Gooseberry Falls Campground

For Minnesotans, the North Shore of Lake Superior holds a special place in our hearts. It’s where the dramatic cliffs meet the vast expanse of the greatest of the Great Lakes, where countless waterfalls tumble into rocky gorges, and where outdoor adventures beckon at every turn. If you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in this iconic landscape, Gooseberry Falls Campground, located within the beloved Gooseberry Falls State Park near Two Harbors, is an excellent choice. It offers a unique opportunity to stay right in the heart of one of Minnesota's most popular natural attractions.

Gooseberry Falls Campground is known for its prime location within Gooseberry Falls State Park, renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, river gorge, and stunning Lake Superior shoreline. While the campground can be quite popular and busy, especially during peak seasons, it provides direct access to the park's main features. Imagine stepping out of your tent or RV and being just a short walk away from the thunderous Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, or a peaceful stroll to the shores of Lake Superior itself. This unparalleled proximity to natural wonders is a major draw for many visitors.

Reviewers often highlight the natural beauty of the park and the helpfulness of the Park Rangers. While some sites might feel a bit close to each other or the road, many find the overall experience to be incredibly rewarding. The outer ring of the campground, in particular, offers more seclusion, with some sites boasting beautiful pines, providing that quintessential Northwoods feel. The facilities, including restrooms and showers, are generally kept in great shape, ensuring a comfortable stay even without the luxury of electric or water hookups at individual campsites – a common characteristic of many state park campgrounds that encourage a more traditional camping experience.

The spirit of adventure is palpable here. While some trails might require a quick check-in with the Ranger Station for clearer directions, the effort is always rewarded with stunning vistas and well-maintained paths. Even when "wandering," as one reviewer put it, you’re bound to discover hidden gems along Lake Superior, adding an element of spontaneous exploration to your trip. This campground is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a basecamp for discovery and connection with one of Minnesota's most treasured natural landscapes.

For those eager to experience the majestic North Shore without having to drive far to reach the main attractions, Gooseberry Falls Campground provides an ideal solution. It’s a chance to wake up to the sounds of nature, spend your days exploring remarkable waterfalls and scenic trails, and end your evenings under a canopy of stars, all within the comforting embrace of a well-loved state park.

Gooseberry Falls Campground is situated within Gooseberry Falls State Park, near Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA. The park is conveniently located along Highway 61, roughly 13 miles northeast of Two Harbors. This placement makes it incredibly accessible for those traveling along Minnesota's scenic North Shore, whether coming from Duluth to the south or heading further north towards Grand Marais and the Canadian border.

The campground’s prime location offers direct and easy access to the park's most famous features, including the Upper, Middle, and Lower Gooseberry Falls, and the beautiful Lake Superior shoreline. You can walk to these attractions directly from your campsite, eliminating the need to drive and find parking within the often-busy park. This walkability is a significant advantage, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty at their leisure.

For Minnesotans, the accessibility is key. It's a manageable drive from the Twin Cities and other major population centers, making it a perfect weekend getaway or a stop on a longer North Shore road trip. The Gitchi-Gami State Trail, a paved biking and walking trail, also runs through the park, offering further recreational opportunities right from the campground. Additionally, the Superior Hiking Trail passes through the park, providing access for avid hikers and backpackers to explore miles of wilderness trails.

While the campground is open year-round, services are limited in the winter, and most campsites become walk-in only after heavy snowfall as roads are not plowed, creating a unique winter camping experience for the truly adventurous. The Visitor Center and parking lots are generally accessible, making day trips to the falls popular even for non-campers.

• 70 drive-in single-family campsites (can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 40 ft)
• 3 group sites (tent-only, shared parking, rustic toilets, potable water nearby)
• 1 kayak camping site (for campers paddling the Lake Superior State Water Trail)
• Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, and grate
• Seasonal flush toilets and hot showers (typically open May through October)
• Year-round vault toilets available
• Dump station (seasonal, usually May through October)
• Drinking water spigots available throughout the campground
• Firewood and ice available for sale at the park (seasonally at campground, year-round at visitor center)
• Visitor Center with a gift shop, interpretive displays, and trail information
• Park Rangers on site for assistance and information
• No electric or water hookups at individual campsites (plan accordingly)

• Direct access to Gooseberry Falls (Upper, Middle, Lower Falls)
• Immediate proximity to the Lake Superior shoreline and Agate Beach
• Connection to the Gitchi-Gami State Trail for biking and walking
• Access to the Superior Hiking Trail for extensive hiking opportunities
• Historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) structures and "Castle in the Park" stone wall within the park
• Beautiful natural setting with mixed evergreen, aspen, and birch forests
• Wildlife viewing and birding opportunities
• Popular and busy park, but outer ring sites offer more seclusion
• Friendly and helpful Park Rangers
• Interpretive programs and exhibits at the Visitor Center
• Ideal base for exploring other North Shore State Parks like Split Rock Lighthouse and Tettegouche
• Stargazing opportunities in a relatively dark sky environment

Address: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA

Phone: (218) 595-7100 (Gooseberry Falls State Park Office)

Note: Reservations for campsites are typically made through the Minnesota DNR State Parks and Trails reservation system online or by phone.

For Minnesotans, Gooseberry Falls Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an essential North Shore experience that resonates deeply with our state's love for the outdoors. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, beginning with its iconic status and incredible accessibility. Being located within Gooseberry Falls State Park means that residents have direct, walkable access to the breathtaking waterfalls, the rugged Lake Superior shoreline, and a network of well-maintained trails, including the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail and the rugged Superior Hiking Trail.

This campground offers a quintessential Minnesota State Park camping experience. While individual sites may not have hookups, the presence of clean flush toilets, hot showers (seasonally), and a dump station provides comfortable amenities for a rustic yet convenient stay. This balance allows locals to truly "rough it" in nature while still having essential comforts nearby, making it accessible for families, seasoned campers, and even those new to the state park system.

Furthermore, the park's popularity, while leading to busyness, also means a lively atmosphere and the presence of dedicated park staff. The friendly and helpful Park Rangers, as noted by visitors, are a valuable resource for navigating trails and making the most of your stay. For those who appreciate connecting with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, the bustling environment can even be part of the charm.

Gooseberry Falls Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the broader North Shore region. Its central location allows for easy day trips to other beloved destinations like Split Rock Lighthouse and Tettegouche State Park. It's a place where generations of Minnesotans have created cherished memories, from skipping rocks on Agate Beach to hiking through vibrant fall colors. For a true taste of Minnesota's natural grandeur and a convenient escape into the wilderness, Gooseberry Falls Campground remains a top choice for locals.