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Nemadji State Forest

The best camping in Nemadji State Forest, MN

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Stories from the community

Anaiah

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Retreat

Crooked Creek was a perfect oasis away from the city. We really enjoyed the cozy vibes of the cabin, and the walking paths for us to enjoy. We were even provided orange beanies for hunting season, which we greatly appreciated as we went on our hikes! Naomi did a great job of making us feel comfortable and at home, and we would absolutely return.

Jonah

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

My wife and I came up for the weekend and stayed in the roost. It was a lovely rustic cabin that kept it's warm during the cold nights. The property was a nice to walk through the trails. The trails are lit at night for comfort. The host were welcoming and wonderful to us during our stay. We tried out the swing and that was a delight. Overall great experience.

Baron

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Linda and Chris are two of the most welcoming and caring people. They take the time to make sure your stay is as enjoyable as it possibly could be. From little things like clearly lit trails at night to a very warm cabin to wake up refreshed in. We will definitely come again.

josh

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This place is amazing and has so much charm. I have been here twice and it keeps getting better. The host are wonderful people and great to meet. This is a magical place and I would recommend to anyone.

John

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Superior Beach Camp

Great spot and private beach area with lots to explore.

Jennifer

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Homestead Hideaway

It was seriously one of the best experiences ever. The owners were so kind and went above and beyond to let our two boys interact with the animals. Camping was their birthday present and they said it was the best trip they ever had. The animals were so fun, and hiking is super close by. We definitely want to return.

Rowe

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Homestead Hideaway

We didn't want to leave. I took my six year old son camping there. We were both a bit sad when it was time to go home. It was quiet and peaceful. We laid in the hammock watching the stars late into the night. We picked a couple apples from their apple trees. We explored the trails. We pet the horses and rabbits. We got some fresh eggs from the barn. We loved the old rustic barn. My son and I both enjoyed the privacy of being the only tent campers there. A tent is waiting for you, but you can use your own tent if you want. A fire ring has an adjustable cooking grate that you can use. Some cut logs surround the fire pit that you can sit on. Plenty of firewood available stacked close to the fire pit. It was a time I will cherish and never forget. The owners were welcoming and friendly. I'm so glad that Jay Cooke campground was sold out and didn't have any spots available. I am new to Hipcamp and can't wait to explore more cool places they offer.

Austin

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This was one of the most magical places to stay and we hope to be back again and again. The hosts Linda and Chris are the key holders for the magic that this place holds. Meeting you upon arrival and making sure you know the ins and outs of the place and any little tricks that may come in handy along the way, truly some of the best hosts out there. One of our favorite things about Danny’s tent was using the little wood stove to warm up the place and cook on top of. I’ve never stayed in a tent so cozy it made you never want to leave. The whole experience in itself will leave you wanting more , from booking a weekend to dreaming of booking a week even in the cold months. Thank you Linda and Chris for having us and we hope to see you again!

Kay

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

This was my second stay at Balsam Ridge, however the first time at the Listening Point. We initially planned on staying at a different site until we were contact by Linda, the site host, and informed that this quaint little "canned ham" camper was available to use if we want to move to that instead as it might be a little warmer. We agreed to switch, and are sure glad we did! Linda went above and beyond to make sure every thing was absolutely perfect for us upon arrival. There was literally everything we could possibly need as if we pulled the camper in and parked it ourselves. Shy of our own personal necessities, the only thing we "really" had to bring was blankets, pillows & food...everything was provided in the camper! We really hit the jackpot with this stay! (Actually the jackpot is name of the super clean outhouse that is less that 20 feet away) but we really did feel spoiled with this stay! **One thing to note - if you happen to stay when the temperatures start getting below freezing.. You'll still be plenty warm inside, but you will need to bring water with you for cooking\drinking\dishes** No matter what season you choose to stay, you'll not be disappointed! There are plenty of things to do both in the camper and on site. When you arrive Chris & Linda will give you a tour through the campground to show you around and help you bring your things to your site if you want\need help and are always available if you ever need anything. I promise you'll be a happy camper!

Paula

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

It's like you are in the forest, yet you are a stones throw away from town! The quiet and friendly atmosphere the Hosts provide is top notch! Listening Point is on top of the hill and close enough to the Jackpot for those midnight runs. That canned ham is small but big enough for the two adults to get around and get things done. The thoughtful way Linda had the camper decorated blew my mind. She had throw pillows on one bed that a family member cross stitched and likey took a good while to finish. They were beautiful. Just take a walk and look at all the lil details that have been lovingly put into all the spaces at the Retreat. Let me know if you find the tortoise shell, it will make me 😃 Would I recommend this camping retreat to friends and family? I sure would! You have to experience Balsam Ridge Retreat at least once in your lifetime. As long as they remain open my friend Kay and I will be there every year. I miss them already. Thank you again for the relaxation. P.H.

