The North Shore region near Lutsen sits between the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior, creating a unique microclimate that often differs from inland temperatures by 10-15 degrees. Elevations range from 602 feet at lake level to over 1,800 feet at nearby peaks. Campgrounds throughout this area typically remain open from late April through October, with limited winter camping available at select locations.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Tettegouche State Park offers some of the most dramatic waterfall views near Lutsen. "THIS IS MY FAVORITE MN STATE PARK! And is a must see if you are traveling up the North Shore of Lake Superior. The campground facilities were all redone in 2017 and are great! Lookout Mountain is my favorite hike on the North Shore by far!" notes Andrea S. about Cascade River State Park Campground.
Lake exploration: Many campsites provide access to Lake Superior shoreline for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. "The lake was beautiful. Expect a 13 mile gravel road from Tofte," shares Christina P. from Crescent Lake Campground, adding "Excellent Paddle Boarding. The lake wasn't great for fishing for us this trip. Others only caught small mouth bass."
Mountain biking: Several parks connect to regional trail systems. "We have camped there a few times and love the accessibility to Mtn. Bike Trails and bicycle riding on the Gitche Gami State Bike Trail. Close to world class hiking on the Superior Hiking Trail," explains John F. about Shipwreck Creek Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the roomy campsites in the region. "Huge private sites with wildflowers all around you made for a beautiful stay! Great location for exploring the north shore. The sites have electric hook ups and the shower facilities were very clean," notes Scott B. about Shipwreck Creek Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain excellent amenities. "Don't worry about those, they are great some of the best maintained I've ever seen," shares Mike R. about the pit toilets at Crescent Lake Campground. He adds, "This campground is a long way out there, but worth the drive. You can do a trip into Grand Marias, Lutsen or other Northshore areas fairly easily."
Walking accessibility: Grand Marais Campground & Marina provides unique town access not found at other locations. "The aspect of this campground we liked the best was that we could walk to town. A short walk to downtown and you have restaurants, shopping, grocery, fuel, pretty harbor, art galleries, bait shops, and more," explains Nancy W.
What you should know
Reservation timeline: State park sites fill quickly, especially in peak season. "Only opened about 1.5 year ago, the facilities are pristine. Usually the nearby campgrounds are full weeks in advance, so this expansion was much needed," advises Les R. about Shipwreck Creek Campground at Split Rock.
Water access: Many campgrounds have specific rules about water usage and filling tanks. "There are water hydrants in the campground, but you cannot do dishes or fill your camper from them. There is no dump station. Newer campground with nice roads and good spots," notes Dave M. about Shipwreck Creek.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "Expect a 13 mile gravel road from Tofte," warns Christina P. about Temperance River Campground, while another camper notes "Beautiful area up above the river with a few trails going down."
Tips for camping with families
Tent selection: Family campers should consider site location carefully. "If you're looking for complete privacy, choose another campground - these sites are right off the main road. However, if you're traveling with kids and mainly want the daytime park experience, go for it! Don't worry about the kids and the road - it's not busy," advises Maria P. about Cascade River State Park.
Beach access: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming opportunities. "The small lake is nice with a nice beach," notes Thomas N. about Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground, while another camper mentioned "you can drive through many state parks along the coast they are all different."
Wildlife interactions: Some campgrounds have resident wildlife that children enjoy. "The camp host is SUPER nice and has the cutest relationship with the chipmunks, if you need wood stop by and say hi and meet the cute and bossy chipmunks," shares Cassi M. about Crescent Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. "The sites are not level so come prepared," advises B M. about Baptism River Campground. For Shipwreck Creek, Joe C. notes "Spacious RV spots with additional tent sites on each one. We are 47 feet without the truck and fit in a 50 foot spot. 55 foot with our rear deck extended."
Site selection: RV campers should prioritize certain sites for best experiences. "We stayed in site 26E which has 30amp and 50amp. The state park website says only 50amp but it had both. Lots of space," reports Jordan S. about Baptism River Campground, while another RVer specifically recommends "Site 20 which was big and private."
Hookup considerations: Available services vary widely between campgrounds for RV camping near Lutsen. "We had Electric and filled with water when we entered. You fill with water near the restroom in the campground next to the bath house across from the dumpsters," explains B M. about their experience at Baptism River, adding "The only downfall is no dump station yet there is a dump station up the road in Silver Bay for a donation."
