BP3 Split Rock State Park Campsite

For those of us here in Minnesota who truly cherish the breathtaking beauty of our state's North Shore, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park stands as an iconic destination. And within this legendary park, the BP3 Split Rock State Park Campsite offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Minnesota's most stunning landscapes. This isn't just any campground; it's a gateway to amazing views of Lake Superior, rugged cliffs, and dense forests, creating an unforgettable outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is renowned for its dramatic bluffs overlooking Lake Superior and, of course, the historic Split Rock Lighthouse itself. The campsites within the park are designed to complement this natural grandeur, offering a range of options from secluded, primitive sites for the adventurous to more accessible spots for families and RVs. The consistent feedback from visitors highlights the "amazing view" that is a hallmark of camping here, reminding us why the North Shore holds such a special place in our hearts.

Whether you're looking to hike a portion of the Superior Hiking Trail, paddle along the Lake Superior Water Trail, or simply relax and take in the majestic scenery, BP3 Split Rock State Park Campsite provides the perfect base. It's a place where the roar of Lake Superior becomes your lullaby, and the vast expanse of water under a starry sky provides a spectacle unlike any other. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and tranquility, all against the backdrop of one of Minnesota's most celebrated landmarks.

BP3 Split Rock State Park Campsite is located within the expansive and highly popular Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, with its address being Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA. This places it directly on Minnesota's iconic North Shore of Lake Superior, offering unparalleled access to one of the most scenic and celebrated regions of the state.

The park itself is easily accessible via Highway 61, the main thoroughfare along the North Shore, making it a convenient drive for many Minnesotans. However, accessibility to specific campsites within Split Rock Lighthouse State Park varies significantly, depending on the type of site:

• Shipwreck Creek Campground (Electric Sites): This newer section features 46 seasonal electric sites, most with long parking pads (up to 70 feet) suitable for RVs, trailers, and large vehicles. These sites are drive-in, offering convenient access directly to your campsite.

• Cart-In Sites: Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is particularly known for its unique "cart-in" campsites. These 20 secluded sites are located between Day Hill and Lake Superior, requiring campers to park in a nearby lot and use wheeled carts (provided seasonally) to transport their gear up to 2000 feet to their site. In winter, sleds or packs are recommended. Some of these sites are directly on the rocky Lake Superior shoreline.

• Backpack/Kayak-In Sites: For the most remote experience, there are 4 backpack/kayak-in campsites. These primitive sites are located along the Lake Superior shoreline, with two accessible via the Lake Superior Water Trail. These require a hike or paddle to reach, appealing to experienced adventurers.

Regardless of the site type, the park office at the entrance serves as the primary point for registration and information. This multi-faceted accessibility ensures that whether you're bringing a large RV or a minimalist backpack, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park offers a suitable way to experience its incredible views.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, and by extension its campsites like BP3 (which would fall under one of the categories below), offers a range of services designed to accommodate various camping styles, from modern conveniences to rustic solitude.

• Diverse Campsite Options:

  • Electric Sites (Shipwreck Creek Campground): 46 seasonal sites with electric hookups (50/30/20 amp) suitable for RVs and tents. Each includes a picnic table and fire ring.

  • Cart-In Sites: 20 secluded sites, each with a tent pad, picnic table, fire ring, and animal-proof food storage locker. Wheeled carts are provided seasonally for gear transport from parking.

  • Backpack/Kayak-In Sites: 4 remote, primitive sites with a picnic table, fire ring, animal-proof food storage box, and rustic latrines.

• Restrooms and Showers: Seasonal accessible showers and flush toilets are available near the Shipwreck Creek Campground and the cart-in campground parking area. Year-round vault toilets are also provided throughout the park.

• Dishwashing Station: A dishwashing station is available near the main shower and restroom building for convenience.

• Firewood and Ice Sales: Firewood is available for purchase year-round at the park office, and ice is sold seasonally. This helps prevent the spread of tree diseases.

• No Dump or Fill Station: It's crucial to note that the park does NOT have a dump or fill station for RVs. Campers are advised to fill their water tanks before arrival and use dump stations in nearby Two Harbors or Silver Bay.

• Park Office/Ranger Station: Open year-round with extended summer hours, offering information, camping registration, park permits, a small gift shop, and vending machines.

• Trail Center: A four-season facility near Pebble Beach with modern restrooms, indoor gathering space (with tables and a wood stove), and an outdoor patio with grills. Available for rent.

• Picnic Areas: Numerous individual picnic sites with tables and fire rings are available, including areas near Pebble Beach.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, home to BP3 Campsite, is brimming with features and highlights that make it one of Minnesota's premier outdoor destinations.

• Iconic Split Rock Lighthouse: The park is the setting for the historic Split Rock Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the nation. While tours of the lighthouse itself (managed by the Minnesota Historical Society) have a separate fee, simply being in its dramatic presence and capturing photos is a major highlight.

