The best camping in Gooseberry Falls State Park, MN

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Top-rated campgrounds

Balsam Ridge Retreat

100%
(974)
38mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 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.
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$69
 / night

Wedal Woods

43mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Washburn, WI
Open YEAR ROUND! Wedal Woods is a small lodging business hosting four comfortable pods near the shores of Lake Superior, close to the amenities of Washburn and Ashland. We live here, love our home in the woods, and want to share our property with you! Our goal is to offer guests a unique lodging experience that’s comfortable and easily accessible, blending a taste of nature with a few creature comforts. You’ll find us near the shores of Lake Superior in Washburn, WI, on 35 acres of private property with a diverse landscape nourished by the winding Bono Creek. The land is intentionally left largely undisturbed, offering guests the opportunity to explore the woods. Trails are being thoughtfully developed along existing paths, providing a unique setting for those who enjoy outdoor lodging experiences. At the heart of Wedal Woods are our cozy pods. They’re inspected and licensed through the county and state, and built to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment of the woods. Our two outhouses are designed to be bright, spacious, and comfortable. Whether you bike in summer or ski in winter, consider booking a pod to support your outdoor adventures! Wedal Woods is a tranquil base for exploring the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, and the many vibrant attractions, events, and communities of Washburn, Ashland, and Bayfield.
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$160
 / night

Eagle's Perch

92%
(24)
43mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · La Pointe, WI
Ultra private secluded island paradise located on lovely Madeline Island with 300 feet of lakeshore and stunning views of the coveted North Channel. Seven of the 22 Apostle Islands are visible on a clear day and not one electric light is visible from the property at night. Enjoy dramatic fog while you sip your morning coffee, frequent sailboat regattas during the day, and stunning double sunsets as they reflect across over 5 miles of open water. (ps. this reflective effect is also in play for the northern lights if you're lucky) Amenities: ZERO! Well, other than two fire pits and a propane grill (BYO propane if you want to use that) Expect a lumpy lawn with space for up to 8 tents located right on top of a 100 foot cliff leading straight down to lake superior. If needed, showers, bathrooms, etc. are located 1.2 miles away at Big Bay Town Park. (no entry fee required) There you can also find the best beach on the island and canoes for rent if you'd like to explore the massive lagoon behind it chalk full of fish. Pack in, pack out. Enjoy!
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$38
 / night

Off-Grid Cabin

100%
(7)
25mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 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****
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$88
 / night

Sailor Springs Glamping

94%
(27)
38mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 9 sites · Lodging · Bayfield, WI
Experience upscale camping–Glamping in the Forested Hills of Lake Superior. Sailor Springs is a small three-site campground located just two miles outside of the picturesque tourist town of Bayfield, WI. 2023 will be our first year of operation and we’re excited to host campers on the property and provide a unique camping experience. The campground is spread out over 5 acres of forest that you’ll hike into from Bresette Hill Road. After parking at the trailhead, you’ll gather your bags and hike into your glamping site. The trail winds through the woods, leading you first to a valley where the seasonal Clark Creek runs through in the spring. The first two campsites are on the other side of this valley. The trail can be steep in spots and requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility to reach the secluded campsites. The third site is a bit farther into the forest, the little A-frame cabin, Anchor sits on the edge of the spring-fed Brickyard Creek that flows year-round. We have many plans for the property and depending on when you stay, the campground will be in various stages of development. The campsites, trailhead / parking area, and trails are scheduled to be completed in early spring. We hope to add amenities such as a camp sauna and screened-in gazebo later in the 2024 summer / fall. Thank you for considering joining us on this journey to build a peaceful place to play and stay in the woods. “In every walk in nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir
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$155
 / night

Superior Beach Camp

99%
(204)
39mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 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.
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$59
 / night

Off-Grid Secluded Forest Yurts

100%
(11)
31mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Bayfield, WI
Hi there! We have 5 yurts spread across our 40 acres with each yurt having lots of individual space and privacy. We hand built our yurts from scratch using wood from our land and local lumber, as well as sewing all the vinyl ourselves. The yurts are almost completely locally sourced, everything was handmade by us, and sustainably sourced. We are really excited to share the land we love with folks from near and far. Your yurt is equipped with a full sized futon, two burner stove kitchen with all cooking appliances and utensils, 2 gallons of fresh drinking water (as well as oil, salt, pep, coffee, and tea all provided), a small dining table with chairs, and an outdoor fire pit. A short 7 min drive from our property is beautiful Little Sand Bay beach. This free, public use National Park beach is gorgeous with views of Sand and York Islands, great swimming spots, $2.00 hot showers, and kayak launch. Important things to note about your yurt site! The access to our property is via a long dirt road, this road is accessible for all vehicles but it is about a 2min drive through the woods to get to the yurt sites. Once you arrive on the property your yurt is a 2-4min (depending on which yurt you choose) hike up a hill from the parking area. I recommend backpacking in your items. Wheely coolers and bags will not enjoy the terrain. The Portapotty is located at the parking area as well. That being said, a little bit of walking will be involved in your stay :) If you love walking you are in luck and can explore the trails on the property!
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$81
 / night

