Superior National Forest surrounds Tofte, Minnesota with over 3 million acres of wilderness extending to the Canadian border. Elevations range from 600 to 2,300 feet, creating varied terrain for cabin stays and camping. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer highs typically reach the 70s, making cabin accommodations particularly valuable during colder months.
What to do
Lake exploration: Day canoe rentals at Sawbill Lake Campground allow visitors to paddle without committing to a multi-day journey. "We usually do a day canoe rental when we visit and the staff at the outfitters are wonderful. Very nice and helpful - again never a bad experience!" notes Kara K.
Hiking: Devil's Kettle Falls at Judge C. R. Magney State Park features unusual geology where water disappears into rock. "Be warned lots of stairs but excellently maintained," advises Scott G. The park includes "a nice hike. Long trail, lots of beautiful scenery to see on the way," according to Catherine J.
Stargazing: Clear night skies offer excellent viewing opportunities away from city lights. At Hungry Hippie Campground, visitors appreciate that "it was nice and dark, no light pollution. We are stargazers and really enjoyed the night sky," reports Kt D.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Private lake entry points enhance the experience for swimmers. At Lamb's Resort, "the smooth pebble beach is fantastic. Our dogs loved running up and down the beach and playing on the shore," shares Jason S.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers remain a priority for many visitors. Lamb's Resort campers note that "the showers and bathrooms were clean. The playground had enough equipment to keep our children busy with plenty to do while we prepared meals."
Lake views: Cabins positioned for optimal scenery receive high marks from guests. At Hungry Jack Lodge & Campground, visitors report: "We stayed in 2 different cabins. Fox and Beaver. Very nice. Clean. Private. It was quiet. Peaceful. Beautiful views of the lake."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early for best site selection, especially for lakefront locations. At East Bearskin Lake Campground, "this campground does not appear as though many of their sites are heavily used. The campsites that weren't close to the lake were vacant," according to one visitor.
Cabin amenities: Canvas-walled options provide an intermediate experience between tents and solid cabins. At Hungry Hippie Campground, "We chose to stay in tent#1, which is the furthest tent on the property... it has more privacy - the front of the canvas tents are just a screen wall."
Water quality: Bring bottled water as tap sources can be inconsistent. At East Bearskin Lake, "there is a drinking water tap located by campsite 3, but the two of us were feeling slightly ill a few hours after brushing our teeth and swishing with it."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Shoreline exploration offers hours of engagement for younger children. "Our boys, age 5 and 3, spent hours throwing rocks in the lake," explains a parent who stayed at Lamb's Resort.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas to minimize walking for tired children. Wildhurst Campgrounds includes "a bar with a kitchen where you check in to the campsite filled with friendly people, games, and great food," making it convenient for families needing entertainment options.
Hiking difficulty: Choose appropriate trails based on children's abilities and stamina. A parent visiting Judge C. R. Magney State Park advises that "if you are not in shape you will definitely want to take advantage of the rest bench that is about halfway up the staircase."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Check site dimensions before booking to ensure adequate space. At Wildhurst Lodge and Campground, "sites are tight for larger rigs. Gravel road in is rough so go slow," advises Sandra.
Road conditions: Plan travel time accounting for gravel and remote access roads. "Road coming to the campground can be rough in places, but doable with passenger car," notes a visitor to Eighteen Rustic Lake Campground.
Utilities: Confirm hookup availability as offerings vary widely. Lamb's Resort receives positive reviews from RVers, with visitors noting that "tent campers and RVs are separate to minimize noise," though some observe that "RVs were close together."