Minnesota / Leech Lake Reservation / Beltrami County

Bimijiwan Recreation Area

Closed — Closed for the season due to an emergency closure from storm damage. The campground typically operates from May 9 through September 2.

About

Bimijiwan Recreation Area, meaning "Flowing Water" in Ojibwe, occupies a historic location where the Mississippi River exits Cass Lake on the Chippewa National Forest. The campground features 14 sites arranged in a single loop among beautifully maintained lawns shaded by oak, spruce, and pine trees, with every site affording scenic lake views. Originally constructed by the Corps of Engineers and transferred to the Forest Service in 1926, the area has served as a gathering place for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and recreational users for generations. The 2015 removal of the failing Knutson Dam and installation of an innovative rock arch rapids restored over 30 miles of spawning habitat for walleye, white sucker, and other warm water species. This enhancement connects world-class fisheries including Cass Lake and Lake Winnibigoshish. Anglers fish for walleye, northern pike, perch, and trophy muskie, with spring offering exceptional viewing of fish running upstream. The campground provides boat ramps for both Cass Lake and Mississippi River access, a modern accessible fishing platform, and easy canoe access to multiple river routes. Campground facilities include accessible vault toilets, a well, picnic areas, and boat ramps. The site is particularly popular with canoeists due to its prime Mississippi River access and serves as an excellent base for exploring the 9,528-acre Cass Lake and surrounding waterways.

Directions

From Cass Lake, travel 6 miles east on U.S. Highway 2, then 5 miles north on County Road 10.

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