Ash River Campground

For Minnesotans yearning to experience the wild beauty of their state, the area around Orr offers a unique gateway to the vast Kabetogama State Forest and the stunning Voyageurs National Park. Nestled within this breathtaking landscape is the Ash River Campground, a destination that promises a true, no-frills Northwoods camping experience. This isn't your typical amenity-rich RV park; instead, Ash River Campground is for those who embrace the rugged simplicity of nature, offering a stripped-down, genuine immersion in the Minnesota wilderness. It's a place where the sounds of the forest prevail, and the sense of being truly "up north" is palpable, making it an appealing choice for locals looking to unplug and reconnect with the environment.

The surrounding Kabetogama State Forest, an integral part of the larger Superior National Forest, is renowned for its dense boreal forests, abundant wildlife, and countless interconnected waterways. This region serves as a crucial buffer and entry point to Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota's only national park, which is uniquely water-based. The park’s vastness is explored primarily by boat, with its interconnected lakes forming a watery labyrinth of islands and peninsulas. Ash River Campground serves as an excellent staging ground for these aquatic adventures, placing campers right at the doorstep of some of Minnesota's most pristine fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities. It caters to those who value peace and quiet over extensive amenities, providing a genuine taste of the remote Minnesota wilderness, a distinct experience compared to more developed recreational areas.

Ash River Campground is located in Orr, MN 55771, USA. It is specifically situated on the Ash River Trail, part of the Kabetogama State Forest, and is adjacent to the Ash River Public Landing. This location places it strategically close to the Ash River Visitor Center for Voyageurs National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the water-based national park and the surrounding state forest lands.

Accessibility to Ash River Campground is straightforward by road. From Orr, travelers would typically take U.S. 53 North for approximately 26 miles, then turn right (east) onto Ash River Road (County Road 126) and continue for about 10 miles until reaching the campground. For those coming from International Falls, the route involves traveling south on Highway 53 for about 30 miles, then turning left onto County Road 129 (Ash River Trail) and driving roughly 9.5 miles to reach the campground.

The campground itself is a drive-in site, meaning vehicles can access the individual campsites. Its proximity to the Ash River Public Landing means easy access for launching boats, canoes, and kayaks directly onto the Ash River, which flows into the larger lakes of Voyageurs National Park, including Namakan and Kabetogama Lakes. While the campground offers direct road access, it maintains a small, primitive feel, ensuring that campers are quickly immersed in the natural environment. Its location at the literal gateway to Voyageurs National Park makes it a prime spot for those looking to combine a rustic camping experience with extensive water-based exploration of one of Minnesota's most unique national treasures.

Ash River Campground is characterized by its primitive nature, providing essential services for a comfortable, self-sufficient camping experience rather than extensive amenities found at larger, more developed campgrounds. Campers should be prepared for a rustic stay.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers a limited number of designated campsites, often described as a "small campground with limited sites." Each site typically includes a cleared area for tents or RVs.

• Picnic Table: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table for meal preparation and dining.

• Fire Ring/Fire Pit with Grill: A steel fire ring or fire pit with a grill is provided at each site, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking, assuming no fire bans are in effect.

• Composting Toilets: The campground features composting toilets, which are often highlighted in reviews as being "clean and maintained very well." These eco-friendly facilities provide a more pleasant experience than traditional pit latrines.

• Seasonal Drinking Water: A seasonal drinking water pump or well is available on-site, providing potable water. However, it's always advisable to bring your own water or have purification methods as a backup, especially early in the season, as one review noted rusty water at times.

• Trash Cans: Trash receptacles are typically available within the campground for convenient waste disposal, although practicing "pack it in, pack it out" is still encouraged for minimal impact.

• Boat Launch Access: While not directly part of the campground's services, its adjacency to the Ash River Public Landing provides immediate access to a boat ramp for launching watercraft.

It is important to note that there are no electricity hookups, showers, or other modern conveniences at this "no frills, close to primitive" campground.

Ash River Campground offers several highlights for those who appreciate a rustic, natural camping experience, while also presenting some significant considerations for potential visitors.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Composting Toilets: A standout feature, as highlighted by reviews, is the cleanliness and maintenance of the two composting toilets. This is a significant plus for a primitive campground, enhancing the overall comfort of the stay.

• Nice Fire Rings: The fire rings are noted as "quite nice," providing a good setup for campfires and cooking.

