Temperance River State Park Camping

Temperance River State Park is one of Minnesota’s most scenic destinations for camping, located along the iconic North Shore of Lake Superior. Just off Highway 61 near Schroeder, this park offers rugged beauty, dramatic waterfalls, and a wide range of outdoor recreation. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, Temperance River State Park provides everything you need for a memorable camping experience in the heart of Minnesota’s North Woods.

Campgrounds and Campsite Information

The park features two main campgrounds—Upper and Lower—positioned near the Temperance River and close to Lake Superior. Together, they offer a total of 60 single-family campsites, including 18 electric sites and 6 cart-in sites. Campers can choose from RV, tent, trailer, walk-in, and primitive site options. RVs and trailers up to 60 feet are accommodated. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill grate, with many sites offering privacy and access to scenic surroundings.

The Upper Campground includes all 18 electric hookup sites, two of which are pull-through. It also offers accessible restrooms with flush toilets and seasonal hot showers. The Lower Campground includes 34 non-electric sites, some with views of Lake Superior, and offers vault toilets that are available year-round.

Cart-in campsites offer a more secluded experience and include carts and bear-proof food storage lockers for convenience and safety.

Campground Amenities

Campers have access to several on-site amenities that make their stay more comfortable:

• Electric hookups

• Drinking water

• Flush and vault toilets

• Hot showers (Upper Campground)

• Firewood and ice (available seasonally at the nature store)

• Dump station for RVs

• Pets allowed (must be leashed and attended)

• ADA-accessible sites

• Nature store with souvenirs and essentials

Camping Reservations and Fees

Reservations can be made online 24 hours a day or by phone at 866-857-2757 (TTY: 952-936-4008). Campsites can be reserved up to 120 days in advance. Daily site rentals are available year-round.

Park vehicle permits are required. Options include:

• $35 for an annual permit

• $26 for a second vehicle

• $12 for a handicapped permit

• $7 for a daily pass

Camping fees are additional and vary based on site type and amenities.

Things to Do While Camping at Temperance River State Park

Temperance River State Park is well-known for its breathtaking natural features, especially the narrow river gorge carved through billion-year-old igneous rock. Hikers can explore more than 22 miles of trails, including those that follow the Temperance River Gorge, lead to Carlton Peak, or connect to the Superior Hiking Trail and the Gitchi-Gami State Trail.

Fishing is popular along the Temperance River, which is a designated trout stream with brook, brown, and rainbow trout. The river’s clean and swift current makes it ideal for anglers and scenic enjoyment alike.

Rock climbing is permitted in designated areas, and the park is also a favorite for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in calmer areas near the river mouth and Lake Superior shoreline.

Winter camping is available and offers access to cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The park is part of a 196-kilometer ski-through trail network and maintains 7 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Surrounded by pine, cedar, birch, and spruce forests, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, birds of prey, songbirds, and the occasional black bear. Scenic views from Carlton Peak, the East and West overlooks, and the Lower and Upper Falls are highlights for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Park Location and Contact Info

Temperance River State Park is located at: 7620 West Highway 61
Schroeder, MN 55613
Phone: 218-663-3100
GPS Coordinates: 47.55269, -90.8766
Elevation: 1,957 feet

Why Camp at Temperance River State Park?

Camping at Temperance River State Park offers the perfect balance of rugged outdoor adventure and convenient amenities. With its stunning natural landscapes, access to Lake Superior, and extensive year-round activities, it’s one of the best places to camp in Minnesota for hikers, anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Book your site early, pack your hiking boots, and enjoy everything this North Shore treasure has to offer. Whether you're pitching a tent beside the river or parking your RV under a canopy of pines, Temperance River State Park is a must-visit destination for camping in Minnesota.