Abby and Brittany

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Fantastic place! Linda and Chris are incredibly kind and hospitable!

Kyle

October 2025

3 nights at Off-Grid Cabin

Great secluded cabin! Perfect for a getaway and great location. There is a bunch of blankets and pillows. Also lots of pots and pans. We loved the fireplace inside and the fire ring outside with the stars! The river was beautiful! Pictures don’t do a justice.

Nicole

October 2025

1 night at The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

Such a lovely respite for the night! I’m super grateful for the little cabin and slept so well there. Enjoyed my morning coffee outside in spite of the chill. Can’t wait to come back and hopefully explore the other lodging options, too.

Alejandro

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

my fiance and I had a great stay and the tent was very comfy!

Mindy

October 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Trego Lake Lakefront Property

What a beautiful property! We loved camping in an oak grove in the fall time - golden and heavenly! The lake was beautiful, and even though it's the weather wasn't conducive to swimming, we thoroughly enjoyed reading on the dock. Everything about the site was as described and made camping with our 34' fifth wheel a breeze. We will be back!

Anthony

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

5 stars every time. I take an annual trip here and have taken this trip for the last 3 years. You will never not be comfortable or feel like you’re at home. Chris and Linda give an excellent warm welcome to all guests that arrive and keep the same warm and caring attitude throughout the whole stay. Also if you’re having any problems they handle it very quickly with patience and a smile. If you’re thinking about staying here or thinking about camping in Duluth. I promise you with my whole heart this is the place to go!!

Take a step back in time and relax in this 50+ year old tent!

Rae

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Linda and Chris are such lovely and welcoming hosts; from check-in to check-out they were warm and hospitable. The canvas tent with wood stove was fantastic to sleep in and held the heat from the stove very well, and the property itself is fantastic and a delight to walk along. I look forward to booking here again sometime!

Claire

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Balsam Ridge Retreat

Super cozy and remote! Loved sharing tight quarters in the fall with my favorite person :)

Laurie

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Balsam Ridge Retreat

This was our first time at Balsam Ridge Retreat, but hopefully not the last! It felt very secluded and private, while also super accessible to Duluth. Linda and Chris were excellent hosts, ready with the golf cart to give us a tour and help carry our luggage. They have put a lot of thought into all the various offerings (like the fire pits, lounge by the pond, carpet pool, christmas-lighted trails, bird feeders outside our window), and it's clear they care deeply about making sure their guests enjoy themselves. We felt very comfortable in the Stuga, especially with the help of the heaters. And our ten-year-old loved the "dreamer" and the "screamer," two different swings that live up to their names, one offering a calm swing and the other, an exhilarating soar through the air. We're looking forward to coming back when there's some snow!

Sarah

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Superior Beach Camp

It was clean. Very peaceful. Very little to no traffic. Perfect for an escape in nature with the beach. We hope to be back next year.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Nemadji State Forest

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Gafvert Campground

16mi from Nemadji State Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nemadji State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Balsam Ridge Retreat

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(973)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 9 sites · Lodging · Duluth, MN

Hello friends! Yes, we are open!! Thanks for your interest in Balsam Ridge Retreat! As you may know, we've been on pause for several months taking care of my aging mom. She is still with us but we're going to open up for the beautiful winter months! Many folks that have visited our place refer to it as 'country living in the city'. We are so blessed to live in this little piece of serenity just inside the city limits of Duluth. It was once an abandoned house that sat for years, until a friend mentioned to us that it might be going up for sale. We loved the location and rolled up our sleeves. Twenty years later we still marvel at the beauty around us and can hardly believe that we LIVE here! Just down the road is a trout stream and just beyond that was a popular farm that attracted many folks to this neighborhood for hay rides and sleigh rides. The farm has since retired it's horses and closed it's doors to make room for new homes, but memories live on in the beauty of the open fields. I often imagine the sound of horses and sleigh bells and people singing carols and then warming up around a toasty fire sipping hot cocoa. Some of those memories live on right here at Balsam Ridge (minus the horses). Over the years many groups of folks have enjoyed a sense of community in these back woods no matter the season. Campfires, kids catching frogs, neighborhood campouts, snow picnics, hair-raising toboggan runs, family campouts, spiritual silent retreats, a take-your-breath-away giant swing, and some tales too daring to mention are all part of the fun. This is why we do what we do. We've been given much, and love to give back. It just wouldn't seem right to keep all this good to ourselves.

