Temperance River Upper Campground

- Upper Campground, Schroeder, MN 55613

**Introduction / Overview**

For Minnesotans seeking the ultimate blend of rugged North Shore adventure and modern camping convenience, the Temperance River Upper Campground, situated within the stunning Temperance River State Park, is a premier destination. Located just off the scenic Highway 61 near Schroeder, this campground is a gateway to one of the most geologically fascinating and visually breathtaking areas on Lake Superior’s coast. Named for the curious lack of a river sandbar at its mouth (hence, no 'temperance' to hold the water back), the Temperance River has carved a spectacular, deep gorge with dramatic waterfalls and potholes into the ancient volcanic rock.

The Upper Campground is the more developed of the park's two camping areas, specifically catering to those who desire comfort features like electrical hookups, flush toilets, and hot showers after a long day of hiking. It provides a peaceful, shaded retreat nestled among the pines, spruce, and birch forests typical of the region. Critically, its location offers immediate access to a vast network of trails, including the Superior Hiking Trail and the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, ensuring that every camper is just steps away from exploration. This site is consistently highly rated by local users for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and unparalleled proximity to the natural wonders that define the Minnesota North Shore experience.

**Location and Accessibility**

The Temperance River Upper Campground is an easily accessible State Park facility, strategically located on the iconic North Shore Scenic Drive.

The physical address is Upper Campground, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA. The park office and the Upper Campground are found directly off Minnesota Highway 61, the main thoroughfare along the North Shore. This straightforward access is a significant benefit for both RV travelers and tent campers carrying gear.

Unlike remote backcountry sites, this is a drive-in campground, meaning you can park your vehicle directly at or adjacent to your reserved campsite. Its location in Schroeder places it near other popular North Shore towns like Tofte and Lutsen, making it an excellent base for exploring the wider area, including nearby Cascade River State Park and Tettegouche State Park. The campground is situated on the inland side of Highway 61, but offers well-maintained trails and designated access points leading directly to the Lake Superior shoreline and the famous Temperance River Gorge, both of which are right next door to the campground facilities.

**Services Offered**

The Upper Campground is known for its modern, well-maintained amenities, setting a high standard for state park camping in Minnesota. These services ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for all types of visitors, from families to RV travelers.

• Electrical Hookups: A number of sites within the Upper Campground loop are equipped with electric hookups, accommodating RVs and trailers up to 60 feet in length.
• Modern Comfort Station: The campground features a newer, updated bathroom building with flush toilets and seasonal hot showers. Reviews frequently praise the exceptional cleanliness of these facilities.
• Combination Bathroom/Shower Units: In addition to the main bathhouse, some reviews indicate the convenience of private bathroom/shower combo units, providing an added level of privacy.
• Primitive Vault Toilets: Clean vault (primitive) toilets are also maintained and strategically placed throughout the campground loops for quick access.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available via faucets located at various points within the campground area.
• Ice and Firewood for Sale: Firewood (approved for use in the park) and ice can be purchased seasonally at the park office or nature store, ensuring compliance with state regulations designed to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Park Office/Nature Store: The park office serves as an information hub, a place to purchase vehicle permits, and a source for minor essentials.

**Features / Highlights**

The appeal of the Temperance River Upper Campground extends far beyond its excellent infrastructure, rooted deeply in its unique natural features and prime location.

• Direct Trail Access Network: Campers have immediate access to the park’s extensive trail system (over 22 miles), including the route to the magnificent Temperance River Gorge, with its impressive waterfalls and deep potholes, and the easily reachable Hidden Falls.
• Superior Hiking Trail Hub: The park is a major trailhead and junction point for the 310-mile Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), offering endless opportunities for day hikes or longer backpacking trips from your campsite.
• Lake Superior Proximity and Views: Several highly-sought-after sites (like 6, 7, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, and 30 mentioned by visitors) offer stunning lake views, where you can hear the relaxing sound of the waves and walk a short distance to the rocky shoreline and splash pools.
• Spacious and Shaded Sites: Sites are generally large, spread out, and well-shaded by the mature mixed forest. This separation ensures privacy, preventing campers from feeling "on top of each other," which is a consistent highlight in user feedback.
• Gitchi-Gami State Trail Access: The paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail, a multi-use path, runs through the park, offering a safe and scenic route for bicycling enthusiasts, connecting the park to other North Shore points of interest.
• Hidden Falls and Gorge Bridges: Key scenic spots like the bridge over the gorge and the view of Hidden Falls are within a short, scenic walk from the campground loops.

**Contact Information**

As a well-established Minnesota State Park campground, the Temperance River Upper Campground has clear and dependable contact points for reservations and inquiries.

Address: Upper Campground, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA

Phone: (218) 663-3100

Mobile Phone: +1 218-663-3100

For making reservations, which are highly recommended, especially during peak summer and fall color seasons, campers must utilize the Minnesota DNR’s official State Park reservation system online or via their call center.

**Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals**

The Temperance River Upper Campground is perfectly suited for Minnesota locals as it represents the quintessential North Shore camping experience without sacrificing comfort. For residents, it is a highly valued retreat offering a reliable, high-quality basecamp for exploring a beloved region. The combination of its modern, clean facilities (especially the new shower house), the availability of electric hookups for extended stays, and the spacious, forested campsites makes it ideal for Minnesota families, weekend warriors, and RV enthusiasts alike.

More importantly, its location provides a deep immersion into the state’s natural heritage. From the campground, you are minutes away from walking the famed SHT, climbing the nearby Carlton Peak for panoramic Lake Superior views, or simply enjoying a picnic by the river mouth. The ability to park your car and immediately access the dramatic gorges and the vast, cold expanse of Lake Superior makes this camp a celebrated and frequent destination—a true Minnesota gem that requires early booking but rewards the dedicated traveler with unparalleled scenic beauty and convenience. It is not just a place to sleep; it is the heart of a North Shore adventure.

Temperance River Upper Campground

Upper Campground, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA