Camping opportunities near Biwabik, Minnesota range from rustic forest sites to developed campgrounds along clear northern lakes. Located in Minnesota's Iron Range region at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summers with evening temperatures that can drop significantly, especially near lakes. The region's mixed conifer and hardwood forests create natural windbreaks at many sites, with camping season typically running May through October.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Sites at Sullivan Lake Campground connect to multiple forest paths with varying difficulties. "The lake is absolutely beautiful and some of the sites are so private you could run around naked if you wanted! It gets very, very chilly at night if you are at a site with lake access," notes camper Chandra C.
Beach and swimming options: Eveleth Veterans Park Campground provides family-friendly water recreation. "This campground is a great place for anyone and is especially great for those with young children. Direct access to a great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in," shares Cassandra F.
ATV trail riding: The trail system connects directly to Wildhurst Lodge and Campground, making it popular with off-road enthusiasts. "Wildhurst has awesome sites, ATV/UTV trails, a bar, a playground, and rentable cabins. Sites are secluded and pretty private," according to Two Snoops.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Echo Lake Campground. "This is my favorite campground in all of Minnesota. Located outside of Orr close to 20 miles, there are no people or towns to make noise or light. The stars are incredibly bright at night," says Kayla A.
Yurt camping options: Wildhurst Campgrounds offers unique yurt camping near Biwabik, Minnesota with climate-controlled geodesic structures. "A great spot! The sites were clean and well taken care of. Same with the bathrooms and showers! The employees are very friendly and accommodating," notes Katie M.
Tent-friendly terrain: Sullivan Lake's sites include level spots suitable for tent camping. "We stayed here in Aug 2020. The campground was quiet and well kept. There are only 11 sites so it will never be packed," reports Julie A. The limited number of sites ensures a peaceful atmosphere even during peak season.
What you should know
Varying amenities by campground: Rustic sites like Eighteen Rustic Lake Campground have limited facilities. "Free primitive national forest campground with 5 sites. No drinking water. Fire ring at site. Sites spaced apart okay. Beautiful lake. Nice hiking trail around lake. Fishing is good," explains Fred S.
Reservation requirements: Most yurt camping sites in Biwabik, Minnesota require advance booking, especially during summer months. For standard camping, Sherwood Forest Campground fills quickly on weekends.
Weather considerations: Nights can be surprisingly cold, even in summer. "It gets very, very chilly at night if you are at a site with lake access- and the frogs get loud, but it's worth it if you are prepared," advises a Sullivan Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Eveleth Veterans Park provides safe swimming areas with gradual entry points. "This campground is a great place for anyone and is especially great for those with young children. Direct access to a great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in," mentions Cassandra F.
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Sherwood Forest has a playground for the kids," notes Louis S.
Noise levels vary by campground: Some sites experience more activity noise than others. One camper at Sand Lake Rustic Campground notes: "Pretty nice beach and it's closer to highway 16 than most the other rustic camps we've come across."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have size restrictions. "This is a campground for small campers only. My 16 foot travel trailer was about the limit for size," warns Daniel C. about Sullivan Lake.
Road conditions: Access roads can present challenges. "Road coming to the campground can be rough in places, but doable with passenger car," notes Fred S. about Eighteen Lake.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are limited at many sites. "Nice campground in upper Minnesota. There were no showers here but they did offer 2 toilets and a water well so you can easily manage a weekend here without a shower. It does offer for small RV and tents," explains Scott M. about Sullivan Lake.
