Cabins near Finland, Minnesota are situated in the Superior National Forest within Minnesota's Arrowhead Region. The area sits at approximately 1,700 feet above sea level and experiences seasonal temperature swings from below-zero winters to mild 70-degree summer days. Most cabin sites open from late May through mid-October with winter cabin options at some locations, though winter access can require snowshoes or cross-country skis during heavy snow periods.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple hiking options exist within short driving distance from cabin sites. Sawbill Lake Campground offers access to Superior National Forest hiking trails with connections to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. "Hiking trails are fantastic and they have many hike in sites that appear to be in super cool locations. We are definitely making a return trip here!" notes a visitor to Bear Head Lake State Park.
Water activities: Fishing and paddling opportunities abound at lakes surrounding cabin accommodations. At Lax Lake Resort, guests access the lake directly from cabin sites. A camper mentioned, "Great views of the lake and very close to hwy 61 to access all the parks. Paid $22 or so night."
Wildlife viewing: The Finland area provides opportunities for wildlife observation. At Birch Lake Campground, one visitor noted, "Quiet except for the nature sounds - fronts, owls, loons at night. Hiking trails right out of the campsite."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the secluded nature of cabins in the area. At Wildhurst Campgrounds, a camper shared, "A great campsite just a few minutes from the main highway up the coast of lake superior... the campsite itself is very private with a spot to park your car, and you are surrounded by trees and bushes for each individual campsite."
Access to amenities: While rustic, many cabin locations provide essential services. "There is a bar with a kitchen where you check in to the campsite filled with friendly people, games, and great food," explains a Wildhurst Campgrounds visitor about the on-site facilities.
Seasonal beauty: Fall color viewing from cabins receives particular praise. One visitor to Wildhurst Campgrounds noted, "We are the only people here in the campground, the locals make us feel welcome. Lots of hiking," during autumn when leaf colors begin changing.
What you should know
Reservation essentials: Most cabin sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Bear Head Lake State Park Campground, cabins must be reserved through the Minnesota state park reservation system, often 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Water quality concerns: Some locations have questionable water quality. A visitor to Birch Lake Campground reported, "The well water available had a bit of an off smell and came out a little more yellow/brown than I prefer so I did not use it."
ATV traffic: Several cabin areas serve dual purposes as ATV trail access points. "The only downside is that the grounds seem to be primarily used for ATV folks, as there is a trail connected at the back of the grounds. There was some noisy riding around," noted a Wildhurst Lodge visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Several cabin locations offer lake swimming access. At Lamb's Resort, a family reported, "The smooth pebble beach is fantastic. Our dogs loved running up and down the beach and playing on the shore."
Playground availability: Some cabin areas feature child-friendly play areas. "The playground had enough equipment to keep our children busy with plenty to do while we prepared meals," shared a visitor at Lamb's Resort.
Educational opportunities: Several cabin locations provide nature learning experiences for children. "Great family friendly resort directly on Lake Superior. We took a day trip and walked North on the Gitchi Gami State Trail and visited Temperance River Falls and Hidden Falls," noted a family staying at Lamb's Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site elevation: Many cabin and RV sites in the Finland area feature uneven terrain. At Apostle Islands Area RV Park and Camping, a visitor observed, "The entire campground is on the side of a mountain and there are no flat roads, which makes biking and walking a workout rather than leisure."
Electrical specifications: Different cabin locations offer varying electrical setups. At Penmarallter Campsite, a visitor pointed out, "You can save $5 a night if you only need 30-Amp electric and water."
Road conditions: Access roads to many cabin areas can present challenges. A visitor noted, "Gravel road in is rough so go slow," when describing their experience accessing the Wildhurst Lodge area with an RV.
