Map showing campground location near Orr, Minnesota

Camper submitted image from Wakemup Bay — Kabetogama State Forest

Wakemup Bay — Kabetogama State Forest

Within Kabetogama State Forest, Wakemup Bay operates as a first-come, first-served campground managed by DNR Forestry on a small bay of Vermilion Lake. The facility provides 21 sites ranging from five open spots near the beach and group shelter suitable for RVs to secluded wooded sites numbered 12-19 with greater privacy and spacing. Two walk-in sites at the campground's far end require a short hike from parking but offer increased seclusion among tall pines.

The campground includes drinking water available through mid-September, latrine toilets, and garbage collection, plus a boat launch, docks, and beach access for lake activities. Campers seeking more developed facilities might consider Vermilion Sunsets RV Park nearby.

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Map & DirectionsWakemup Bay is located in Minnesota near Orr

Public Campground

Directions

From Cook take Co. Rd. 24 (N) 2.5 mi. to Co. Rd. 78; turn right (E) 3 mi.; turn left (N) 1 mi.

Coordinates

47.90132127 N
92.58880655 W

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Presented by

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Some Coverage
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Excellent Coverage

Access

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Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Drinking Water
Toilets

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 43 min from Duluth, MN
3 hrs 27 min from Minneapolis, MN
3 hrs 41 min from St. Cloud, MN
4 hrs 13 min from Grand Forks, ND

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Wakemup Bay

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out of 5

1 Review

Janet R.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 28, 2021

Off the beaten path and great for fishermen

This is a small state forest campground on a small bay of the larger Vermilion Lake. There is a nice beach, group picnic shelter, docks, and an adjacent public boat landing. For folks who are looking for a quiet place to stay while on a fishing trip at Vermilion, this wold be a good location, though more rustic than a state park. There are 5 fairly open sites close to the shelter and beach where RV's and trailers could easily park, but there are no hook-ups so be prepared. There is drinking water available in several locations throughout the campground, though this is shut off by mid September. There are latrine toilets, and garbage collection. There are also a group of 5 tent sites located close together that would work well as a group camp area, also cloe to the beach and docks. Further back in the woods, however, at sites 12-19, there are larger more private sites spaced much further apart and set beautifully in among shady woods. Further along the campground loop road goes up a hill with more quiet sites, and two REALLY exceptional hike-in sites at #20 and 21. Site # 20 is a true gem, beautiful tall pines, picnic table, fire ring and tent pad in a very secluded setting but still just a short hike from where you park your car. There is a path down the hill to the beach and dock area. Really a primo campsite if you can get it, though all the sites are First Come-First Served and not reserveable.

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Month of VisitSeptember

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Wakemup Bay Campground?

Wakemup Bay Campground offers a variety of facilities for campers. The small state forest campground features a sandy beach area, boat docks, and a public boat landing right next to the camping area. For group gatherings, there's a picnic shelter available. The campground is designed with anglers in mind, providing convenient lake access for fishing expeditions on Lake Vermilion. The modest size of the campground creates a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a quiet outdoor experience with basic amenities in a natural setting.

Where is Wakemup Bay Campground located on Lake Vermilion?

Wakemup Bay Campground is nestled on a small, sheltered bay of Lake Vermilion within the Kabetogama State Forest. This quiet campground sits directly on the shoreline, providing excellent access to the larger Lake Vermilion. Its location makes it a strategic base for fishing excursions on the main lake while offering the tranquility of a smaller bay setting. The campground features water access with adjacent public boat launching facilities, making it convenient for anglers and water enthusiasts exploring Lake Vermilion.

When is the best time to visit Wakemup Bay Campground?

The best time to visit Wakemup Bay Campground is during summer and early fall when you can fully enjoy the waterfront amenities and fishing opportunities. The warm months allow for swimming at the beach area and optimal boating conditions on Lake Vermilion. Early fall offers beautiful foliage with fewer crowds. The campground's sheltered bay location provides some protection from harsh weather, but it's primarily a warm-season destination. For the most pleasant experience, plan your visit between June and September when Minnesota's northern lakes region showcases its finest features.

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