Benders Camp, Northome, MN

Introduction / Overview

For generations of Minnesotans, the idea of a true Northwoods getaway evokes images of rustic cabins, shimmering lakes, and the kind of deep-rooted hospitality that only a long-standing family business can provide. Benders Camp, nestled on the scenic eastern shore of Island Lake near Northome, MN, is precisely that kind of destination. It’s a place where history meets genuine relaxation, offering a unique blend of traditional camping and comfortable resort amenities.

The camp's history stretches back to the 'roaring 20s' when the Bender family first settled in the Island Lake area, eventually purchasing miles of pristine lakeshore. Today, the third generation of the Bender family continues the legacy, focusing on maintaining the camp’s rich history while adapting to modern needs. This generational commitment to the property is what sets Benders Camp apart, transforming a simple vacation spot into a place where guests are genuinely treated as family. Customer reviews consistently highlight this exceptional hospitality, with one guest stating, "The Benders are some of the Best people you'll ever meet! I've been going up to Benders camp my entire life. They treat you as family and the fishing is great!" Another repeat visitor perfectly summed up the atmosphere: "To me and my family this is paradise! The scenery, family and dog friendly, wonderful hosts and the fishing is great too! So many memories here, we have come back year after year. Rustic, relaxing and just a wonderful place to go."

Benders Camp is not just a place to stay; it’s an authentic experience centered around Island Lake—a body of water spanning over 3,000 acres—offering a stunning backdrop for fishing, boating, and nightly sunsets. Whether you are looking for a week of great angling or a quiet, dog-friendly retreat from the hustle of city life, Benders Camp embodies the quintessential, welcoming spirit of a Minnesota lake vacation.

Location and Accessibility

Benders Camp is ideally situated in the heart of Northern Minnesota’s wilderness, providing a perfectly secluded setting while remaining accessible for local travelers. The camp is located on the East shore of beautiful Island Lake, near the small town of Northome in Koochiching County. This area lies within the vast boundaries of the Chippewa National Forest, ensuring that the surrounding environment remains natural and pristine.

The full address is 65498 Benders Rd, Northome, MN 56661, USA.

Access to the camp is well-defined, with the entrance clearly marked off of County Road 24 onto Benders Road. The location provides a direct, seamless gateway to some of the best outdoor activities Minnesota has to offer. Guests are positioned to easily access a wide array of recreational opportunities, including miles of state trail systems for ATVs, snowmobiles, and hiking. The camp acts as a fantastic headquarters for exploring the wider region, with information readily available for local highlights such as the Blue Ox state trail, the Alvwood Squaw Lake ATV/OHM trail system, Wilderness ATV trails, and the unique natural attraction known as The Lost 40. Furthermore, the camp is an excellent base for anglers who wish to venture out and fish Red Lake or the border waters near Canada. The camp’s location—surrounded by over six acres of land including prime lakeshore—ensures a relaxing setting away from any urban clamor.

Services Offered

Benders Camp provides a comprehensive range of lodging and guest services designed to meet the needs of families, anglers, and relaxation-seekers alike:

Cabin and House Rentals: Offers a variety of accommodations, from full house rentals with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and two bathrooms, to large traditional cabins like the "Grandpas" unit.
Camping Cabins: Provides more rustic, economy-style camping cabins for guests seeking a true camping experience, utilizing community shower houses/bathrooms and a shared cooking area.
RV Sites: New RV lots are available for travelers bringing their own home-on-wheels, including recent upgrades to the septic systems in the area.
Full Lake Access: Features extensive lakeshore, docks, and a beautiful beach area on Island Lake.
Boat Rentals: Provides boat and possibly pontoon rentals for guests to fully enjoy the 3000+ acres of Island Lake.
Fish Cleaning House: An outside fish cleaning house is available, catering to the needs of the numerous fishing guests.
Free Wi-Fi: Available in some of the larger rental units to allow for connectivity when needed.
The Main Lodge: A central, common area open to all guests for gathering and relaxation.
Laundry Facilities: Available to guests utilizing the camping cabins and other resort accommodations.

Features / Highlights

The appeal of Benders Camp is found in its perfect blend of Northwoods charm, family atmosphere, and prime recreational opportunities:

Generational Family Ownership: The camp has been owned and operated by the Bender family for decades, ensuring a welcoming, personal, and consistent experience for all guests.
Outstanding Fishing: The camp’s location on Island Lake is praised by guests year after year for its excellent fishing, offering anglers a chance to catch a variety of Northern Minnesota species.
Prime Lakeshore & Beach: Guests enjoy a peaceful lakeside fire pit area, docks, and a beautiful beach ideal for family fun and swimming.
Dog and Family Friendly: The resort is explicitly noted for being family- and dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for the entire household to escape.
Direct Trail Access: The camp is ideally situated for ATV, snowmobile, and hiking enthusiasts, with easy access to the Blue Ox state trail and other local trail systems in Itasca and Koochiching Counties.
Rustic Charm and Relaxation: Accommodations, especially the camping cabins, offer a highly rustic and relaxing environment—an essential factor for those seeking a true detox from city life.
New RV Infrastructure: Recent upgrades, including new RV lots and septic systems, reflect the owners’ commitment to improving the facilities while maintaining the camp’s historic charm.
Stunning Sunsets: Guests are treated nightly to picturesque, unspoiled sunsets over Island Lake—a signature feature of the Northome area.

Contact Information

For booking reservations, seasonal rates, or inquiries about specific accommodations like the full house rentals or RV lot availability, the Benders Camp team can be reached directly via phone.

Address: 65498 Benders Rd, Northome, MN 56661, USA

Phone: (218) 553-0127

Mobile Phone: +1 218-553-0127

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Benders Camp is not merely a campground for Minnesota locals; it is an enduring tradition. Its strongest appeal is the 'Mom & Pops' feel, a rare quality that assures returning guests of a genuine, consistent Northwoods welcome. For Minnesotans weary of commercialized tourism, this camp offers an authentic taste of the past—a place where the owners know your name and treat your visit with personal care. The camp serves as a perfect, centralized gateway for the local adventurer, allowing quick access to an unparalleled network of ATV, snowmobile, and hiking trails within the majestic Chippewa National Forest.

Whether you're bringing your extended family for an annual reunion—complete with great fishing on Island Lake—or simply seeking a quiet, dog-friendly spot to watch the sun set over the water, Benders Camp provides the ideal environment. It perfectly encapsulates the desirable 'rustic, relaxing' Minnesota experience, making it a reliable and beloved escape for residents looking to create their own long-lasting memories, year after year, just as generations of other visitors have done before them.