Superior National Forest spans over 3 million acres of northeastern Minnesota with elevation ranging from 602 to 2,301 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below -30°F, while summer highs typically reach the mid-70s. The forest contains over 2,000 lakes and 1,300 miles of rivers, providing abundant waterfront camping opportunities in both established campgrounds and remote backcountry sites.
What to do
Hiking the Boundary Waters area: Trail's End Campground provides direct access to multiple hiking trails, including routes to Magnetic Rock. "Nice hiking trail around the lake. Vault restroom clean," notes Brian R. from Eighteen Rustic Lake Campground.
Canoe and kayak fishing: The interconnected lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. "The lake is great. Really wonderful," reports Teresa T. from Divide Lake. "Great Area! Lake is clear and looks like very good fishing. Does not have a boat launch," mentions Adam M.
ATV and UTV trail access: Wildhurst Campground connects directly to regional motorized trails. "Friendly campground! Nice restaurant on site. Seems to cater to the side by side...ATV crowd," writes Sandra from Wildhurst Lodge and Campground.
What campers like
Secluded yurt camping: Wildhurst offers yurt accommodations surrounded by dense forest. "A great campsite just a few minutes from the main highway up the coast of lake superior. The campsite itself is very private with a spot to park your car, and you are surrounded by trees and bushes for each individual campsite," mentions Evan G.
Pristine lakefront sites: The region offers numerous lake-access campgrounds. "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. from Lamb's Resort.
Quiet, primitive camping: Many sites provide a true wilderness experience. "Free primitive national forest campground with 5 sites. Wooded. Beautiful lake. Nice hiking trail around lake. Fishing is good," says Fred S. about Eighteen Lake.
What you should know
Campground access and restrictions: Some sites have size limitations. "This is a campground for small campers only. My 16 foot travel trailer was about the limit for size," notes Daniel C. about Sullivan Lake Campground.
Weather preparation: The North Shore climate can be unpredictable. "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.
Reservations recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "We stumbled upon this campground when every other campground near Tettegouche was full by noon on Friday," reports Lindsey H., who found Wildhurst Lodge as a backup option.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "The playground had enough equipment to keep our children busy with plenty to do while we prepared meals," mentions Sheri F. about Lamb's Resort.
Beach activities: Lake Superior shorelines provide natural entertainment. "The smooth pebble beach is fantastic. Our dogs loved running up and down the beach and playing on the shore," shares Jason S.
Educational opportunities: Local museums enhance camping trips. "Chik Wauk museum nearby a wonderful place to visit," recommends Ramona A. from Trail's End Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Choose campgrounds with appropriate accommodations. "Overall a wonderful camping experience in the Boundary Waters area. Scoped out rest of campground and with exception of a couple kind of small or sparse-looking sites, all sites looked really nice," shares Meghann C.
Water and utility access: Many rustic sites lack hookups. "Sullivan Lake campground is a primitive site with pit toilets and a pump jack for water," explains Daniel C.
Campground terrain: Be prepared for potential site challenges. "Gravel road in is rough so go slow. Did not try bath house or public facilities," advises Sandra about Wildhurst Lodge and Campground.
