Finland State Forest Campground sits on the Baptism River in northeastern Minnesota, providing primitive camping access with vault toilets and no running water. The campground operates year-round but sees peak usage from May through September when forest roads are most accessible. Recent forest management has altered the tree density in some areas due to moth damage control efforts.
What to do
River exploration: Access points along the Baptism River offer fishing opportunities and scenic spots. "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," notes Spencer F. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Trail hiking: The Superior Hiking Trail passes near several campgrounds in the area. "This campsite 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," shares Adriana E. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Equestrian trails: Horse riders can access multiple trail systems throughout Finland State Forest. The campground accommodates horses with spacious sites. "This campground is first come, first serve which is great for people who are last minute," notes a camper about the flexibility needed when planning equestrian camping near Finland, Minnesota.
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the quiet setting compared to busier state parks. "Impeccable campground. Primitive, so no electricity. Clean, secluded, and beautiful! It was the perfect place to stay while we tripped the North Scenic Route," says Ber M. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Natural soundscape: The flowing water creates a peaceful backdrop for campers. "At night you hear the Baptism River as you gently fall asleep," reports Susan H. who camps at Finland State Forest Campground multiple times yearly.
Proximity to attractions: The location provides convenient access to recreational areas. "This is likely my favorite campground in the state. There are minimal amenities, but the location is wonderful, the sites are mostly private and wooded, and the Baptism River runs right through. You are close to excellent climbing, hiking, fishing, and the Finland Co-op," explains Lacey F..
What you should know
Payment system: The self-pay system at Finland State Forest can be confusing for some visitors. "Paying for the site can be confusing. I paid at Tettegouche, QR code didn't work and Yodel didn't work either," mentions Lauren M..
Noise considerations: ATV and generator noise affects some campsites. "Noise from ATVs, a few with modified mufflers. Since there are no electric hookups, there is some noise from generators for the big RVs," notes a camper about conditions that can affect the camping experience.
Site availability: First-come, first-served policy means no guaranteed spots during busy periods. "Less crowded than the north shore state parks," points out one visitor regarding the relative availability compared to nearby options.
Tips for camping with families
Pack water: No drinking water facilities means bringing sufficient supplies. "Impeccable campground. Primitive, so no electricity," reminds a camper about the need to be self-sufficient with water for family camping trips.
Site selection: Choose sites away from ATV trails for quieter family camping. "This was a random 'find' when we were through hiking the SHT, but what a wonderful, hidden gem! It was very quiet at night (there weren't many campers)," shares Amy G..
Local attractions: The Finland Co-op provides supplies for forgotten items. "You are close to excellent climbing, hiking, fishing, and the Finland Co-op," mentions a camper regarding convenient resupply options for family needs.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Some sites can accommodate larger rigs but arrive early to secure them. "Really nice wooded sites, some can accommodate big rigs. Level sites," observes Fred S. about the campground layout.
Generator etiquette: Consider campers seeking quiet if using generators. "What was really annoying was the noise from a bunch of drunk middle aged folks down at the group site," notes a camper about noise concerns that affect everyone in the campground.
Seasonal considerations: Tree clearing has altered shade coverage for RV camping. "Right now the campground looks a little worse for wear. They did extreme tree clearing due to moth damage," explains a camper about current conditions affecting shade availability.
