Judge C.R. Magney Campground, Grand Marais, MN

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans seeking the quintessential North Shore escape, Judge C.R. Magney Campground offers a beautifully rustic and geographically privileged basecamp. Located on the northern stretch of the scenic Highway 61, just a short drive from the artistic hub of Grand Marais, this is a Minnesota State Park that manages to feel both accessible and deeply tucked away in the Boreal Forest. The campground serves as the gateway to the park's most famous attraction, the mysterious Devil's Kettle waterfall on the Brule River, where half the river famously disappears into a subterranean shaft.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the campground is relatively small, featuring only 27 seasonal drive-in sites. This small size contributes to a generally quiet, cozy atmosphere, though the natural environment and location near a major highway mean visitors may occasionally hear nature, neighboring campers, or traffic noise. The emphasis here is on traditional, semi-primitive camping—a true chance to unplug, as cell service is notably sparse. It is a destination perfect for those who prioritize a beautiful, wooded setting and immediate access to rugged hiking trails over extensive modern amenities. The sites are nestled among large white spruce, birch, and aspen, offering a secluded feel despite some sites being close together, particularly for the seasoned tent or small-trailer camper.

Location and Accessibility

Judge C.R. Magney Campground is situated approximately 14 miles northeast of Grand Marais, placing it conveniently near the end of Minnesota's dramatic North Shore. The park's official address is 4051 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA. Its direct frontage on Highway 61 makes it easily accessible for all vehicles traveling the North Shore, though this proximity means some road noise can be heard from certain campsites. This location is one of the key benefits for local users, offering a final, remote-feeling stop before reaching the Canadian border.

The campground is open seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-October, when the seasonal water and shower facilities are operational. All campsites are drive-in, suitable for tents, pop-ups, and small-to-moderate-sized RVs. Visitors with very large RVs or fifth-wheel trailers should be advised that the interior roads are narrow, heavily wooded, and may have low-hanging branches, making navigation challenging. The maximum recommended RV length limit is often cited as 45 feet, but smaller rigs are much more comfortably accommodated. For accessibility, the primary hiking trail, which leads to the Brule River and its famous falls, includes a long, steep section with over 200 stairs, requiring a moderate to strenuous physical effort.

Services Offered

Judge C.R. Magney Campground offers a balance of rustic, wooded camping with essential modern conveniences available seasonally. The focus is on providing necessary facilities without detracting from the natural wilderness experience.

27 Seasonal Drive-In Campsites: Designated sites suitable for tents and small RVs. Note that there are no electric or utility hookups available at any site.
Modern Restroom and Shower House (Seasonal): Flush toilets and showers are available during the warmer months. Visitors should be prepared that facilities are older, and showers often feature push-button operation for water conservation, which may be off during drought conditions.
Vault Toilets (Year-Round): Available when the main bathhouse is closed for the season.
Potable Water: Available from centralized spigots to fill containers (no hookups for RV tanks).
Campsite Amenities: Each designated campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires.
Firewood Sales: Approved firewood bundles are typically available for purchase seasonally at the park office or camp host site. Gathering wood is prohibited to protect the Boreal Forest environment.
Trash and Recycling: Designated dumpsters are provided for trash and recycling disposal.

Features / Highlights

The true value of a stay at Judge C.R. Magney Campground lies in the unique natural features of the surrounding State Park, which draw visitors from across Minnesota and beyond.

The Devil’s Kettle Waterfall: The park’s most iconic feature. The Brule River splits here, with one half plunging over a 50-foot waterfall and the other half pouring into a large, deep pothole (the “Kettle”) from which its exit point was long a mystery, making it a globally famous geological wonder.
Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) Access: The campground is a convenient access point to the SHT, allowing local backpackers and day-hikers to easily link up with this world-class long-distance trail system.
Brule River Trout Fishing: The Brule River and its tributary, Gauthier Creek, are designated trout streams, offering excellent fishing for brook trout, rainbow trout, and seasonal runs of steelhead trout and salmon. A valid fishing license and trout stamp are required.
Diverse Hiking Trails: In addition to the Devil's Kettle Trail, the park offers over nine miles of trails, including the easy, interpretive Timberdoodle Trail and the scenic Gauthier Creek Trail, all set within the lush, wildlife-rich Boreal Forest.
Historical Significance: The campground itself contains historical significance, as concrete foundations remain from a 1934 transient work camp built during the Great Depression.

Contact Information

Judge C.R. Magney State Park and Campground are managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Address:

4051 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA

Phone (Park Information - Staffed seasonally):

(218) 387-3039

Note: For reservations, it is best to use the official Minnesota State Park reservation system online. For general inquiries outside of the main summer season, it may be necessary to contact the nearby Cascade River State Park office, which often manages operations during the off-season.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Judge C.R. Magney Campground is an essential North Shore destination for Minnesota locals because it provides an accessible, authentic, and rugged outdoor experience that embodies the spirit of the Arrowhead Region. While a few of the sites can feel a little close or suffer from minor road noise, this is often a trade-off for the incomparable proximity to the area's top attractions. It is a place where locals can easily pull off Highway 61 and immediately access world-class hiking to a unique geological marvel—the Devil's Kettle—without driving farther into the remote wilderness of the Boundary Waters. The slightly smaller, more rustic nature of the campground discourages large, impersonal crowds, offering a sense of community for those who prefer the quiet integrity of a classic State Park setting. It’s an ideal spot for a short-notice weekend escape or a necessary stop on a longer North Shore loop, allowing residents to reconnect with the dramatic landscape, the crisp waters of Lake Superior, and the legendary hiking trails that define Minnesota’s outdoor heritage.