Dispersed camping near Illgen City presents practical options between May and October when temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F. The area sits at approximately 700-1,400 feet elevation with several peaks in Finland State Forest rising over 1,800 feet. The North Shore's camping infrastructure serves as a base for exploring Superior Hiking Trail segments that pass through the region.
What to do
Hiking at Bean and Bear Lakes: The Twin Lakes trail offers a challenging but rewarding experience with significant elevation changes. "This is one of my all time favorite hikes and camp spots 'up north'. The hike into the Bean and Bear Lakes is fun and has some great views in itself. Though the best and most gratifying part of the hike is getting to the top of the overlook and seeing both lakes," notes a Bean and Bear Lakes Hike-In visitor.
Explore waterfalls: The region features numerous accessible cascades within short hiking distance. "Trip to the falls in fall!!! Beautiful colors and amaxing views!!!" reports a camper who stayed at Baptism River Campground. Another camper adds, "Awesome park for exploring. There are tons of stairs on one trail, but they are worth it to see the top of the waterfall and walk the swing bridge."
Winter activities: Unlike many camping areas, several sites remain open year-round with modified services. "This is one of the few state parks in Minnesota where you can winter camp! The trails are absolutely beautiful in the fall, the scenery changes often," explains a visitor to George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.
What campers like
Secluded cart-in sites: Cart-in camping options provide exceptional privacy while maintaining access to amenities. "The Superior Cart-In sites at Tettegouche are tough to beat: they feel private and at many of them, you are constantly reminded of the majesty of the North Shore, either with the sound of crashing waves or the site of the big lake itself," shares a camper from Lake Superior Cart-in Campground.
River-adjacent camping: Many campsites feature proximity to flowing water, adding both scenery and ambient sound. A Finland State Forest Campground visitor notes, "At night you hear the Baltism River as you gently fall asleep.. we have an exped duo mattress and sleep like babies!"
Dark skies for stargazing: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "There is a rocky outcrop in the middle of the site that is a perfect platform to lay down on and stargaze," reports a camper who stayed at Finland State Forest.
What you should know
Primitive facilities at state forest sites: State forest campgrounds typically offer fewer amenities than state parks. "This is a nice small state forest campground right off Rt 1 between Tettegouche and Finland. It is perfect for folks who want a quieter more primitive camping experience as there are no hookups and the facilities are outhouses," explains a visitor to Eckbeck Finland State Forest.
Challenging terrain for backpackers: Backpacking sites require preparation for rugged conditions. "The trails of this park are either a hikers dream or nightmare. Exposed roots, large rocks, and elevation changes are common. Good potential for a twisted ankle," warns a George H. Crosby Manitou State Park camper.
Reservation windows fill quickly: Most reservable camping sites near Illgen City open 120 days in advance and demand is high. "This is one of the most popular Minnesota State Parks and fills up fast. Plan ahead so you can stay in this beautiful place," advises a Lake Superior Cart-in Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible waterfall viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer family-friendly waterfall access points. "Stopped in here cause sides of road were packed so we figured we would stop and see what it was about. The waterfalls were so cool and the river u could just lay in!!! Few kids were swimmimg and a few even jumped in!!!" shares a Temperance River State Park visitor.
Gooseberry Falls amenities: This state park provides facilities particularly suited for families with children. "We stayed at drive-in 49 and loved it! Private trail directly to the showers, restrooms and water. Would stay there again in a heartbeat. 49 is close to the Gitchi Gami trail so that was also nice considering we were rollerblading," notes a visitor to Gooseberry Falls State Park.
Cart-in camping options for kids: Several campgrounds offer cart-in sites manageable for families. "We stayed in site C4. It was a great spot to have with kids. One of the nearest sites to the restrooms which was nice. It was a good balance of rustic with a side of comfort," explains a camper from Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electrical connections but typically no full hookups. "Site #20e was perfect for our 5th wheel camper, and had easy access to both the high falls and two step falls. Quick drive to the main park building and lake superior. Dated shower house, but very clean!" shares a camper who stayed at Baptism River Campground.
Black Beach Campground amenities: This newer campground provides multiple hookup options for recreational vehicles. "This is a great no frills campground. Large sites, hookups were in good locations, fire pits. The campground is separated into two areas. If you are in the spaces closer to the lake you would probably want to drive to the showers," reports a visitor to Black Beach Campground.
Dump station locations: Limited dump stations require planning for longer stays. "There is a dump station up the road in Silver Bay for a donation. When you leave the park you go left on 61 to the first light & go right at that light. Past the sheriff station on the left is the dump station," explains a Baptism River Campground visitor.
