For many, an RV rental is an opportunity to explore beyond their home state’s borders. But don’t underestimate what the Land of 10,000 Lakes offers!

Staying close to home can be just as adventurous. According to the state DNR, Minnesota has a whopping 66 state parks to explore, in addition to 4,382 campsites within those parks.

Taking your camper rental on an adventure to see the local sights is a great vacation opportunity, as you can hit up tons of destinations within a short timeframe. The sheer number of exploration opportunities allows your family to create an ideal itinerary, and Fractional Toys, your Rogers and Oakdale provider of recreational rentals, is here to help!

Here are some of the awesome RV destinations that await you right here in our home state.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area

On the bucket list of anyone who visits Minnesota, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is not a destination anyone would want to miss. If you’re a local who hasn’t seen it yet, you’re certainly missing out! It’s known statewide as the pinnacle of quietness and serenity, as a place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of urban or suburban life.

Rugged and wild, this destination is only for experienced outdoorsmen willing to rough it a bit. The views are well worth it. Its geography is also notable, unlike much else you’re likely to find within the state, let alone the country as a whole.

According to the National Forest Service, “The BWCAW is the only large temperate lake-land wilderness in the National Wilderness Preservation System and is renowned for its water-based recreational opportunities. The sculpting of the landscape by powerful glaciers over an immense period of time has left behind a variety of landforms and rocks as well as thousands of lakes and streams, interspersed with islands.”

In addition to its waterways, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area features acres upon acres of forest to explore. Because it’s such a sought-after vacation destination, you’ll need to pick up a permit before entering, and these are always in high demand.

Trips here and nearby RV parking accommodations are best planned far in advance!

Voyageurs National Park

Home to stunning rock formations and acres of luscious lakes, Voyageurs National Park is, according to the National Park Service, “a place of transition between land and aquatic ecosystems, between southern boreal and northern hardwood forests, and between wild and developed areas.”

Nature here is a feast for the eyes, and fishing opportunities – namely for Walleye – are abundant. As far as motorhome rental campgrounds go, you’ll find a huge variety nearby. Some are no-fuss, no-frills, sporting only the most basic of necessities. Others feature Wi-Fi and full hookups.

If you want to get in touch with nature but aren’t quite sold on the idea of a camping trip without access to the Internet, Voyageurs National Park could very well feature on your trip itinerary.

The North Shore Scenic Drive

Less of a destination and more of a route, the North Shore Scenic Drive, nonetheless, isn’t something you want to miss. If you are on the road in your camper rental for a while, you might as well make the time enjoyable!

According to Explore Minnesota, this route spans “From Duluth to Two Harbors on Co. Rd. 61 (old Hwy. 61), and from Two Harbors to Grand Portage on Hwy. 61,” totaling 154 miles – and those 154 miles are jam-packed with destinations for all types of vacationers.

You'll see everything from arts towns to quaint shoreside restaurants while traveling Lake Superior’s North Shore. Because the North Shore Scenic Drive also touches eight state parks, you can spend some time in nature along the way.

If you only have time for one “destination” with your recreational rental, make it the North Shore Scenic Drive and prepare for a vacation packed with opportunity!

Glacial Lakes State Park

Got a plant parent in your midst? They’ll love Glacial Lakes State Park. Sitting on a lovely little slice of prairie land, this area “in season, features a host of wildflowers and grasses,” according to Explore Minnesota.

But flowers aren’t the only attraction Glacial Lakes State Park boasts; Swimming, hiking, biking, and boating opportunities can also be found here, and the space also offers spots for some light fishing off of a pier into Signalness Lake.

The nearby town of Starbuck has great dining; You’ll never be far from a hearty meal!

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls State Park is located along the North Shore within easy travel of Duluth and seven other North Shore state parks. It opened in 1937 and spans 1,687 acres.

Gooseberry Falls is home to the Gooseberry River, five thundering waterfalls, and the beautiful Lake Superior coastline. There are plenty of scenic overlooks to enjoy the waterfalls, a visitor’s center, and some of the best trout fishing around.

If you enjoy hiking, Gooseberry Falls State Park has 20 miles of hiking trails that run along the river and through the woods. This park also has cross-country ski trails and snowmobile trails if you enjoy winter camping. There is also a restaurant nearby that is open year-round.

Itasca State Park

Itasca State Park is one of Minnesota's oldest state parks and one of the largest. It’s known for the Mississippi River Headwaters, extensive hiking trails, paved bike trailers, historic sites, boat tours, bus tours, a beach for swimming, and boat access.

If you plan to visit here, make sure you enjoy some of Minnesota’s remaining old-growth pine forests. The park even offers free Wi-Fi, so you can work while you play.

Lake Bemidji State Park

Though Lake Bemidji State Park is small, it is considered a mighty place to stay. There are many hiking trails, and you can access the Paul Bunyan State Trail that extends south all the way to Crow Wing State Park.

Plenty of birds are in the area for those who enjoy bird watching. There are frequent eagle and osprey sightings. This is another park that offers free WiFi so you can stay connected while enjoying nature.

Fractional Toys: Top-Notch Camper & Motorhome Rentals

Summer is the best time to get out and enjoy Minnesota, and we’ve got all the equipment your family needs for a stress-free vacation. Reach our Oakdale office today at 651-340-0937 or our Rogers location at 763-406-2488.