Best Campgrounds near Tofte, MN
Camping in the Tofte area of Minnesota encompasses a range of options from established campgrounds to dispersed sites along Lake Superior's North Shore. Superior National Forest provides several camping areas, including Sawbill Lake Campground located about 15 miles northwest of Tofte, which accommodates tents, RVs, and offers cabin rentals. The region includes state parks like Temperance River and Cascade River, providing developed sites with amenities such as showers, drinking water, and electric hookups, while more remote options like Last Creek Kayak Site offer primitive boat-in camping experiences.
Permits and reservations are required for most established campgrounds in the area, with many sites bookable up to six months in advance. The camping season generally runs from May through October, though some campgrounds like Temperance River State Park remain open year-round. Winter camping is available at select locations, including George H. Crosby Manitou State Park. Roads to campgrounds vary from paved highways to rough forest service roads, with some remote sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Cell phone coverage is limited throughout the region, particularly in backcountry areas. A visitor commented, "Expect a 13 mile gravel road from Tofte. No dump, no water and no electric hookups. There are several clean bathrooms with hand sanitizer and drinking water stations."
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with Lake Superior shoreline sites and inland lake access being particularly sought after. Several campgrounds feature hiking trails connecting to the Superior Hiking Trail and Border Route Trail, providing opportunities for day hikes or backpacking trips. Wildlife sightings are common, with visitors reporting moose, fox, and hearing loons at night. Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping are prevalent throughout the area. During peak summer months and fall color season, campgrounds fill quickly. One camper noted, "We fell asleep to the sound of loons every night. This is also black bear country, so it's important to be bear aware; make sure you store food and water properly and bring bear spray while out hiking."
