Wanaki Loop

Star4.22
23 reviews
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,345 ft

Price

$21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Reservable season: M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Wanaki Loop
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for standard non-electric sites are $21 per night during peak season (May 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025).
Standard Site Fee$21.00
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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Provider
218-835-4291
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What Campers Say

4.22

Satisfactory

Based on 23 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanbeachfriendly

"User sentiment about Wanaki Loop is mixed. While many praise its privacy, scenic trails, and family-friendly beach, some reviews raise serious concerns about cleanliness and safety in restroom facilities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Wanaki Loop

47.3786, -94.5214

Driving directionsFrom Cass Lake, Minn., take U.S. Highway 2 east for 4 miles, to the Norway Beach Recreation Area. Turn left and follow the campground road until the signs indicate the Wanaki Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures are not mentioned. No specific navigational challenges are described.
Nearby places
Cass Lake, 4 miles west of the campground.
Nearby supplies
Cass Lake, 4 miles away, provides grocery and hardware stores, restaurants, and other supplies.

Best Time to Camp at Wanaki Loop

Experience the dramatic beauty of Minnesota's changing seasons at Wanaki Loop, where crisp, dry air and crystal-clear skies create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. While winter brings a spectacular frozen wonderland, summer emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons here. Picture yourself waking to gentle morning mists rising off the lake, enjoying sun-drenched afternoons on sandy beaches, and savoring cool evenings perfect for s'mores and storytelling. The moderate summer temperatures and frequent clear skies make every day an invitation to explore.

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

Peak season (May–Sep); summer reviews praise beach, trails and programs.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Reservable season ends Sept 1; late-season visitors note some aging facilities.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Season opens late May; spring shoulder may be cool but trails and lakes begin to be usable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Park is reserved/peaked May–Sept; winter use not supported by data.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Reservable season: May 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025.

About Wanaki Loop

Discover the enchanting Wanaki Loop, a hidden gem nestled within the beloved Norway Beach Recreation Area along Cass Lake's pristine southern shoreline. This family-favorite camping destination in north central Minnesota beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of tranquil forest camping and endless water adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring hidden coves by kayak, or gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars, Wanaki Loop offers the quintessential Minnesota lake camping experience.
Wanaki Loop offers single-family camping accommodations suitable for tent and RV setups.
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Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Wanaki Loop provides an array of recreational activities including hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and boating. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. Cultural and educational programs are held near the Norway Beach Visitor Center.
HikingHiking trails are available, including the Migizi Bike Trail and the Norway Beach Trail. Star Island offers a unique hiking experience with its six miles of trails winding around the island.
FishingFishing is popular at Cass Lake, where anglers target walleye, northern pike, perch, and trophy muskie. A boat ramp is available to facilitate fishing activities.
SwimmingThere is an accessible sandy beach close to several campsites, providing opportunities for swimming and other water-based activities.
BikingThe Migizi Bike Trail offers scenic routes for biking enthusiasts. User reviews praise its quality, with one stating: "Love the bike trails."
BoatingBoating, canoeing, and water skiing are accessible at Cass Lake. The campground includes a boat ramp for visitor convenience.
Wildlife viewingThe dense forest of mature red and white pines near the lake offers opportunities for observing local wildlife.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo specific hazards mentioned beyond general national forest guidelines.

Weather at Wanaki Loop

Reviews

4.2
23 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Wanaki Loop is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Wanaki Loop is mixed. While many praise its privacy, scenic trails, and family-friendly beach, some reviews raise serious concerns about cleanliness and safety in restroom facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews highlight scenic trails, friendly campground hosts, clean toilets, easy beach access, and well-maintained campsites. Many visitors enjoy the bike trails and the visitor center.
Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints center around restroom cleanliness, lack of hand soap and sanitizer, and trash along trails. One review reported drug paraphernalia in restroom facilities, raising safety concerns.
Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring hand soap and sanitizer as facilities may not provide them. Favorite activities include biking, hiking, and fishing. Families with children might enjoy nearby attractions like Bemidji's Science...
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Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the beach, trails, and cultural programs. However, late-season visitors have noted the campground showing some signs of age.
Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Love the bike trails, great shopping and restaurants close by." 2. "Nice campsites. The restrooms were clean." 3. "Went there with my grandchildren and wouldn't take them back to that...
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Based on 23 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite-specific highlights include sites 142, 146, 147, 148, 154, 156, and 159. Reviews vary from praising beach proximity and spaciousness to criticizing restroom conditions.
Based on 23 reviews

Accessibility Features

Users appreciated accessible trails and amenities but did not specifically address experiences of campers with disabilities.
Based on 23 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but there is no specific commentary on pet-related features or facilities.
Based on 23 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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