Wanaki Campground/Boat Access

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 23, 2025 and operates through September 2, 2025. Reservations available via Recreation.gov.

About

Wanaki Campground is situated on the southern shores of Cass Lake, the largest of eight lakes in the Cass Lake Chain of Lakes in north central Minnesota. The campground features 46 non-electric campsites nestled among a mature forest of red and white pine trees, with some sites offering direct lake views and convenient access to a sandy beach. The facility is part of the larger Norway Beach Recreation Area, which provides comprehensive amenities including flush and vault toilets, showers, a boat ramp, interpretive trails, a paved biking trail, and a reservable picnic shelter. Cass Lake spans nearly 16,000 acres with 27 miles of forested shoreline, offering excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, and swimming. Anglers target walleye, northern pike, perch, and trophy muskie. Star Island, located in the middle of Cass Lake, features six miles of trails and is home to 199-acre Lake Windigo. The Migizi Bike Trail and Norway Beach Trail provide additional hiking and biking opportunities. The historic Norway Beach Visitor Center, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, serves as a cultural hub with its magnificent fireplace and displays depicting Dakota and Ojibwe heritage. The center hosts special events throughout the summer season, including a kids fishing day in June, Bald Eagle Day in July, and Smokey Bear's birthday party in August. Interpretive programs run every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The town of Cass Lake, located four miles west, offers additional services including restaurants, grocery stores, and a museum.

Directions

From Cass Lake, Minnesota, take U.S. Highway 2 east for 4 miles to the Norway Beach Recreation Area. Turn left and follow the campground road until the signs indicate the Wanaki Campground.

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