Up North Retreats

- 23811 291st Ave, Akeley, MN 56433

For Minnesota locals who crave outdoor adventure but appreciate the comfort of modern facilities, **Up North Retreats** near Akeley, MN, stands out as a genuine "hidden GEM!" As a relatively new and purpose-built campground, it has quickly established itself as the go-to recreational living community for self-sufficient, mature outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those in the ATV and RV communities.

Strategically located just outside of Akeley and in immediate proximity to the vast trail systems of the Paul Bunyan State Forest, this retreat offers a unique blend of wilderness access and high-end convenience. It’s designed with a thoughtful layout to accommodate large campers and trailers, providing spacious sites with up-to-date power and full hookups. The owners’ vision is to create a place where people can enjoy fellowship and leisurely campfires, all while having direct and easy access to the adrenaline-pumping land and water adventures that define Northern Minnesota. Whether you are seeking a weekend of aggressive off-roading or a quiet spot to connect with the Heartland Trail, Up North Retreats is engineered to be your comfortable, no-fuss home base.

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Up North Retreats enjoys an enviable location in Hubbard County, MN, situated perfectly to capitalize on the region’s extensive recreational infrastructure.

Address: 23811 291st Ave, Akeley, MN 56433, USA

This prime position places the campground directly on a designated ATV route, offering riders the immense benefit of being able to "ride to the trails without ditch riding," as noted by one enthusiastic reviewer. This short drive down a gravel road connects directly to hundreds of miles of ATV/OHV trails in the nearby Paul Bunyan State Forest, which is part of the "Off-Road Triangle" that includes Two Inlets and Huntersville State Forests.

The accessibility extends beyond motorized recreation. The property is located less than a quarter mile from the paved **Heartland State Trail**, a 49-mile corridor perfect for biking, running, and walking that links Park Rapids and Cass Lake. Furthermore, this paved trail conveniently connects to the massive 115-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail, creating an unparalleled nexus for cyclists and hikers. The central location provides quick access by ATV, bicycle, or car to several vibrant local towns:

• Akeley (approx. 2 miles, featuring the famous Paul Bunyan statue)
• Nevis (approx. 5 miles)
• Walker (approx. 12 miles)
• Park Rapids (approx. 16 miles)

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Up North Retreats is specifically geared toward the modern camper who expects convenience and quality service, offering features far beyond a basic state forest campground.

• Full Hookup Sites: All camper/RV sites are equipped with full hookups, which include water, sewer, and electric service.
• Up-to-Date Power: Sites feature modern power pedestals (poles), typically offering 50/30/20 amp electrical service, eliminating the need for many common adapters.
• Spacious Layout: The campground boasts a great layout with large sites, often spacious enough to park two campers or a camper and multiple trailers, a significant advantage for groups or those with large recreation trailers.
• Variety of Booking Options: The campground accommodates daily, weekly, and monthly rates for short-term stays, in addition to seasonal options for a full summer experience (typically Mid-May to Mid-October).
• Online Reservations: Campsites can be easily booked online via the official website, allowing guests to secure their preferred spot in advance.
• Campfire Accessibility: Sites are set up to be relaxing, with ample space for campfires, which is a major highlight for those seeking a quiet evening under the stars.

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The true value of Up North Retreats lies in its dual focus on high-quality facilities and exceptional proximity to regional recreation.

• Ultimate ATV/OHV Basecamp: The property is directly on a designated route providing unparalleled access to the Paul Bunyan State Forest's extensive trail network, including the Martineau Trail system for off-highway motorcycles and the Round River Drive Trail for ATVs. The campground’s design caters specifically to this crowd with ample parking for trailers and rigs.
• Biking Paradise: Being less than a quarter mile from the paved Heartland State Trail—and its connection to the Paul Bunyan State Trail—offers a safe and scenic route for road cyclists and casual riders. Mountain bikers can also utilize the grassy parallel trail or the many multi-use trails in the state forest.
• Proximity to State Parks and Lakes: The location serves as a perfect hub for exploring Itasca State Park (Headwaters of the Mississippi River, less than 40 miles away), as well as numerous lakes for fishing, cruising, canoeing, and boating within a 50-mile radius.
• Quiet, Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite the easy access to motorized trails, guests consistently praise the "quietness and relaxing" environment, making it a great place to unwind after a day of adventure.
• New and Well-Maintained: As a newer campground, the facilities, including the power poles and overall site quality, are modern and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable stay.

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To book your site or to inquire about seasonal options, contact the friendly owners directly.

Address:

23811 291st Ave, Akeley, MN 56433, USA

Phone:

(763) 516-0202

(Mobile Phone: +1 763-516-0202)

Directions Note: To find the campground, travel on MN State Hwy 34 between Akeley and Nevis, then turn North onto 291st Ave. The campground entrance is a short drive (approx. 0.3 miles) on the left.

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Up North Retreats is perfectly tailored for the Minnesota local who has invested in the state’s extensive recreational opportunities. This is not just a place to park an RV; it’s an integrated community for trail enthusiasts. For the local ATV or OHV rider, the direct trail access without the hassle of street riding is a massive time-saver and convenience, making every weekend outing more efficient and enjoyable. For the family looking for a central gathering spot, the large, full-hookup sites accommodate modern recreational vehicles, allowing for comfortable, extended stays.

Furthermore, its location in the heart of the "Park Rapids, Walker, Nevis, and Akeley" quadrangle means campers have access to charming dining, local shops, and the cultural sites of the area, all reachable by motorized trail or paved bike path. It provides the ideal blend of rugged trail access and the necessary creature comforts—a clean, safe, and well-designed home base that allows Minnesotans to fully exploit the stunning public lands of the Paul Bunyan State Forest, ensuring visitors "will be back" again and again.

Up North Retreats

23811 291st Ave, Akeley, MN 56433, USA