Tettegouche State Park Camping

Tettegouche State Park, located on the North Shore of Lake Superior near Silver Bay, Minnesota, is one of the top destinations in the state for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and quiet inland lakes, Tettegouche is also a premier location for camping. Whether you prefer drive-in RV sites, secluded hike-in cabins, or primitive tent camping, the park offers camping options for every kind of visitor year-round.

Types of Campsites at Tettegouche

The Baptism River Campground is the main drive-in campground at Tettegouche State Park. It features 28 spacious campsites, including 22 with 20- and 50-amp electric hookups. These sites can accommodate RVs and travel trailers up to 60 feet in total length. Amenities include picnic tables, BBQ grills, potable water, restrooms with flush toilets, and access to hot showers. This campground is open year-round and is the only Minnesota state park with operational heated showers and flush toilets during winter.

In addition to the drive-in options, Tettegouche offers 13 cart-in campsites located closer to the Lake Superior shoreline. These sites provide a more secluded experience, where you can haul your gear using provided carts for a peaceful, semi-rustic camping experience. For those who want more solitude, six walk-in sites are also available with short trails leading to quiet forested campsites.

For backcountry adventurers, five backpack sites are located along the park’s extensive trail network, providing remote, scenic camping options. The park also offers five kayak-in sites that allow paddlers to camp along the shores and inland waterways, perfect for those exploring the Lake Superior Water Trail.

Cabin Rentals in Tettegouche State Park

Tettegouche Camp, located on Mic Mac Lake, features four historic hike-in cabins available for rent year-round. These cabins are only accessible by foot and require a 1.7 to 3.5-mile hike depending on the trail. Each cabin sleeps 2 to 6 people and includes screened porches, kitchenettes, wood stoves with firewood, and access to a shared modern bathhouse with showers. Canoes are available to rent at the boathouse for guests staying at these lakeside cabins.

For those who prefer a drive-up experience, the Illgen Falls Cabin is located near the Baptism River. This modern, two-bedroom cabin sleeps up to six adults and includes a full kitchen, gas fireplace, air conditioning, and a deck with a gas grill. This cabin is not pet-friendly but offers year-round comfort and quick access to Illgen Falls.

Nearby Camping Options in Finland State Forest

If you can’t find a site inside Tettegouche or prefer a more rustic experience, nearby Finland State Forest offers two first-come, first-served campgrounds: Eckbeck Campground and Finland Campground. Eckbeck has 31 campsites, including two ADA-accessible ones along the Baptism River. These primitive sites have vault toilets and potable water, and generators are allowed.

Finland Campground, about three miles from the park entrance, has 39 primitive campsites and a group camping area available by reservation. It's also a staging area for ATV access to the Red Dot, Moose Walk, and Moose Run Trails, which connect to the motorized trail system that partially runs through Tettegouche.

Camping Amenities and Services

Tettegouche State Park offers a range of modern amenities and thoughtful services to make camping more enjoyable. Restrooms and vending machines at the visitor center are open 24/7, and firewood is available for purchase at the park office or through the Yodel app. Ice is available seasonally. Five picnic areas with fire rings and tables provide ideal spots for day visitors or campsite meals.

An electric vehicle charging station is available at the visitor center parking lot. This Clipper Creek station is free to use and has two cables. Pets are welcome in most campsites, as long as they are leashed and attended. However, they are not allowed in cabins or on swimming beaches.

Winter Camping and Special Programs

Tettegouche State Park is open year-round, offering unique winter camping opportunities. Winter campers can stay at the Baptism River Campground, which remains accessible even during heavy snowfall. The park also hosts Winter Camping 101 events, where visitors can learn to build snow shelters like quinzhees, cook outdoors in the snow, and gain confidence in winter survival skills.

Camping Reservations and Fees

Due to the park’s popularity and limited availability of sites, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance. Online reservations can be made 24/7 through the Minnesota DNR reservation site, or by phone at 866-857-2757 between April and September. A daily vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Options include a $7 day pass, $35 annual permit, $26 second vehicle pass, and $12 for visitors with disabilities. Camping fees vary based on site type and season.

Why Camp at Tettegouche State Park

Camping at Tettegouche means waking up to the sound of waves crashing on Lake Superior’s rocky shoreline, watching the sunrise over inland lakes, or stargazing in complete silence from a forested ridge. It’s a place where every type of camper — whether you’re in a tent, a trailer, a cabin, or a canoe — can find the perfect basecamp for adventure.

With scenic overlooks, hiking trails to waterfalls and mountains, historic cabins, excellent wildlife viewing, and both beginner-friendly and backcountry camping options, Tettegouche State Park is one of Minnesota’s top destinations for campers. Book your site early, pack your gear, and get ready to experience the beauty and variety this park has to offer.