Baptism River Campground

Star4.52
37 reviews
Illgen City, MN

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Pets Allowed

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens MinnesotaStateParks (Minnesota DNR - State Parks) site

Official Website

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Baptism River Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Advance reservations incur a non‑refundable reservation fee ($10 by phone, $8 online). Reservations are required for campsites; same‑day reservations...
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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
Reservations/call center: 866-857-2757; General contacts listed on official page: 888-646-6367, 651-296-6157
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What Campers Say

4.52

Top-Rated

Based on 37 reviews

34 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacycleanlocationwater

Some mention

reservation

"Reviews are predominantly positive, praising the scenery, easy access to waterfalls and overlooks, well‑maintained trails, private wooded sites, and a clean, modern bathhouse. Reported negatives are limited to access‑road potholes, occasional reservation/administrative issues, and some complaints about shower hardware or limited stall availability."

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Campground Map

Illgen City, MN
No map location available

Best Time to Camp at Baptism River Campground

The campground truly comes alive from late spring through fall, when trails beckon hikers and waterfalls run full with snowmelt or autumn rains. Summer brings the warmth perfect for lakeside exploring and the most fellow campers to share stories with around the fire. For those seeking solitude, the shoulder seasons paint the forest in spring wildflowers or fall colors, though cooler temperatures mean packing extra layers for crisp North Shore evenings. Opening and closing dates can vary by campsite loop, so check the park's ParkFinder page before planning your escape to ensure your preferred dates align with the season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer offers hiking, waterfall views, and Lake Superior vistas — core season for these activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Northwoods fall color combined with waterfalls likely makes fall a very attractive season (not explicitly detailed).

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 14% in MN

Spring runoff typically enhances waterfalls and river flows; site has multiple falls but spring specifics not given.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Northern location may offer winter scenery but no info on maintained winter services or trail grooming.

Planning Tips

    About Baptism River Campground

    Nestled in the heart of Tettegouche State Park's forested Baptism River valley, this campground offers the perfect blend of woodland seclusion and adventure. Each site provides a sense of privacy among the towering trees, while thundering waterfalls and the wild shores of Lake Superior await just a short walk away.
    A relatively small, wooded campground offering both tent and RV/electric sites with generally private, tree‑screened pads.
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    Amenities available

    Showers
    Potable water
    Electricity hookups
    Flush toilets
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables

    Activities you can enjoy

    Easy access to well‑maintained trails to Baptism River waterfalls and Lake Superior overlooks, plus fishing in the Baptism River, river wading/shoreline access, and general wildlife viewing and photography.
    HikingPark trails lead to multiple Baptism River waterfalls (including High Falls) and Lake Superior viewpoints such as Shovel Point and Palisade Head; trails are well maintained but can include many stairs and elevation changes.
    FishingFishing is available in the Baptism River, with trout fishing noted in park descriptions.
    SwimmingVisitors report river wading and cooling off at safe access points near the river mouth and a small Lake Superior shoreline area; there is no large developed swimming beach.
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsSteep trail sections and many stairs on some waterfront overlooks can be strenuous. Mosquitoes and other insects are common in warm months. Visitors have also reported occasional road damage (potholes) on access routes; general bear presence is possible in the Northwoods—standard wildlife precautions are advised.

    Weather at Baptism River Campground

    Reviews

    4.5
    37 reviews
    Top-Rated
    Top-Rated
    Baptism River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews are predominantly positive, praising the scenery, easy access to waterfalls and overlooks, well‑maintained trails, private wooded sites, and a clean, modern bathhouse. Reported negatives are limited to access‑road potholes, occasional reservation/administrative issues, and some complaints about shower hardware or limited stall availability.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 37 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Scenic location with immediate access to Baptism River waterfalls and Lake Superior viewpoints; sites are roomy and well screened by trees for privacy; clean, full‑service restroom and shower...
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    Based on 37 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Reserve early in peak season; choose a site away from restroom traffic and seek sites with tree screening for more privacy; bring insect repellent and sturdy footwear for stairs and rugged trails;...
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    Based on 37 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    Super well maintained campsite, with nice, clean bathrooms and showers. | Great place to camp. Campsites are spread out and are not on top of each other. | Best campground I’ve been to on the North...
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    Based on 37 reviews
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    Last updated February 17, 2026
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