Knife Island Campground

What if you could camp where glacially carved slate rock formations create a natural masterpiece, while still having Jay Cooke State Park as your backyard playground? Knife Island Campground, located in Esko, Minnesota, offers this unique blend of geological wonder and outdoor adventure. This privately owned campground sits directly along the St. Louis River, immersing campers in serene waterside views and abundant wildlife, despite its proximity to major roadways.

The campground features 30 sites, including both RV and tent options, with amenities like electricity, water, ADA accessibility, and a sanitary dump station. A mix of wooded grasslands and rock outcroppings gives the sites a naturally spacious feel while preserving the historical integrity of the landscape—digging or disturbing the terrain is explicitly prohibited. On-site recreation includes hiking trails, and just a short drive away are miles of additional trails and thrilling whitewater rafting on the St. Louis River.

Knife Island Campground is a mere 10 minutes from Jay Cooke State Park, renowned for its suspension bridge and rugged beauty, and just 20 minutes from Duluth, where urban attractions like Canal Park and Bayfront Festival Park await. This campground is an ideal choice for weekend getaways or extended vacations, offering the perfect mix of natural splendor and easy access to outdoor and cultural activities.