Known as the Land and of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota has miles and miles of waterways to enjoy. The beautiful natural landscape made up of rolling hills and pristine water is a draw for any outdoorsy individual.

The Mississippi River begins in a small spring-fed lake in Itasca State Park and winds its way through Minnesota before flowing south to the Gulf of Mexico. Highway 61, which borders Lake Superior’s coast, lets you experience state parks, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and iconic attractions like the Split Rock Lighthouse on the north shore of Lake Superior.

While traveling through the state in a camper van rental, don’t miss the chance to head north for a stop at Voyageurs National Park—one of the least visited parks in the US due to its remote location in the far northern reaches of the state.

Voyageurs NP features outdoor recreation opportunities in every season, from hiking and boating activities in the summer to snowmobile trails and snowshoeing in the winter. There are picnic areas and overnight campsites perfect for a camper van stop whether it’s for a snack or for the night.

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area spans over 50 miles of riverfront through the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. The area provides a spectacular natural setting amid vibrant city life for walks, bike rides, picnics, and kayaking or paddleboarding.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area, a designated wilderness area with 1,300 lakes, feels like being one of the state's early explorers. Additionally, more than 75 state parks and over 55 state forests plus two national forests, provide camping, hiking, biking, and scenic driving experiences to enjoy in your camper van.

With more miles of bike trails than any other state, Minnesota is a biking paradise.

The word “Minnesota” is an Anglicized form of the Sioux Indian word “Minisota,” which means “sky tinted” or “cloudy water.”

Minnesota is nicknamed “The Land of 10,000 Lakes,” but it actually has at least 11,842 lakes bigger than ten acres.

The mighty Mississippi River has humble roots. It begins in Lake Itasca, a small body of water in Northern Minnesota that’s less than two square miles in area.