Wakemup Bay Campground

Introduction / Overview: Rustic Charm on Lake Vermilion

For Minnesotans who crave a genuine Northwoods experience without the complex permitting of the Boundary Waters, Wakemup Bay Campground offers a perfect, rustic solution. Tucked away on a quiet bay of the massive Lake Vermilion in the Kabetogama State Forest, this campground is a true hidden gem near the town of Cook. It is a small, state-managed facility with approximately 22 campsites, designed to be primitive yet comfortable enough for families and anglers.

The core philosophy of Wakemup Bay is rooted in providing a simple, affordable, and direct connection to nature. The sites are basic, featuring a cleared area, a picnic table, and a fire ring, intentionally lacking the full hookups and amenities found at larger, developed campgrounds. This preserves a quieter, more authentic atmosphere. The campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis, reinforcing its local, down-to-earth charm. It serves as an excellent gateway to the vast recreational opportunities of Lake Vermilion, boasting a lovely swimming beach, an accessible fishing dock, and a dedicated boat ramp, making it a favorite for those whose primary goal is to spend their days on the water.

Location and Accessibility: Near Cook, Gateway to the Big Lake

Wakemup Bay Campground is ideally located in the remote, beautiful region of northeastern Minnesota. The physical address is 2443 Wakely Rd, Cook, MN 55723, USA. This places it deep within the Kabetogama State Forest, an expansive woodland and water network that borders Voyageurs National Park.

Accessibility is straightforward via county and forest roads:

Vehicle Travel: From the town of Cook, travelers take County Road 24 (North) for about 2.5 miles, then turn right (East) onto County Road 78 for roughly 3 miles, and finally turn left (North) onto an access road (often Wakely Rd) for about 1 mile. The final approach utilizes well-maintained, but unpaved, state forest roads.Campground Layout: The campground is divided into distinct sections. A few open sites (5-8) are located close to the beach and shelter, suitable for RVs and trailers, though without hookups. Further back, sites 12-19 are more private and set among the shady woods. Exceptionally private hike-in sites (like #20 and #21) are also available a short walk from the parking area, catering to tent campers seeking maximum seclusion.Water Access: The campground offers a convenient public boat landing adjacent to the camping area, providing easy launching access onto the main waters of Lake Vermilion.

Its relatively easy accessibility, combined with the quiet bay setting, makes it a favored spot for local users looking for a relaxed, waterside basecamp.

Services Offered (Basic and Well-Maintained)

As a State Forest campground, Wakemup Bay provides necessary rustic services, emphasizing cleanliness and the basics over luxury.

Campsites (22 Total): Offers a mix of drive-in, open sites for RVs/trailers (no hookups), and secluded, tent-only hike-in sites. All sites include a cleared area, picnic table, and fire ring.Toilets: Vault toilets (outhouses/biffys) are provided and are noted by visitors for being consistently cleaned and well-maintained, a tribute to the excellent camp hosts.Water: Potable drinking water is available in several locations throughout the campground, though it is typically shut off by mid-September for the winter season.Docking: Dock space and/or slips are available for campers, offering convenient mooring for fishing boats and pleasure crafts.Garbage: Trash bins are provided, offering convenient refuse disposal—a welcome amenity in a rustic setting.Trails: A half-mile interpretive trail or hiking trail is available on-site for casual exploration of the local forest ecology.Camp Hosts: The presence of wonderful camp hosts ensures the facility remains well-managed, clean, and provides a friendly face for visitors.Fee: Rates are affordable, typically around $14 - $20 per night (check current DNR State Forest rates), and sites are paid for on-site via a self-registration system.

Features / Highlights (A Fisherman's Paradise)

Wakemup Bay’s appeal lies in its excellent recreational features, especially its direct link to Lake Vermilion.

Fantastic Beach and Swimming: The campground boasts a really nice beach area that is excellent for swimming and day use, making it a great choice for families with children.Fishing Dock: A nice little dock is available to cast from, an ideal spot for young anglers or those looking for casual shore fishing. Reviewers highlight an active bluegill bite and even catching northern pike right from the dock.Lake Vermilion Access: The adjacent public boat landing provides direct and easy access to the entire, massive Lake Vermilion, which is famous for its world-class walleye, northern pike, and muskie fishing.Secluded Sites: The existence of several large, well-spaced, and secluded campsites (especially the hike-in sites) tucked further back in the woods ensures a peaceful, private stay away from the main activity areas.Day Use Area (DUA): A group picnic shelter and day-use facilities complement the campground, making it a flexible location for both overnight and day visitors.Interpretive Trail: The short, half-mile interpretive trail provides an easy opportunity for nature appreciation and a low-impact hike for all ages.Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, provided they are kept on a leash and attended, making it a good choice for Minnesotans traveling with their dogs.

Contact Information

As a State Forest campground, contact information is routed through the local DNR office or the nearest State Park managing the area.

Address: 2443 Wakely Rd, Cook, MN 55723, USA

Phone (General Information/Local Office): (218) 235-2520

Mobile Phone: +1 218-235-2520

What is Worth Choosing Wakemup Bay Campground

Choosing Wakemup Bay Campground is choosing a classic, affordable, and accessible Northwoods experience on the shore of a major Minnesota lake. It is worth choosing for Minnesotans who prioritize excellent water access for fishing and swimming over high-end amenities. The campground serves as an outstanding quiet basecamp for Lake Vermilion anglers, offering boat launching and docking facilities right on-site. For families, the combination of a nice, sandy beach, easy dock fishing (where bluegill bite like crazy!), and the clean, well-maintained facilities (especially the vault toilets) makes it a comfortable, low-stress option. The first-come, first-served policy adds an element of spontaneity, and the mix of open sites for trailers and highly secluded sites for tent campers ensures that every type of rustic enthusiast can find their perfect spot. Wakemup Bay delivers a genuine, peaceful, and fully functional primitive camping experience on one of Minnesota's most beautiful lakes.