Example Itinerary: 12 day roundtrip Minneapolis

A camper is a great way of transportation to discover the lesser-known areas of the USA. Drive through endless forests and fields, visit real American towns and easily get in touch with the locals.

For this unique camper trip you start in Minneapolis in the state of Minnesota. This example trip is 12 days but you can easily extend it if you have more time! For example, you can visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota and the Black Hills in South Dakota.

Day 1 and 2: Minneapolis

When you arrive from an international destination, must always have had at least one overnight stay in the US before you pick up the camper. This gives you the chance to see Minneapolis' diverse attractions. There is plenty to see and do in Minneapolis and neighboring St. Paul. As far as we are concerned, two nights are definitely worth it. This way you also have time for extensive shopping in the Mall of America, the largest shopping center in the US.

Day 3: Minneapolis - Duluth, 247 km - approx. 2.5 hours

On the third day you pick up the camper at Cruise America. After completing the paperwork and inspection of your vehicle, you are on your way. Driving north, you'll soon notice why Minnessota is the land of 10,000 lakes. Forests and lakes alternate. At Duluth, on the shore of Laker Superior, you can find a camping spot for the night.

Day 4: Duluth - Bemidji, 244 km - approx. 3 hours

Through the deserted and vast nature you drive to the small town of Bemidji, of course also located on the water. You can use the afternoon to take a walk in the woods and explore the town. Don't forget to visit the visitor center and research Paul Bunyan's story of the formation of Minnesota's lakes.

Day 5: Bemij - In Itasca State Park, 35 km - approx. 45 min

One of the longest rivers in the world, the Mississippi originates deep in the Minnesota forests. In Itasca State Park you visit the Mississippi Headwaters.

Day 6: In Itasca State Park, 160 km - approx. 2 hours

From Itasca State park you continue your journey west and enter the state of North Dakota. The first town you encounter is Fargo. Downtown Fargo has been completely renovated, but the atmosphere of a "real" American town has been preserved. It is a bustling town with trendy coffee shops, restaurants and micro-breweries. Our recommendation: Drekker Brewing Company. Also don't forget to visit the Visitor Center, where the wood chipper from the well-known movie "Fargo" is located.

Day 7: Fargo - Jamestown, 154 km - approx. 1.5 hours

Further west, a visit to Jamestown is on the agenda. Hard to miss, because here is the largest bison in the USA. If you want to stay an extra night, one of the State Parks south of Valley City is recommended.

Day 8: Jamestown - Bismarck, 165 km - approx. 1.5 hours

In Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota, and in the surrounding area, a visit to the North Dakota Hertiage Museum should not be missed.

Day 9: Bismarck - Mobridge, 180 km - approx. 2 hours

Back into nature, along the Missouri River you head south towards South Dakota. This river sometimes gives you the feeling that you are driving long lakes. Camping, hiking, canoeing, great to spend a day outside. Lodging places and campgrounds are plentiful in the Mobridge area.

Day 10: Mobridge - Mitchell, 390 km - approx. 4 hours

Not to be missed near the town of Chamberlain is the Dignity statue, an ode to the history and culture of the Native Americans. A visit to the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center is recommended. Further east you come to Mitchell where a fun sight to visit is the Corn Palace.

Day 11: Mitchell - Sioux Falls, 117 km - approx. 1 hour

Sioux Falls is just as nice a town as Fargo. The center has numerous nice shops and restaurants, including a real diner. Just next to the center is Falls Park, with the falls in the Big Sioux River. The Arch of Dreams spans the river and is especially beautiful at night. Don't forget to walk the rest of the Sculpture Walk, a fun (free!) activity to stretch your legs.

Day 12: Sioux Falls - Minneapolis 383 km - approx. 3 hours

On the way back to Minneapolis, spend one more night enjoying Minnesota's forests and lakes in one of the numerous State Parks.