Tower, Minnesota sits at the edge of Superior National Forest in the Vermilion Range, with an elevation around 1,400 feet above sea level. The area is known for its boreal forest ecosystem where red and white pine, spruce, and birch trees create a mix of dense woods and open waterways. Winter temperatures often drop below -30°F, making summer and fall the primary camping seasons when daytime temperatures reach 70-85°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Bear Head Lake State Park has several well-maintained paths ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "The hiking trails are fantastic and they have many hike in sites that appear to be in super cool locations. We are definitely making a return trip here!" notes Stephanie K. about Bear Head Lake State Park Campground.
Underground mine tours: The historic Soudan Mine provides unique underground tours where visitors descend into iron ore mines from the early 1900s. "Soudan Mine tours were awesome! Travel down in the mine and ride cars to see the way iron ore was mined in early 1900s," shares Sara P. about Lake Vermillion-Soudan Mine State Park.
Canoeing and portaging: Fenske Lake Campground provides direct access to multiple lakes via portages. "We brought a canoe and portaged from the lake we were on to a few others!" explains Anne G. at Fenske Lake Campground. The campground features small coves along the shoreline where canoeists can store their boats.
Star gazing: Clear nights offer exceptional views of the stars due to minimal light pollution. "I would recommend seeing the sunrise out on one of the many boulders they have along the lake, and star gazing from their dock!!" suggests a visitor to Fenske Lake.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: HooDoo Point Campground provides direct lake access for anglers. "The camp ground was great place for families. Beach, playground, boat landing, and most sites are on Lake Vermillion," writes Brian K. about HooDoo Point Campground. Walleye, northern pike, and muskie are popular catches.
Private, secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites separated by trees and natural barriers. "Campground is quite busy, but there is enough foliage in the summer to make it more private. Sites are good sizes and a good distance from each other," shares Gina G. about Bear Head Lake State Park.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes provide swimming, paddling, and boating options. "I really enjoyed this Campground for the water activities! We rented paddle boards everyday we were here. The lake is so relaxing to paddle board around and the water is so clear and fun to look at," explains Tegan C.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently spot deer, turtles, and various bird species. "Best part was a quiet Sunday morning watching a deer drink from the lake while we were out there!" reports one visitor to Bear Head Lake. The Wolf Center and Bear Center in nearby Ely offer educational opportunities to see wildlife up close.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The camping season generally runs May through October, with peak mosquito activity in June and early July. "Medium amounts of mosquitoes," reports a visitor to Big Rice Lake. Winter camping is available at cabins in state parks.
Firewood policies: Some campgrounds offer all-you-can-use firewood for a daily fee rather than per-bundle pricing. "Firewood was a good deal - all you could use for $6/day," notes Makayla B. about Lake Vermillion-Soudan State Park. Outside firewood is typically prohibited.
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from excellent to non-existent depending on the campground. "Verizon cell reception of 2 bars. I was able to stream YouTube video," reports Scott K. about Big Rice Lake. Lake Vermillion-Soudan State Park offers free WiFi throughout the campground.
Reservation needs: Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially for weekend stays during summer months. Fall Lake Campground offers both reservable and walk-up sites, with lakeside spots being most desirable.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches ideal for children. "The lake and beach were beautiful. We caught lots of sunnies and bass plus a northern and small walleye," shares Lisa H. about Bear Head Lake State Park.
Playground facilities: HooDoo Point includes a playground for younger campers. "Beach, playground, boat landing, and most sites are on Lake Vermillion," mentions a reviewer, making it suitable for families seeking built amenities.
Cabin options: For families new to camping or visiting during shoulder seasons, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "Camper cabins are nice. They have bunk type beds. The beds on bottom are FULL size (can sleep 2 each) and the ones on top are singles. So 6 could sleep here," explains Amy G. about Bear Head Lake State Park.
Natural play features: Many sites include natural features kids enjoy. "Our friends stayed in #402 and their site was similar but with more boulders on the site perimeter," reports Makayla B. about Lake Vermillion-Soudan State Park, where children frequently play on the rocks.
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Most RV sites feature gravel pads rather than grass. "Campsites are very pretty but sites are mostly gravel not ideal for tents more aimed at the rvs. 100-200 campsites seem better for tents over 300 sites," notes Stephanie K. about Lake Vermilion-Soudan State Park.
Site sizes and access: Some campgrounds can accommodate larger rigs, while others have limitations. "Some sites take large rigs. Check rec.gov for each site before making your reservation," advises Roger W. about Fenske Lake Campground.
Dump stations: Limited dump stations exist in the area. "There is a water fill-up station by the camp office and a dump station in town at the Chamber of Commerce," notes one reviewer about Fall Lake Campground.
Electric service: Many sites offer 50-amp electrical service, but full hookups are rare. Sites with utility connections typically book first, especially during peak season.
