Abandoned by mining companies more than 30 years ago, this area of former mining pits and rock deposit stockpiles now boasts regenerated vegetation and clear lakes that draw a wide range of recreation enthusiasts. Twenty-five miles of natural shoreline can be explored by boat or canoe and anglers can cast a line for trout, northern, bass, crappie, or sunfish.
As one of Minnesota's newest State Recreation Areas, Cuyuna's 5,000 acres are mostly undeveloped. Off-highway vehicles are not permitted within the boundaries of Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.
Park Highlights:
Camping
Trout Fishing
Canoeing
Mountain Biking
Scuba Diving
Fat Biking
Fat Biking
Winter doesn't stop us! We've got 40 miles of groomed trails for premier fat biking.
Mountain Biking
Get your heart pumping with the tight turns and scenic vistas of over 30 miles of singletrack trail spread across 800 acres!
Portsmouth Campground
There are 18 electric sites and 15 non-electric sites, plus a group camp located in this campground on the northwest shore of the Portsmouth Mine Pit Lake (395 feet deep).
Forestry Campgrounds and Day-Use Areas
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area also manages two DNR Forestry Campgrounds and one Day-Use Area.These facilities include the Clint Converse Campground in Land O'Lakes State Forest and Greer Lake Campground and Pelican Beach Day-Use Area in Crow Wing State Forest. Camping is first-come, first-serve.
For information, contact Cuyuna State Recreation Area at 218-546-5926.
Camping
Drive-in Sites 29 sites
Camping is available at the Portsmouth Campground. The campground is located on the northwest shore of Portsmouth Mine Lake. The campground has both shaded sites and open, grassy sites. 18 electric and 15 non-electric sites are available for camping during the regular camping season. All campsites require reservations.
Walk-in Sites 4 sites
Same as above, but without drive-in access.
Group Camp 1 site - accommodates up to 25 people
Site is located in a wooded area within a short distance of restrooms/showers, swimming beach and mountain bike trails.
Trails
Summer
Paved Bike 8 Miles
The Cuyuna Lakes State Trail.
Mountain Bike 25 miles
Winter
Other 40 Miles
Approximately 40 miles of various trails are packed primarily for fat biking, but snowshoes and cross country skiiers are welcome too. These trails are off limits to hikers, except for the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail.
Recreation Facilities
Summer
Picnic Area Two Picnic Areas
The Pennington Water Access picnic area has two picnic tables and one pedestal grill.
The Miner's Mountain Rally Center picnic area has 12 picnic tables, one picnic shelter and lake access.
Other Mine tours, scenic overlooks
Croft Mine: Open for self-guided tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Sat-Sun 10 AM to 6 PM.
Portsmouth Overlook: East side of Portsmouth Mine Lake, off of Hwy 6.
Miner's Mountain Overlook: Located near the Miner's Mountain Rally Center, overlooking Huntington Mine Lake.
Closed to vehicles in the winter.
Water
Swimming Beach Portsmouth Campground
Boat Access Drive-in and carry-in
Canoe Access Drive-in and carry-in
Other Shore Fishing
Shorefishing available throughout the park.
