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Camp Ripley is a military and civilian training facility in central Minnesota that encompasses 53,000 acres. The Minnesota National Guard operates this facility, which is near Little Falls. Camp Ripley was founded in 1929 by Ellard A. Walsh, who was the Adjutant General of the State of Minnesota. Throughout the year, various military and civilian groups use this facility to prepare and train.

Camp Ripley operates throughout the year, with its winter warfare training course being the primary facility for the National Guard for winter combat exercises. Camp Ripley is also the host of various other training programs, such as the Minnesota State Patrol Training Academy, and a popular place for athletes to train for winter biathlons.

This facility is also a state game refuge that is managed by the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Military Affairs. It also is the site of the Minnesota Military Museum. Other groups of armed forces train here, such as the Minnesota Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota DNR, Minnesota State Fire Marshal, and The Army Reserve. As you can see, many people use this facility around the year in a transient manner, which makes flexible housing solutions a must. Thankfully there are short and long-term solutions for individuals who need to stay at or near Camp Ripley. Here are some of the best family neighborhoods near Camp Ripley, along with some on-base solutions.

Camp Ripley Housing

You don’t need to look far for dependable, clean housing near Camp Ripley. On the base, soldiers have several housing options. These range from just a bed and locker in a shared room with other soldiers to private suites. For more information, call 320-616-3166 or fax the base at 320-616-7787.

If you don’t need a single-family home, then you can get a bed and locker at Camp Ripley, which can accommodate 8,295 soldiers during fair weather months and 3,370 soldiers during the winter. When it’s cold outside, soldiers can stay in two-story cement buildings called "T-Buildings", which can house up to 184 soldiers. All housing is equipped with amenities like washer/dryer units, a dining room, kitchen, and pantry.

There are also maid service quarters called “billeting” that can accommodate around 385 people. There are a variety of options that range from individual rooms with a shared bathroom to 2-6 bedroom houses. The rent is quite affordable, staying around or under $1,000 a month. Here are the options:

• Twin bedroom: This option comes with regular amenities like a mini-fridge, linens, TV, and DVD/Blu-ray player. Tenants share a bathroom with other twin bedroom renters. Rates range from $22-$32 per night.
• Suite: This option typically has a queen-size bed with the same amenities as the twin bedroom, plus a microwave and private bathroom. Rates are between $22-$32 per night.
• VIP Room: If you’re a special guest, then you have access to this room with extra luxuries like an office chair, private bathroom, full-sized bed, plus other regular amenities. Rates range from $22-$32 per night.

Single Family Homes for Rent in Brainerd

When you need to relocate with a family, single-family homes offer the most convenient housing options. It’s easiest to find rentals in a city compared to a small town. Thankfully, Brainerd is a city just 20 minutes from the base. Located in Crow Wing County, it has a population of 14,395. If you check sites like rent.com or Military by Owner, you will find a variety of single-family homes for sale or rent. Prices are also affordable, ranging between $500-$1,000 per month, which is highly affordable compared to other rental rates across the country. Living in Brainerd is great for families because there are plenty of family-friendly activities in and around the city. Notable ones include:

• The Paul Bunyan State Trail— A wonderful nature preserve that takes visitors through a variety of terrain that includes waterfronts, grasslands, and wooded areas.
• Safari North — A zoo that will entertain and amaze people of all ages. Animals from all around the world can be found here, including camels, giraffes, and much more!
• Brainerd International Raceway — This one is for families with older kids who can sit still or for anyone who enjoys the thrill of racing. It’s one of the most exciting raceways in the Midwest that hosts a variety of events like its Muscle Car Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing.
• Paul Bunyan Land — This is a popular theme park inspired by the tall tales of Paul Bunyan. You’ll get a good day’s worth of entertainment here with vintage rides like trains and bumper cars!

Apartments and Single Family Homes in Little Falls

Little Falls is another excellent family spot if you want to be even closer to Camp Ripley and prefer a more suburban/small town feel. Little Falls is just 10 minutes from the training facility and offers all the amenities you need to keep up with your family. Apartments and single-family homes in this area are also affordable, within the $900-$1,200 range, and are near all the basics like Walmart, a hospital, Tractor Supply, many public parks, restaurants, a golf course, Pine Grove Zoo, campgrounds, and much more.

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