The Finland area sits at approximately 1,460 feet elevation in northeastern Minnesota's Superior National Forest, where thick boreal forests meet dramatic ridges. Weather conditions can change rapidly with Lake Superior's influence, creating unique microclimates throughout the camping season. Finland's camping options span from primitive forest sites to luxury tent accommodations on private properties with limited cell service across most locations.
What to do
ATV adventures: Access dedicated trails from Wildhurst Lodge and Campground, which serves as a hub for off-road enthusiasts. "Great campground! Drove out far for Labor Day weekend hoping we could find a last minute campground. Luckily a few people cancelled their reservations so we found one out here. Had awesome sites, ATV/UTV trails, a bar, a playground, and rentable cabins," notes Two Snoops.
Fishing for trout: Fish at Divide Lake, where catch rates remain consistently good according to visitors. "We canoed over to it which makes it feel more remote than it actually is. Had a lot of luck fishing for trout as well!" reports Tony E. The lake maintains healthy trout populations and remains relatively uncrowded even during peak season.
Hiking around lakes: Complete the 2.5-mile loop at Eighteen Lake Rustic Campground for moderate terrain with lake views. "Lake is clear and looks like very good fishing. Does not have a boat launch. There are three campsites that are decently big and you could fit two-three cars. Has a nice 2 1/2 mile hike around the lake," shares Adam M.
Fall color viewing: Visit in September-October for peak foliage displays. "We are the only people here in the campground, the locals make us feel welcome. Lots of hiking," mentions Benjamin from Wildhurst Campgrounds. The area's maple and aspen trees create vibrant color displays typically peaking mid-September through early October.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sullivan Lake Campground offers secluded camping spots with natural barriers. "It is very quiet and peaceful, with only 11 sites. The lake is absolutely beautiful and some of the sites are so private you could run around naked if you wanted!" explains Chandra C. The limited number of sites ensures a more isolated experience than larger campgrounds.
Clean facilities: The maintenance standards remain high at multiple locations. "Overall, such a great spot. The sites were clean and well taken care of. Same with the bathrooms and showers! The employees are very friendly and accommodating," Katie M. notes about Wildhurst Lodge and Campground.
Lake access: Several campgrounds provide direct waterfront options. "We stayed at site 49, which was a short walk to the beach. Our boys, age 5 and 3, spent hours throwing rocks in the lake," shares Sara P. about Lamb's Resort. The smooth pebble beaches particularly appeal to families with children.
Winter glamping options: Select locations offer year-round accommodations for those seeking glamping in Silver Bay, Minnesota during colder months. "Small campground with a narrow road in. It's fine for our tiny camper but bigger rigs would have trouble getting in and out," notes Scott S. about Sullivan Lake during fall visits.
What you should know
Booking challenges: Reservations require persistence at popular sites. "The owners are friendly enough and really won't bother you unless you do something wrong. They can be difficult to get ahold of to make reservations, but if you're persistent it'll work out," advises Baylyn W. about Wildhurst Campgrounds.
Rustic conditions: Many forest campgrounds lack modern amenities. "This is a campground for small campers only. My 16 foot travel trailer was about the limit for size. Very little access to the lake and river. Overall, this is a primitive site with pit toilets and a pump jack for water," explains Daniel C. about Sullivan Lake.
Distance from supplies: Most campgrounds require advance planning for provisions. "Town of Two Harbors is 26 miles (30 min) away, so don't forget anything," cautions Corey O. about Sullivan Lake. This isolation contributes to the undeveloped charm of Silver Bay glamping experiences.
Mixed toilet facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly. "The latrines (outhouses) really need to be rebuilt. I mean REALLY. Lime on the toilet seat. Early in the season and the biffys by our cabin were horrible smelling," reports Hans E. about Wildhurst Lodge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide play structures for children. "We had a wonderful time at Lamb's Resort on our way back from Thunder Bay! The owners were available for questions and our site was perfect! The playground was a little shaky - could use an update," mentions Sara P.
Private beach activities: Harriet Lake Rustic Campground offers waterfront sites ideal for families. "My sister and I spent two nights tent camping here at a site right on the water. Plenty of options depending on the size of your party and rigs. Plenty of room for dogs and kiddos to run around," shares Kelly E.
Weather preparation: Lake Superior influences create unpredictable conditions. "It gets very, very chilly at night if you are at a site with lake access- and the frogs get loud, but it's worth it if you are prepared," advises Chandra C. about Sullivan Lake. Temperature drops of 20+ degrees at night occur regularly, even during summer months.
Lake swimming alternatives: Consider river options for warmer water. "We walked the lakeshore and walked up and swam in the river edging Lamb's resort," shares Sheri F., noting that river water reaches comfortable swimming temperatures faster than Lake Superior.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest campsites accommodate smaller rigs only. "Campground is suitable for truck campers and smaller. There was a crappy looking RV parked next to the vault toilet; sketchy, looked like long term residents," reports Fred S. about Eighteen Lake. The narrow, unpaved access roads limit larger vehicles.
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer partial or no hookup options. "RVs were close together, but didn't matter for us," notes Sara P. about Lamb's Resort. Only certain private campgrounds provide full water, electric, and sewer connections.
Road conditions: Access roads can deteriorate after rain. "Very nice camp, roads can be a bit rough after rain," warns Kent R. about Eighteen Lake. Gravel roads leading to most campgrounds can develop significant ruts and washboarding during wet weather.
Dump station availability: Only select locations provide dump services. "There is a dump station and picnic tables and fire rings at each site," confirms Debra M. about Apostle Islands Area RV park, though many Forest Service campgrounds lack this amenity. Plan multiple-day stays accordingly with tank capacity in mind.
