Finland State Forest Campground provides primitive camping options on the Baptism River near Babbitt, Minnesota. The campground features wooded sites with basic amenities including pit toilets and water access. Recent tree clearing due to moth damage has altered the campground's appearance and reduced privacy between sites.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Visitors can access the Superior Hiking Trail directly from Finland State Forest Campground. "This is likely my favorite campground in the state. There are minimal amenities (pit toilets and I can't remember if there is a spigot), but the location is wonderful, the sites are mostly private and wooded, and the Baptism River runs right through. You are close to excellent climbing, hiking, fishing, and the Finland Co-op," notes Lacey F. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Fish the Baptism River: The river running through the campground offers fishing opportunities. "There is a river that runs next to the campsite and has some great views at sunset, it looks like it may have good fishing as well," reports Spencer F. The river access points are convenient for anglers looking to catch local species.
ATV trail access: For those interested in ATV recreation near Babbitt, Minnesota, the area provides trail connections. "It also is a campground of choice for folks interested in using the nearby state forest ATV trails," explains Janet R. about the Finland campground. Trail maps are available at the self-registration station.
What campers like
River sounds: Many campers appreciate the proximity to moving water. "At night you hear the Baltism River as you gently fall asleep.. we have an exped duo mattress and sleep like babies!" says Susan H. about Temperance River Campground. The natural white noise creates a peaceful camping atmosphere.
First-come availability: The non-reservation system works well for spontaneous trips. "This campsite is first come, first serve which is great for people who are last minute like me. I go up the North Shore quite often and this was my first time going to this campsite. It was very clean, very wooded and the campsites were nice and big," shares Adriana E.
Spacious sites: The campground offers room to spread out. "The campsites are large and spacious and have good fire grills and picnic tables, but the facilities are outhouses so more geared toward primitive or self sufficient camping," notes Janet R. Most sites can accommodate multiple tents or hammocks.
What you should know
Self-registration process: The campground operates on an honor system. "The sites were $14/night on the honor system (you pay at a box at the gate). Sites are in a sort of circle, but many are on a river/stream," explains Amy G. about South Egge Lake Camping. Current rates are $17 per night.
Noise concerns: Some visitors report noise issues at busy times. "What was really annoying was the noise from a bunch of drunk middle aged folks down at the group site on the night of Oct 8, 2021. I had my own drunken moments at parties, but their behavior was pathetic. Their loud voices carried throughout the campground," reports Fred S.
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse camping near Babbitt, Minnesota is restricted by lack of dedicated equestrian amenities. While Finland State Forest allows horses on some trails, the campground lacks corrals or hitching posts. Riders seeking equestrian camping near Babbitt must prepare to create temporary containment solutions or explore other options in Superior National Forest.
Tips for camping with families
River safety awareness: Families should supervise children near the Baptism River. "We have camped as a group or shown on this outing, alone in winter! This campground never disappoints. The reason why we enjoy it so much is because it is can you get a located near some of the best hiking trails, climbing, and scenic vistas north of Duluth," shares Susan H. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Alternative options when full: During peak seasons, have backup plans. "I would recommend staying here overnight if the nearby state parks are full. I do not recommend staying here for peace & quiet," advises Fred S. Families may prefer the more developed facilities at nearby state parks.
Winter preparation: For cold-weather camping, understand the elevation challenges. "In winter there are few campers so I would be concerned about security issues, plus being at higher elevation there is a lot more snow up here so winter campers should be prepared!" warns Janet R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some sites accommodate RVs better than others. "Really nice wooded sites, some can accommodate big rigs. Level sites. Vault toilets. Trash bins. Some privacy between sites," notes Fred S. about Finland State Forest Campground. The entrance road can be challenging for longer rigs.
Generator noise considerations: Without electrical hookups, generator use affects the camping experience. "Since there are no electric hookups, there is some noise from generators for the big RVs," reports Fred S. RVers should follow quiet hours and position generators to minimize noise impact on neighboring sites.
