Big Bog State Recreation Area features six camper cabins situated along the Tamarack River, providing camping amenities approximately 70 miles from Birchdale, Minnesota. These cabins are particularly popular during winter months when ice fishing draws visitors to nearby Upper Red Lake. The campground includes 31 total sites with a mix of river-front and wooded locations, with some sites backing up to Highway 72.
What to do
Explore the boardwalk: The mile-long aluminum walkway at Big Bog State Recreation Area offers a unique experience to observe bog ecology. "The Big Bog itself is actually 10 miles north, it features a mile long boardwalk into a very unique bog and muskeg, which is very interesting, there are some associated short trails," notes reviewer Janet R.
Kayak the Tamarack River: Rent boats directly from the visitor center to explore the calm waters. "We loved kayaking on the water and even found a little peaceful inlet to kayak. It was very peaceful," explains Meredith T., who visited Big Bog and found the rental prices reasonable.
Climb the fire tower: The observation tower provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape. One visitor recommends it as "a Destination that I would recommend" while describing the camping amenities at Big Bog.
What campers like
Fall camping season: Several campers note October as an ideal time to visit Big Bog State Recreation Area. "October is best... In October, campers are few. There are flush toilets and hot showers (and they keep their water turned on longer than most state parks in Minnesota who usually close the shower houses on Oct 7)," writes Sheila P.
Riverside camping sites: Sites 1-8 border the Tamarack River with direct water access. One camper explains: "Sites 1-7 were in great spots with waterfront but crammed together. They could use two less sites. I was in site three and it is squeezed in by 2 and 4."
Winter yurt camping: The camper cabins at Big Bog provide year-round yurt-like accommodations near Birchdale, Minnesota. "They are available even in winter as ice fishermen like to stay here to get onto Red Lake," explains one visitor, noting the cabins' winter accessibility.
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Some sites are packed together while others offer more seclusion. "I came across BB by accident a few years ago... They have a site - 31 - that is perfect. About 5x the size of a normal site (perhaps a group site?). No neighbors," reports Farfisa J. at Big Bog State Recreation Area.
Highway noise affects certain sites: Sites 19-30 border Highway 72 with limited vegetation buffer. A visitor warns: "Campers should be aware that sites 19-30 back up against the state highway 72, which doesnt have much traffic but is a truck route so there is noise and proximity to that road with a slim buffer zone of vegetation."
Seasonal water levels impact site quality: Spring conditions can create soggy conditions at some sites. "Site 15 was a complete bog. Swamp all around the camper. The entire site, aside from the parking pad, was soggy and wet," reports Thia C., who cut their trip short due to wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Look for river sites for direct water access: Sites 1-7 provide the best access for families with boats. "The river is perfect for trolling and catching. I chose to kayak the river for 5 hours and saw lots of people. Lots of people catching fish," notes Scott M. from Lofgren Memorial Park.
Visit the wildlife viewing areas: The bog boardwalk offers educational opportunities for children. "Too early for many birds and all flowers, we did see hundreds of pitcher plants along the walkway," reports one visitor who noted the interpretive stations along the route.
Consider the camper cabins for yurt-style camping: The secluded cabin area provides a good option for families near Birchdale, Minnesota. "The cabins look like a lot of fun for a family. Cozy but secluded from the rest of the campground," explains Scott M., who observed the cabins during his stay.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric hookups available: RV campers can access basic utilities. "The town of Littlefork offers a 15 site RV/camping park alongside the Little Fork River. Beautiful setting with sites in the open up on the hill and sites along the river in the woods. 50 amp electric and water with no sewer," explains Bradley H. at Lofgren Memorial Park.
Limited services in surrounding area: Stock up on supplies before arrival. "Gas state is close for ice and sodas. Not much else is near tho so make sure you stock up prior to arriving," advises a Big Bog visitor.
Spring water conditions affect access: Early season visitors should check site conditions. "The water is high right now so some of the amenities and campsites are water logged," notes one spring visitor, highlighting the seasonal challenges of camping in this region.
