My school group usually does the motel thing near Eveleth on the way to our destination, but we are brainstorming budget cuts to save a little money for our trip. I'm wondering if any of you are familiar with nice campgrounds along I 35 north of the twin cities or farther north along 53 towards Eveleth.

That motel stay is kind of nice for the kids before and after, but we are equipped with tents and could easily camp for that night before and after.

Any ideas? Thanks.

Banning State Park - about 10 minutes north of Hinckley

Moose Lake State Park - about 20 minutes north of Banning

Jay Cooke State Park - Take the Carlton (Black Bear casino)exit

Can't remember the name? But there is also camping in the park on the SW end of Ely lake near the Eveleth golf course.

Gilbert Sherwood forest campground. 5 minutes from Eveleth.

Pretty sure there's a KOA in Cloquet?

Not sure on this one? But I think there's one just north of Cotton before you cross the Whiteface river?

bear head lake state park just outside of ely.

Bear Head Lake State Park has very nice wooded campsites.

Thanks you all! good info for the future!

Bearhead's a grat place to stay, get a shower before you go in. Word to the wise: Reserve the campsite if it's for Friday or Sat night as these parks are popular in the summer. For north shore parks like Cascade River, reserve for any night. Campground reservations