Cross Lake Day Use

Campground · Minnesota · 2 bookable sites ·

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers

2
Bookable sites
up to 75
People per site
1
Accessible site
1,231 ft
Elevation
Sunset at fishing dock by shelter #1

Overview

In Central Minnesota's popular lakes area, the Cross Lake Day Use has tremendous appeal for families and friends, with an array of activities and facilities perfect for a day outdoors.

Recreation

Swim or sunbathe at the beach, enjoy a meal at one of the numerous picnic sites, or for larger groups, reserve one of two group picnic shelters. Shore fishing is popular both upstream and downstream of the dam on accessible fishing piers, and canoe access is available for exploring the Pine River downstream of the dam.

Facilities

The area offers two group picnic shelters. The #1 shelter is located upstream of the dam and is smaller than the #2 shelter which is located downstream of the dam, along the Pine River. Canoe access is available along both shores of the Pine River downstream from the dam. A swimming beach and two accessible fishing piers are available within a short walk of the parking area. Other facilities include a playground, restrooms and parking facilities for up to 50 vehicles.

Natural Features

Surrounded by tall pines on the eastern bank of Cross Lake, the Day Use Area provides an ideal location to explore and enjoy the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, boasting 13,660 acres of water and 119 miles of scenic shoreline.

Nearby Attractions

The city of Crosslake is located within walking distance from the Day Use Area where you will find local shopping, a paved walking and biking trail and numerous other activities within town.

The facts

  • 2 bookable sites
  • 2 sites for day use only
  • 1 accessible site
  • Up to 75 people per site
  • Loops: PR DAY USE

Site types

  • 2 Group Shelter Electric

Amenities

  • Picnic tables
  • Shade
  • Pets allowed
  • Campfires allowed — not available

Not recorded upstream: electric hookups, water hookups, sewer hookups, fire pits, grills.

Book on Recreation.gov

2 campsites at Cross Lake Day Use

Check-in 10:00 AM · Check-out 9:00 PM

SiteLoopTypeEntrySurfaceWaterMax rigPeople
1PR DAY USEGroup Shelter ElectricBack InPavedLakefront—25 🐾
2PR DAY USEGroup Shelter Electric—PavedRiverfront—75♿ 🐾

Getting there

From Brainerd, Minnesota. on Highway 25; turn right on County Road 3 and travel north to Cross Lake, Minn. The Day Use area entrance is to the left, directly across from intersections 3 and 66.

46.66972, -94.10833 · 46°40'11.0"N 94°6'30.0"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 80°F in Jul, down to 19°F in Jan.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F192538526675807869543824
Low °F-131630445460574836228
Precip in0.80.71.42.13.74.54.33.22.82.91.41.0

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 0 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

More photos

Member photos

Common questions about Cross Lake Day Use

Can you reserve a site at Cross Lake Day Use?
Yes, Cross Lake Day Use is reservable through Recreation.gov.
How many campsites does Cross Lake Day Use have?
2 sites.
Are pets allowed at Cross Lake Day Use?
Yes, pets are allowed at Cross Lake Day Use.
Are campfires allowed at Cross Lake Day Use?
Campfires are not allowed at Cross Lake Day Use.

Camping near Cross Lake Day Use

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.