Bundo's Cabin

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25mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Finlayson, MN

This cabin was built by hand in the 1970s from white pine that was harvested and milled on-site. Our family purchased and rehabbed this beautiful cabin throughout 2021. Indoor and out, there are so many ways to relax and connect with loved ones during all seasons at Bundo's Cabin. Learn more about this land: Where the forest meets the field. Unplug and relax at Bundo's Cabin with extraordinary views of wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities. The modern yet cozy cabin has electricity and features a front patio, an external outhouse and outdoor rainwater bucket shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a sleeping loft with a reading nook. No matter the season, this cabin is a wonderful, cozy, and clean, place to relax and unwind. Feel free to roam around the 10-acre property and explore the 80 acres of state land to the north. Deer, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, owls, eagles and more are likely to be seen or heard. Explore, Banning, Moose Lake, and Father Hennepin State Parks which are all within 30 minutes, and return to the cabin to read, play games, listen to records, have a fire, and relax. The kitchen provides you with everything you need to prepare your meals including a refrigerator, small freezer, stove, oven, cookware, cutting boards, sink, seasonings, oil, and coffee. Water for washing is available from an electric pump faucet in the kitchen, and a brand-new outhouse is located steps from the cabin. The cabin is efficiently heated and cooled with a user-friendly heat pump and gets the cabin to your desired temperature very quickly. We are grateful to honor the Dakota and Anishinaabe people whose land we occupy by donating $10 from every booking to the Makoce Ikikcupi Land Recovery Project. This project is actively working to return the land to the indigenous people from whom it was stolen. You can learn more about this project in reparative justice at www.makoceikikcupi.com.

Amnicon Adventures & Retreats

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34mi from Nemadji State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · South Range, WI

At Amnicon you'll find the perfect blend of far-enough-away and easy-enough-to-get-to. We're located at the end of a 5-mile-long dirt road, just 30 minutes outside of Duluth, MN. Our site features 600 acres of protected forests along the Amnicon River on the South Shore of Lake Superior. The wildlife is abundant, and we even have an eagle's nest on site. You'll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the waves on Lake Superior, and waking up to 118+ species of birdsongs. We have an enormous sandy beach on Lake Superior that's a great place to watch the sunset and have a SMALL campfire. You're going to love it here.

Blue Lake Farm

39mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Trego, WI

The property is a 120 acres. There is a small lake with fish in it, open fields with 1 water source and deep woods with trails snaking around. Don’t get lost to bad. A hollowed out gravel pit and a couple hundred feet from the ATV snowmobile trail.

Crooked Creek Retreat

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24mi from Nemadji State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Hinckley, MN

Come experience Crooked Creek Retreat, a Cedar Log Cabin and a Pine Hunter's Cabin, nestled in the pines and valleys created by the St. Croix River. Situated just north of the Twin Cities, a quiet getaway with family and friends is just moments away. Enjoy mornings of birds singing or snowy quietness. Crooked Creek Retreat is a place where artists can be inspired and create together, where musicians can craft their songs and where families or small groups can gather by a fire and share in simple the experience of connecting with one another. We offer one main log home and two rustic pine cabins, for up to 16 people. A perfect lumberjack's private getaway! The Cedar log cabin is a glamping dream! Available in every season- beautiful year round. Full kitchen, all linens and beds made, 1 1/2 baths. The cabin is surrounded by 20 acres of prairie, a lovely lawn for lawn games and campfires, circled by the woods. Only a few miles away from St. Croix State park (almost 34,000 acres of river and woodland). The Pine Hunter's Cabin is a perfect add-on or stand-alone rental for up to four people- a vintage glamping delight! The Maple Group Cabin can be added on to any of these rentals for larger group gatherings (meals, sleeps another 6 people) for $100 per night. Information forthcoming!

