Nashwauk Campground

For us Minnesotans, especially those who cherish the quiet charm of our smaller towns and the convenience of well-maintained local amenities, Nashwauk Campground presents a compelling option for a camping stop. Run by the City of Nashwauk, this campground is often described as a "hidden gem" – a testament to its peaceful atmosphere and the dedication of its maintenance staff. It offers a straightforward, no-frills camping experience that appeals to those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle, whether for a quick overnight stay or as a base for exploring the unique landscape of Minnesota's Iron Range.

Northern Minnesota is renowned for its vast forests, rich mining history, and extensive trail systems. Nashwauk Campground is perfectly situated to tap into this regional character. It's not a sprawling resort, but rather a functional and friendly spot designed to offer comfort and convenience. As one appreciative visitor noted, it's "Run by the city of Nashwauk and very well maintained. The maintenance people were friendly and accommodatin. Walking distance from the center of town." This highlights the community-focused approach that often makes city campgrounds so appealing to local residents.

While some larger rigs might find the backing-in a bit challenging, the overall sentiment points to a quiet and welcoming environment that provides exactly what's needed for a restful stop. If you value tranquility, cleanliness, and the easy accessibility of a small town, then Nashwauk Campground is certainly worth considering for your next Minnesota adventure.

Nashwauk Campground is conveniently located at 25-5 Larue Ct, Nashwauk, MN 55769, USA. Nashwauk is a small, friendly city situated in Itasca County, in the heart of Minnesota's historic Iron Range. This region is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich mining heritage, and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities.

The campground's location offers excellent accessibility for travelers exploring Northern Minnesota. It's positioned just off Minnesota Highway 65, a key north-south route in the area. For those traveling from larger regional centers:

• From Duluth: Nashwauk is approximately 70-80 miles northwest, about a 1 hour 15 minute to 1 hour 30 minute drive.

• From Grand Rapids: It's much closer, about 20-25 miles northeast, a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes.

• From Hibbing: Nashwauk is also quite close, roughly 10-15 miles west, a quick 15-20 minute drive.

A significant advantage highlighted by visitors is its proximity to the center of Nashwauk. The campground is within "walking distance from the center of town," allowing campers easy access to local amenities like a grocery store (Fred's), Mexican restaurants, and a tavern for quick supplies or a meal. This blend of a quiet, on-the-edge-of-town feel with walkable convenience is a definite plus. While some reviews note that sites "are hard to back into" for certain rigs, general access to the campground itself via paved roads seems straightforward.

• RV Stalls with Hookups: Nashwauk Campground offers RV sites with full hookups, typically including water, sewer, and electricity. While one review mentioned issues with a fire ring and leveling, confirming available amperage (20, 30, and 50 amp service is often available, though some report mostly 30 amp with limited 50 amp) and ensuring your leveling equipment is adequate is advisable.

• Tent Camping Area: In addition to RV sites, there is a dedicated area for tent camping, catering to various camping preferences.

• Clean Restrooms & Showers: The campground provides clean restroom facilities and showers for guests' comfort. This amenity is consistently mentioned positively, emphasizing the well-maintained nature of the city-run park.

• Potable Water: Access to potable (drinking) water is available, ensuring a convenient stay.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RV waste disposal, adding to the convenience for RVers.

• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Most sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for outdoor dining and campfires, although it's worth noting one review mentioned a missing fire ring at their site.

• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Wi-Fi access is available, allowing campers to stay connected, although speeds can vary in campground settings.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, making it a suitable option for those traveling with their furry companions.

• Well-Maintained City Park: A consistent highlight is that the campground is "Run by the city of Nashwauk and very well maintained." Visitors often commend the friendly and accommodating maintenance staff, which contributes significantly to a positive experience.

• Quiet Atmosphere: The campground is frequently praised for being "very quiet" and offering a peaceful environment, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and a break from noise and crowds.

• Walking Distance to Town: Its prime location allows campers to "walk... to the center of town" for basic groceries, local restaurants (including Mexican options), and a tavern, adding a layer of convenience and local charm.

• Access to Mesabi Trail: The campground acts as a trailhead to the Mesabi Trail, a significant "75 miles of paved path to walkers and bike riders, connecting communities such as Grand Rapids, Nashwauk, Keewatin, Hibbing, Chisholm, Mt. Iron and Virginia." This is a major draw for cyclists and walkers, offering extensive recreational opportunities right from the campground.

• Proximity to Outdoor Adventures: The surrounding area, part of the extensive forests and lakes of Northern Minnesota, offers abundant opportunities for "wilderness, wildlife, sky blue waters, swimming beaches and great fishing." Nearby attractions include the LaRue Pit (inactive mine pits, great for fishing and kayaking), as well as numerous other lakes known for fishing (Northern Pike, Walleye, Muskie, Bass, Panfish).

• Good for Overnight Stays: The ease of access and essential amenities make it a "Good for an overnight stay," as noted by a reviewer, providing a comfortable and convenient stop for travelers passing through the Iron Range.

• Historic Iron Range Exploration: Nashwauk itself is steeped in mining history. Visitors can explore local historical sites, including the Hawkins Mine observation platform, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Nashwauk Campground, as it is run by the City of Nashwauk, direct contact with the city's relevant department is usually the best approach.

Address: 25-5 Larue Ct, Nashwauk, MN 55769, USA

Phone: While a direct line for the campground might not be widely published, inquiries can typically be directed to the City of Nashwauk offices. Some online directories list the City of Nashwauk phone number as:

(218) 885-0084 (Nashwauk Township general contact)

For more specific campground information, including site availability, current rates (which have been reported around $25-$28 USD per night for some sites), and any construction updates (as electrical system enhancements were mentioned for April-May 2025), it is highly recommended to contact the City of Nashwauk or check their official website or any booking platforms they utilize (such as Hipcamp, where it is "coming soon" or already listed) for the most accurate and up-to-date details before planning your visit.

For us Minnesotans, Nashwauk Campground is a testament to the practical, no-fuss approach many of us appreciate when it comes to outdoor adventures. It’s a genuinely suitable spot for locals because it perfectly blends convenience with the quiet escape we often seek, all within the familiar and rugged beauty of our own Iron Range.

The fact that it’s a city-run campground, known for being "very well maintained" by "friendly and accommodatin" staff, speaks volumes about the local pride and hospitality. We know that when a community takes ownership of its amenities, they tend to be reliable and welcoming. Its location is a major benefit: being within "walking distance from the center of town" means easy access to local shops and eateries, a convenience that takes the stress out of camping and lets us truly relax. This accessibility makes it ideal for a spontaneous weekend trip without having to pack the entire kitchen.

Beyond the immediate convenience, Nashwauk Campground serves as an excellent gateway to the broader Northern Minnesota experience. Its direct connection to the Mesabi Trail is a huge draw for local cyclists and hikers, offering endless opportunities to explore our state's beautiful paved trails. Plus, the proximity to the historic Iron Range, with its unique mining heritage and reclaimed pits like LaRue Pit (great for fishing and kayaking), provides distinct local flavor and educational opportunities that are deeply rooted in Minnesota's identity.

While some might find the sites a bit challenging to back into, or the leveling a task, these minor points are often outweighed by the overall tranquility and "quiet" atmosphere that pervades the park. For locals, this campground offers a straightforward, affordable, and peaceful base to enjoy what we love most about Minnesota – the beautiful outdoors, the friendly communities, and the chance to simply "get away from…" the daily grind. It's a pragmatic choice for a comfortable and authentic northern Minnesota escape.