Cabin camping accommodations near Grand Portage, Minnesota range from rustic forest service shelters to more developed lakeside rentals. The region sits on the northern edge of Minnesota's Arrowhead, with elevations reaching 1,800 feet in nearby ridges and summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F during peak camping season. Winter camping facilities remain limited with temperatures often dropping below zero.
What to do
Hiking to Devil's Kettle Falls: Access this unique geological feature from Judge C. R. Magney State Park Campground where the trail offers a moderately challenging route. "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.
Lake activities: Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground provides direct access to boating and fishing. "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," reports Jason S.
Stargazing: The area's dark skies make it ideal for night sky viewing, especially at spots away from lodge lights. "We are stargazers and really enjoyed the night sky, it was nice and dark, no light pollution," according to a visitor at Hungry Hippie Campground.
What campers like
Private lakeside access: Many cabin sites at East Bearskin Lake Campground offer direct water access. "The campsite wasn't huge, but it did what we needed it to do...it allowed us to set up a tent, have a campfire and sleep! The tent pads were very level and without any lumps or holes," Amy G. explains.
Quiet atmosphere: Smaller campgrounds provide a more peaceful experience compared to busier state parks. "A very peaceful, quiet and clean resort. Very impressed with the two owners/workers we dealt with. If you want total relaxation and quiet, this is the resort to go to," shares Bob S. about Golden Eagle Lodge Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to see moose and other wildlife abound, especially near Washington Creek. "This is a great place to see moose," notes Evan G. about his experience at Washington Creek Campground on Isle Royale.
What you should know
Accessibility varies: Washington Creek Campground on Isle Royale requires ferry transportation. "The easiest access to the island is via Ferry which is about $150 round trip from Grand Portage MN. A sea plane is also available for around $320 RT," explains Matthew G.
Seasonal limitations: Most cabin facilities operate from May through October with limited winter options. The busiest period typically runs from late June through August when advance reservations are essential.
Supply planning: Grocery options are limited the further you travel up the Gunflint Trail. "There is a small store with the basics; Dry and canned food, beer, wine, soda, ice and some souvenirs. All the basics you would need to survive if you showed up with no food as long as you are not picky," notes a visitor describing Washington Creek's amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Hungry Jack Lodge & Campground offers modern facilities that work well for families. "The lodge is great and has very friendly staff and a really great bar. I can't speak to the cabins, but I wouldn't choose to camp here again. I'd suggest it for a guys fishing trip or something like that," shares Beka S.
Pack for variable weather: Even summer temperatures can drop significantly at night, requiring layered clothing and extra blankets for cabin stays without heat.
Consider cabin spacing: Some campgrounds feature closely spaced sites that may not work well with active children. "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," explains Holly G. about her experience at Judge C.R. Magney State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Several cabin and RV sites at Hungry Hippie Campground require navigating steeper terrain. "The glampground is far enough away from the parking lot that you will want to make use of the available cart (stored by the shower house) to transport your belongings to your tent," advises Krista T.
Electrical hookup availability: While rustic cabins dominate the area, some resorts offer limited sites with electrical connections. "Great place to stay. They can accommodate RV's and Tents. Offer water and 50A/30A/20A at all 9 sites. Dump station on site," notes Dan B. about Golden Eagle Lodge Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to some cabin camping areas near Grand Portage can be narrow with low-hanging branches. "The road is also very primitive - trees will rip off the air conditioners in your 45 footer!" warns one camper about the challenges of navigating larger vehicles to East Bearskin Lake.