Wanaki Loop
4.328 reviewsWanaki Loop
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for standard non-electric sites are $21 per night during peak season (May 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025).
About this campground
Discover the enchanting Wanaki Loop, a hidden gem nestled within the beloved Norway Beach Recreation Area along Cass Lake's pristine southern shoreline. This family-favorite camping destination in north central Minnesota beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of tranquil forest camping and endless water adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring hidden coves by kayak, or gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars, Wanaki Loop offers the quintessential Minnesota lake camping experience.
Wanaki Loop offers single-family camping accommodations suitable for tent and RV setups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the historic Norway Beach Visitor Center, a stunning testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps. This beautifully preserved building serves as a gateway to understanding the rich cultural tapestry of the region, featuring compelling exhibits that honor both Dakota and Ojibwe heritage. Here, centuries of indigenous history come alive through carefully curated displays, offering visitors a deeper connection to the land and its first peoples.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Minnesota's changing seasons at Wanaki Loop, where crisp, dry air and crystal-clear skies create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. While winter brings a spectacular frozen wonderland, summer emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons here. Picture yourself waking to gentle morning mists rising off the lake, enjoying sun-drenched afternoons on sandy beaches, and savoring cool evenings perfect for s'mores and storytelling. The moderate summer temperatures and frequent clear skies make every day an invitation to explore.
ElevationWanaki Loop rests at a comfortable elevation typical of Minnesota's lake country, where gentle terrain meets expansive waters, creating an accessible outdoor playground for campers of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a breathtaking landscape where towering red and white pines stand as ancient sentinels over your campsite, their whispers mixing with the gentle lapping of Cass Lake's waters. As the crown jewel of the Cass Lake Chain, this magnificent 16,000-acre lake stretches before you, its 27 miles of forested shoreline hiding secluded bays and inviting sandy beaches. The interplay of forest and water creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty, from mirror-like morning reflections to dramatic sunset displays painting the sky in brilliant hues.
Geological RegionWanaki Loop claims its spectacular setting in the heart of north central Minnesota's lake country, where the legendary Chippewa National Forest embraces the southern shores of Cass Lake. This remarkable geological region showcases the ancient handiwork of glaciers that sculpted the landscape thousands of years ago, leaving behind a paradise of interconnected waterways, rolling forests, and the sandy beaches that make this corner of Minnesota a treasured destination for generations of nature lovers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, vault toilets, showers, and walkways.
Sites SizeMost campsites are described as roomy and suitable for single-family units.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers good privacy at the campsites, as noted by user reviews: "We have always enjoyed the bike trails, visitor center, easy access beach, privacy, cleanliness, and quiet."
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLakefront sites may offer better views, and proximity to the sandy beach.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Fee includes one camping unit (camper, RV, pop-up, family tent) per site
- additional units will be charged an additional fee.
Groups
Group site details are not provided in the authoritative or user review sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in loops.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season: May 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites may be available after the reservation season.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay transactions cannot be canceled or refunded. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wanaki Loop provides an array of recreational activities including hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and boating. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. Cultural and educational programs are held near the Norway Beach Visitor Center.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, including the Migizi Bike Trail and the Norway Beach Trail. Star Island offers a unique hiking experience with its six miles of trails winding around the island.Fishing
Fishing is popular at Cass Lake, where anglers target walleye, northern pike, perch, and trophy muskie. A boat ramp is available to facilitate fishing activities.Swimming
There is an accessible sandy beach close to several campsites, providing opportunities for swimming and other water-based activities.Biking
The Migizi Bike Trail offers scenic routes for biking enthusiasts. User reviews praise its quality, with one stating: "Love the bike trails."Boating
Boating, canoeing, and water skiing are accessible at Cass Lake. The campground includes a boat ramp for visitor convenience.Wildlife viewing
The dense forest of mature red and white pines near the lake offers opportunities for observing local wildlife.Beach activities
The sandy beach is suitable for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs at the nearby Norway Beach Visitor Center showcase Dakota and Ojibwe heritage. Seasonal events include Smokey Bear's birthday party and Bald Eagle Day.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are detailed for Wanaki Loop.Water Sports
Water skiing, canoeing, and other non-motorized water sports are encouraged at Cass Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within provided fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsNo specific hazards mentioned beyond general national forest guidelines.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Cass Lake, 4 miles away, includes police, a hospital, and other emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling facilities are available at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresCass Lake, the largest of eight lakes in the Cass Lake Chain, is directly accessible.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as permanent residents storing items at campsites, trash along trails, and inadequate bathroom supplies.
HostUsers have reported positive experiences with campground hosts.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Cass Lake, Minn., 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.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures are not mentioned. No specific navigational challenges are described.Nearby places
Cass Lake, 4 miles west of the campground.
Nearby supplies
Cass Lake, 4 miles away, provides grocery and hardware stores, restaurants, and other supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.3
8 reviews
Wanaki Loop is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Wanaki Loop is mixed. While many praise its privacy, scenic trails, and family-friendly beach, some reviews raise serious concerns about cleanliness and safety in restroom facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight scenic trails, friendly campground hosts, clean toilets, easy beach access, and well-maintained campsites. Many visitors enjoy the bike trails and the visitor center.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints center around restroom cleanliness, lack of hand soap and sanitizer, and trash along trails. One review reported drug paraphernalia in restroom facilities, raising safety concerns.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring hand soap and sanitizer as facilities may not provide them. Favorite activities include biking, hiking, and fishing. Families with children might enjoy nearby attractions like Bemidji's Science...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the beach, trails, and cultural programs. However, late-season visitors have noted the campground showing some signs of age.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Love the bike trails, great shopping and restaurants close by." 2. "Nice campsites. The restrooms were clean." 3. "Went there with my grandchildren and wouldn't take them back to that...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite-specific highlights include sites 142, 146, 147, 148, 154, 156, and 159. Reviews vary from praising beach proximity and spaciousness to criticizing restroom conditions.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Users appreciated accessible trails and amenities but did not specifically address experiences of campers with disabilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there is no specific commentary on pet-related features or facilities.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025