North Star

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 22, 2025 and operates through September 29, 2025. Sites 1-21 are first-come, first-served. Sites 22-38 will be reservable on Recreation.gov from July 3 through September 6, 2026, with reservations opening January 3, 2026.

About

North Star Campground sits on North Star Lake in the Chippewa National Forest, 4 miles south of Marcell and 25 miles north of Grand Rapids on Minnesota State Highway 38. The campground features 38 non-electric campsites, all within easy walking distance of a sandy swimming beach. North Star Lake is known for its many sheltered bays and inlets that create quiet water conditions ideal for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The campground operates seasonally from late May through late September. Starting in 2026, sites 22-38 will be reservable through Recreation.gov from July 3 to September 6, with reservations opening on a rolling basis beginning January 3, 2026. Sites cost $14 per night, with a 50% discount available for Interagency Senior and Access pass holders. Payment is accepted via cash or check at the entrance kiosk. Campers should note that potable water is not available on-site, so visitors must bring their own drinking water. Vault toilets are provided. The campground enforces quiet hours from 10pm to 6am, and pets are welcome but must be leashed. To protect the forest from invasive species, only local firewood from Itasca County is permitted, and chainsaw use is prohibited in the campground.

Directions

Located 4 miles south of Marcell on Minnesota State Highway 38, or 25 miles north of Grand Rapids.

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