Spring Awakening: Discover the Best Midwest Campgrounds
As winter fades and the Midwest wakes up to warmer days, it’s the perfect time to start planning your first camping trip of the season. Spring camping offers fewer crowds, a chance to enjoy natural landscapes as they are coming back to life, and the perfect way to shake off cabin fever. Whether you’re an experienced camper or getting ready for your first trip with your new camper, the following Midwest destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for families, retirees, or solo adventurers alike.
Minnesota’s Best Spring Camping Spots
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Located along the North Shore of Lake Superior, Gooseberry Falls is famous for its waterfalls, which reach peak flow in spring due to the melting of snow. It’s a great place to enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites with electric hookups, it’s a great option for those with travel trailers.
Itasca State Park
As Minnesota’s oldest state park, Itasca offers a mix of beautiful lakes, pine forests, and the famous Mississippi River Headwaters. Spring is a great time to watch wildlife, get in some fishing, and bike along the many trails. Campers will find full-service RV and trailer sites.
Whitewater State Park
For a relaxing, mosquito-free camping experience, Whitewater State Park in southeastern Minnesota is a great choice. With its amazing limestone bluffs and Whitewater River filled with trout, it’s perfect for spring fishing and hiking.
Wisconsin’s Spring Camping Getaways
Devil’s Lake State Park
Wisconsin’s largest state park features quartzite bluffs that rise 500 feet above a crystal-clear lake. Spring provides campers with cooler temperatures for hiking and rock climbing, as well as with some pretty amazing views. Their campgrounds accommodate a variety of camping trailers.
Peninsula State Park
Located in Door County, Peninsula State Park provides beautiful views of Green Bay, limestone cliffs, and miles of biking and hiking trails. Spring is the perfect time to relax and explore before the summer crowds start to move in.
Kettle Moraine State Forest
With rolling hills, glacial formations, and scenic lakes, Kettle Moraine is a popular spot for spring camping. The hiking and biking trails are even more scenic in the spring, when you can see wildflowers blooming across the forest.
Illinois’ Must-Visit Spring Campgrounds
Shawnee National Forest
Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is famous for its hills, bluffs, and many lakes. Spring is a great time to get out and explore trails like the Garden of the Gods, which has really cool sandstone rock formations.
Starved Rock State Park
Famous for its dramatic canyons and seasonal waterfalls, Starved Rock is most alive in the spring. With electric campsites for travel trailers and 13 miles of hiking trails, it’s a great destination for those looking for adventure.
Iowa’s Top Camping Destinations
Maquoketa Caves State Park
For a unique camping experience, at Maquoketa Caves State Park you’ll find limestone caves and scenic hiking trails. The cooler spring temperatures make it the perfect time to explore the caves before summer heat and humidity sets in.
Backbone State Park
Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park and features great trout fishing, and beautiful trails. Spring is a great time to enjoy peaceful camping, birdwatching, and hiking before peak camping season crowds arrive.
Ledges State Park
Located near Des Moines, Ledges State Park features amazing sandstone cliffs and winding trails along the Des Moines River. Spring rains and snow runoff create temporary waterfalls along the trails, making it even more beautiful during this time of year.
Plan Your Getaway and Get Your Camper Ready for Spring Adventures
Spring is the perfect time to hitch up your travel trailer and explore these breathtaking Midwest destinations. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, these campgrounds provide a great setting for your next getaway. Start planning your spring adventure today with a visit to our showroom or browse our selection online!
Before hitting the road, make sure your camper is ready for the season. Here are a few key ways to make for a smooth, stress-free trip:
Inspect the exterior – Check for winter damage. Inspect the roof and seams, and clean off any debris.
Test your systems – Ensure that your electrical, water, and propane systems are functioning properly.
Check your tires – Look for signs of wear, check the pressure, and make sure your spare tire is in good shape.
Stock up – Update your first-aid kit, restock camping gear, and pack weather-appropriate clothing.
Need help getting your camper ready? The team at Minneapolis Trailer Sales is here to assist with inspections, maintenance, and any upgrades to make 2025 your best camping season yet.