• "Amazing Views" of Lake Superior: As noted by visitors, the views of Lake Superior from various points in the park, including many campsites, are truly spectacular. The rugged shoreline, dramatic cliffs, and vast expanse of the lake create a constantly changing, breathtaking panorama.

• Extensive Trail System: The park offers over 14 miles of diverse trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. This includes segments of the renowned Superior Hiking Trail, with spur trails leading to the lakeshore and the historic site, offering stunning vistas and opportunities to explore hidden waterfalls along the Split Rock River.

• Gitchi-Gami State Trail Access: The paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail runs through the park, providing an excellent route for biking, inline skating, or walking with picturesque views of the North Shore.

• Unique Cart-In Camping Experience: The secluded cart-in campsites offer a unique blend of primitive camping with some nearby amenities, providing a quiet and immersive experience just a short haul from your vehicle.

• Lake Superior Water Access: The park provides multiple access points for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Superior. It also features backpack/kayak-in campsites along the Lake Superior Water Trail, popular with sea kayakers.

• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife, including moose, deer, black bears, red foxes, and snowshoe hares. The cliffs are home to nesting peregrine falcons, and the park is a haven for various bird species.

• Winter Activities: The park remains a vibrant destination in winter, offering opportunities for winter camping (cart-in or backpack sites), snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, with a warming house at the Trail Center.

• Scuba Diving: A unique feature is the scuba diving access point to the historic shipwreck of the Madeira, just offshore, appealing to certified divers.

As a Minnesota State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park (including its campsites like BP3) operates under the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fee structure. It does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" such as discounts or loyalty programs in the way a private campground might. Instead, the "offers" are structured around the state park system's access and usage policies.

Key information regarding costs and access for campers includes:

• Park Vehicle Permits: A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry. Options include a daily permit ($7) or an annual permit ($35 for primary vehicle, $26 for second vehicle). These permits grant access to all Minnesota State Parks for the duration.

• Camping Fees: Camping fees are separate from the vehicle permit and vary based on the type of site (electric, cart-in, backpack/kayak-in). These fees are standardized across the Minnesota State Park system.

• Online Reservations: The park offers a convenient online reservation system (via the Minnesota DNR website) which allows campers to book sites 24 hours a day, up to a year in advance. Phone reservations are also available.

• Free Park Days: The Minnesota DNR occasionally offers "Free Park Days" throughout the year, where the vehicle permit requirement is waived. These are generally announced on the DNR website and provide an opportunity to explore the park at no entry cost.

• Annual Pass Benefits: Purchasing an annual park permit is a "value offer" for frequent visitors, as it provides unlimited access to all state parks for a full year.

For the most current information on camping fees, reservation availability, or any specific state park promotions (like "Free Park Days"), visitors should always refer to the official Minnesota DNR website or contact the park directly.

For detailed information, reservations, or inquiries about BP3 Split Rock State Park Campsite and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, please use the following contact information:

Address: 3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA

Park Office Phone: (218) 595-7625

State Park Reservations (via Minnesota DNR): 866-857-2757 (TTY: 952-936-4008). Reservations can be made online 24 hours a day via the Minnesota DNR website (dnr.state.mn.us) or by phone during specific hours (April-September, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily; October-March, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily).

It is highly recommended to check the official Minnesota DNR website for Split Rock Lighthouse State Park for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, seasonal closures, trail conditions, and any changes to reservation policies, especially before planning your trip.

For us Minnesotans, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and its campsites, including BP3, represent the pinnacle of our state's outdoor offerings and an essential part of our local identity. This destination is profoundly suitable for locals, offering a multifaceted experience that resonates deeply with our appreciation for natural beauty and diverse recreation.

Firstly, the "amazing view" of Lake Superior is not just a review comment; it's a shared Minnesota treasure. We understand the unique allure of the North Shore – the rugged cliffs, the vastness of the lake, and the serene beauty that changes with every season. Camping here puts us right in the heart of this iconic landscape, offering a daily dose of awe-inspiring scenery that feels both familiar and endlessly captivating.

Secondly, the variety of camping options caters to almost every local's preference. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker seeking solitude on a remote cart-in site, a family looking for the convenience of an electric hookup at Shipwreck Creek, or a paddler embarking on a Lake Superior water trail adventure, Split Rock offers a tailored experience. This flexibility allows us to choose the level of wilderness immersion that suits our current needs, making it a recurring destination for different types of trips.

Furthermore, the park's extensive trail system – including segments of the renowned Superior Hiking Trail and the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail – provides endless opportunities for our active lifestyles. We love to hike, bike, and explore, and these well-maintained trails allow us to fully engage with the park's natural wonders. The historic lighthouse itself, while a separate attraction, adds a layer of cultural and historical significance that enriches the entire visit.

In essence, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is suitable for Minnesotans because it embodies the very best of our state: stunning natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and a deep connection to our history. It's a place where we can unwind, recharge, and create lasting memories, all while enjoying the majestic North Shore that we proudly call our backyard.