• Proximity to Voyageurs National Park: Its location just outside Voyageurs National Park and a short drive to the Ash River Visitor Center and boat launch makes it an ideal "staging your Voyageurs paddling journey." This allows for easy access to the water-based adventures of the national park.

• Family Tradition and Wildlife: One long-term visitor notes a "family tradition" of camping here, praising the friendly local business owners and "amazing wildlife," including hearing wolves and seeing deer in the campgrounds. This speaks to a strong connection with nature and community.

• Relatively Spacious Sites: Despite being a "small campground," reviews also suggest "large sites with picnic tables, firepits, and clean pit toilets," implying decent room for individual campsites.

However, potential campers must be aware of critical highlights from reviews that serve as important warnings:

• Relentless Mosquitos: Multiple reviews emphatically warn about "tons of mosquitos" that are "relentless." This is not to be taken lightly and can significantly impact the camping experience, with one group leaving early due to being "covered in welts." Proper, strong insect repellent and head nets are essential, especially in late spring and early summer.

• First-Come, First-Served Challenges: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with "limited sites" (only 8). Reviews indicate issues with RVs being left unoccupied for days as a means of "reserving" sites, making it difficult for new travelers to find availability. This can be frustrating for those arriving hoping to find a spot.

• Noise from Generators and Woodcutting: Instances of "generators running all night" and "woodcutting at 7:00 AM" have been reported, which can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere, especially if seeking a quiet wilderness experience.

These points collectively define the Ash River Campground experience, offering both rustic charm and significant challenges to be prepared for.

Address: Ash River Campground, Orr, MN 55771, USA

As a small, primitive campground managed by the state or federal forest service (often the MN DNR or US Forest Service, though some sources point to Kabetogama State Forest management), Ash River Campground does not typically have a direct phone number for individual site reservations or a dedicated on-site office.

For general inquiries about the Ash River Campground, including seasonal opening/closing dates, current conditions, or specific regulations, you would typically contact the managing authority for the Kabetogama State Forest or the local Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Information Center:

Phone: 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367 (Toll-Free)

Email: info.dnr@state.mn.us

Kabetogama State Forest Contact (potentially through a local DNR office near Orr):

Phone: (218) 365-7229 (This number has been associated with the campground in some listings, suggesting it connects to the local DNR office overseeing it.)

Reservations:

Based on available information, Ash River Campground operates on a "first-come, first-served" basis for its limited number of sites (8 sites). This means reservations are generally not accepted, and availability depends on when you arrive. It is highly advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season or on weekends, to secure a spot, as indicated by reviews regarding sites being occupied.

Always check the most current information from official MN DNR or Forest Service websites before planning your trip, as policies and conditions can change.

For Minnesotans seeking an authentic, rustic Northwoods camping adventure, Ash River Campground in Orr presents a unique opportunity, provided they arrive well-prepared. This campground is particularly suitable for locals who understand and appreciate the raw beauty and inherent challenges of Minnesota's wilderness, especially the region near Voyageurs National Park.

The "no frills, close to primitive" nature of the campground is a key draw for those who value disconnecting from modern conveniences and immersing themselves fully in nature. It’s an ideal staging ground for exploring the water-based wonders of Voyageurs National Park, offering direct access to the Ash River and subsequently the larger lakes like Kabetogama and Namakan. For local canoeists, kayakers, and anglers, this immediate access to premier waterways is invaluable.

However, suitability for locals also hinges on an awareness of the commonly cited challenges. The "relentless" mosquito population, particularly in late spring and early summer, is a significant factor. Minnesotans are often accustomed to dealing with mosquitoes, but the warnings for Ash River suggest an exceptionally high level of preparedness (strong repellents, head nets, long clothing) is necessary. Those who embrace this challenge will find the rewards of the pristine environment well worth it.

Furthermore, the first-come, first-served policy for its limited sites means that flexibility and early arrival are crucial, especially during peak times. Locals with the ability to plan their trips during off-peak weekdays or who are willing to take a chance on availability will find this more manageable. The potential for noise from generators also means that while the setting is natural, it's not always entirely silent, a trade-off for its drive-in access.

Ultimately, for Minnesotans who prioritize a genuine wilderness experience, are prepared for insects, and understand the dynamics of first-come, first-served camping, Ash River Campground offers an affordable and deeply rewarding escape into the heart of their state's iconic northern forests, serving as a gateway to unforgettable adventures in the water-filled landscape of Voyageurs National Park. It’s a place that truly embodies the spirit of the Minnesota outdoors for those who are willing to embrace its wild side.

Ash River Campground

Orr, MN 55771, USA