Tofte camping sites span across Superior National Forest, located along the rocky North Shore of Lake Superior at approximately 700-800 feet elevation. The area typically experiences cooler summer temperatures averaging 75°F during July and August, making it a popular destination for campers seeking relief from summer heat. Heavy winter snowfall transforms the camping landscape from late November through April.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 1-mile hike from Cascade River State Park Campground: Follow well-marked trails with multiple viewing platforms. "Take one side of the trail down the falls and the other back up! Good for younger kids - well-maintained trails and fun facts about the foam created in the river and the rock formations evident in the park," notes Maria P.
Island paddling: Canoe/kayak at Ninemile Lake Campground: Reach three small islands within a short paddle from shore. "There are 3 islands on the lake which I like to explore after a short kayak ride. One of the islands has some large boulders that offer a nice view of the sunset," shares Sean C.
Winter camping: Dog-friendly sites remain open year-round: Sawbill and Crosby Manitou campgrounds accommodate winter camping with proper gear. "This is one of the few state parks in Minnesota where you can winter camp! The trails are absolutely beautiful in the fall, the scenery changes often," reports Hayley G.
What campers like
Private riverside campsites: George H. Crosby Manitou State Park Campground: Backcountry sites require hiking but offer river access. "Site BP4 is beautiful set right on the river, and had access to a few big rocks in the river to sit on and enjoy the views. The site is relatively big and level, with a few different spots available to pitch your tent or have multiple tents," describes Mike O.
Lake swimming access: Small beaches at several dog-friendly campgrounds: Allows dogs to cool off during summer months. "Huge site with many trees for our hammocks... It was a delight to have a beach right at our site. This campground is off the beaten path so was extra dark and quiet," reports Kay K. about Ninemile Lake.
Seclusion from crowds: Rustic forest service sites provide quieter options: Smaller campgrounds offer greater privacy for dogs needing space. "This rustic campground within the Superior National Forest is one of the many great options available in the area. There are 7 sites available, vault toilet and a boat launch. All the sites have a pull in area a tent pad spot an picnic table," explains Mel G. about Toohey Lake Rustic Campground.
What you should know
Bring insect protection: Peak mosquito season runs June-August: Dog-safe repellents recommended for both pets and people. "We were here in late June and the mosquitos weren't bad on the first two days; the third day we were eaten alive. Bring appropriate clothing to protect from mosquitos and ticks as well as repellant," advises B D P.
Limited cell service: Coverage gaps common outside towns: Most campgrounds have no reliable signal. "Note - there is no cell service in the park. You do get it when you get out to the park entrance on county road 7," reports Jeremy B.
Uneven terrain at many sites: Bring leveling blocks for RVs: Baptism River Campground requires preparation. "The sites are not level so come prepared. The only downfall is no dump station yet there is a dump station up the road in Silver Bay for a donation," notes B M.
Tips for camping with families
Choose river-adjacent sites: Natural water feature keeps kids engaged: Dog-friendly campgrounds along rivers provide entertainment. "We had a wonderful time at Lamb's Resort on our way back from Thunder Bay! The owners were available for questions and our site was perfect! 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," explains Sara P.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Look for shorter loop trails: Several campgrounds feature trails manageable for young children. "Bensen Lake trail that is a wooden boardwalk that rings Bensen Lake. This trail connects to the picnic grounds that is a great place for a day outing. You can drive almost right up to it and there is a vault toilet," recommends Jeremy B.
Book early for prime lake sites: Waterfront spots fill 6+ months ahead: Sites with natural swimming areas are most popular for families with dogs. "The smooth pebble beach is fantastic. Our dogs loved running up and down the beach and playing on the shore," says Jason S.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Silver Bay offers donation-based dumping: Important for longer stays since many campgrounds lack facilities. "When you leave the park you go left on 61 to the first light & go right at that light. Past the sheriff station on the left is the dump station," advises B M.
Water fill points: Locate spigots before setting up: Sawbill Lake Campground provides water access points. "It's a dry campground. Water at the outfitters. Vault toilets (clean and nice!) throughout. Water spigots in the campground. Dump station next to the outfitters," notes Tracy O.
Electric site selection: Check amperage before booking: Some dog-friendly campgrounds offer limited electrical options. "We stayed at 26E which has 30amp and 50amp. The state park website says only 50amp but it had both. Lots of space," explains Jordan S.
