Cabin accommodations near Mississippi River Headwaters - Cross Lake feature diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 1,250 to 1,300 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Cross Lake connects to 13 other lakes in the Whitefish Chain, creating a total water surface of over 14,000 acres for recreation.
What to do
Mountain biking at Cuyuna trails: Access world-class mountain biking directly from True North Basecamp, where cabin stays include trail proximity. A camper noted, "Loved the proximity of True North to both Crosby restaurants and bars and the incredible trails of Cuyuna Country." The Yawkey trail section can be accessed from Red Rider Resort cabins as well.
Golfing opportunities: The 9-hole course at Wildwedge Golf and RV Park provides shorter play perfect for families. According to a visitor, "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained." The Paul Bunyan Trail connects directly to the property for post-golf biking.
Paddleboarding and fishing: Many lake cabins offer direct water access for paddleboarding on the quarry lakes. "My kids had fun fishing for panfish off their dock and although we never made it, they have a swimming beach that is a bit down the MTB access trail," mentioned a Red Rider visitor. Note that fishing in certain quarry lakes requires a trout stamp.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Cabin options range from closely situated to more secluded. At Red Rider Resort, "The sites are rustic but have fire rings and some have charcoal grills in them." Some visitors appreciate that "Although they have lots of sites, it is a State Park. That means that they are close together."
Lakefront locations: Many cabins sit directly on lakes with swimming beaches. A Tuck-a-way Resort visitor shared, "Right on the lake so kids spent a lot of time in the lake and on the lake fishing." Several properties feature private docks for fishing and boat access.
Clean facilities: Shared bathrooms and shower facilities at most cabin locations receive positive reviews. One Crow Wing State Park visitor noted, "Clean restrooms and showers. Friendly people and big fires. Nice hiking trail follows the river." Red Rider Resort's bathhouse includes "real flush toilets and sinks."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer bookings fill quickly at most cabin properties, especially at popular locations. Early reservations are essential, particularly for holiday weekends and prime summer dates.
Pet policies vary: While True North Basecamp allows pets for a fee, some resorts prohibit them entirely. A visitor at Red Rider mentioned, "My kids had fun fishing for panfish off there dock," showing that fishing access may make up for pet restrictions at some properties.
Kitchen arrangements: Cooking setups differ significantly between cabin properties. Mission Beach Resort and other facilities offer community kitchens with running water. Bring your own cooking gear as most cabins provide only basic amenities like beds and tables.
Seasonal operation: Most cabin facilities operate from May through October, with limited off-season availability. Water is typically shut off during winter months at facilities without year-round infrastructure.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose cabins with nearby play areas for children. A Sunset Pines Campground visitor shared, "Kids loved the heated pool and tether ball! We all had a great time riding 4 wheelers on the Spider Lake trails a few miles away."
Beach safety considerations: Some swimming areas deepen quickly, requiring supervision. A True North Basecamp visitor advised, "It has a great swimming area, though it did get deep fast for little kids. We brought our paddleboard and had a great time on the quiet lake."
Group cabins for reunions: Several properties accommodate large family gatherings. One visitor to True North noted, "The group campsite the road is dirt and very rutted. Be mindful if you have a car. We had many people and cars and usually parking would be a nightmare but we all fit."
Cabin selection tips: At True North Basecamp, "Cabin #5 has the best unobstructed views of the lake. Cabins have WiFi." Research specific cabin numbers before booking when views or location matter to your family.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some cabin and RV sites require navigating steep terrain. A Tuck-a-way Resort and Campground visitor warned, "There is also a pretty decent hill you have to go down to get to your site so if you're nervous or new to pulling a camper just be aware."
Site leveling: Terrain at many properties requires careful setup. One camper at True North shared, "I camped in site #18 and it either isn't very level or I just did a poor job of setting up my tent because we were slanted all night."
Seasonal site advantages: At several properties, seasonal sites offer better positions and amenities. A visitor observed, "The seasonal sites are much nicer than the regular ones. We kept catching smells from the septic throughout the weekend."
