Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area Group Campground

About

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area's group campground offers a dedicated camping area for groups of up to 25 people within the Portsmouth Campground. Set on the northwest shore of Portsmouth Mine Lake, the wooded site provides convenient access to shared restrooms and showers, a swimming beach, and the recreation area's extensive mountain biking trail network. The recreation area spans 5,000 acres of former iron mining land, now featuring clear, deep lakes formed in abandoned mine pits. Portsmouth Mine Lake reaches depths of 395-450 feet, making it one of Minnesota's deepest inland lakes. Anglers will find trout, northern pike, bass, crappie, and sunfish in these waters. The area is particularly popular with mountain bikers, offering miles of single-track trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. Group camping reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance through the Minnesota DNR reservation system. Campers should note that single-track trails may close after rain until conditions improve, and all trails close during the November firearms deer season.

Directions

From Crosby, head north on MN-6 and follow signs to Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. The park office is located at 307 3rd Street in Ironton.