Schoolcraft State Park RV & Campground Guide
Minnesota
- Home
- State Parks
- Minnesota
- Schoolcraft State Park
Schoolcraft State Park is a quiet 225-acre park located on the banks of the Mississippi River. The park was created in 1959 and named for Henry Rowe Schoolcraft. The remote location of the park makes this one of the most peaceful in the state of Minnesota. Visitors can enjoy a scenic sunrise over the river while the wind gently blows through the dense pine tree forest. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, and nature watching are popular activities in the park.
Spring 10 - 65 F
Summer 47 - 78 F
Fall 17 - 65 F
Winter -10 - 23 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Schoolcraft State Park
Schoolcraft Campground is the only campground within the park and is home to 28 campsites. Each site is designated as a rustic site and does not include any electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Each campsite can accommodate a maximum RV size of 40 feet and comes equipped with a fire ring with a grill and picnic table. Vault toilets are available in the campground, but there are no modern restrooms. Campers are welcome to bring their pets, but they must remain on a six-foot leash when not in a crate or vehicle.
What to Do at
Schoolcraft State Park
While Schoolcraft State Park is a rustic park, there are still ample activities to enjoy throughout the year. During the warmer months, the Mississippi River provides excellent fishing opportunities, kayaking, and canoeing. There is a two-mile hiking trail that takes you through wooded areas along the river and includes interpretive signs that share the story of the land. A picnic area is located just north of the boat launch and provides relaxing views of the riverfront. Once the snow flies, the park becomes popular for snowshoeing.
With its serene natural environment, Darien Lakes State Park is a beautiful spot for a day of outdoor adventuring.
Fishing
The Mississippi River offers anglers the opportunity to catch walleye and northern pike. A boat launch just north of the campground provides access to the water. A state of Minnesota fishing license is required, and you can get one online before arriving.
Nature Watching
Waterfowl is abundant in Schoolcraft State Park, and birders may also spot songbirds and raptors. While exploring, you may also see deer, chipmunks, and rabbits.
Stargazing
The park is located in a remote area of northern Minnesota, far away from light pollution from a big city. A great place to view stars, planets, and constellations is from the river's shore.
Hiking
A two-mile hiking trail takes you around the park's perimeter and along the Mississippi River shoreline. The trail is relatively flat and mostly consists of mowed grass, making it a family-friendly route.
Boating
A boat launch can be found in the park just past the campground. This launch provides access to fishing or sightseeing on the water.
How to Get to
Schoolcraft State Park
Schoolcraft State Park is located at 9042 Schoolcraft Ln NE, Deer River, MN 56636. If you are traveling to the park from Brainerd, MN, you will need to take MN-210 E until you reach MN-6 N, where you will turn left. Once you are on MN-6 N, you will travel 70 miles until you turn right onto MN-200 E. You will travel on MN-200 E for only 0.8 miles before turning left onto MN-6 N until you reach Great River Rd/Itasca County Road 28. Turn left onto this road and then make a right-hand turn onto 88th Ave NE/Great River Rd. Travel along this road for one mile and then turn right onto Schoolcraft Ln NE, which will take you straight into the park.
Entering Schoolcraft State Park
Schoolcraft State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry. Once you enter the park, you will drive straight and run into the registration kiosk. From this registration kiosk, you can turn right to head to the campground. Turn left for the boat launch and picnic area. Parking is available near the entrance and boat launch. While the park is open year-round, the campground closes in the fall and opens in mid-May. Once the campgrounds are closed, all drinking water is turned off in the park.
An annual Minnesota State Park vehicle permit can be acquired online for a $35 fee and is good for 12 months from the month of purchase. A daily pass is also available for a $7 fee. Any camping fees are separate from entrance fees and will be paid when you reserve your camping spot.
Daily Pass : $7.0
Yearly Pass : $35.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Schoolcraft State Park
The best time of year to visit the park is in the summer months. This will give you the best opportunity to spot waterfowl along the Mississippi River shore while also being comfortable for fishing and hiking.
While exploring the hiking trails, you may see deer, rabbits, and chipmunks. Birders will have the opportunity to add several species of waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors to their journals.
Yes, there are designated RV camping spots in the rustic campground. These sites have a maximum RV length of 40 feet. Each site has a grill, picnic table, and nearby vault toilets.
Yes, you need to reserve a camping spot before arrival. This can be done online up to 120 days in advance. The cost of a campsite is $20 per night.
Yes, you need to reserve a camping spot before arrival. This can be done online up to 120 days in advance. The cost of a campsite is $20 per night.