East Bearskin Lake Campground

East Bearskin Lake Campground is located on its namesake lake, at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota. It is a perfect spot for visitors who want the experience found in the Boundary Waters and the convenience of car camping, with standard sites, walk-in tent sites, and small cabins that accommodate up to five or seven people. Canoeing, kayaking and motorized boating are available on East Bearskin Lake, and the facility can be conveniently accessed by vehicle. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. Over a million acres in size, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness extends nearly 150 miles along the borders of the United States and Canada, containing over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails and over 2,000 designated campsites. The two eastern bays of the lake are within the boundaries of the Boundary Waters, so the campground attracts canoe enthusiasts, and portages link to Flour Lake. Entering the wilderness area requires a special permit: day permits for non-motorized use are available at the campground, but overnight and motor use permits must be obtained in advance. East Bearskin Lake features several shallow bays, making the campground and shoreline good places for wildlife watching. Moose, beavers, eagles, ducks, loons, songbirds and bears are the most common visitors. Fishing is also a huge draw, with the lake offering great fishing for bass, walleye and lake trout, and a boat ramp at the campground allows motorboats and canoes access. Back on shore, a variety of hiking, mountain biking and cross-country ski trails are nearby. Campsites are arranged along one large loop and three smaller loops. A few sites provide a limited view of the water and all sites are within walking distance of the lake. Each campsite has an accessible fire ring with grill grates and a picnic table, and vault toilets and a solar-powered drinking water system are provided throughout the campground. The four rental cabins sleep five or seven people; each has a single bed, double bed and set of bunk beds, while one has an additional bed. The cabins have no running water, electricity, heating or cooking facilities, so cabin visitors use the campground's toilet and water facilities and must bring their own sleeping bags, cooking gear and food. Flashlights are also recommended. The campground and surrounding area is shaded with majestic red and white pines, balsam fir, spruce, birch and aspen trees, and a thick understory offers plenty of shade and excellent privacy between campsites. The campground lies on the shore of the 643-acre East Bearskin Lake, a typical loon nesting site. The surrounding Superior National Forest is comprised of 3 million acres and spans 150 miles along the border of the United States and Canada. Boats, canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the neighboring Bearskin Lodge, whose store also sells fishing licenses, day use permits, groceries, ice, firewood, maps and fishing guide services.