Details
Grand Portage National Monument, Grand Portage, MN, 55605
National Park ServiceLast Updated: December 6, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Two backcountry campsites, accessible to hikers and canoeists, are located at the Pigeon River (Canada/U.S. border) end of Grand Portage National Monument. Each campsite is limited to nine people. Camping permits are required and issued by the park. A permit system allows campers to reserve a campsite in advance. Allow a minimum of two weeks in advance for permit processing.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
The two Fort Charlotte backcountry Campsites are accessible to hikers and canoeists. There is a canoe landing on the Pigeon River and a wayside/information kiosk nearby.
Weather
Short, warm summers and long, cold winters define the climate of northern Minnesota. Average range of summer temperature is from 55°F to 78°F in July and average range of winter temperatures is from –11°F to 12°F in January. In Grand Portage on the shore of Lake Superior, precipitation is typically 26 to 29 inches annually but higher in the interior highlands nearer the Fort Charlotte side of the Grand Portage footpath. For more information go to: http://www.nps.gov/grpo/planyourvisit/weather.htm
Amenities
Toilets
Potable Water
Directions
Fort Charlotte is reached by canoeing down the Pigeon River from South Fowl Lake or hiking up the Grand Portage footpath from the historic depot/heritage center area on Grand Portage Bay of Lake Superior. An alternative entry to the Grand Portage footpath can be accessed by driving up County Road 17 to the trailhead where Old Highway 61 intersects the portage.
Rates & Fees
Canoe-in, Walk-in, tent-only sites
There are no fees to use these backcountry campgrounds. Camping permits available from the Grand Portage National Monument Heritage Center are required. You also may reserve a campsite by phone at: 218.475.0123.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Campfires must be built in fire rings/grills where provided. Burn only dead, fallen wood. Cutting of standing (living or dead) trees is prohibited. Open fires will be prohibited during times of high fire danger. Any remnants of a fire must be extinguished, cold to the touch, free of litter with no evidience of food remains that could attract animals. The use of portable camp stoves is permitted in designated campsites.Regulations Overview
Quiet hours - In order to insure a quality camping experience, quiet hours are enforced from 10 P.M. to 6 A.M. Ground Disturbance - Do not dig or disrupt the topsoil. Tent floors - There are two wooden tent platforms in each campsite. Please use them when available. Garbage and Waste - Visitors must be prepared to carry their refuse out of the park. Do not dispose of garbage in toilets, bury it or throw it in the river. Pets - Pets are best left at home. Dogs must be on lease, no longer than 6 feet in length. Pet excrement must be removed if it is within 200 feet of the trail, campsite or water.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
These backcountry campsites are not wheelchair accessible.
Cell Phone Information
no cell service
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
These backcountry campsites are not RV & Trailer accessible.
RV Maximum Length
0
Additional Information
Quiet hours - In order to insure a quality camping experience, quiet hours are enforced from 10 P.M. to 6 A.M. Ground Disturbance - Do not dig or disrupt the topsoil. Tent floors - There are two wooden tent platforms in each campsite. Please use them when available. Garbage and Waste - Visitors must be prepared to carry their refuse out of the park. Do not dispose of garbage in toilets, bury it or throw it in the river. Pets - Pets are best left at home. Dogs must be on leash, no longer than 6 feet in length. Pet excrement must be removed if it is within 200 feet of the trail, campsite or water.
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
These backcountry campsites are not ADA accessible.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
No Roads
Classifications
Primitive Camping Areas
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