Primitive camping options extend throughout the Superior National Forest near Grand Portage, Minnesota, with most sites located at elevations between 600-1,800 feet. The camping season typically runs May through October, though some sites remain open year-round with reduced winter services. Temperatures range from summer highs around 75°F to winter lows well below freezing, with Lake Superior creating unique microclimates throughout the region.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Devil Track Lake Campground offers excellent spots for observing local wildlife. "A great area to watch for wild life," notes camper Kay T., with many sites offering direct lake access for spotting birds and mammals at dawn or dusk.
Hike to Minnesota's highest point: Eagle Mountain is accessible from several nearby campgrounds. "Eagle Mountain is the highest natural point in MN, so you get quite the view!" explains Anne G., who recommends setting aside "a full day to hike the trail up and back" when staying at Devil Track Lake Campground.
Explore hidden gorges: The Kadunce River gorge features a unique hiking experience near camping areas. "The highlight of this site is it's proximity to one of the coolest and little well known spots on the trail; the Kadunce River gorge and waterfalls," says Steph H. from Kadunce River Camping, adding that visitors can follow the river until "the gorge closes in and reveals it's end, a rounded, walled canyon and waterfall."
Canoe pristine waters: Several campgrounds provide lake access for canoeing adventures. "We visited in August so the bugs weren't bad, almost non-existent really," reports Sarah C. about Todd Harbor on Isle Royale, noting the "view of Todd Harbor was beautiful" with excellent water access from the "rocky beach in the evening."
What campers like
Primitive tent sites with privacy: East Bearskin Lake Campground offers secluded sites with basic amenities. "The tent pads were very level and without any lumps or holes," according to Amy G., who stayed at East Bearskin Lake Campground and appreciated that "everyone was quite and respectful after dark."
Exceptional stargazing conditions: The dark skies provide outstanding astronomical viewing. "We are stargazers and really enjoyed the night sky, it was nice and dark, no light pollution," notes Kt D. about their experience at Hungry Hippie Campground, highlighting the rural setting that contributes to excellent night sky visibility.
Walking distance to town: Grand Marais Campground provides convenient access to local amenities. "A short walk to downtown and you have restaurants, shopping, grocery, fuel, pretty harbor, art galleries, bait shops, and more," explains Nancy W., who appreciated being able to "walk to town" after setting up camp.
Lake swimming access: Multiple campsites provide direct water access. "The lake was very comfortable for swimming with a nice little sloping rock entry," says Steph H. about East Lake Agnes Campsites, adding that the "clean, clear Lake Agnes" offers excellent recreation opportunities during summer months.
What you should know
Tent site selection matters: At Grand Marais Campground, there are distinct camping areas for different preferences. "There are some tent sites up in a wooded secluded area but most of the park is geared to RVs," explains Nancy W. from Grand Marais Campground & Marina, recommending that those seeking quiet should choose the "small tent area that is nice and quiet but a little far from the bathrooms so be prepared to walk."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns change rapidly in the area. "The weather at the end of August was incredible! 65 degrees, no humidity, no wind or rain & very minimal bugs," reports PJ F., noting the optimal late-summer conditions at Grand Marais Campground.
Water treatment requirements: Lake and river water requires proper filtration. Sarah C. advises that "the Park Service recommends treating your drinking water in two ways (ie. filter AND boil, chemically treat AND filter, some combination of two)" when camping on Isle Royale due to waterfowl presence.
Limited electrical hookups: Many sites have minimal amenities. "Nice campground..no elec. has a couple places to fill your water jugs if you never brought water," notes Kay T. about Devil Track Lake Campground, emphasizing the rustic nature of many sites in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some campgrounds offer better family facilities than others. "This was the most affordable option to take my nephew up to the north shore while still having a roof over our heads and running water," explains Krista T. about Hungry Hippie Campground's bunkhouse suite, noting that family groups can book "the entire space" for privacy.
Visit local attractions: The area has family-friendly sites beyond camping. "While there we made a trip up to grand portage to check it out and beautiful views and overlooks," mentions Jordan L. from McCargoe Cove Campground, highlighting additional activities to complement your camping experience.
Pack for temperature swings: Lake Superior creates significant day/night temperature differences. "It gets chilly at night on the North Shore, even in August," warns Krista T., explaining how this affects sleeping arrangements in canvas accommodations where "temperature fluctuations" can impact comfort.
Consider camper cabins: Several locations offer rustic cabin options. "For our final night we stayed at the Tamarack cabin. If I remember correctly up to 7 people could sleep here with 2 bunk beds and two pads also provided in the loft," describes Krista T. about East Bearskin Lake Campground's cabin accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many campgrounds have tight access roads. "RV spots can be a little tight getting in and out for hook, but doable," advises Vincent W. about Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground, suggesting careful navigation when arriving with larger vehicles.
Hookup variations: Available services differ between campgrounds. "We had a 50 amp full hook-up site which all worked well and well-placed in the site," notes Nancy W. about Grand Marais Campground, though she cautions that the campground can feel "crowded" during peak season.
Seasonal closures impact services: Some facilities close during certain periods. "Due to COVID, the RR and Showers were not open which was not a problem for the multitude of permanently placed RVers," reports Charles C., highlighting how seasonal or unexpected closures primarily affect temporary campers rather than seasonal residents.
Advance reservations essential: Popular RV sites fill quickly. "FYI- rv sites are hard to get! Get a jump on a rez in January. Clarify if it has sewer- ours didn't," advises PJ F. based on experience at Grand Marais Campground, emphasizing the importance of early planning for those requiring specific hookups.
