The campground is expected to reopen for the 2028 camping season
Starting Tuesday, Sept. 8, Banning State Park’s campground will close for a construction project to replace the park’s shower building.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources anticipates that the campground, which includes 33 sites and a camper cabin, will remain closed during the entire 2027 camping season while construction is completed.
“We know some visitors may be disappointed to lose a season of camping at Banning, but we’re excited to reopen the campground in 2028 with a shower building that fits the needs of today’s campers,” said Clarissa Payne, park supervisor at Banning State Park.
The new building will include modern restrooms, accessible single-occupancy showers, two family-assist restrooms, an adult changing station and dishwashing stations.
Camping alternatives near Banning State Park include:
- St. Croix State Park – 211 drive-in sites across three campgrounds
- Moose Lake State Park – 33 drive-in sites
- Several state forest campgrounds, including:
- Willow River Campground, General C.C. Andrews State Forest – 36 rustic drive-in sites
- Gafvert Campground, Nemadji State Forest – 18 rustic drive-in sites
- Boulder Campground, St. Croix State Forest – 22 rustic drive-in sites
About Banning State Park
Established in 1963, Banning State Park is located near Sandstone and covers more than 6,000 acres along the Kettle River. Visitors can hike to Wolf Falls, explore the remains of a historic sandstone quarry, paddle churning rapids, view sandstone formations and glacial potholes, and enjoy many other activities. To learn more, visit the Banning State Park webpage.