Jay Cooke State Park Campground offers the most extensive trail network near Cloquet, with multiple difficulty levels crossing unique geological formations. Backcountry camping sites like Lost Lake provide secluded alternatives to the main campground. Winter camping exists for experienced campers with proper gear, while summer brings consistent access to all sites within 20 minutes of Cloquet.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Jay Cooke State Park provides diverse trails just minutes from Cloquet. "A variety of trails awaits you. If you have more time, then reserve a campsite and explore the many wonders of this area," writes Theresa D. The park features the popular Hiking Club trail and river exploration paths.
Kayaking opportunities: Several campgrounds provide river access for paddlers. At Knife Island Campground, "This was a great place to plop the tent for a quiet snooze before heading down the Saint Louis River. Excellent experience, exhilarating rapids and tons of wildlife in this area," reports Lesley R. The campground includes a private boat landing.
Mountain biking: For cyclists, Spirit Mountain Campground offers direct trail access. Beth W. notes: "The best part was being able to bike down the trails right from the campground! The trees were just starting to turn so it was beautiful!" Many sites connect to extensive trail networks.
Fishing from designated areas: Several campgrounds feature fishing docks or riverfront access. Shane T. mentions at Indian Point City Campground: "They put us at a site that backs up to the river. There is cano access via a dock and also a fishing dock." Some campgrounds supply bait and basic fishing supplies at on-site stores.
What campers like
Secluded backcountry options: For campers seeking isolation, backcountry sites provide alternatives to developed campgrounds. At Jay Cooke State Park, Tori K. describes: "such a fun backpack site! The hike in was muddy and buggy as there was quite a bit of rain in the weeks prior to our camping trip. Picnic table, fire ring, and bear locker provided. Site offers great vies of a little beaver pond where you may get to see some wildlife!"
Family-friendly amenities: Red Pine Campground offers activities beyond camping. One visitor notes: "Paddle boats and kayaks for use. Well maintained. Easy in and easy out." The property includes multiple ponds and recreational equipment.
Riverfront access: Waterfront sites remain among the most requested. At Knife Island, Brooklyn S. shares: "My boyfriend and I went camping here in October. It was very peaceful the first night, got rained on the second night. We set up at night but our neighbors campers we supper friendly and helped us set up camp."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. At Buffalo Valley Camping, Briana H. reports: "We loved this campground! Clean and nice trails to walk around. The bar & grill had great food and service. 10/10!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping provides unique foliage viewing but prepare for temperature swings. Joel F. at Buffalo Valley mentions: "Staff was very helpful and accommodating. The sights were a little too close together, and there was no tree separation in our area."
Train noise disruptions: Several campgrounds experience train traffic. At Cloquet-Duluth KOA, Sam C. warns: "Like so many RV/campgrounds this one is also located near to railroad tracks that has several trains that come through day and night."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Tony E. explains: "This is your standard KOA with RVs and tents on top of each other. If you are just looking for a place to stay for the night, this campground will work great."
Site spacing variations: Privacy between sites varies significantly between campgrounds. Andrew C. notes about Cloquet-Duluth KOA: "Sites are cramped, leaving no illusion of privacy. Bathrooms were cleaned every couple of hours, but highly trafficked thus quickly undoing the cleaning."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Lisa D. from Buffalo Valley Camping shares: "This park has a lot to offer. Nice woodsy spots, plenty of restrooms and showers, and a bar/restaurant!! Tents sports are also really nice. Close to downtown Duluth (10 mins.)"
Swimming options: While not all campgrounds offer swimming, several have nearby access. At Spirit Mountain, Jennifer M. reports: "They also have a spot where they have mini golf, mountain luge, and mountain biking. Nice bathrooms and laid back environment!"
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds maintain quiet hours and regular security patrols. Kristi P. at Spirit Mountain notes: "Beautiful area with a gorgeous view, lots of hiking."
Educational opportunities: Jay Cooke State Park includes interpretive centers and ranger programs. Joe N. explains: "Nice hiking trails. Not too difficult. Family friendly."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups remain limited. At Pattison State Park, a reviewer mentions: "It was off-season so showers were off. And with no electric, $100 for one night at a double site seemed like a lot." Reservation planning becomes essential.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Spirit Mountain, Melissa H. reports: "We had so much fun staying at Spirit Mountain, visiting Duluth and Gooseberry Falls. The campgrounds were very private due to tree cover but it rained every night and never dried out because of the tree cover."
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer dump stations, though access may be restricted. Sam C. notes about Cloquet-Duluth KOA: "Dump station is conveniently located on your way out of the grounds but can get backed up at the end of a busy weekend and can make it difficult to exit the campground."
Site selection tips: For larger RVs, site selection becomes crucial. Regarding Knife Island Campground, Tori K. advises: "Be mindful of your rig size and the site you pick. Some sites are going to be difficult for bigger rigs to get into so it may be worth calling ahead for site recommendations from the owner."
