Jay Cooke State Park
RV Guide
Introduction
Jay Cooke State Park offers exceptional RV camping across 83 campsites (21 with electric hookups) nestled along Minnesota's dramatic St. Louis River gorge, featuring 50+ miles of hiking trails, historic CCC-era structures, and year-round outdoor adventures just 10 miles southwest of Duluth. The park's family campground accommodates RVs up to 60 feet, while strategic locations like Duluth RV rentals and Cloquet camper van options provide easy access to this 8,818-acre wilderness that attracts over 200,000 visitors annually as Minnesota's seventh-largest state park.
What Makes Jay Cooke State Park the Ultimate RV Destination?
Minnesota's seventh-largest state park hugs the St. Louis River for good reason—this is where geology gets dramatic. Jay Cooke State Park sprawls across 8,818 acres of exposed Thomson slate and greywacke, the result of ancient seismic activity that created towering rock formations and churning rapids unlike anywhere else in the state. The iconic Swinging Bridge, one of only two suspension bridges in Minnesota's state park system, offers breathtaking views 80 feet above the river below.
The park connects to both the Willard Munger State Trail and Superior Hiking Trail, making it a dream destination for hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers. Over 50 miles of multi-use trails wind through dense boreal forests where you might spot white-tailed deer, black bears, and over 225 species of birds. History buffs will appreciate the park's Civilian Conservation Corps legacy—structures built between 1934 and 1942 using local gabbro stone now grace the National Register of Historic Places.
Named after Pennsylvania financier Jay Cooke, who funded the Northern Pacific Railway's development through this region, the park was established in 1915. Today's visitors discover why this land drew fur traders and Native Americans for centuries: the St. Louis River's power is intoxicating, the wildflowers enchanting, and the autumn colors simply unforgettable.
Summer brings pleasant temperatures in the 70s and 80s, making it the most popular season for RV camping, fishing, and paddling. Spring showcases blooming wildflowers—jack-in-the-pulpit, yellow lady slippers, and yellow wood violets carpet the forest floor. Fall transforms the park into a photographer's paradise with vibrant foliage, while winter opens up 32 miles of cross-country ski trails and 12 miles of snowmobile routes. The park welcomes visitors year-round, with 12 campsites (five with electric hookups) available even when Minnesota's winter blankets everything in snow.
RV Rentals in Jay Cooke State Park
Transportation
Driving
Located on Minnesota Highway 210 off Interstate 35, Jay Cooke State Park is easy to find, just 1.4 miles from Carlton and less than 20 miles southwest of Duluth. The park's main entrance and campground are accessible via Highway 210, which runs directly through the park. RVs up to 60 feet are welcome, though certain campground loops feature tighter turns—call ahead if you're traveling with a larger rig to ensure you reserve the most suitable site.
The park stays accessible year-round, though winter visitors should prepare for snow-packed roads and reduced campground availability. Most roads within the park are paved near the main areas, transitioning to well-maintained gravel paths within the campground. Speed limits are low for good reason—wildlife sightings are common, and you'll want to take your time soaking in the scenery.
Where Are the Best Gateway Cities for RV Rentals?
Duluth RV Rentals: Duluth RV rentals position you perfectly for exploring Jay Cooke State Park and Lake Superior's stunning North Shore. Located just 20 miles northeast, Duluth offers full provisioning options, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and Canal Park before you head to the park.
Cloquet Camper Van Rentals: Cloquet camper van rentals provide convenient access to grocery stores, gas stations, and supplies just 10 minutes from the park. This gateway town keeps you close to nature while maintaining easy access to amenities.
Parking
Parking is straightforward throughout Jay Cooke State Park. The main parking lot sits between the park office and campground, ideal for larger RVs. Additional parking areas are located near the Swinging Bridge, the River Inn Interpretive Center, and at various trailheads. Once you're settled at your campsite, you can park your RV and explore on foot, by bike, or via the connected trail systems. Note that the campground roads are one-way in some sections—follow signage carefully when navigating to your site.
Public Transportation
No public transportation operates within Jay Cooke State Park, though bus service reaches nearby Carlton, Cloquet, and Duluth. Once you arrive, the best ways to explore include hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing in winter. The park office rents GPS units for geocaching adventures, and several outfitters in the Duluth area offer guided tours for activities like kayaking and snowshoeing.
