Lake Vermilion-soudan Underground Mine Backpack Sites
The backpack sites are currently open and available for reservations. Reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance through mndnr.gov/reservations or by calling 866-857-2757.
Flood Advisory issued May 22 at 9:40AM CDT until May 26 at 3:45PM CDT by NWS Duluth MN
* WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt continues. * WHERE...In Minnesota, St. Louis County. * WHEN...Until 345 PM CDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Some low-water crossings may become impassable. River or stream flows are elevated. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 940 AM CDT Friday, minor flooding and high water levels are already occurring. - This includes the following streams and drainages... Oyster River, Ge-be-on-e-quet Creek, Horse River, Shohola Creek, Hustler River, Moose River, Jeanette Creek, Wolfpack Creek, Nugget Creek, Heritage Creek, Portage River, Range Line Creek and Legend Creek. - Some locations that will experience flooding include... Northwestern Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Lake Agnes, Crooked Lake, Fourtown Lake, Lac La Croix and Loon Lake. - Flood safety information can be found at www.weather.gov/safety/flood.
About
The five backpack sites at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park provide a low-commitment entry into backcountry camping in Minnesota's Iron Range. Located less than a mile from the trailhead on a ridgeline overlooking wooded valleys, these dispersed primitive sites offer the solitude of remote camping with minimal approach distance. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, tent pad, and access to primitive toilet facilities. The park spans over 3,000 acres along the rocky, island-studded shores of Lake Vermilion and is home to the historic Soudan Underground Mine. Beyond the backpack sites, the park offers diverse camping options including a modern campground, camper cabins, and boat-accessible backcountry sites on the lake. The new Pyrite Campground, designed for OHV users with 24 electric sites, opens June 12, 2026. Reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance through the Minnesota DNR reservation system online at mndnr.gov/reservations or by phone. Same-day reservations are also available without a reservation fee. Pets are permitted but must be leashed and attended at all times.
Directions
Located in St. Louis County in northeastern Minnesota, off State Highway 169 near Tower and Soudan. Follow signs to Soudan Underground Mine State Park. The backpack site trailhead is within the park.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | — |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $23 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (218) 753-2245 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
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