Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp

- 123 Whispering Pine Dr, Big Falls, MN 56627

Introduction / Overview

Tucked away in the "Heart of the Wilderness" in Koochiching County, the Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp is a true northern Minnesota gem, offering an exceptional blend of natural beauty and modern convenience. This municipal park, situated directly on the picturesque Bigfork River, is the only one of its kind in the region, providing complete camping facilities for RVs, tents, and even a dedicated area for equestrian enthusiasts. The most defining feature is the campground's proximity to the stunning natural rock ledges and outcroppings of the Bigfork River, which create beautiful rapids and waterfalls that are known to be soothingly therapeutic. As one satisfied local camper noted, the sound of the falls is “SO therapeutic we both slept like bears in January.”

The park’s location is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and recreation. It’s an easy base camp for exploring the vast surrounding wilderness, offering direct access to the famous Blue Ox ATV Trail and a variety of horse riding opportunities. The setting is one of lofty pines and surrounding woods, creating a serene and pristine natural environment that changes beautifully with the seasons. Whether you are seeking a peaceful riverside retreat to enjoy the therapeutic sounds of rushing water, or an active adventure exploring the vast trail systems, Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp provides a welcoming and well-maintained facility for all types of Northern Minnesota travelers. The commitment to cleanliness and visitor comfort, highlighted by reviewers praising the “clean indoor showers and restrooms,” sets this location apart as a premier choice for locals looking for a reliable and high-quality outdoor experience close to home.

Location and Accessibility

The Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp is centrally located within the small, friendly community of Big Falls, Minnesota, right at the junction of State Highways 71 and 6. This strategic position makes it highly accessible for both road travelers and trail users. The physical address is 123 Whispering Pine Dr, Big Falls, MN 56627, USA. Despite being situated in the heart of the wilderness—approximately 40 miles south of the Canadian border and Voyageurs National Park—the camp is not remote in terms of convenience.

Accessibility is a key advantage of this location. The campground offers easy drive-in access for all vehicle types, from small cars to large RVs, with spacious, level sites available. For those arriving without a vehicle, the charming downtown district of Big Falls, including shops, a restaurant, and a local pub, is within easy walking distance. Trail access is also seamless, as the campground is directly connected to the Blue Ox ATV Trail system. Furthermore, its placement along the Bigfork River makes it a crucial portage and rest area on the Bigfork River State Water Trail, welcoming canoeists, kayakers, and boaters. While most of the surrounding area offers a deep-woods feel, the camp is conveniently located near the main routes for travelers heading north or south through the state, making it a perfect stopping point for a local Minnesota road trip or a multi-day outdoor excursion.

Services Offered

The Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp offers a comprehensive array of services that cater to various camping preferences, moving well beyond basic primitive sites to ensure a comfortable stay.

• Full Utility Hookups: A variety of sites are available, including 50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp electric hookups, water hookups, and some sites offer sewer connections for RVs.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean, modern, and indoor shower and bathroom facilities are provided, a highly praised amenity by returning guests.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RV and trailer waste disposal.
• Dedicated Horse Camp: A separate, specialized area is available for equestrian campers, offering electric and water hookups, as well as tie lines at each site.
• Campsite Variety: Options include back-in sites, pull-through sites, spacious tent sites nestled among the pines, and sites with water-only or electric-only hookups.
• Picnic and Group Facilities: The park features two riverside pavilions and spacious open areas available for group use, such as family reunions, weddings, and group meetings.
• Fire Amenities: Sites typically include fire pits or fire rings, perfect for cozy campfires in the evening.
• Seasonal and Monthly Rates: Flexible booking options, including daily, weekly, and monthly rates, are available to accommodate both short stays and extended seasonal visits.

Features / Highlights

The unique features and highlights of this campground are deeply rooted in its spectacular natural setting and its connectivity to the northern Minnesota trail systems.

• Immediate Access to Bigfork River Falls: The campground is situated right next to the beautiful waterfalls and rapids of the Bigfork River, offering a unique opportunity for swimming, wading, and relaxing by the flowing water—a feature frequently noted for its therapeutic sound and beauty.
• Direct Blue Ox ATV Trail Connection: Campers have direct and convenient access to the 120-mile Blue Ox ATV Trail, making it an ideal headquarters for four-wheeling adventures in the region.
• Extensive Horse Riding Trails: The dedicated Horse Camp provides riders with direct access to miles of marked multi-use trails, allowing for deep exploration of the Northwoods on horseback.
• Historical Significance: The site has a rich history as a portage camp used by Native Americans, voyageurs, and lumberjacks for thousands of years, offering a palpable connection to Minnesota’s past.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest is a natural habitat for a variety of northern Minnesota wildlife, including deer, moose, black bears, eagles, and many types of waterfowl, making it a prime location for photography and nature observation.
• Riverside Recreation: Excellent fishing opportunities are available from the shore or by boat, with species like walleye, northern pike, and muskie found in the Bigfork River. The park also provides easy access for canoeing and kayaking the State Water Trail.

Contact Information

For reservations, current rates, and specific information regarding site availability or group bookings, visitors are encouraged to contact the management team directly.

Address: 123 Whispering Pine Dr, Big Falls, MN 56627, USA

Phone: (218) 276-3300

Mobile Phone: +1 218-276-3300

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans, the Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp offers the perfect “Heart of the Wilderness” getaway without sacrificing comfort or accessibility. It serves as an essential hub for local outdoor communities—ATV riders, equestrians, paddlers, and fishermen—providing a well-equipped base camp for their preferred activities. Unlike many remote state forest sites, this municipal campground offers the convenience of modern, clean indoor showers and restrooms, a factor that makes a weekend trip significantly more enjoyable for families and groups.

Its unique location right next to the Bigfork River falls provides a serene, therapeutic experience that is a rare find in a developed campground. Locals can drive a manageable distance north and immediately immerse themselves in the full Northwoods experience—the towering pine trees, the sound of the rapids, and abundant wildlife—all while knowing they are close enough to the small-town amenities of Big Falls. It is a genuine Minnesota treasure where adventure meets relaxation, creating a reliable, high-quality, and deeply satisfying tradition for residents to enjoy season after season. It’s the ideal local choice for those who value both wilderness proximity and modern camping essentials.

Big Falls Campground & Horse Camp

123 Whispering Pine Dr, Big Falls, MN 56627, USA