The Mississippi River headwaters region surrounding Grand Rapids offers a mix of forested campgrounds and lakeside sites situated between 1,250-1,300 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with higher humidity from June through August. Many campgrounds remain open from May through October, with most facilities closing during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct access to quality fishing spots. At Trout Lake Campground, visitors report "great luck catching bass and walleye" on the lake that's "well-known for its fishing in the area." The campground includes a concrete boat launch adjacent to the property.
Historical exploration: Learn about the region's logging heritage at nearby attractions. One camper at Schoolcraft State Park Campground mentioned, "Nearby is the Forest History Center with a recreated logging camp and a nice museum" where they "saw a draft horse pulling logs for demonstration."
Paddling routes: Access multiple waterways for kayaking and canoeing adventures. The Grand Rapids Library Park Watertrail Watercraft Campsite serves as a convenient stop for through-paddlers. As one visitor noted, "For paddlers on the Mississippi Headwaters Water Trail it is a welcome addition to the area campsite options, especially as paddling through Grand Rapids is slow due to having to portage around two dams en route."
What campers like
Extra-large campsites: Many appreciate the spacious sites available at certain campgrounds. At Pokegama Dam Campground, campers enjoy "19 extra large campsites that can accommodate a large RV, boat & trailer, and vehicle with room to spare." One reviewer mentioned, "The sites are level gravel pads. On the water sites have no beach shoreline lots of cattails."
Swimming beaches: Several lakeside campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas. A visitor at Moose Lake noted, "We went on the hottest weekend of the year, so the swimming beach came in handy." These designated swimming areas provide relief during summer months when daytime temperatures frequently reach the 80s.
Accessible hiking: Well-maintained trails offer walking opportunities for various skill levels. At Schoolcraft State Park, one camper described "a nice trail system with signage about history and nature" and "one hiking loop around the entirety of the park that very easy, but it is a beautiful walk through peaceful red pine forest."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds are situated near major roadways. Multiple reviewers mention traffic noise at Pokegama Dam Campground, with one stating, "The only drawbacks for us are that you are just feet off the 4 lane highway, so there is a lot of traffic noise, and the cost per night is $26.00." Another noted, "Highway noise is constant and Trains go by often all hours of the day."
Seasonal operation: Most facilities close during winter months. For example, Schoolcraft State Park's operating season runs "May 13 to October 23," and several campgrounds have similar timeframes, with Prairie Lake Campground open "May 1 - Oct 1."
Limited amenities at some sites: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. The Blackberry Campsite is described as having "a bear box...incredibly rare," but no electric hookups or showers. Another camper noted the challenges: "You have to tie your kayak to the shore - it's quite muddy and there is no place to pull it up (without considerable effort)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Grand Rapids feature play areas for children. At American Legion Park, a visitor mentioned it's "a well maintained community campground and community park" that "includes playground and picnic shelter for day use." Similarly, Pokegama Dam Campground has "a great playground for kids, and a big picnic shelter that's reservable."
Beach selection: Choose campgrounds with designated swimming areas during summer months. Trout Lake Campground offers "a nice sandy area by the lake to enjoy," making it ideal for families with children who want to cool off during hot weather.
Off-site activities: Plan day trips to nearby attractions. One camper staying at American Legion Park appreciated that it would be "a good place to stop if passing through, or visiting in the area" with its "small beach area too, and a really nice DNR fishing pier out into the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Reserve larger sites if traveling with substantial equipment. At pet-friendly campgrounds like Pokegama Dam, RVers benefit from sites that "can accommodate a large RV, boat & trailer, and vehicle with room to spare." One visitor noted, "We had a girls getaway camping trip here during the Tall Timber Days Festival so the campground was at full capacity."
Hookup availability: Verify utilities before booking as options vary significantly. A camper at Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel & RV Campground appreciated its quiet setting that's "far enough away from too many things to make you feel like you're in town but anything you need is a hop skip and jump away" with full hookup options available.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site waste disposal. At Pokegama Dam Campground, campers noted "a roomy area for dump/fresh water/drinking water fill" making it convenient for longer stays, while other facilities might require driving to a central location for these services.
