Paul Bunyan State Forest offers tent campsites near Akeley, Minnesota with varying levels of seclusion across its 107,000 acres. The forest sits on the Itasca Moraine, a terminal glacial formation that created the region's rolling hills and abundant lakes. Winter camping options exist at several backcountry sites where temperatures can drop below -30°F between December and February.
What to do
Paddle multiple lakes: Lake Twentyone Watercraft Site provides a peaceful kayaking experience on a small unmotorized lake. According to a camper, "This watercraft campsite is right in the water with a rustic access for your canoe or kayak, not far from the actual landing and parking lot."
Hiking connections: Gulch Lake Campground connects to extensive trail systems. One visitor noted, "This also connects to the Northland Scenic Trail which is super cool! There is a high bluff at the end of Nelson Lake along the NCT that has AMAZING views about a miles hike from the campground."
Wildlife viewing: Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite offers excellent bird watching opportunities. A visitor reported, "Woke up to trumpeter swans each day. Loved it. There is a little trail that brings you down to the lake to view the bird life."
Remote lake exploration: From DeSoto Lake Backpacking Sites, campers can access additional lakes. One reviewer explains, "From these camp sites you can portage into several nearby lakes that are even more remote and pristine, or you can hike miles in any direction either on the NCT, or in several state park trails that intersect nearby."
What campers like
Waterfront privacy: At Lake Twentyone Watercraft Site, tent sites offer excellent water access. A reviewer mentions, "Sites are primitive. No electric or water. Toilets are vault toilets, no showers. Stayed at a nice waterfront site great for having kayaks and paddle boards."
Dark skies for stargazing: Iron Corner Lake provides exceptional night viewing. A camper notes, "Quiet, rustic, pristine, and dark skies at night!"
Winter solitude: Itasca State Park's backcountry areas remain accessible year-round. One visitor explains, "The park is at its peak of solitude in the winter, but if you can find a way to get to a campsite, they are open and reservable."
Accessible remote camping: Iron Corner Lake Remote Backpacker Site balances wilderness feel with reasonable access. A camper describes it: "It is an easy trek in from a small parking area near Josephine Lake, or from a larger parking area at the south entrance of the park. Either trail in goes up and over the Itasca Moraine, so there is some good elevation change along the trails, but not too rugged."
What you should know
Site access challenges: Some tent sites near Akeley require advance planning. At Gulch Lake, a visitor noted, "It can be difficult to find down an old rickety road, I would suggest getting there with plenty of light so you can locate the grounds."
Water sources vary: Many backcountry sites lack potable water. At Halverson Trail Camp, there's "a water access, fire pit and outhouse. About a 10-15 min drive from main road."
Weather awareness needed: Spring and fall bring rapid weather changes. At Deer Park Lake, a camper reported, "I was also able to get internet so I was able to see a big storm coming. The birds and insects were suddenly silent and the clouds came in fast. I was able to check weather apps and go to the shelter a mile toward the parking lot and wait out the storm."
Trail conditions: Expect seasonal challenges in backcountry areas. A DeSoto Lake camper noted, "The trail was a bit swampy and horrible with mosquitoes but the camp sites themselves were not bad at all."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious group sites: Gulch Lake offers excellent options for families. A camper described one site: "Site 7 was a short hike in from the parking lot and the site was large enough for multiple tents. We had a 3p and 2p backpacking tent."
Easy hiking distance: Some remote sites are manageable even for younger children. At Frames Landing Campsite, "The campsite is rustic, and the canoe launch a bit muddy, but the campsites themselves are large and the pit toilets in good shape."
Educational opportunities: Itasca's backcountry sites offer wildlife learning experiences. A Deer Park Lake camper reported, "There is a little trail that brings you down to the lake to view the bird life. Overall the site is maintained well. Pretty flat and no issues putting in stakes."
Water activities: Many sites accommodate water sports for kids. At Lake Twentyone, a camper noted, "Enough space for a few small tents and trees for hanging hammocks."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent campsites near Akeley, Minnesota don't accommodate larger vehicles. At Andersons Crossing, a visitor noted, "The outhouses are decent and seem relatively new. Plenty of firewood provided."
Base camp options: Some sites can serve as parking for backcountry exploration. A Frames Landing reviewer suggests, "Although there is a dirt road access, in dry weather you could get an RV into the campground if you don't mind no hookups. It would be a good place to stay before launching a canoe trip."
Check road conditions: Forest roads can become challenging after rain. A visitor to Gulch Lake mentioned, "The road can also be pretty tough so be prepared if your pulling a trailer."
