Cascade River Campground

Star4.46
54 reviews
Cascade River Campground
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

961 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Minnesota State Parks (Minnesota DNR) site

Official Website
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Cascade River Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Camping fees apply (vary by park and site). Minnesota state parks offer a vehicle permit available for purchase that provides unlimited visits to...
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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
888-646-6367, 651-296-6157
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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 54 reviews

1092 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersshadespacious

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"User reviews are largely positive, praising the campground's waterfalls, shaded North Shore forest setting, and well‑kept restrooms/showers. Sites are described as spacious and the campground provides convenient access to trails and the Lake Superior shoreline."

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Campground Map

Cascade River Campground

Cascade River Campground

47.7158, -90.5169

Driving directionsAccessible from Minnesota Highway 61 (North Shore Scenic Drive); campground is located just off Hwy 61 near the Cascade River gorge.
Located adjacent to/near Highway 61 (MN-61) on the North Shore.

Best Time to Camp at Cascade River Campground

Summer and early fall are pure North Shore magic: warm hiking days, crisp campfire nights, and if you hit September or October, an explosion of autumn color that's worth the trip alone. Spring brings muddy boots and mosquitoes, but also waterfalls at their thundering best as snowmelt sends the Cascade into overdrive. The campground stays open through winter for hardy souls, though most cold-weather visitors stick to day trips for photographing the frozen falls before retreating to warmer lodging.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Below Average

Summer offers trail access, waterfalls and lakeside enjoyment; reviews generally positive in warm months.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 11% in MN

Reviews specifically call out astounding fall colors and excellent autumn experiences here.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5
Average

Spring hikes to waterfalls likely rewarding (high flows), but trail/mud conditions may vary.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5
Below Average

No winter activity details; North Shore winters are severe and campground seasonality is unclear.

Planning Tips

    About Cascade River Campground

    Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waterfalls echoing through a North Shore forest, then waking to trails that lead past rushing cascades and Lake Superior overlooks—all just steps from your tent. Cascade River Campground delivers that dream, nestled in dense woods above a dramatic river gorge where multiple waterfalls tumble through ancient rock. Summer and fall fill up fast, so plan ahead if you want to catch the roaring waters or the legendary autumn blaze.
    Developed campground with both tent and RV sites, including a number of identified electric sites; some sites are noted as spacious and more private than others.
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    Amenities available

    Showers
    Potable water
    Electricity hookups
    Flush toilets
    Dump station
    Fire rings

    Activities you can enjoy

    Access to multiple trails and scenic overlooks, including Cascade River waterfalls and Lookout Mountain; suitable for day hikes, scenic viewing and general wildlife/bird watching. The park also serves as a base for exploring the Lake Superior shoreline and nearby North Shore attractions.
    HikingMultiple trails from the campground lead to Cascade River waterfalls and the gorge, to the Lookout Mountain overlook, and connect with segments of the Superior Hiking Trail; trails range from short family‑friendly walks to longer day hikes.
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsReviews note slippery or uneven footing on wet rocks near the river and falls, elevation changes and stairs on some trails, and occasional road noise from nearby Highway 61. Visitors should use caution on slick surfaces and be prepared for rapidly changing North Shore weather.
    No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

    Weather at Cascade River Campground

    Reviews

    4.5
    54 reviews
    Recommended
    Recommended
    Cascade River Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews are largely positive, praising the campground's waterfalls, shaded North Shore forest setting, and well‑kept restrooms/showers. Sites are described as spacious and the campground provides convenient access to trails and the Lake Superior shoreline.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 54 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Scenic waterfalls and river gorge; lush, shaded forest setting; clean, hot showers and flush toilets in a central bathhouse; spacious sites (some identified as electric); close access to trails,...
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    Based on 54 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Reserve early during summer and fall. Fill water containers at the central spigot or fill station (sites may not have potable water). Choose interior sites to reduce road noise, bring insect...
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    Based on 54 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    “Fantastic Campsite for Travel Trailers!”; “Great park for a long weekend.”; TripAdvisor note: site #5E described as “excellent.”
    Based on 54 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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