Tower, Minnesota's RV campgrounds sit between the Superior National Forest and the Mesabi Iron Range at 1,430 feet elevation. Most campgrounds operate May through October when temperatures range from 40°F-80°F during the summer camping season. Winter camping isn't widely available as most facilities close after the first frost.
What to do
Fishing Lake Vermilion: HooDoo Point Campground offers direct lake access for anglers targeting walleye and muskie. "The camp ground was great place for families. Beach, playground, boat landing, and most sites are on Lake Vermillion," notes Brian K. who stayed there.
Hiking forest trails: Bear Head Lake State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 miles. According to GoWhereYouAreDraw N., "Bear Head Lake State Park Trail is a moderate 3.2 mile trail. This hike is a loop route. Dogs are allowed but only on leash."
Water recreation: Paddle boarding and canoeing are popular summer activities. "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," shares Tegan C. about Bear Head Lake.
Visiting Voyageurs National Park: Camping near Tower provides access to this nearby national park. "This is a fantastic place to stay if visiting Voyageurs National Park and the other surrounding attractions, such as Vermillion Falls," writes Nathan H. about Headquarters RV Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer wooded sites that provide seclusion. "We had a lot of privacy with the trees surrounding the site. The easements were freshly mowed. You can tell the owners take pride in the appearance of the park," reports Nathan H. about Headquarters RV Park.
Lake access: Most popular campgrounds feature direct water access. "The lake and beach were beautiful. We caught lots of sunnies and bass plus a northern and small walleye," shares Lisa H. about her stay at Bear Head Lake State Park.
Wilderness feel: West 40 RV Park maintains a quiet atmosphere despite being accessible. "Great place to camp quiet and plenty of camp sights," says Jesse K. in his review.
Winter camping options: While limited, some sites remain open year-round. "Bear Head Lake State Park is just south of the Boundary Waters, and shares a comparable wilderness element. The campground is open in fall & winter," notes GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
What you should know
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. At Headquarters RV Park, one camper noted, "If I would have known AT&T would have been so fast and reliable, we would have easily stayed here a week to work."
Reservation requirements: Advanced bookings for RV campgrounds near Tower are essential during summer weekends. "Camped in site 14 as part of our visit to all MN state parks," mentions A J., suggesting planning ahead for specific site preferences.
Site conditions: Many sites are designed primarily for RVs. "Sites leaning towards more of an rv type of site with the gravel and lots of large rocks in the ground but an amazing location," observes Stephanie K. about Bear Head Lake State Park.
Weather considerations: Summer heat affects open campsites. "Mostly built for RVs with hookups as there isn't much shade and it would be very hot come July/August," warns Scott M. about HooDoo Point Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Campgrounds with swimming areas provide daily activities for children. "Lovely state park. Quiet and clean. The lake and beach were beautiful," recommends Lisa H. about Bear Head Lake State Park.
Playground availability: Iron Trail RV Park and Campground and HooDoo Point offer play equipment for children. "The camp ground was great place for families. Beach, playground, boat landing," notes Brian K.
Cabin options: For families wanting comfort with outdoor access, cabins provide alternatives to tents. "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 accommodations.
Off-season visits: Consider May or September for fewer crowds. "We spent our time at this site in the late Fall. We want to catch the peak autumn colours," shares Macel C. about Headquarters RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most RV campgrounds near Tower offer water and electric connections, with some providing full hookups. "Beautiful place. Full hookups. No bathrooms or showers," notes James S. about Headquarters RV Park.
ATV accessibility: West 40 RV Park offers convenient access to off-road vehicle parks. "Close to the off road vehicle park. Definitely camping here again next summer!" says Paul S.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "There are only 13 spacious sites in this park with plenty of room to fit your RV, boat or 4 wheelers and trailer, screen tent with plenty of room to spare, and beautiful pines between you and your neighbor for privacy," explains TyAnn J. about Headquarters RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Most RV parks in the area close by late October. "Spent 2 days here and loved every minute. It was so well taken care of and secluded. The RV amenities were really convenient and looked new," reports Joel F. about his stay at Headquarters RV Park.
