Avay Up Nort

🌲 Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans looking to experience the iconic beauty of the Northwoods, Avay Up Nort Campground offers a friendly, affordable, and incredibly well-positioned option near one of the state’s most beloved natural treasures. Located in Laporte, this campground is a perfect basecamp for exploring the headwaters of the Mississippi River and the vast recreational opportunities of the surrounding region. It is recognized by local users for its peaceful, quiet atmosphere, often described as a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of more commercialized tourist spots, especially during the week.

The core value proposition of Avay Up Nort is its combination of affordability and unbeatable proximity to Itasca State Park. Local users consistently praise the friendly, accommodating nature of the camp host and staff, noting their willingness to assist campers, offer local tips, and ensure a pleasant stay. The campground features sites suitable for both RVs and tent campers, all nestled in a natural, well-kept setting. While it provides essential amenities, its true charm lies in the seclusion and the easy, straightforward access to world-class Minnesota wilderness. If your priority is finding a budget-friendly spot with a focus on peace and convenience for regional exploration, Avay Up Nort is a highly recommended local gem.

🗺️ Location and Accessibility

The location of Avay Up Nort Campground is one of its most significant selling points for Minnesotans planning a northern getaway. Situated at 11090 Norway Dr, Laporte, MN 56461, USA, the campground places you directly in the heart of the lakes and forests of Hubbard County.

Its accessibility to Itasca State Park is outstanding. According to local user reviews, the park's entrances are "literally up the road," placing visitors just minutes from the site where the great Mississippi River begins its journey. This makes Avay Up Nort an ideal lodging choice, allowing campers to spend less time driving and more time exploring the park's scenic trails, historic sites, and the famous headwaters crossing.

Laporte itself is a small, quiet town, ensuring that the surrounding area is tranquil. The campground is easily reachable via well-maintained county roads off major state highways (such as US-71), making the final leg of the drive simple for both RVs and vehicles towing trailers. This proximity to major nature attractions, combined with the camp's tucked-away feel, allows for quick access to outdoor adventures like hiking, wildlife watching, and fishing, solidifying its status as a premier location for the serious Minnesota explorer.

🛠️ Services Offered

Avay Up Nort Campground provides essential services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay in the Northwoods.

• RV and Tent Sites: The facility offers numerous sites accommodating a variety of camping styles, from traditional tent camping to modern recreational vehicles. Public data suggests the campground features over 20 sites.
• Electric Hookups: RV sites are equipped with essential utilities, including electric service, featuring 30-amp hookups. Additional sites may offer water hookups.
• Affordable Pricing: The campground is recognized for its very affordable rates, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice for long or short stays in a high-demand tourist area.
• Shared Bathhouse: A communal bathhouse is available for all guests, featuring both flush toilets and hot showers for cleaning up after a day of exploration. Note: One customer review mentioned potential issues with maintenance/insects in the showers, but the availability of a shower facility is confirmed and appreciated by many, especially stealth camper van users.
• Recreational Amenities: On-site family fun is supported by amenities such as two swing sets and a basketball hoop, catering to children and active guests.
• Exceptional Host/Management: The camp host, Ms. Amanda, is frequently highlighted in reviews for being highly responsive, accommodating (even for late-night or emergency check-ins), friendly, and informative about the local area. The owner is noted to be very responsive to text messages for booking or support.
• Well-Kept Grounds: The campground is generally described as clean and well-kept, offering a pleasant and serene environment.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes controlled dogs, allowing Minnesotans to bring their beloved furry friends on their up north adventure.

✨ Features / Highlights

The true highlights of Avay Up Nort are deeply intertwined with its secluded character and unbeatable location near major Minnesota attractions.

• Unbeatable Proximity to Itasca: This is the primary highlight. The campground is located just minutes from two of the entrances to Itasca State Park, providing unparalleled convenience for daily visits to the Mississippi Headwaters and park trails.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Unlike many large, bustling commercial campgrounds, Avay Up Nort is valued for its genuine tranquility. Customers note its quiet environment, especially during the week, offering a true Northwoods escape and beautiful sunset viewing.
• Dedicated Customer Service: The hands-on, friendly approach of the camp host is a significant feature. Guests receive personalized attention, local recommendations for seasonal interests and things to avoid, and efficient handling of reservations.
• Affordable Access to Northwoods: It offers a low-cost alternative for accessing the coveted Laporte/Park Rapids area, allowing families and travelers to allocate more of their vacation budget to local activities and dining.
• Family-Friendly Recreation: The inclusion of simple, outdoor recreational amenities like swing sets and a basketball hoop ensures that children have easy entertainment options right at the campsite.
• Excellent for Road Travelers (e.g., Stealth Campers): The affordable price for essential services like a bathhouse and a safe, peaceful spot to sleep makes it an ideal stop for those traveling long distances in camper vans or small RVs.

📞 Contact Information

To secure your quiet, affordable spot near the headwaters of the Mississippi, here is the essential contact information for Avay Up Nort Campground:

Address:

11090 Norway Dr, Laporte, MN 56461, USA

Primary Phone Number:

(218) 266-0093

Mobile Phone Number (for text inquiries):

+1 218-266-0093

⭐ What is Worth Choosing Avay Up Nort

Minnesotans choose Avay Up Nort Campground for two compelling reasons: location and genuine Northwoods peace. If your primary goal is to spend the maximum amount of time exploring Itasca State Park—hiking the trails, crossing the headwaters, and taking in the stunning old-growth forests—you will not find a more convenient or more affordable private campground base. The fact that the park entrances are "literally up the road" saves precious vacation time and fuel, making day trips effortless.

Beyond location, the campground offers a rare sense of quiet solitude. Unlike some larger, resort-style campgrounds that can be loud and overcrowded, Avay Up Nort is consistently praised for being peaceful, especially during the week. This tranquility, combined with the low nightly rate, offers an unbeatable value for the budget-conscious traveler. The owner and camp host, Ms. Amanda, embody classic Minnesota hospitality, providing personalized service, helpful local advice, and ensuring every guest feels welcome and informed. Choosing Avay Up Nort is choosing a quiet, friendly, and practical spot to anchor your most memorable Northern Minnesota adventure.