Camping near Grand Marais, Minnesota ranges from lakeside spots to secluded forest sites at elevations between 600-700 feet above sea level. The region's northern location creates dramatic seasonal temperature variations, with summer nights often dropping below 50°F even when days reach the 70s. Most Grand Marais area campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, though specific opening dates vary based on spring thaw conditions.
What to do
Hike to Devil's Kettle Falls: At Judge C. R. Magney State Park Campground, follow the 1.5-mile trail to see a waterfall that partially disappears into a mysterious rock formation. "The trail to Devil's Kettle was a nice hike. Be warned lots of stairs but excellently maintained," notes Scott G. The trail includes approximately 200 stairs and crosses the Brule River.
Fish for trout: Several campgrounds offer lake access with good fishing opportunities, particularly at Kimball Lake Campground. "A main draw is trout fishing, and there is a trail around the lake," explains Janet R. The campground provides a boat launch for small watercraft.
Climb Minnesota's highest point: From Two Island Lake Campground, you can access Eagle Mountain (2,301 feet). "Take drive and go to eagle mountain while there its about 10 minutes down road," recommends Jordan L. The hiking trail to the summit is 7 miles round-trip with moderate difficulty.
What campers like
Private lake access: Many sites at Devil Track Lake Campground offer direct shoreline access. "Many sites have private lake access. You can't see other sites from your own," reports Maria P. Most waterfront sites are spaced 30-50 feet apart, with natural vegetation providing additional privacy.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting of Hungry Hippie Campground offers excellent night sky viewing. "We are stargazers and really enjoyed the night sky, it was nice and dark, no light pollution," shares Kt D. Located on a hillside away from town lights, the campground features open views of the night sky.
Bathroom facilities: Campgrounds vary in amenities, with some offering modern facilities. Temperance River State Park Campground features "clean, hot water in the showers," according to Charyle C. Many sites have been recently updated, including Cascade River where "campground facilities were all redone in 2017 and are great," according to Andrea S.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: The popular Grand Marais Campground & Marina fills quickly, especially for RV sites. "RV sites are hard to get! Get a jump on a rez in January," advises PJ F. Weekends from June through August typically book completely 3-4 months in advance.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to highways. At Judge C. R. Magney, "The outside loop is close to the highway & that gets loud around 6am until 10pm when it quiets down," notes Cynthia K. Sites farther from Highway 61 generally provide a quieter experience.
Water sources: Not all campgrounds offer treated water. At East Bearskin Lake, one camper reported, "There is a drinking water tap located by campsite 3, but the two of us were feeling slightly ill a few hours after brushing our teeth and swishing with it." Bringing your own drinking water is recommended for more remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easy lake access: Two Island Lake has family-friendly shorelines. "Some [sites] are a lakeview site with a nice breeze coming off the lake, many with their own personal beach on your site," notes Anne G. Sites 8, 10, and 22 specifically offer gradual water entry good for children.
Consider tent-only areas: At East Bearskin Lake Campground, there are designated quiet areas. "There is a small secluded tent only area on a wooded hill which would be a good choice if you prefer less hustle bustle," explains Raak V. These sites typically have greater separation from RV areas where generator noise can disturb naps.
Pack for temperature swings: Evening temperatures drop significantly even in summer. "It was chilly while we were up there," reports Krista T. about Grand Marais Campground. Day-to-night temperature differences of 30°F are common, requiring both warm-weather clothing and heavier layers for evenings.
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on RV length. At Devil's Track Lake, sites accommodate smaller units but not large motorhomes. "The sites are suitable for tents & small trailers, popups, truck campers, camper vans. We did see one larger trailer, but most sites are short," explains Cynthia K.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites exist primarily at Grand Marais Campground & Marina. "There are 300 campsites with full hookups, some with electric and water hookups and others no hookups," reports Nancy W. Electric-only sites at other campgrounds often have 30-amp service only, requiring adapters for newer RVs with 50-amp systems.