Campgrounds and parking in Jay Cooke State Park
Campsites in Jay Cooke State Park
Reservations camping
Cloquet / Duluth KOA
When you set up camp at Cloquet / Duluth KOA, you’ll be minutes from Jay Cooke State Park, where you can hike and test your balance on the swinging bridge, or just a 25-minute drive from the shores of Lake Superior. After a day of adventure, head back to Cloquet / Duluth KOA and cool down in the swimming pool, relax in the hot tub, visit the dog park with the pups, and stay connected with Wi-Fi. The campground has pull-thru campsites that can house rigs as long as 80 feet. Firewood and propane are available for purchase on-site as well.
Family Campground
The main Jay Cooke State Park Campground offers 83 single-family campsites nestled in a wooded setting that provides decent privacy between sites. Twenty-one sites feature electric hookups (most with 20 or 30 amp service, some with 50 amp), while the remaining sites offer traditional tent camping. RVs and trailers up to 60 feet can be accommodated, with most sites offering back-in access and one advertised pull-through site.
Modern amenities include flush toilets, hot showers (seasonal), drinking water, and a dump station available during peak season (May through October). Three wheelchair-accessible sites are located near drinking water sources. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill—perfect for enjoying meals surrounded by towering pines and the distant sound of the St. Louis River.
The campground welcomes pets on leash, making it easy to bring your four-legged companions along for the adventure. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for summer weekends and the fall color season. Book up to 120 days in advance through the Minnesota State Parks reservation system, though same-day reservations are possible if sites remain available.
First-come first-served
Walk-Up and Backpack Sites
Reservations are not required in order to stay at Jay Cooke State Park's campgrounds. However, they are highly encouraged, especially if you are planning a visit over a weekend or holiday. The peak seasons in summer tend to see this campground quite full. There are, however, certain sites that remain walk-in only. There are eight sites that do not allow for reservations and only take first-come, first-served, walk-up guests. These sites include four designated for backpackers and another four labeled only as walk-ins within the park's campground.
Alternate camping
Group Tent Campground
Jay Cooke State Park has a solution if your family or group is too large for a typical campsite. You and 24 of your friends or family can choose from two group tent campsites just to the west of the family campground. However, these are primitive sites that you have to walk to, so you will need to leave the motorhome in the parking lot. Sites are approximately 150 feet from the parking lot, and the park does provide carts to help you carry in your camping gear.
Water spigots and a toilet are provided at the parking lot, but once you get to the campsite, you won’t have any of these luxuries. You will have campfire rings, though, so you can cook on the grill and eat at the picnic tables provided by the park. Pets are welcome as long as they are on a leash or otherwise secured at all times during your stay. Be sure to book a spot early since there are only two group campsites.
Explore more RV parks and campgrounds across North America for your next adventure.
Cabins
Within the state park, visitors who haven't brought their home-away-from-home with them can still stay in style. Camper cabins are provided under reservation for guests who don't feel like hauling it all with them. The cabins are scattered in the wooded areas around the outer edges of the campground. All five cabins have a screened porch and year-round access to heat and electricity. This is definitely a cozy choice for winter visitors.
Two of the cabins are wheelchair-accessible and sleep up to five guests. The remaining three cabins will support up to six guests. Unfortunately, Fido is not an acceptable companion for a cabin stay - no pets allowed. Online reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance. You can also call the park office. More information on the cabins can be found online or by calling the visitor center.
Seasonal activities in Jay Cooke State Park
Off-Season
Hiking
It's a hiker's delight here at Jay Cooke State Park. There are so many trails and seemingly endless forested enchantment. The park's trails will wind you either through wooded regions, along the riverside, or both. The vistas from overlooks are awe-inspiring. Over 50 miles of pathways are ready to take on your eager feet. If you're really feeling adventurous, you can even take on the lengthy Willard Munger State Trail. Whatever your skill level or interest, you're sure to find a trail to suit it. Be sure to practice proper trail etiquette at all times.
Did you enjoy reading this guide? For more Minnesota outdoor adventures, check out our Gooseberry Falls State Park guide or explore Pattison State Park in Wisconsin for more spectacular waterfalls.