The Wooded Retreat/breakfast/spa

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(127)

39mi from Nemadji State Forest · 5 sites · Lodging · Pine City, MN

Situated just 3 miles from the interstate, our retreat offers the tranquility and beauty of a state park while being conveniently accessible and private with comforts of home! Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning grounds featuring rolling hills, towering white pines, and a variety of deciduous trees. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with ponds and trails scattered throughout. Discover an abundance of flowers and wildlife that call this haven home. On our 9 acres we have 5 private ponds, 3 unique cottages ; and a vintage safari tent on a platform! With all of our cottages (sorry not the tent) we provide a breakfast basket in your refrigerator. For ALL guests on the Wooded Retreat we now have a Spa Cottage! (State of the art exercise equipment and a two person infrared Health sauna) Each space is strategically placed on the property to provide utmost privacy and beauty. Welcome to the Wooded Retreat and don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars!

Trego Lake Lakefront Property

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(89)

40mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site · RV · Trego, WI

This was my father's favorite place to be in the summer. He loved watching the hummingbirds early in the season and the leaf turn in the fall. We hope you and your guests will enjoy staying here as much as our family has. Five acre private lakefront property surrounded by trees. Cement pad for your RV or trailer. 50-amp and full hookups. Bring your own converter if less than 30 amps. Large fire pit (supply your own firewood). Recently refurbished private dock. Four-wheel trails and rental companies nearby. Short drive from the Namekagon River which is great for tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Due to a recent review, I am also adding here that swimming from our property is not ideal. The lake tends to be weedy during warm summers. There are places to swim nearby, so if you are booking with the sole intent of being able to swim, please be aware that this is likely not the best site for you unless you are willing to drive to a nearby beach.

Homestead Hideaway

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(13)

20mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Carlton, MN

Nestled on 32 scenic acres, our farm offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature and experience farm life. Wander trails that weave through woodlands, cozy up by the campfire, or settle into our rustic barn, complete with a hayloft and three-stall stable. Meet our friendly animals—a couple of horses, goats, a curious barn cat, a lovable dog, and a flock of chickens—all eager for friendly handling and interaction. Throughout the seasons, enjoy fresh produce straight from our gardens. Summer brings an abundance of fruits and veggies, perfect for farm-to-table meals. In autumn, explore our apple orchard with trees ripe for picking. And in spring, witness the traditional process of maple syruping, a sweet highlight of farm life. Whether you’re exploring the grounds, visiting with animals, or savoring the harvest, our farm offers an immersive escape to nature's rhythm, making each season a unique experience.

Off-Grid Cabin

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(7)

49mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Duluth, MN

A unique, octagon, cedar log cabin, situated on 40 secluded wooded acres. A short hike over the Sucker River on a storybook foot bridge to a generous deck which surrounds the cabin. You will need to be very physically fit to stay here. You must climb a steep ladder to the loft and do a 2ft step to get off the deck to the marshy land below. The cabin has a main room which holds two sofas and an indoor fireplace. There are games, books, binoculars and a telescope available for guest use. To access the sleeping loft, climb a ladder. The sleeping loft holds a Sleep Number bed. Guests are welcome to use any spices, pantry items and cookware that are in the kitchen. There is no running water in the kitchen or bath. There may be well water in the blue/green jerry cans . You could use that for the sauna or washing dishes. Guests need to bring their own potable water. We recommend 1 gallon of water per person each day spent at the cabin. We do usually have a small amount of water in water cooler containers which is from the local grocery, filtered water for you to use in a pinch if needed. ***the sauna DOES NOT get above 120 degrees in the winter, you’re welcome to try a winter sauna, but it’s will not be very hot at all**** ***no running water*** ***no shower, there is a sauna for a sauna bath*** ***do not book this cabin if you need to charge any medical equipment*** ***do not book this cabin if you can not do a 2ft step on and off the deck of the cabin to get down to the ground to build a sauna fire or bonfire. The land is a marsh and it shifts with the season so there are not steps secured to the deck****

Superior Beach Camp

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(204)

32mi from Nemadji State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · South Range, WI

