Echo Lake Campground sits approximately 20 miles outside Orr in northern Minnesota's Superior National Forest. The remote location offers direct access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and Voyageurs National Park region. Campgrounds in this area typically operate from May through early September, with most sites functioning on a first-come, first-served basis during the peak summer season.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Vermilion Gorge Trail near Crane Lake Primitive Campgrounds features a 1.5-mile path with granite cliffs and seasonal waterfalls. "The Vermilion Gorge Trailhead hike is a 1 & 1/2 mile trail that featues sheer granite cliffs and waterfalls-it was breathtaking due to the high water levels this year," notes TyAnn J.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 15 miles from Aspen Resort & Campground. "We also enjoyed the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary. Its only 15 miles away. A wonderful place to view the bears! Don't miss it," recommends Charlie S.
Paddle sports: Multiple lakefront campgrounds offer kayaking and canoeing opportunities. At Echo Lake, campers can access secluded spots unreachable by road. "There are some gorgeous sites that can only be reached my canoe. At one point on the hike (to get to the further sites) you have to walk across a beaver dam," reports Hayley G.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Echo Lake provides a peaceful setting away from crowds. "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.
Fishing opportunities: Walleye fishing draws many visitors to the area lakes. "Plenty of hiking trails and great for fishing walleye," mentions Kayla A. about Echo Lake. The various lakes in the region support different fish species depending on water depth and temperature.
Clean facilities: Despite the remote setting, many campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. At Pine Acres Resort and Campground, "There are portable potty's around the campsite, out houses but they also have full functioning bathrooms and showers," notes Mariajesserene A.
What you should know
Reservation systems: While some sites operate first-come, first-served, others require planning ahead. "We pulled in on a Friday night and a number of sites were already full or reserved. We ended up picking site #10," explains Kara K. about her Echo Lake experience.
Limited amenities: Lofgren Memorial Park offers more services than most wilderness sites. "50 amp electric and water with no sewer. There is a dump station in town. Sites are $20.00 per night. $100.00 for seven nights and $300.00 for a month," reports Bradley H.
Access challenges: Many campsites require boat access or hiking in. "We spent 4 nights paddling and portaging and it was absolutely incredible. The backcountry sites are beautiful, just make sure you have a very detailed map of where you are going/staying because the area is pretty desolate," advises Kate K. about Crane Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Bring detailed maps: The lake system can be confusing to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. "Don't forget to bring along a detailed map as there are hundreds of islands and turns on this beautiful lake," recommends TyAnn J. about Crane Lake area.
Consider noise factors: At Echo Lake, some sites may experience early morning noise. "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," suggests Rachel B.
Look for yurt camping: Yurt camping near Ranier, Minnesota provides families a comfortable alternative to tent camping while maintaining a wilderness experience. Several outfitters in the region offer seasonal yurt rentals as base camps for Boundary Waters exploration.
Tips from RVers
City-owned options: Lofgren Memorial Park offers affordable RV camping with partial hookups. "The town of Littlefork offers a 15 site RV/camping park alongside the Little Fork River. Beautiful setting with sites in the open up on the hill and sites along the river in the woods," writes Bradley H.
Resort alternatives: For those seeking more amenities while maintaining lake access, resorts like Aspen provide comprehensive services. "We brought our rv but they also have some beautiful cabins. I just wish we had more time to enjoy all the resort offers," shares Charlie S.
Size considerations: Many primitive sites and forest roads in the area aren't suitable for larger rigs. When considering yurt camping in Ranier, Minnesota area, contact local outfitters about RV parking options while utilizing their alternative accommodations.
