Orr, Minnesota sits in the heart of Superior National Forest at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, where summer temperatures average 75-80°F during peak camping season. The region features numerous interconnected lakes dotting the northern Minnesota landscape, with camping options typically available from May through September. Winter weather makes most glamping accommodations inaccessible from November through April due to heavy snowfall.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Crane Lake: Located about 20 miles from Orr, Crane Lake Primitive Campgrounds offer unique access to three distinct wilderness areas. "Crane Lake is so unique!! It is the Southern Entry to Voyageurs National Park, the Western entry to Boundary Waters Canoe Area, and The Superior Forest borders the East side of Crane Lake," notes camper TyAnn J.
Hiking nearby trails: Echo Lake Campground provides access to excellent hiking opportunities. "There are plenty of hiking trails and great for fishing walleye," shares Kayla A., who considers it her "favorite campground in all of Minnesota." The campground sits approximately 20 miles from Orr and features minimal light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing.
Water activities: Fishing remains popular at most lakes near Orr. "Fishing on Pelican lake is great. The fishing dock is accessible (I rode my mobility scooter out there with no difficulty) and they have boats available so you can get out on the lake," mentions a visitor to Aspen Resort & Campground.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many glamping options close to Orr, Minnesota offer significant privacy. Echo Lake receives consistent praise for its peaceful setting. "It's a peaceful, beautiful campground. The campsites are large and spaced out well. The lake is very quiet and beautiful. Perfect place to get away and soak in the beauty," writes Melissa P.
Clean facilities: Pine Acres Resort and Campground provides more amenities than purely primitive sites. "Great primitive campsite to hit on the way to Voyaguers National Park... they have full functioning bathrooms and showers," explains Mariajesserene A., who considers it a "MUST STAY LOCATION."
Lake views: Waterfront camping enhances the glamping experience. "Got there after sunset met the host and easily found our campsite. The next morning we awoke to a wonderful view of the lake," shares Michael B. about his stay at Sherwood Forest Campground, noting the "friendly people all around."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Northern Minnesota experiences significant temperature fluctuations, even in summer. Pack appropriate clothing for potential temperature drops, especially for lake-adjacent glamping sites where evening humidity can make nights feel cooler.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. Most resorts require booking several months in advance, particularly for weekend stays between June and August.
Noise considerations: While most sites offer tranquility, be aware of potential noise sources. At Echo Lake (minn), one camper notes: "Campsite was beautiful, would recommend going to a site further from the sawmill, it can be quite loud in the AM. But honestly? Excellent alarm for a summer sunrise."
Bug protection: Insects remain abundant throughout summer. Bring repellent containing DEET for mosquitoes and consider head nets for evening activities. One visitor to Crane Lake mentions "Neither Mosquitoes nor Gnats nor Noseeums kept us away from our Crane Lake Adventure!!"
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several glamping locations provide direct water access. Eveleth Veterans Park Campground receives praise for being "a great place for anyone and is especially great for those with young children. Direct access to a great beach, plenty of space to safely roam, and a park to play in," according to Cassandra F.
Kid-friendly activities: When selecting glamping accommodations, look for sites with built-in entertainment options. Pine Acres Resort includes amenities beyond standard camping facilities that appeal to children of various ages.
Safety considerations: For wilderness-adjacent glamping, maintain awareness of wildlife. When exploring near Vermilion Gorge Trailhead, one visitor advises: "Be very cautious if you bring small children" due to "sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For glamping in larger vehicles, evaluate access routes carefully. Lofgren Memorial Park offers "sites in the open up on the hill and sites along the river in the woods. 50 amp electric and water with no sewer," according to Bradley H., who recommends it for "the price and the small town feel."
Hookup availability: Many glamping resorts offer partial connections. Sherwood Forest Campground provides full hook-ups and "overlooks a lake, but is right on the Mesabi Bike Trail," according to Cindy B., who found the "sites were spacious" and the experience "so peaceful!"
Leveling challenges: Some glamping sites feature uneven terrain. One visitor to Sherwood Forest noted their tent site required adjustment: "I was sleeping on a bit of an incline, and there wasn't a truly flat spot, but I made due."
