Tent campsites near Eveleth, Minnesota range from small state forest campgrounds to more developed facilities with fishing access and amenities. The region sits within the Mesabi Iron Range at elevations between 1,400-1,600 feet, creating varied terrain for camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, while spring and fall camping often requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can dip into the 30s.
What to do
Fishing from campground docks: Lost Lake in George Washington State Forest provides convenient fishing access directly from the campground. "Quiet lake and fishing dock right there," notes Mark M., making it an ideal option for anglers looking to catch fish without traveling far from their campsite.
Swimming in designated areas: Bear Lake Campground features a dedicated swimming area adjacent to a large field. As Montina S. describes, "We were adjacent to a large mowed field area where we could play games and kids could run freely... [with] a swimming area."
Boating and paddling: For more adventurous campers, BWCA Trout Lake offers boat-in camping. "Boat in from Lake Vermillion and take the portage to Trout Lake. You can pay $35.00 for a round trip on the portage," explains Nicole S. This option requires permits which cannot be reserved, but sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded sites: At Wakemup Bay Campground, sites 12-19 offer seclusion among the trees. According to Janet R., these are "larger more private sites spaced much further apart and set beautifully in among shady woods." For even more isolation, hike-in sites 20 and 21 provide exceptional privacy while maintaining reasonable access to facilities.
Group gathering options: McCarthy Beach State Park offers a dedicated group campsite on Sturgeon Lake. Janet R. reports it has "a nice log building for group gatherings, plus plenty of space for tents to accommodate up to fifty people," making it perfect for family reunions or large groups.
Quiet forest settings: Lost Lake Campground delivers peace and seclusion. As Janet R. describes, "This is a small, quiet state forest campground, off the beaten path from any direction. The main activities are quiet camping, and fishing!" The forest setting provides a tranquil experience away from crowds.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Many campgrounds in the area shut off water systems by mid-September. At Wakemup Bay, "drinking water [is] available in several locations throughout the campground, though this is shut off by mid September," according to Janet R.
Varying levels of maintenance: Facility upkeep differs significantly between campgrounds. Thistledew Campground offers basic amenities in good condition. Janet K. notes it "has all the basics: table, firepit, water and pit toilets" in a "peaceful campground on a beautiful lake."
Logging impacts: Recent timber harvesting affects access to some campgrounds. Lost Lake has experienced "fresh logging activity in the area so that does affect the scenicness of the woods nearby, as well as the quality of the access road if it is rainy."
Tips for camping with families
Look for open play spaces: Some campgrounds feature fields where children can play safely. At Bear Lake Campground, campsites are "adjacent to a large mowed field area where we could play games and kids could run freely," making it ideal for families with active children.
Consider group sites for large families: The group campsite at McCarthy Beach State Park accommodates extended families with "plenty of space for tents to accommodate up to fifty people. A small camper or two could also fit," though hookups aren't available.
Check bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms vary from basic pit toilets to more developed facilities. McCarthy Beach State Park's group site has "a beautiful new bath house complete with running water, showers, and regular bathrooms" a short walk from the camping area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most forest campgrounds lack hookups but can accommodate smaller RVs. At Canoe Country Campground, Josh M. notes it's "not a bad location. Offers showers and a restroom. Has a fire pit and grate," providing basic amenities for RV campers.
Supply access: While camping areas are remote, most are within reasonable distance of towns for restocking. Phillip T. mentions that at Canoe Country Campground, "The city of Ely is close for supplies and grocery shopping. Two large grocery stores."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Canoe Country Campground operates from May 15 to October 1, while Bear Lake Campground is only open from May 10 to September 10, requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
