BREITUNG TWP— The long-awaited state campground designed for off-highway vehicle riders is now taking reservations for a June 12 opening. The new Pyrite Campground was built across Hwy. 169 from the Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park and is the first DNR campground specifically designed for OHV users.
The campground was built with a $5.8 million grant and features 24 campsites, each equipped with electric service and designed for pull-through use, making it easier for visitors towing OHVs on trailers.
The campground also connects directly to the Prospectors Trail, offering all-terrain vehicle and off-highway motorcycle riders convenient access to riding opportunities across the region. Also, a new trail connection to Soudan is expected to open in fall 2026, further expanding riding access in the area.
“Pyrite Campground expands camping opportunities while supporting a growing outdoor recreation community,” said Jim Essig, park supervisor. “This new campground provides a comfortable basecamp for riders while continuing to welcome all visitors who want to experience this unique park.”
While the campground site was originally part of the state park, the Legislature later approved converting state land south of Hwy. 169 to a state recreation area. By law, state parks don’t allow OHVs while state recreation areas can.
The campground was originally expected to open in 2025, but construction was delayed due to issues with contractors.
While the Pyrite Campground was designed with OHV recreation in mind, visitors don’t need to own or operate an OHV to camp there, but campers should be aware they may experience more vehicle traffic and noise than at a typical state park campground due to OHV activity in the vicinity of the campground.
Reservations for the campground are available at mndnr.gov/reservations (reservemn.usedirect.com/MinnesotaWeb/) or by calling 866-857-2757.