First Time Camper? This Accessible Campground in Minnesota Will Make You a Camping Convert

As someone who has camped for most of my life, I fully admit that the first time can be intimidating. I went camping with my dad all the time growing up—sometimes even without a tent, making our own shelters. I was a Cub Scout and a Webelo; I had merit badges in all the outdoor skills. Then I trotted off to college in Minnesota, and when it occurred to me that I should go camping sometime, I headed to the nearest discount store an picked out a tent. Even though it was cheap and bright yellow, I felt emboldened and a real sense of freedom as the new owner of my own tent. The idea of having my own shelter that I could pitch anywhere was empowering, and I couldn't wait to get out and use it. Then I started thinking about everything else I would need—and I panicked.

This happened before the internet was a useful tool, and I had no idea how to find a place to camp, let alone how to reserve a campsite (among many other things). So, if you're a nervous first-time camper or someone just trying to figure it out how to do it, I empathize with you. I am also here to tell you that you can do it! If you ask me, the best way to get started is to ease into it—especially if you're not sure whether you'll like it or not.

I knew I liked camping, but I really doubted my preparedness. On my first few solo camping trips, I reserved spots at municipal campgrounds. They were close to stores, had water and full restrooms, and I was surrounded by plenty of other campers, but I didn't love it. Today, there are many better tools and options for finding a good, easy-to-access campsite in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. One of my favorites is Hipcamp, where you can find a wide variety of campsites, public and private, as primitive or as modern as you like. I was recently on the site, and I came across this small, private campground in Minnesota that would have been perfect when I was a first-time camper—and even now, with a few decades of sleeping beneath the stars under my belt, I think it looks awesome.

Sol Vind Lakeside Camping Retreat is located on the southeast shore of Mille Lacs Lake, just outside of Isle. The campground is directly on the water, with its own beach and a private dock.

There are only three sites at Sol Vind, all of which can accommodate either a tent or an RV. What I think is super cool about this place, though, is that in addition to the campsites, the hosts offer a small rental cabin, the Hygge Hus, and an on-site, beachfront camper that you can reserve.

This means you can not only set up a tent in a beautiful, relaxed environment but also try your hand at RV camping without the commitment of RV ownership or rental—all in a gorgeous waterfront setting, where you can enjoy sunset campfires and stargazing. Sol Vind really may be the perfect place for first-time campers.

If the camping bug bites you—along with all the other bugs that come with enjoying the outdoors in Minnesota—you'll soon find yourself hauling a tent into the woods on your back or in a canoe and taking full advantage of our state's natural beauty. Then you can return to Sol Vind for a nice, civilized break.

What do you think is the best place for first-time campers in Minnesota? We'd love to hear your thoughts.