Tent camping near Silver Bay, Minnesota offers rugged wilderness experiences at elevations ranging from 600-1800 feet above sea level. Most backcountry campsites require hikes of 0.5 to 4 miles from parking areas, with limited cell service throughout the region. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer highs typically range from 65-80°F with frequent evening temperature drops.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Filter lake water for drinking while catching brook and rainbow trout at Divide Lake Campground, located 5 miles down a gravel road. "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!" notes Tony E.
Waterfall exploration: Hike from cart-in sites at Lake Superior Cart-in Campground to nearby cascades. "The campground is also a delightfully quick hike away from the falls. You can hear them at night, and it is very peaceful," shares Lauren M.
Stargazing platforms: Find natural rock platforms at sites like George H. Crosby Manitou State Park for night sky viewing. One camper noted, "There is a rocky outcrop in the middle of the site that is a perfect platform to lay down on and stargaze."
What campers like
Lake swimming spots: Access private beaches via trails from lakeside sites. "The cart-in campground is right on Lake Superior and has very private sites. The state park has a great trail system with areas to stop and enjoy the scenery and waterfalls," reports Jenna H.
River soundscapes: Fall asleep to flowing water at riverside campsites. "The sound and sights of the river was mesmerizing," writes Sara A. about George H. Crosby Manitou State Park's Site #3. "I slept great to the sound of the rushing water."
Hidden island access: Visit Lilly's Island near South Sonju Lake Camping. "You can not camp on this sweet little oasis but you can definitely spend an afternoon lounging there. Our only regret was not bringing our hammocks," explains Steph H.
What you should know
Trail difficulty level: Prepare for challenging terrain on many trails. "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," warns Jeremy B. about George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.
Bear protection requirements: Most sites require proper food storage. "The bear boxes at the site are also convenient so hauling food to the car at night is unnecessary," mentions Lauren M. about Lake Superior Cart-in Campground, while other sites require hanging food.
Tent site limitations: Expect uneven ground at backcountry sites. At Bean and Bear Lakes, "The ground isn't exactly flat so your tent might be a little slanted - but it's worth it for the views!" advises Andrea G.
Tips for camping with families
Evaluate trail difficulty: Choose shorter routes for young hikers. "We ended up hiking nearly four miles one way and my 9 and 11 year olds had a difficult time, even though I carried the tent and all of the heavy gear," cautions Matt S. about George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.
Cart-in campsite selection: Reserve cart-in sites early for lake access. "Sites G and I seem to be the best views. I loved being able to scramble down to the rocks (definitely have to be pretty able bodied) and watch the sun come up over the lake," suggests Sarah D.
Group site options: Consider group campsites for multi-family trips. "We stayed at a group campsite that was cart-in, and it was lovely. The site was surrounded by plenty of trees and set a little bit away from the other group sites," shares Kelly K. about Bean and Bear Lakes.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only limitations: Understand most sites near Silver Bay are tent-only. "The walk-in campgrounds here are fantastic. They are very spacious and private, located on a bluff on the edge of Lake Superior. Sleep to the sound of crashing waves," advises Jen E. at Bean and Bear Lakes.
Dispersed camping alternatives: For vehicle camping, consider State Land Lax Lake Area for more privacy. "Nice secluded spot near many cool attractions but a few miles off the beaten path so it's a lot less busy. The dirt road in was fine," notes TexasRed, though warning the "driveway was overgrown and the clearing has lots of rocks and vegetation."
Cart condition awareness: Expect maintenance issues with carts at some locations. "The carts are usually busted. Be prepared for that," warns Jennifer H. about Lake Superior Cart-in Campground.
