Tent campsites near Orr, Minnesota often experience seasonal temperature extremes with summer highs near 80°F and winter lows well below zero. The region sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation within the Kabetogama State Forest and borders Voyageurs National Park. Camping options include numerous water-access sites that require boats or canoes for entry, offering greater seclusion than drive-in locations.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Thistledew Campground, campers can fish directly from lakeside sites without needing a boat. "Peaceful campground on a beautiful lake. Loons calling. Only a few other campers, spread out throughout campground," notes Janet K.
Portage adventures: Access BWCA Trout Lake from Lake Vermillion via a maintained portage route. "You can pay $35.00 for a round trip on the portage. Sites cannot be reserved but permits must, 1st come 1st serve," explains Nicole S. This provides excellent backcountry camping with fewer crowds.
Wilderness hiking: The Vermilion Gorge Trail near primitive tent sites at Crane Lake offers a 1.5-mile route featuring "sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls" according to TyAnn J., who warns to "be very cautious if you bring small children" due to steep terrain and high water levels in some seasons.
What campers like
Island camping privacy: The Indian Island Canoe Campsite provides free boat-in camping with basic amenities. Amy G. describes it as having "a fire ring with grate, picnic table, plenty of trees for hammocks, and a small tent pad that would be good for a three or four person tent. There's also a primitive toilet so you don't have to dig a cat hole!"
Wildlife viewing: Camping near tent sites in Voyageurs National Park offers excellent animal sightings. Campers at Johnson Bay report falling "asleep to loons and owls calling in the night," while others mention seeing "eagles, bear" and various waterfowl from their campsites.
Sunset views: Many Orr area tent sites feature western exposure for sunset viewing. The Indian Island Campsite "faces the West so if the weather is good, you're in for a great sunset!" according to Amy G., making evening campfires particularly memorable for tent campers.
What you should know
Water access requirements: Most tent campsites in Voyageurs National Park require boat transportation. Eric K. notes camping here "is great BECAUSE all the camping is via boat," adding it's "one of the few remaining places in the US where you can enjoy the wilderness with absolutely no sounds of man-made machines and cities."
Reservation systems: Tent sites at Ash River Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. "Pay onsite with cash/check. Fee $14," mentions Shari G., while Voyageurs National Park backcountry sites require advance permits.
Bear safety: Despite island locations, proper food storage remains essential. Amy G. advises that "even on an island - it's advisable to hang a bear bag. Also helps with other critters like squirrels and mice." Many established sites provide bear-proof storage boxes.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Mukooda Lake Campground offers a good introduction to wilderness camping with key amenities. Rachel B. found it "unexpectedly quite friendly to someone new to canoe camping and i would recommend it to other new campers" with "stake-able tent pads, easy rock-based water access, and an incredibly easy and nice fire pit with a grate."
Group camping configurations: Several campsites accommodate larger family groups. Wakemup Bay has "a group of 5 tent sites located close together that would work well as a group camp area," according to Janet R., providing proximity to beach and dock facilities.
Water filtering needs: Most tent camping requires water treatment. While some campgrounds have wells, many remote sites need filtration. The Indian Island Campsite has "fairly easy access to grab drinking water for filtering," though campers should bring their own systems.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: RV camping near Orr lacks full-service hookups. At Wakemup Bay, "there are 5 fairly open sites close to the shelter and beach where RV's and trailers could easily park, but there are no hook-ups so be prepared," explains Janet R.
Boat launch proximity: For RVers bringing watercraft, Ash River Campground provides convenient boat access. Dylan S. notes "there is a boat launch just down the road from the campground and the shoreline across the road is perfect for parking your boat for the weekend."
Rustic RV expectations: RV campers should prepare for primitive conditions. Sites with RV access generally feature vault toilets and minimal amenities. No electrical hookups exist at main campgrounds, so generators or self-contained power are necessary for extended stays.
