Finland State Forest Campground offers primitive tent and RV camping with sites situated along the Baptism River. Located near the town of Finland, the campground provides vault toilets and drinking water without electric hookups or shower facilities. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis with a self-registration system. The forest area has experienced tree clearing due to moth damage, which has altered the previously dense forest cover at some sites. Camping fees are $17 per night, collected through an honor system payment box at the entrance.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Baptism River running through Finland State Forest Campground provides fishing access directly from camp. "The Baptism River runs right through. You are close to excellent climbing, hiking, fishing, and the Finland Co-op," notes camper Lacey F. The river offers sunset views and fishing potential from the campground.
ATV trail access: Several forest trails within the Finland State Forest area accommodate ATV riders looking for backcountry exploration. "This is a campground of choice for folks interested in using the nearby state forest ATV trails," explains Janet R. ATV users should be aware of designated routes and respect quiet hours at the campground.
Superior Hiking Trail access: South Egge Lake camping area connects to the Superior Hiking Trail network with designated tent sites for through-hikers. The Finland campground also serves as an access point for hikers. "This was a random 'find' when we were through hiking the SHT, but what a wonderful, hidden gem!" shares Amy G.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Campsites positioned along the Baptism River are particularly sought after. "At night you hear the Baptism River as you gently fall asleep," writes Susan H. about Finland State Forest Campground. The flowing water provides both scenic value and ambient sound.
Less crowded than state parks: Many campers appreciate the reduced congestion compared to nearby state park campgrounds. "Less crowded than the north shore state parks too!" mentions Lacey F. The Finland campground often serves as overflow camping when Tettegouche State Park fills up during peak seasons.
Lake views: Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground offers sites with views across Gunflint Lake into Canada. "I love having a lakefront site so this place was perfect. The lake is beautiful!" reports Beka S. The international border view provides a unique camping experience in the region.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Tofte, Minnesota are extremely limited with no dedicated horse-friendly sites offering corrals or specialized equestrian amenities. Riders must contact specific campgrounds in advance to verify horse accommodations and restrictions. Forest service roads may allow horse access in some areas.
Noise considerations: ATV traffic and generator use can impact the camping experience at certain sites. "What was really annoying was the noise from a bunch of drunk middle aged folks down at the group site," reports Fred S. about Finland State Forest Campground. Weekends tend to be busier and noisier than weekdays.
Payment systems: Finland State Forest Campground uses a self-registration system that can sometimes cause confusion. "Paying for the site can be confusing. I paid at Tettegouche, QR code didn't work and Yodel didn't work either," notes Lauren M. Campers should bring exact cash for the payment box.
Seasonal conditions: Tree cover has been reduced in parts of Finland State Forest due to moth damage control measures. "Right now the campground looks a little worse for wear. They did extreme tree clearing due to moth damage," explains Lauren M. This affects shade availability during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Supply access: The store at Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground provides necessary items for family camping needs. "Nice little shop inside to get groceries and souvenirs. Friendly owners! Kid friendly with games inside and ice cream," mentions Kyle M. This reduces the need to pack every supply for extended stays.
Spacious sites: Family groups need room to spread out. "It was very clean, very wooded and the campsites were nice and big," shares Adriana E. about Finland State Forest Campground. The larger sites accommodate multiple tents and provide space for kids to play safely within site boundaries.
Security considerations: Remote campgrounds have varying security measures. "There have been some security issues related to ATVers here so video cameras are in use here for security," notes Janet R. Families should take standard precautions with valuables, particularly at unstaffed campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Temperance River Campground has limited space for larger rigs with tight turns on access roads. RVs over 25 feet may find navigation difficult at some of the more primitive campgrounds. Check campground information for length restrictions before arrival.
Hookup availability: Most forest campgrounds lack full hookups. "Our 33' motorhome was able to fit nicely in a pull-through site," reports Jason S. about Gunflint Pines Resort, one of the few locations offering electric hookups for RVs in the region. Water access points may require fill-up before reaching more remote sites.
Leveling requirements: Many sites throughout the Tofte area require leveling equipment. "RV spots can be a little tight getting in and out for hook, but doable," warns Vincent W. about Gunflint Pines. Bring adequate leveling blocks as forest campgrounds typically feature natural, ungraded surfaces.
