The Nevis area sits on the eastern edge of Paul Bunyan State Forest, characterized by mixed hardwood forests and numerous glacial lakes. Most campgrounds around Nevis sit at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, with terrain varying from flat lakeshore areas to gently rolling hills. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, limiting primitive camping options to the most prepared visitors from late October through April.
What to do
Paddling adventures: At Waboose Lake, the campsite provides direct water access with minimal effort. "The campsite was perfect. There is a bench, firepit, latrine and multiple campsites. Very scenic view with the sounds of loons and frogs in the background," notes one visitor who appreciated the serene atmosphere.
Wildlife photography: The North Country Trail sections near Nevis offer excellent wildlife viewing during early morning or evening hours. Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars for loon spotting. A camper at Gulch Lake reported: "The campsite might become my go-to for a peaceful last-minute escape. The campsites are very wooded and private and situated along trails and the lakes."
Seasonal trail hiking: The local NCT segments form figure-eight patterns around several lakes, creating convenient day-hike options ranging from 2-5 miles. "There is a high bluff at the end of Nelson Lake along the NCT that has AMAZING views about a mile hike from the campground," one Gulch Lake visitor shared about an often-overlooked viewpoint.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion of island camping at Campers' Paradise where sites feel more isolated than typical developed campgrounds. "The sites are separated by trees/brush so you feel that they are really private. There's a nice beach/play area for the kids and the bathrooms are really clean," reports one visitor who enjoyed the lake access.
Value at rustic sites: State forest campgrounds offer significant savings compared to state parks or private resorts. "This is a State Forest Campground, and for the price of only $14 a night, you can't go wrong," notes a Mantrap Lake visitor, highlighting the economic appeal for budget-conscious campers.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite their remote locations, several campgrounds maintain surprisingly clean facilities. According to a Bear Paw Campground camper: "Men's bathroom is cleaned twice a day! Showers are clean and water is hot! Drinking water is good." This level of maintenance exceeds expectations for wilderness-adjacent camping.
What you should know
Seasonal camping fluctuations: Visitation patterns vary dramatically throughout the season. A Pine Ridge Campground visitor noted: "Great state park. Large open campsite with some great tree cover. Lots of campers, but plenty of access to clean showers and bathrooms."
Reservation requirements: Availability systems differ between state forest campgrounds (first-come, first-served) and state parks (reservation required). Group sites like those at Gulch Lake require advance booking with a $50 fee.
Road conditions: Access to more remote sites can challenge some vehicles. One camper at Gulch Lake mentioned: "The road can also be pretty tough so be prepared if you're pulling a trailer. I don't think this was what I expected."
Water access variations: Water access points differ in quality and usability. A Gulch Lake visitor reported: "Great views here! Stayed right next to the lake! Had easy access for kayaking and had a fun girls weekend! Site 7 was a short hike in from the parking lot."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families report highest satisfaction when planning around lake activities. "Lots of biking and hiking trails. Really nice bathrooms. Nice beach with water trampolines. Sites are big. So much fun," shared a Campers' Paradise visitor.
Park amenities: Itasca State Park provides family-friendly facilities not found at smaller sites. "Great fishing. You can rent boats, pontoons, kayaks, paddle boards and bikes for Itasca Sports. There's a big paddle boat/ferry you can ride on. Great restaurant. Gift shop. Bike trails. Beautiful swimming beach. Nice playground," notes one camper.
Site selection: Camping with kids requires strategic site selection. "We had a lake front lot and really enjoyed the view and easy access to the lake and bike trails. The bathrooms were big and clean," shared a Bear Paw Campground visitor.
Bug preparation: Parents consistently mention mosquito protection as essential. "So many mosquitoes are terrible, but that's expected," noted one Gulch Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at many local campgrounds. "They were very clear from the get go that campers over a certain size weren't allowed and while ours isn't huge, maybe 30 foot hitch to bumper, I could see why they were so up front," explains a visitor to Campers' Paradise.
Utility considerations: Water access varies significantly between sites. A Campers' Paradise reviewer noted: "On an island private sites some electric. No water hook up fill before parking."
Seasonal site options: Some campgrounds offer extended stays. "This is our second year and starting into our third. This campground has been great for our family. It is a seasonal campground so it is awesome to be able to leave our camper here year-round," reports a visitor at Eagle's Landing.
Backing skills: Several sites require advanced parking skills. "The full hook up site is a little tight if you bring a big RV, backing up is a skill you must bring," warns a camper from Breezy Pines Resort.
