Cabin camping options near Grand Marais, Minnesota include small forest shelters and larger private lodging within Superior National Forest. Situated approximately 110 miles northeast of Duluth at an elevation of 640 feet, Grand Marais serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Winter cabin rentals often require reservations 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak summer and fall color seasons.
What to do
Hiking to Devil's Kettle Falls: A popular destination with well-maintained trails in Judge C. R. Magney State Park. "We were impressed with how great the hiking trails were. We only had a few hours to explore the park and we were not disappointed. The trail to Devil's Kettle was a nice hike. Be warned lots of stairs but excellently maintained," notes Scott G., who stayed at Judge C. R. Magney State Park Campground.
Canoe rentals at Sawbill Lake: Access to Boundary Waters Canoe Area portages within walking distance from campsites. "Every time I've stayed here, it's been magical. Because it's so far up north & secluded (you have to drive 30 miles down a dirt road to get there), everyone staying at the campsites are super respectful of nature," shares Renée C. from Sawbill Lake Campground.
Bird education programs: Sign up for educational workshops at Gunflint Lodge. "The programming offered here was awesome. We signed up for a educational workshop about birds and bird calls, and it was essentially a private class for just us 4," reports Les R. who stayed in one of the small cabins at Gunflint Lodge.
What campers like
Private lake access: Many cabins offer direct water views or shoreline access. "The view is incredible from these tents, and you have your own little deck with two chairs to soak in the view from the lake," according to Krista T. who stayed at Hungry Hippie Campground in one of their canvas tents.
Quiet forest settings: Cabins nestled among trees provide secluded experiences. "Site 1 is the most private, but you don't have a view of the lake. Sites 2, 3, and 4 are the closest to the bathroom and communal fire pit and are on the smaller side, are less private, and the view of the lake is obstructed. Site 5 is way off next to the glampground and it has the best view of the lake of the campsites," notes Krista T. when describing the campsite layout at Hungry Hippie.
Dark sky stargazing: Areas away from light pollution offer stellar night views. "We are stargazers and really enjoyed the night sky, it was nice and dark, no light pollution," reports Kt D. from their stay at Hungry Hippie Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most cabin locations have minimal connectivity. "Note. There is very limited cell reception here (yay!). There is WiFi but only near or in the lodge," explains Tracy O., who stayed at Hungry Jack Lodge & Campground.
Access challenges in winter: Some cabins require physical effort to reach during snow season. "Stayed at the new ski/snowshoe in cabin. Cute little cabin with everything you need plus whatever you can carry on your back/sled. The snowshoe in trail is a little hilly, so be prepared to do some work getting in, especially if you are pulling a gear sled like we did! Required a little teamwork to avoid being run downhill by the sled," warns Tori K. about their stay at Bearskin Lodge.
Varying levels of privacy: Cabin layouts and proximities differ significantly between properties. "We felt like we were camping with 20 other people we didn't know. Sometimes that is ok, but it can get annoying with no privacy. I would recommend heading into the National Forest if you want privacy," suggests Holly G. after staying at Judge C. R. Magney State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Look for cabins near swimming areas for kids. "We stayed at this resort for 4 days and wish we had more time. The smooth pebble beach is fantastic. Our dogs loved running up and down the beach and playing on the shore," reports Jason S. about their stay at Lamb's Resort.
On-site playgrounds: Some resorts include play areas for children. "The playground had enough equipment to keep our children busy with plenty to do while we prepared meals," notes Sheri F. who visited Lamb's Resort with a large family group.
Day trips along shore trails: Plan family-friendly excursions near cabin locations. "We took a day trip and walked North on the Gitchi Gami State Trail and visited Temperance River Falls and Hidden Falls," shares Jason S. about activities from their cabin at Lamb's Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many cabin and RV sites have size limitations. "The campground is very small- only 26 sites. This is primitive camping- no electricity. The sites are suitable for tents & small trailers, popups, truck campers, camper vans. We did see one larger trailer, but most sites are short. The road is also very primitive - trees will rip off the air conditioners in your 45 footer!" warns Cynthia K. about Judge C. R. Magney State Park.
RV dump station availability: Some properties offer full hookups while others have limited services. "We visited this campground in June 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. Services were pared back quite a bit, regardless we had a great time. Our 33' motorhome was able to fit nicely in a pull-through site and we rented a boat during our stay," explains Jason S. about their visit to Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground.
Seasonal RV access: Weather affects drivability to more remote cabin locations. "RV spots can be a little tight getting in and out for hook, but doable. Great supply store open during day," notes Vincent W. who stayed at Gunflint Pines in June.