Escape to Superior Beach Camp and immerse yourself in the beauty and privacy of a cleared camping area situated above 500' feet of sand and pebble beach on the world’s greatest lake. Agate campsite is very generously sized and is all yours. Surrounded by a mix of poplar and birch with a few white pine sprinkled in, the main camp area is set back from the lake atop a 70' bluff with peekaboo views of Lake Superior. A short walk down a private path from your campsite gives you access to a beautiful Lake Superior beach to swim, skip rocks, search for agates, or just enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the town of Duluth on the opposite shore. Agate campsite previously featured a "look out point" that has been altered by the natural erosion of the red clay banks that comprise much of Lake Superior's south shore. While you can still access this area, doing so will require more effort and care, and we no longer allow camping on the point. Superior Beach Camp located is 2.5 hours north of the Twin Cities and perfectly positions you to discover all the wonders of the Twin Ports. Explore this amazing area or stay at camp, set up your chair in the sand and take in the many moods of Mother Superior. Watch the ships come and go to the sparkly backdrop of Duluth’s city lights. The crackle of a driftwood fire on the beach provides the perfect soundtrack as you watch for shooting stars and the aurora. Stock up on supplies and explore the charming industrial town of Superior, WI – 15 minutes from your campsite. Spend a day mountain biking the Duluth Traverse and touring the the wonderful local dining and tap room scenes of Duluth and Superior. Canal Park, downtown Duluth, is a 25 minute drive. If you’d like to venture further, you could meander up the North Shore. Or keep it local and check out Bayfield and the Apostle Islands – only 75 minutes East. Stop through the charming lakeside village of Cornucopia on your way. Or perhaps you’d like to experience world class trout fishing on the Brule River a half hour from Superior Beach Camp. Maybe Parks are your thing: Amnicon Falls, one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful State Parks, is reachable in 10 minutes by car. Drive a half hour further to Pattison State Park and take in Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. On the Minnesota side, the magic of Jay Cooke State Park is 30 minutes west (and puts you on the doorstep of legit white water rafting). Whether you're looking for solace and relaxation in a blissful [great] lakeside setting or simply seeking a convenient place to rest your head while exploring the many adventures a stone’s throw from your campsite, there is something for everyone who camps here. Superior Beach Camp is a clean, quiet, peaceful, primitive setting. We appreciate that our campers help us keep it this way; remember to pack in any supplies or provisions you need, and leave no trace when you depart so our next guests can enjoy a clean campsite.

Floodwood Municipal Campground

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(443)

47mi from Nemadji State Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Floodwood, MN

Floodwood Municipal Campground: A Hidden Gem in Northern Minnesota Nestled along the scenic St. Louis River, Floodwood Municipal Campground is one of the Northwoods’ best-kept secrets. Conveniently located on the outskirts of the city in a quiet residential neighborhood, this city-owned and operated campground offers a peaceful retreat with modern amenities. Exciting Recent Upgrades! Floodwood Municipal Campground has recently undergone a major renovation to enhance your camping experience, including: ✅ Remodeled and upgraded shower house for added comfort. ✅ Newly widened roads for easier access throughout the campground. ✅ New camping pads and electrical pedestals, with all sites offering water and electrical hookups. ✅ On-site septic dump station for added convenience. ✅ Brand-new ADA-accessible fishing pier, made possible by a grant from the Minnesota DNR. Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). Originally secured by the City of Floodwood in the 1970s to preserve outdoor recreation for future generations, the campground continues to be a welcoming haven for campers, hunters, anglers, and boaters alike. Whether you're looking for a base camp for your next outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway in nature, the City of Floodwood is ready to welcome you! Book your stay today and experience the charm of this beautifully upgraded campground. Firewood available for sale on-site. Staying several nights? Save on booking fees by booking directly with our Camp Host, Scott Condra, at 325-253-7538. Scott is also happy to answer any other camping questions you may have!

Into The Woods

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(20)

36mi from Nemadji State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Webster, WI

Glamping in a geodesic dome on 4 private tree-filled land. Though no electricity or water access, this unique property does have a 20ft diameter domed structure with a bed, compostable toilet and a solar powered ceiling fan. Sitting on the deck or around the fire, you will see nothing but birds and trees

The best camping in Nemadji State Forest, MN guide

Overview

About

The Nemadji State Forest sounds like something out of Lord of the Rings, and it kind of is! Vast swamplands blanket the south, leading to gently rolling uplands that are broken by steep stream valleys, while dense forests extend to the northeast. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a hobbit hiding out in some hole deep in the woods?

With about 100 miles of trails dedicated to ATV and OHM riding, you’re more likely to see people on their off-road toys. There are amazing hiking trails here as well. Your trusty hiking staff will go a long way in this forest. So go find Samwise Gamgee (aka a friend) and set off on an epic adventure!

When to go

The best times to visit Nemadji State Forest are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for busier trails and potential heat. Winters are harsh, with heavy snowfall limiting access to certain areas.

Know before you go

Check the latest park updates for any road or campsite improvements that may affect your visit.
Always adhere to safety guidelines, especially when heavy machinery is operating in the area.
Be mindful of the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
For any inquiries, the park can be reached at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.
Stay informed by signing up for email updates from the park's official website.

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1 ratings · 0 reviews