Dispersed camping spots near Wirt, Minnesota provide access to the Chippewa National Forest's extensive wilderness with elevations averaging 1,300 feet. The region features dense northern hardwood and pine forests surrounding numerous lakes and wetlands. Winter temperatures can drop below -30°F, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cooler evenings in the 50s.
What to Do
Paddling on North Star Lake: Launch from North Star — Chippewa National Forest where the lake offers excellent kayaking opportunities. "Listening to the loons tonight reminds me of how very lucky we are to call Minnesota home," notes one visitor who enjoyed the peaceful surroundings.
Hiking to Chase Point: The trail at Scenic State Park Campground offers a moderate trek with lake views. "Camping isn't bad. It has everything you expect of a state park, it is the hiking that makes it worth the 5. Hiking out to chase point is a nice easy hike that is great for a family hike with kids of all ages," explains one camper.
Fishing from your campsite: Many waterfront sites at Mosomo Point Campground allow you to fish directly from your campsite. "We stayed on a site that had water access for our kayaks and really like it! It allowed us to have a huge property all to ourself and it was like sitting on a half acre!" reports a camper who appreciated the spacious lakefront access.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Williams Narrows offers well-spaced campsites. "It has two different sections, and both offer great water access sites. Some really great views of the lake as well and some sit above the water so you get a good perspective and something different," explains a visitor who enjoyed the layout.
Backpacking options: For those seeking solitude, remote sites require effort but deliver rewards. "Scenic State Park has a variety of camping options, including a small lodge, standard RV campsites with hookups, and standard campground tent sites. But, best of all, they also offer numerous remote backcountry campsites that require you to either backpack in for a few miles, or paddle or boat in a mile or two," shares a visitor to Scenic State Park.
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic nature of camping near Wirt, many campgrounds maintain decent facilities. At Williams Narrows, a camper noted, "Was very pleased surprised how fresh the bathrooms were given the humidity (zero smell)."
What You Should Know
Seasonal changes affect access: Many forest roads become impassable during winter and early spring. "I stayed here in mid May and the lake was still halfway frozen... was looking forward to fishing so that was out," reports a visitor to Scenic State Park, highlighting the importance of timing.
Wildlife considerations: The forest is home to bears and other wildlife. At South Deer Lake, a camper warns, "Lots of wildlife, but make sure you clean up at night or you may find a bear wander into your site."
First-come availability: Most non-reservable campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "If you're looking to truly rough it this is a great place. Sites are secluded from one to the next but still feels very tight as there are a lot of sites with tree lines separating," notes a camper at South Deer Lake, suggesting arriving early for the best sites.
Tips for Camping with Families
Consider backpack camping for beginners: Some areas offer accessible backpacking experiences. "The park has two backpack campsites along small pine lake. It's an easy 1.5 mile hike to the camp site along flat trails. The campsite is set back from the trail a good ways so you have complete privacy," explains a visitor to Scenic State Park.
Look for swim-friendly locations: The Lodge Campground — Scenic State Park offers good swimming options. "Fishing pier and beach were very close, so that was awesome for kids. The second you dropped your line in, a fish was on it," shares a family camper.
Bring insect protection: Bug activity varies by season but can be intense. "We were there in late May and the mosquitos were HORRIBLE, despite it being colder and windier than average," warns a backpacker at Scenic State Park.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but with varying site sizes. At O-Ne-Gum-E Campground, an RVer reports, "The sites are super spacious that fit our 28 foot camper, boat & trailer, and 2 vehicles with room to spare!"
Electric availability: While many campgrounds remain primitive, some offer electrical hookups. "Most sites have electric hookups. A few tent only sites were non-electric," notes a visitor to O-Ne-Gum-E, making it ideal for those who need power.
Generator restrictions: For those staying at non-electric sites, generator use may be limited. A visitor to Williams Narrows mentions, "generators are limited to daytime hours so that it is quiet at night," which helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere.
