East Bearskin Lake Campground

East Bearskin Lake Campground is located on East Bearskin Lake at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It is a perfect choice for people who want the flavor of the Boundary Waters and the convenience of car camping. Some sites are hike-in access. Site 2, 20, and 28 are rentable camper cabins named Alder, Aspen, and Tamarac. Aspen and Tamarac sleep 7 in 4 beds (bunks, single, and double) with two in the loft. Alder sleeps 5. There are foam mattresses, but no bedding, cooking facilities, or bathrooms; bring sleeping gear, wash basin, and a cook stove. A boat ramp at the campground allows access to the lake by both motorboats and canoes. Be aware that the two eastern bays of East Bearskin Lake are within the BWCAW and require permits for entry. Day permits for non-motorized use are available at the campground, but overnight and motor use permits must be applied for in advance.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | After October 21, services, including outhouse maintenance and stocking, are reduced until snow is on the ground. After that, the campground is part of the ski trail system and camping is not allowed. |
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Reservations: | Some sites are reservable through Recreation.gov |
Fees: |
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Permit Info: | Portions of East Bearskin Lake extend into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. If you plan to enter the BWCAW, you will need either a self issued day use permit available at the campground or an overnight permit (see BWCAW page). |
Open Season: | May 10 - October 21 |
Restrictions: | Maximum of nine people per site. There is space for one vehicle and one towed vehicle (such as a boat trailer). Additional vehicles on the site require additional half fee and must park on the spur. No vehicles may park on the grass or where they impede traffic. |
Closest Towns: | Grand Marais |
Water: | Solar powered faucet |
Restroom: | Outhouse (vault style) |
Operated By: | Concessionaire - 218-388-2292 |
Information Center: | Gunflint Ranger District Email | Call | Address | Webpage |
General Information
General Notes:
East Bearskin Lake Campground is on a pristine lake at the edge of the wilderness. There is a boat launch for both power and non-power boats, a picnic area, and a campground host during the summer. With a day use wilderness permit available on site, you can hit the portage trails at the east end of the lakes and explore the Boundary Waters.
Black bears are common visitors to East Bearskin Lake Campground.
Be bear aware while camping. Close and fasten campground waste containers. Lock food securely in vehicles - bears have been known to break into pick-up toppers and RV screen doors. Never burn food waste or packaging, and never store food in tents.
Directions:
East Bearskin Lake Campground is about 26 miles northwest of Grand Marais on East Bearskin Lake.
- From MN 61, turn north on County Road 12 (Gunflint Trail).
- Follow Co. 12 north 25.5 miles.
- Turn right onto Forest Road 146 (East Bearskin Lake Road) and continue 1 mile to the campground entrance on right.
Activities
Campground Camping
- Please use facilities provided such as fire rings, tent pads, and latrines.
- Dispose of waste in containers provided.
- Water faucets are for drinking water only, do not use as wash areas.
- Noise limits enforced, respect your fellow campers.
No. of Sites | 32 |
RV Camping
Sites are pull-in and not specifically designed for RVs. Most can accommodate a moderately sized vehicle, some may not be suitable for an RV.
Cabin Rentals
There are four Rental Cabins. One sleeps 5 on a combination of 4 beds: a single bed, a double bed and a set of bunk beds, the other two sleep 7 by adding two people in a loft. There are mattresses but no bedding, bring sleeping gear. There is no running water, electricity, heating, or cooking facilities. There is no separate sanitary facilities for the cabin, outhouses are located at several sites in the campground.
Reservations highly recommended.
General Info:
AccessibilityCabins are ADA compliant, with the exception of the bunk bed.
Rental info: | Cabins rental fees may be found on the Camping Fee Table. They may be reserved and paid for through the National Reservation Service (reservation fee may apply) or paid for at Bearskin Lodge, the campground concessionaire. |
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