The campgrounds near Schroeder, Minnesota sit along the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior, where dense pine forests meet rocky shoreline. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs averaging 70-75°F. Many campsites sit on uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks, especially in the more secluded areas.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access trails directly from Cascade River State Park Campground where multiple waterfall viewing options exist. "The trails along the Cascade River itself are beautiful and lead you right down to the shore of Lake Superior. The Superior Hiking Trail travels through this park. Lookout Mountain is my favorite hike on the North Shore by far!" notes Andrea S.
Mountain biking: From Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, access dedicated mountain bike trails suitable for various skill levels. "We have camped there a few times and love the accessibility to Mtn. Bike Trails and bicycle riding on the Gitche Gami State Bike Trail. Close to world class hiking on the Superior Hiking Trail and a few nice easier hikes right in the park," shares John F.
Winter exploration: Several campgrounds remain open year-round for cold-weather activities. "Fair weather in the park but several inches of snow at the Ski resorts!! We hiked and enjoyed the rivers and lake. Unsettled weather that have to some big waves on Lake Superior. We came prepared for the weather and we enjoyed our time and snow," explains Jon S. from Cascade River State Park.
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Shipwreck Creek Campground offers ample room for large vehicles. "Spacious RV spots with additional tent sites on each one. Unlike what other people have found if you are willing to cart your water by bucket and your camper has a siphon feature there is potable water available throughout the park. We are 47 feet without the truck and fit in a 50 foot spot," reports Joe C.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained bathrooms at rv campgrounds near Schroeder. "The bathrooms and shower facilities were all redone in 2017 and are great! The campground provides easy access to trails and when lush, provide enough needed privacy," according to Andrea S. who stayed at Cascade River State Park.
Riverside campsites: Wildhurst Campgrounds offers sites near flowing water. "There was a river behind us but because of the bushes you couldn't see it. Beautiful area, nice people and right along side a 4-wheeling trail," writes Jennifer D. These sites provide natural white noise for sleeping.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Opening dates vary significantly across the area. "Dated shower house, but very clean!" notes Jamie M. about Baptism River Campground. Some parks close shower facilities in winter months but keep vault toilets operational.
Campsite privacy: Space between sites differs dramatically between campgrounds. "The sites are not level so come prepared. The only downfall is no dump station yet there is a dump station up the road in Silver Bay for a donation," explains B M. who stayed at Baptism River Campground.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "Occasional road noise bothers some people. And some campsites better than others. Waterfall hikes make it worth it," mentions Joseph N. regarding his experience at Baptism River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pick backpack-friendly sites: Temperance River State Park Campground offers options for families with varied camping abilities. "Small campground must serve as overflow for the Upper Campground. Pit toilets. However, the shower house and modern facilities are just a short jaunt over in the Upper CG. Facilities were clean, hot water in the showers!!" shares Charyle C.
Water activities: Look for sites with beach access for kids. "We stayed in site C4. It was a great spot to have with kids. One of the nearest sites to the restrooms which was nice. It was a good balance of rustic with a side of comfort," says Zack H. from Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs during summer months. "Good for younger kids - well-maintained trails and fun facts about the foam created in the river and the rock formations evident in the park!" explains Maria P. who visited Cascade River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Water access points: Grand Marais Campground & Marina offers varied hookup options. "The location is great and very spacious. FYI- rv sites are hard to get! Get a jump on a reservation in January. Clarify if it has sewer- ours didn't. We had site 77. Not right on the water but a literal 2 min walk," advises PJ F.
Limited dump stations: Several RV campgrounds in Schroeder lack on-site dump stations. "Only downside was no dump or water fill on site but we used the SP down the road for that without issue," mentions Scott B. about Shipwreck Campground. Plan your tank capacity accordingly.
Winter RVing challenges: For cold weather camping, prepare for limited services. "When you leave the park you go left on 61 to the first light & go right at that light. Past the sheriff station on the left is the dump station," explains a camper about accessing off-site facilities near Baptism River Campground when on-site options are limited.
