Camping near Chippewa National Forest
Chippewa National Forest encompasses extensive camping options with both developed sites and primitive areas nestled within northern Minnesota's lakes and pine forests. Established campgrounds include Lake Bemidji State Park with year-round access, Norway Beach Recreation Area with its Chippewa and Wanaki loops, and several lakeside options along Cass Lake and Lake Winnibigoshish. Most sites accommodate tent camping, while certain campgrounds like Stony Point Resort and Campground offer RV hookups, cabin rentals, and even yurt accommodations. The forest's campground network provides varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites with vault toilets to developed areas with electric hookups and shower facilities.
The camping season typically runs from May through September, with most campgrounds closing for winter except Lake Bemidji State Park. "Sites are all wooded. We stayed in Chippewa Loop. No water hookup at the sites, you have to fill up at the various spigots around the park," noted one camper about the Norway Beach area. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering boat launches and swimming beaches while others provide only basic amenities. Visitors should note that many campgrounds lack sewer dump stations on-site, requiring travel to other facilities. Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, and zebra mussels have been reported in several lakes, affecting swimming experiences in areas like Winnie Campground.
Waterfront camping locations receive consistently positive reviews, particularly sites along Cass Lake and Lake Winnie. Many campers appreciate the spacious, wooded sites that provide privacy between neighbors while still offering lake views or beach access. The region features extensive biking opportunities, with several campgrounds connecting to trail networks including the Migizi and Paul Bunyan trails. Several visitors mentioned the peaceful atmosphere under the tall pines as a highlight of camping in the national forest. Families frequently praise the combination of beach access, fishing opportunities, and recreational activities available at campgrounds like Becker's Resort and the Norway Beach Recreation Area. Visitors seeking more remote experiences can find them at smaller campgrounds like Bimijiwan Recreation Area (formerly Knutson Dam), which offers more basic facilities but quiet surroundings and good fishing access.