Snowmobiling
While it's highly likely that you haven't dragged the snowmobile out on this excursion, it is another activity you can enjoy here at Jay Cooke State Park. It's such a thrilling, fast, and fun way to zip around the forest. There's a trail located within the park that connects to the Willard Munger State Trail system - a multi-use trail that opens up to all sorts of other activities as soon as it's covered with the white stuff. This certainly isn't an activity for everyone, but, if interested, it's worth looking into possible rentals from the nearby town of Duluth less than 20 miles to the northeast.
Warming House
During cold winter months, the park is still frequented by outdoor enthusiasts looking to take advantage of the many trails. There's something for everyone to enjoy here, even in the dead of winter. Visitors to Jay Cooke State Park can choose from miles of cross-country ski trails, snowshoe, and hiking trails, or even snowmobile trails. There's so much to keep you busy. When you want to warm up, come to the River Inn Interpretive Center where you can gather around the fireplace. It's the perfect spot to unwind and thaw out while you decide what to do next.
Snowshoeing
The same trails used for hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the warmer months soon give way to sports of a different caliber. Many of these trails are multi-use to begin with, but with the coming snow, the paths see different modes of transportation. There are a few miles of trails that are packed and marked specifically for snowshoeing, though all off-trail areas of the state park are also open for exploration. Difficulties of trails will vary, so tread with caution. It's important for guests to adhere to certain other precautions, such as keeping off of groomed ski trails. The park rents out snowshoes for visitors who would like to give it a go during their stay.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is another popular excursion enjoyed at the park. Jay Cooke State Park's grounds offer trails that range from easy to difficult, meaning you're sure to find the perfect trail to meet or surpass your skill level. It's good to note that the farther you get from the park's office, the more difficult the trails tend to become. There are around 20 miles of groomed ski trails to find here. Depending on conditions, time, and other outside factors, another 12 miles of trails are sometimes groomed to add to the fun.
In-Season
Biking
Make sure you get that bike rack attached to the rig before heading to Jay Cooke State Park. There are several trails that wind through the park's forest, and many are also multi-use. For those that like getting around on two wheels best, eight miles of paved biking trails and another 13 miles of trails suited for mountain biking, are something to look forward to. Biking solo or together with the family is a fantastic way to get out, get moving, and have fun - and these trails keep it exciting with such scenic views.
Waterfalls
There are plenty of majestic waterfalls located within the park, just a short walk from the ranger station. This part of the park is quite readily known, not only for the spectacular falls but also for the thrilling suspension bridge. Here, park visitors have the opportunity to really get a good look at the rushing waters. For those who would rather not brave the bridge, views of the falls can be taken in elsewhere. Other cascades can be spotted along the nine-mile Rushing Rapids Parkway -- a good hike or scenic drive for those who love waterfalls.
Naturalist Programs
Within the park, the River Inn Interpretive Center provides a place where visitors can enjoy naturalist programs all year long. Here, you can learn more about the park through interpretive exhibits. Even the building itself is a tribute to the park's construction by the Civil Conservation Corps (CCC). Guests can check in with the visitor center or go online to find more information about upcoming program events. The programs are highly recommended and are a great way to dive a little deeper into this wonderful piece of Minnesota.
Wildflowers
In late spring and early summer, the park comes alive with all sorts of happenings. The St. Louis River is readily engorged; its rushing rapids a sight to behold. Yet, not everything so beautiful and dramatic is as rough. Spring's precipitation helps create another point of interest - blooming wildflowers. Guests will enjoy finding these beauties along the many trails. See if you spot some of the park's regulars: jack in the pulpit, yellow wood violets, yellow lady slippers, and more. Be sure to bring your camera so you can get some pics to share on your favorite social media site.
Horseback Riding
Equestrian enthusiasts can enjoy a good six miles of trails here with their noble companions. Horseback riding is another activity enjoyed readily at Jay Cooke State Park, but it is an activity that requires you to bring your own horse and riding gear. Unfortunately, horse rentals are not easily accessible in the area. However, even if you won't be atop a horse for this outing, you may at least spot one on any of the multi-use trails. Riders are encouraged to check-in at the park office for trail and parking information.
