Franz Jevne Campground

Open — Closed for the season. The campground operates from April through late October. Winter weather makes access challenging during the off-season.

About

Franz Jevne State Park offers one of Minnesota's most secluded camping experiences along the shores of the Rainy River, which marks the international border with Ontario, Canada. Covering approximately 120 acres of hardwood forest and wetlands in Koochiching County, this is the state's smallest and least developed state park, with no office and a self-registration camping system. The campground features 18 drive-in campsites and 3 walk-in sites interspersed among the trees along the riverbank. Sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet and include picnic tables and fire rings. Facilities are basic but functional, with pit toilets and hand-pump water available. Two sites offer electric hookups. The park's minimalist approach appeals to campers seeking a genuine escape from crowds and modern conveniences. Recreational opportunities center on the Rainy River, with a boat launch providing access for fishing and paddling. Anglers can catch walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and sturgeon. The park's 2.5 miles of short hiking trails wind through the riverside forest, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Beaver, timber wolf, and moose inhabit the area. The park's picturesque views across the river to Ontario and its peaceful, undeveloped character make it ideal for those seeking solitude in Minnesota's far north.

Directions

Franz Jevne State Park is located east of Birchdale on State Highway 11 in Koochiching County, Minnesota. From Duluth, follow US-53 North for 156 miles, turn left onto County Road 332 South, then left onto US-71 South for seven miles, and finally follow MN-11 West for 29 miles to County Road 85.

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