Finland State Forest Campground lacks dedicated equestrian facilities despite its connection to multiple trail systems. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet above sea level in Minnesota's north woods region. Recent tree clearing due to moth damage has significantly altered the forest canopy, creating more open spaces between campsites than in previous years.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Finland State Forest Campground offers proximity to several hiking options including segments of the Superior Hiking Trail. "This campground is first come, first serve which is great for people who are last minute like me. It was very clean, very wooded and the campsites were nice and big," notes Adriana E. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Baptism River fishing: Several campsites at Finland border the river, providing direct water access. "There is a river that runs next to the campsite and has some great views at sunset, it looks like it may have good fishing as well," reports Spencer F. Anglers should obtain Minnesota fishing licenses before arrival.
Climbing routes: The area near Finland provides climbing opportunities that attract experienced climbers. "This is likely my favorite campground in the state. You are close to excellent climbing, hiking, fishing, and the Finland Co-op. Less crowded than the north shore state parks too!" writes Lacey F.
What campers like
River soundscape: The Baptism River creates a natural soundtrack that many visitors appreciate. "At night you hear the Baptism River as you gently fall asleep," notes Susan H. about her stays at Temperance River Campground.
Spacious sites: Campsites at Finland State Forest provide enough room for multiple tents and equipment. "The campsites are large and spacious and have good fire grills and picnic tables, but the facilities are outhouses so more geared toward primitive or self sufficient camping," explains Janet R.
North Shore proximity: Finland serves as a convenient base for exploring Lake Superior's scenic coast. "It was the perfect place to stay while we tripped the North Scenic Route," comments Ber M., who appreciated the campground's location relative to coastal attractions.
What you should know
Reservation system: Most campsites in Finland State Forest operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-registration. "Sites are $14/night on the honor system (you pay at a box at the gate). Sites are in a sort of circle, but many are on a river/stream," notes Amy G. about South Egge Lake Camping.
ATV noise levels: The area experiences substantial ATV traffic which affects the camping experience. "What was really annoying was the noise from a bunch of drunk middle aged folks down at the group site. Their loud voices carried throughout the campground," reports Fred S., who also noted ATV noise issues.
Equestrian limitations: While horse campgrounds near Ely, Minnesota are limited, Finland State Forest allows horses on some trails but provides no dedicated corrals or equestrian facilities. Riders must arrange temporary containment solutions and confirm current trail access for horseback riding before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: For families with small children, select sites farther from the river for safety. "Right now the campground looks a little worse for wear. They did extreme tree clearing due to moth damage," warns Lauren M. about Finland State Forest Campground, noting the reduced privacy between sites.
Water safety planning: The Baptism River runs through the campground with variable water levels throughout the season. Families should pack life vests for children if planning river activities.
Pack additional lighting: The campground has minimal artificial lighting. "This is a state forest campground high on a ridge overlooking Lake Superior, just south of the Wolf Ridge ELC. The campsites are large and spacious," notes Janet R., but mentions facilities are primitive with outhouses only.
Tips from RVers
Generator considerations: Some Finland Forest camping areas permit generator use, but this creates noise issues. "Since there are no electric hookups, there is some noise from generators for the big RVs," notes Fred S., suggesting campers seeking quieter experiences should choose sites away from larger RVs.
Level site selection: RVers report varying experiences with site levelness. "Really nice wooded sites, some can accommodate big rigs. Level sites," reports Fred S. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Limited hookups: None of the equestrian camping options near Ely offer water or electrical hookups, requiring self-contained camping. Vault toilets and limited drinking water access require RVers to arrive with full fresh water tanks.