Whispering Pines

100%
(20)
44mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Meadowlands, MN
In Northeastern Minnesota's Lake Country experience the tranquility of Whispering Pines, a hidden gem nestled in a picturesque Balsam and Spruce forest. Whether you’re craving the warmth of a crackling fire under the stars or an adventure along its scenic trails, this property offers a nature-filled retreat for all seasons. Settle into one of two well-appointed camping areas, each with its own firepit, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Located just 40 minutes from Duluth and the Iron Range, Whispering Pines blends the peace of the wilderness with easy access to local attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the property’s proximity to the Cloquet Valley State Forest, offering hiking, snowmobiling, and over 20 miles of off-road vehicle trails. Birdwatchers, prepare to be amazed by the variety of species that frequent the property, or head over to the world-renowned Sax Zim Bog, only 20 minutes away. Anglers will appreciate nearby lakes with public access for a great day of fishing. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Whispering Pines offers the best of Minnesota's lake country. Book your getaway today and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. Winter bookings are available however, little to no maintenance is provided on sites during winter. "Snow can be cleared near sites for parking if given enough notice for a nominal fee."
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$8
 / night

Camp Palustria

88%
(53)
34mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 2 sites · Tents · Rice Lake, MN
PRIMITIVE - HIKE IN CAMPSITE Wilderness Experience Minutes from Duluth About the campsite: THIS PROPERTY IS RUGGED WITH MINIMAL DEVELOPMENT BEYOND HIKING TRAIL AND CAMP AMENITIES. Camp Palustria is on the edge of a beautiful marsh within 75 feet of a trout stream. It is about 1000ft off of the Superior Hiking Trail. The campsite is primitive which includes fire pit with grill, table, and composting outhouse. The site is about a 600ft hike from the road where you'll park. The first 400ft of the trail is a swamp with a simple elevated boardwalk through most of it.  95% of the time is it passable with hiking boats or street shoes, but there might be some muddy spots. Dispersed winter camping is also available. This campsite was featured on NPR Marketplace Campsite is closed during hunting season. About the property: Trembling Gardens is my 10 acre swamp camp paradise in the rural suburb of Rice Lake. The property is about 20 minutes away from downtown Duluth and Canal Park and has easy access to the North Shore.
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$15
 / night

Loon Hollow-The Cedar Grove & Cabin

100%
(6)
37mi from Gooseberry Falls State Park · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Duluth, MN
Single campsite and tiny cabin nestled in the woods on a 15 acre private property adjacent to Rice Lake. Listen to the loons call on summer evenings, enjoy a campfire, and relax! There are 3 acres of private, rustic trails to explore as well as a small flock of chickens you are welcome to feed/visit if interested. The property location is an easy 5 min drive to a popular restaurant, the boat launch on Rice Lake, and a Quick Trip; and just 15 mins to central Duluth and myriad hiking and biking trails. Let our beloved property be the basecamp for all your North Shore adventures. Parking is provided for 1 vehicle. No trailers (sorry). Check-in is an easy self serve process for your convenience. (Please note the parking and outhouse is near the owner's residence.) Additional notes to consider: During certain times of the year, particularly fall, it is also possible to hear occasional hunting from other large properties around the lake, but be assured there is no hunting on our property or our direct neighbors and you are located securely in the center of our 15.5 acres. To clarify location: We are located in Rice Lake, MN, a suburb of Duluth (with a Duluth address). :) Also, the bugs can be a challenge in summer so bring protection. We look forward to hosting you!
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$23
 / night

Other options near Gooseberry Falls State Park

The best camping in Gooseberry Falls State Park, MN guide

Overview

About

Next time you find yourself on Minnesota’s scenic Highway 61, do everything you can to pull over for the stunning views at Gooseberry Falls State Park. The region has been a seat of human activity on the north shore of Lake Superior since at least 1670, and it’s no wonder—the river gorge carved out of ancient rock and five many-tiered waterfalls will literally take your breath away, and developed modern camp sites provide comfort and ease so you can spend more time exploring.

Bike the paved Gitchi-Gami trail, or hike any of the connector paths to the Superior Hiking Trail system. Pack some sammies and enjoy the Picnic Flow area, situated on an ancient lava flow that provides great views of Lake Superior. Check out the historic rustic granite structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose design was overseen by Italian stonemasons and is very colorful. With so much to do, it’s worth it to invest in the year pass if you live nearby—for Minnesotans, the first time at Gooseberry is never the last.

Nearby attractions

If paddling under starlit skies and waking up to serene lakeside views sound idyllic, consider camping near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. A journey here offers an unspoiled Boundary Waters camping experience with ample wildlife, fishing, and wilderness exploration.

98%
25 ratings · 3 reviews