Lake Bemidji State Park and Norway Beach campsites near Cass Lake, Minnesota sit within the Chippewa National Forest at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. The region features a continental climate with warm summers averaging 75-80°F and cold winters dropping well below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through September when the dense Norway pine forests provide natural shade and shelter.
What to do
Biking trails: Lake Bemidji State Park Campground connects to extensive paved pathways. "There are several well-marked hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs with rewarding views. The lake was absolutely beautiful—perfect for kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing on the shore," notes Susan R.
Bog walks: Explore unique ecosystems with educational trails. "The park has several different biomes - oak forests, lakeshore, bog, pine forests with lovely hike-walks that can be as long or short as you need," shares Caroline and John P. at Lake Bemidji.
Boating options: Stony Pt Resort and Campground offers comprehensive water recreation. "There is a restaurant, beach/playground, indoor pool, game room and boat launch/marina where you can rent boats/pontoons and peddle boats," writes Brandy S.
Wildlife viewing: The Chippewa National Forest hosts diverse habitat areas. "Early summer is also probably not the best time as the surrounding bogs are probably great mosquito breeding grounds," advises Janet R. about Webster Lake timing.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Norway Beach - Wanaki Campground Loop offers secluded sites. "This place is so beautiful and very well kept! There are beachside paths right to the lake from your campsite. Surrounded by trees so shaded and privacy," writes Amber R.
Clean facilities: Williams Narrows maintains high standards despite remote location. "Was very pleased surprised how fresh the bathrooms were given the humidity (zero smell)," notes Samantha K.
Spacious campsites: Many areas provide room to spread out. "Lots of space and we had a neighbor who you can hardly see..some sites are closer than others," reports Kay T. about Cass Lake Loop.
Campground hosts: Helpful staff enhance the camping experience. "Great hosts, they actually came over to introduce themselves as well as meet our dogs," shares Samantha K. about Williams Narrows.
What you should know
Water access: Many campgrounds offer lake frontage. "Campround host as everything...and I mean everything to help you out if you forgot something. Some really great views of the lake as well and some sit above the water so you get a good perspective," writes Scott M. about Williams Narrows.
Potable water locations: Check water source designations. "Be careful with water as a lot of the faucets are not potable. Just a few potable and they are marked so pay attention," warns Mike G. about Stony Point.
Seasonal conditions: Itasca State Park Pine Ridge Campground experiences varying visitor patterns. "A big park with lots of campsites and plenty of campers. Most of the day visitors congregate in a few areas and, by late afternoon, it's not difficult to find some quiet spaces," explains Pete T.
Reservation needs: Popular glamping sites fill quickly. "Interesting you can rent these on the national forest site but also there are some that are not on the site including the one that we stayed at that was available during Memorial Day weekend when everything else was full," shares Teresa T.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly areas. "Nice swimming beach, playground. Picnic shelters, bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Access to bog walks, bike trails. Love this campground. Something to do for all ages," says Jenelle H. about Lake Bemidji.
Biking opportunities: Paved trails accommodate children. "The campground is usually full - and most of the electric sites are pretty close together. If you want privacy, this isn't that. But if you're ok with people mostly keeping to themselves at their own fire pits and lots of kids riding bikes, this is the place," notes Caroline and John P.
Swimming areas: KOA Campground Bemidji provides water recreation. "Very nice campground. The owners are very kind. They drive around before closing time to see if there is anyone needs. Many sites are very close to neighbors. Pool was nice and kids had a great time," reports Ashley O.
Indoor options: Some glamping in Cass Lake, Minnesota includes rainy day activities. "We stayed last year at their campground (tent area) and had a wonderful time and returned again this year this time renting a cabin. There is a restaurant, beach/playground, indoor pool, game room," says Brandy S. about Stony Point.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Consider proximity to neighbors. "The sites were weedy and very close together. The pool was fine but mini golf course was a disaster, total disrepair," reports Brandon L. about KOA Bemidji.
Water hookup locations: Some campgrounds require planning. "No water hookup at the sites, you have to fill up at the various spigots around the park," explains Rich S. about Norway Beach - Wanaki.
Vehicle size limitations: Not all roads accommodate larger rigs. "A large Pusher will have trouble but I seen people doing it. People are friendly and quiet. Camp sites are large with lots of large trees, a little on the rustic side which is what I look for," advises Mike G. about Stony Point Resort.
Cleanliness standards: Facilities vary by location. "We used their laundry room which was very modern and clean, machines take quarters only, no change machine so take care of that when you are in the store/office checking in," recommends Cyndi B. about KOA Bemidji.
