Chippewa National Forest
 

Recreation
collage of photos and picture of camera

Chippewa National Forest - Recreation Program Fee Accomplishment Report 2010


As you visit the Chippewa National Forest you will quickly notice that water orientated recreation such as fishing, canoeing, camping, water-skiing and swimming are popular! Twenty-one developed campgrounds, located on the major lakes, offer a place to relax or to fish muskie, walleye, northern pike, bass or sunfish. To "rough it", primitive campsites are available into more remote areas. There are 298 miles of non-motorized trails to view the Chippewa National Forest and 315 miles of motorized trails. ENJOY...

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

  • Zoom out to full extent

Recreation Conditions Report

 Area Name Status Area Conditions
Shingobee Recreation Area Open to Visitor In the winter, the cross-country ski trail has been groomed and is in great condition.

Spotlights

Norway Beach Visitor Information Center

Photo of Norway Beach Visitor Center

This historic building is a hub of activity! Weekly summer naturalist program range from widlflower hikes to discovering water critters and even a loon calling contest. Outdoor related arts and crafts programs and Smokey Bear's Birthday are not to be missed. The sales area offers books, insect nets, and many other outdoor related items. Often visitors just stroll through the building enjoying the Civilian Conservation Corps construction and to admire the stone fireplace.  

Program Schedule

North Country Trail

Segment of north country trail on the chippewa

The North Country Trail passes through the Chippewa National Forest as part of the larger North Country National Scenic Trail.  The trail travels over 4,600 miles from Crow Point, New York to Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota. 

Within the Chippewa National Forest, the North Country Trail meanders through 71-miles of forested lake country.  White Pine forests and rivers overlook beckon travelers along this scenic route.  Discover old homesteads hidden in the "Woodtick Fields" and enjoy the cool waters of the many backcountry lakes. 

North Country Trail Flyer

Norway Beach Recreation Area

photo fo migizi bike trail in the fall

The Norway Beach Recreation Area is located four miles east of Cass Lake, Minnesota on U.S. Highway 2. The recreation area offers a variety of family activities including 171 camping sites located in four campground loops; Norway Beach, Chippewa, Wanaki and Cass Lake. Interpretive trails, sandy beaches, a paved biking trail, boat ramps, a reservable picnic shelter and the Norway Beach Visitor Center are all nestled among red and white pines. There are firewood and recycling centers located at each campground. There are also showers and an RV dump station.  |  Area Map