Chase Point Campground

🌲 Chase Point Campground: Gateway to the Virgin Pines of Scenic State Park

For Minnesotans seeking a classic Northwoods camping experience that perfectly balances modern convenience with raw, unspoiled nature, Chase Point Campground in Scenic State Park near Bigfork is a premier destination. This is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to step back in time among towering old-growth pines and pristine glacial lakes. Known for its well-maintained sites and spectacular natural features, Chase Point is the larger of the two main campgrounds in Scenic State Park, making it a favorite for both families and seasoned outdoor adventurers looking for easy access to the area’s rich history and stunning hiking trails.

The overall atmosphere is slightly promotional but factually grounded in the park’s reputation for providing a genuine wilderness-like setting. Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and the welcoming staff, creating a comfortable base camp from which to explore the magnificent landscape. Whether you’re interested in paddling the crystal-clear waters of Coon Lake or walking the breathtaking esker of the Chase Point Trail, this campground serves as your ideal Minnesota retreat.

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📍 Location and Accessibility

Chase Point Campground is situated within the boundaries of Scenic State Park, a designated Minnesota State Park. Its location is a testament to its name, tucked away in the beautiful wilderness near the town of Bigfork, MN 56628, USA, in the north-central part of the state.

The campground is generally considered easily accessible by vehicle via well-maintained roads leading into the park. It is the best choice within the park for RVs and trailers, as it features a higher concentration of electric hookup sites and generally more spacious spots than the nearby Lodge Campground. While feeling remote, the campground is convenient for a weekend getaway, positioned strategically for accessing various park amenities, including the historic lodge and the stunning waterfront.

Accessibility for all campers is prioritized, with designated accessible campsites available. The central location within the park means that popular attractions, like the renowned Chase Point Trail, a boardwalk along the lake, and the park office, are all within easy walking or short driving distance.

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🛠️ Services Offered

Chase Point Campground is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable stay, offering many essential services that blend a traditional camping feel with welcome modern facilities. Services commonly available at the campground include:

• Electric Hookups: Numerous campsites are equipped with electric services (30 and/or 50 amp) to accommodate RVs and trailers.
• Modern Restrooms and Hot Showers: Seasonal access to clean, well-maintained flush toilets and hot showers (a small fee may apply) is a major draw for campers.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is conveniently available via pumps or spigots throughout the camping loops.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dedicated facility for RV and trailer waste disposal is provided for registered guests.
• Firewood and Ice Sales: Basic supplies like locally sourced firewood (to protect against invasive insects) and ice can be purchased on-site, typically at the park office or from a campground host.
• Fish Cleaning Stations: Dedicated facilities are available to responsibly clean your catch after a successful day on the lake.
• Campground Office/Gift Shop: The park's main office and a small gift shop are typically located nearby, offering registration, permits, interpretive materials, and souvenirs.

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🌟 Features / Highlights

The features of Chase Point Campground—and Scenic State Park as a whole—are deeply rooted in its unique geology and natural history:

• The Chase Point Trail: This is the park's signature highlight. The trail runs along a stunning esker—a narrow, serpentine ridge formed by a river flowing under a glacier—offering dramatic, panoramic views of Coon and Sandwick Lakes on both sides. It’s an essential hike for any visitor.
• Virgin Pines: The park was established to protect one of the last remaining stands of magnificent old-growth virgin pine in the state, with some white and red pines towering over 100 feet tall. Camping here means sleeping in the shadow of these majestic giants.
• Water Recreation on Coon Lake: The clear, sparkling lake is ideal for non-motorized and low-speed water activities, with a 10 mph limit often enforced. Campers can enjoy swimming at the small but enjoyable beach, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing for northern pike, walleye, bass, and panfish.
• Lakeside Boardwalk and Docks: A beautiful boardwalk near the campground provides easy, shaded access to the waterfront, featuring multiple docks for fishing, boat tying, or simply enjoying the sunset.
• Historic CCC Architecture: The park features beautifully preserved, rustic buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, including the historic Lodge and a charming rental cabin, adding a layer of history to the outdoor experience.
• Diverse Camping Options: Beyond the main drive-up sites, the park offers more secluded backpack sites and highly sought-after boat-in/canoe-in campsites, catering to all levels of adventurers.

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📞 Contact Information

As a key component of Scenic State Park, Chase Point Campground is managed directly by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Address: 56956 Scenic Highway 7, Bigfork, MN 56628, USA (Note: This is the typical address for Scenic State Park; the campground is located within the park.)

Park Office Phone: (218) 571-2600

Email: scenic.statepark@state.mn.us

For reservations, Minnesotans should utilize the official State Park Reservation System online or by phone, as the popular sites—especially those with electric hookups—often book up well in advance during peak season.

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✅ What Is Worth Choosing Chase Point Campground

Choosing Chase Point Campground is choosing a quintessential, high-quality Minnesota State Park experience. It is particularly worth choosing for the following reasons:

1. Balanced Comfort and Wilderness: It is the perfect compromise for families or groups that want to be deep in the Northwoods wilderness but still require the convenience of modern amenities. The availability of electric hookups, hot showers, and flush toilets removes barriers to camping comfort, allowing you to focus purely on enjoying the natural environment.

2. The Chase Point Geological Marvel: No other campground in the area offers direct access to a geological feature as unique as the Chase Point esker. This hiking experience—walking along a narrow, elevated ribbon of land flanked by stunning lakes—is truly unforgettable and a primary reason for visiting the park. It’s an easy-to-access, spectacular natural landmark.

3. A True Water-Centric Vacation: The restrictions on boat speed on Coon and Sandwick Lakes ensure a peaceful environment for paddling, swimming, and fishing. The proximity of the campground to the docks and rental options means that water-based recreation is literally steps from your campsite. From your base at Chase Point, you can easily spend your entire day enjoying the tranquility of the water, making it a perfect spot for kayakers, canoeists, and small boat anglers.

Ultimately, Chase Point Campground offers a blend of natural majesty, historic charm, and operational excellence that makes it a highly recommended and highly valued escape for local users across the Minnesota region.