Near Schroeder, Minnesota, campers find diverse terrain along Lake Superior's North Shore where elevation ranges from 600 to 1,800 feet. The area receives approximately 31 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests of pine, birch and maple. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below zero, while summer brings moderate 70-degree days and cool 50-degree nights.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Temperance River State Park Campground offers access to numerous cascades. "Pictures from the trip of falls and cool rock stairs!!!" reports Jordan L., who gave the hikes a 5-star rating. The park features several waterfalls accessible via interconnected trails.
Rock climbing at Palisade Head: Located near Baptism River Campground, this 200-foot cliff attracts climbers of all skill levels. "We saw people rock climbing" notes B M. in their review. Climbing permits not required, but proper equipment and experience recommended.
Kayaking on inland lakes: Many visitors bring watercraft to explore the smaller lakes. A reviewer at Ninemile Lake Campground shared: "The lake is beautiful, with a little beach and swimming area!" Boat rentals available at some locations, or launch your own from designated areas.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the separation between sites at George H. Crosby Manitou State Park Campground. "There was plenty of fallen wood nearby for firewood. The river is right there and so beautiful. I slept great to the sound of the rushing water," reports Joslyn H. These backpacking sites require hiking in but reward with solitude.
Fall and winter options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round. "This is one of the few state parks in Minnesota where you can winter camp! The trails are absolutely beautiful in the fall, the scenery changes often," notes Hayley G. Late season camping requires warm sleeping bags rated for below-freezing temperatures.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. One camper at Baptism River Campground wrote: "Dated shower house, but very clean!" This attention to maintenance makes the camping experience more comfortable, especially for longer stays.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and fall color season. A camper at Lamb's Resort advised: "Book as early as possible with this one!" Many sites open for reservation 120 days in advance.
Rugged terrain: Some campgrounds feature challenging access. Jeremy B. warns about George H. Crosby Manitou: "The trails of this park are either a hikers dream or nightmare. Exposed roots, large rocks, and elevation changes are common. Good potential for a twisted ankle."
Wildlife considerations: Bear-proof storage exists at many campgrounds. "There was no bear locker and I had to hang my bag," noted Sara A. about her stay at George H. Crosby Manitou. Always check campground requirements for food storage before arriving.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly beach access: Dogs especially enjoy the smooth pebble beaches at certain locations. Jason S. shared about his pet-friendly camping near Schroeder, Minnesota at Lamb's Resort: "Our dogs loved running up and down the beach and playing on the shore." Most areas require pets to remain on leash.
Kid-friendly waterfall hikes: Many waterfall trails accommodate younger hikers. "The waterfalls were so cool and the river u could just lay in!!! Few kids were swimming and a few even jumped in!!!" Jordan L. observed at Temperance River State Park.
Playgrounds for downtime: Some campgrounds include play equipment. A visitor to Eckbeck Finland State Forest found the area "Great for a family outing" with enough activities to keep children engaged while parents set up camp.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many North Shore campgrounds have uneven terrain. B M. advises: "The sites are not level so come prepared." Bring leveling blocks even for smaller rigs.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "There is no dump station yet there is a dump station up the road in Silver Bay for a donation," notes a reviewer about Tettegouche State Park's facilities.
Electric-only sites: Most RV sites provide only electrical hookups. At Baptism River Campground, Jamie M. found: "Site #20e was perfect for our 5th wheel camper, and had easy access to both the high falls and two step falls." Arrive with fresh water tanks filled.
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