Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground

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9301 Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN 55731
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,545 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Opens Minnesota DNR - Minnesota State Parks site

Official Website
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Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Reservations are required for all campsites. A non-refundable reservation fee is charged for advance reservations ($10 via call center, $8 via web)....
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Minnesota State Parks
Provider
218-235-2520
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What Campers Say

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Limited Reviews

Based on 0 reviews

Most mentioned

hikingwaterstaff

Some mention

mosquitoes

"Reviews and secondary sources are overwhelmingly positive, praising the park's wilderness atmosphere, clear lake, trails and wildlife. Common negative notes focus on seasonal insects and occasional facility confusion."

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Campground Map

9301 Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN 55731

Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground

9301 Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN 55731

Access via Bear Head State Park Road; see the park webpage for detailed directions and maps.

Best Time to Camp at Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground

The park embraces classic Northwoods seasons, from sun-drenched summer days perfect for swimming and paddling to crisp autumn afternoons alive with fall color. Before planning your visit, check ParkFinder and the park's seasonal updates for current camping availability and trail conditions. While cabins and the guesthouse welcome guests year-round, tent camping follows seasonal schedules that align with Minnesota's northern climate.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in MN

Beach, swimming, boat/kayak rentals and hiking make summer peak season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5
Below Average

Northwoods foliage and hiking make fall very attractive.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5
Below Average

Shoulder season with paddling and hiking possible but conditions variable (bugs, mud).

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5
Below Average

No winter activity mentions; tent‑only group site likely less suitable in winter.

Planning Tips

    About Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground

    Escape to the secluded beauty of Bear Head Lake State Park, where pristine Northwoods wilderness meets extensive shoreline and towering mixed forests. This designated tent-only group campground welcomes larger parties seeking an authentic camping experience without RVs or campers, offering your group a private base camp for exploring one of Minnesota's most scenic lakeside retreats. Reservations are required to secure your spot in this peaceful corner of the North Country.
    This listing is a group campground designated for tents only; the park overall also offers cabins, guesthouse and a variety of campsite types elsewhere.
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    Activities you can enjoy

    Bear Head Lake State Park offers classic northwoods recreation: hiking on park trails (including connections to the Taconite State Trail), paddling and boating on Bear Head Lake, swimming at the park beach, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
    HikingMultiple park trails including the Beach Trail and connections to the Taconite State Trail; trails support hiking (and seasonally skiing/snowmobiling) and provide lake and forest views.
    FishingFishing opportunities on Bear Head Lake for species mentioned on the official site include walleye, bass, crappies and trout; there is also a fishing pier and fishing gear can be checked out from the park office.
    SwimmingDesignated swimming beach on Bear Head Lake.
    Boating
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsWildlife is abundant (the park lists black bears, nesting eagles, wolves and moose); follow park guidance for food storage and wildlife safety. Gathering firewood is prohibited because it can spread tree‑killing insects—purchase firewood at the office or use approved sources.
    No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
    No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

    Weather at Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground

    Reviews

    0.0
    0 reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Group - Tents Only, No Campers/Rv'S Allowed Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews and secondary sources are overwhelmingly positive, praising the park's wilderness atmosphere, clear lake, trails and wildlife. Common negative notes focus on seasonal insects and occasional facility confusion.
    Review Summaries

    What Campers Love

    Wilderness feel close to the Boundary Waters, clear water and good swimming, excellent hiking and paddling, strong wildlife viewing (including eagles and occasional bears), helpful park staff and...
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    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Reserve group sites in advance; bring robust insect protection; use only approved/local firewood; check park alerts and trail conditions before arrival; plan as if cell service may be unreliable.

    Camper Quotes

    “Peaceful. Serene. Tranquil.” — “Bring your bug spray.”

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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