park is a significant draw. Minnesotans have the unique opportunity to visit the very beginning of this historic river, explore its old-growth forests, and enjoy extensive hiking and biking trails, all within a short distance of their campsite. This allows for easy day trips into the park, maximizing the recreational value of their stay.

Secondly, the campground's diverse offerings, from full hookup RV sites to primitive tent areas, cater to a wide range of camping styles and preferences, making it accessible for families with young children, seasoned RVers, or individuals seeking a traditional tenting experience. The presence of a clean bathhouse, dump station, and other amenities adds a level of comfort that makes outdoor living more enjoyable, especially for those new to camping or who prefer a less rustic experience.

Finally, being a local business, Camp Itasca contributes to the vibrant tourism economy of the Park Rapids area, a region that truly embodies the "Land of 10,000 Lakes" spirit. By choosing to camp here, Minnesotans not only enjoy a fantastic outdoor vacation but also support local enterprise. For an inclusive, well-equipped, and conveniently located camping experience in the heart of Minnesota's natural splendor, Lipon Campground (Camp Itasca) is an exceptional choice for locals.

Lipon Campground

Lake Itasca, MN 56470, USA