How to Fully Enjoy Your Unplugged Time Away

black dog sits on a paddleboard with paddler on a very calm Bow Lake

Does camping without cell service scare you? It shouldn’t. Here’s how to enjoy your “no-phone” time away! Here at Okontoe you don’t need to worry about not having cell service. In fact, most of our guests find they absolutely love their “forced” media fast. It’s really not that unusual for wilderness campgrounds to be off … Read more

Every Season in the North Woods Has Its Positives

paddle boarding on Bow Lake

No matter when during the camping season you come, our area has its beauty—and also some reasons why you may want to choose a different time! It depends on what you’re looking for and how you want to spend your time. We’ll take each month from May to October to let you know what to … Read more

Minnesota’s Best Fall Color Hike: Oberg Mountain Loop Trail

hiker looks over the guard rail at one of Oberg Mountains many overlooks

Of course “the best” of anything is always up for debate. But in this case, the Oberg Mountain Loop hiking trail truly is in the running for Minnesota’s Best Fall Color Hike. People love this hike for it’s several spectacular views of Lake Superior as well as equally great views of the surrounding inland “mountains” … Read more

What To Do on the Gunflint Trail: Summer & Fall

Gunflint Trail surrounded by trees in the fall

Minnesota’s Gunflint Trail is one of the most beautiful drives in the country, especially from mid-May through October. And this drive provides loads of fun things to do for the whole family. “The Trail” begins in Grand Marais and stretches 58 miles northwest to dead-end at (aptly named) Trail’s End Campground. For those who’ve been … Read more

23 of the Best Hikes for Families Near Grand Marais

family hike at Blueberry Hill, Gunflint Trail - mom, dad, baby in backpack and dog

The little harbor town of Grand Marais, Minnesota is surrounded by some of the best family hiking in the Midwest. And almost all these trails are an easy day trip from your stay at Okontoe—or they make fun stops on your way up or back home. Here are 23 of the best hiking trails for … Read more