Superior National Forest offers a range of camping experiences from rustic tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds. The forest spans over 3.9 million acres of northern Minnesota wilderness with more than 2,000 lakes and streams throughout. Winter camping is available at select locations where temperatures often drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit from December through February.
What to do
Canoe access to Boundary Waters: South Kawishiwi River Recreation Area serves as an entry point to wilderness areas. "Kawishiwi Lake is a popular place for anglers and those looking to adventure into the boundary waters. The park will accommodate anything from tents to large RVs," notes one visitor.
Fishing from shoreline: Some campgrounds allow direct fishing access without a boat. At Silver Rapids Lodge, "Most sites back up to the water and some have docks behind them. You can fish from your campsite they had caught some Walleye."
Hiking trail access: Multiple interconnected trails run through the region. "Nice way to 'camp' if the weather is cold. Picnic tables and fire pits outside the cabin," a visitor mentioned about Bear Head Lake State Park facilities near trailheads.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Fall Lake Campground consistently receives praise for site layout. "The campground has well spaced, well foliaged camping spaces. Great for both tent and RV camping," one camper observed.
Swimming beaches: Many locations offer designated swimming areas with sandy shorelines. "It also has a nice beach area that is not just 'beach' by name...there is actually sand and a place to swim without being tangled in weeds," noted a visitor to South Kawishiwi River Recreation Area.
Free canoe access: Some parks provide watercraft for guest use. "We also liked the size of the sites as they gave us plenty of space to be away from the action. Some of the sites are right on the water and super convenient for us with a kayak," reported a camper.
What you should know
Variable site sizes: Plan accordingly as campsites differ greatly across the region. "Sites vary a lot in size and luck of the draw on whether your rig can fit," one camper reported about RV sites near Superior National Forest.
Limited cell coverage: Communication options are restricted. "We didn't check at the campground. But, down the road we accessed via a new AT&T tower," mentioned a visitor to Fenske Lake Campground.
Weather variability: Summer temperatures can fluctuate significantly. "Lovely state park. Quiet and clean. Non electric sites were pretty private with trees and bushes between sites," reported a visitor describing typical summer conditions at Bear Head Lake.
Storm damage recovery: Some areas are still recovering from severe weather events. "Unfortunately, the campground sustained a lot of damage from a windstorm not long ago, and the recovery has been slow. Many of the tall old pines are gone now, so most of the campsites are no longer secluded from each other."
Tips for camping with families
Boat rentals for kids: Bear Head Lake State Park Campground offers water equipment. "I really enjoyed this Campground for the water activities! We rented paddle boards everyday we were here. The lake is so relaxing to paddle board around and the water is so clear."
Beach access: Dedicated swimming areas with gradual entry points work well for children. "The lake and beach were beautiful. We caught lots of sunnies and bass plus a northern and small walleye," noted a family who enjoyed the fishing opportunities.
Playground facilities: Some locations include play equipment for younger visitors. "There was a little beach and playground for kids. Lots of places to go for a walk and close to town," reported a camper about local amenities.
Tips from RVers
Water and dump stations: Plan for limited services at some locations. "I believe they use the dump station in Ely at the visitor center they have a dump you can use for $5.00," advised one RVer describing facilities near rv sites near Superior National Forest.
Site leveling: Many RV pads require adjustment equipment. "Sites are good sizes and a good distance from each other. Great for families," reported a camper about Headquarters RV Park, adding "The campsites were spacious, level gravel pad with a well maintained picnic table and fire ring."
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between parks. "This is a new, family owned and operated park situated on 30 acres of beautiful pines. The full service hook ups are easy to access, and make set up a breeze!! They offer 20, 30, and 50 amp service."
