Little Pine Watercraft Campsite

Mission Township, Minnesota

About

The Pine River State Water Trail flows through the jack pine forests and glacial lakes of west central Minnesota. With the exception of the city of Pine River and the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, you’ll find little development along the river. Water levels usually peak in mid to late May and fall during the summer. They often rise again in September with another peak in mid-October. The river is generally runnable below the Cross Lake Dam throughout the summer. The river ranges from 25 to 150 feet wide and is gravel-bottomed with occasional boulders. Hazards include several dams that require portaging; see map for locations. North of river mile 46, paddlers should be alert for numerous box culverts and low culverts that may require portaging. The Pine River drops an average of 2.3 feet per mile from Norway Lake to the Mississippi River, with large drops at the Pine River and Cross Lake dams. Be aware that large waves may develop in the Whitefish Chain of Lakes during windy conditions or significant boat traffic. Use caution and follow the shores. Be alert for box culverts and low culverts at the beginning of this water trail.

Amenities

Available Site Types

• Tent Sites

Local Attractions

• Crow Wing State Forest
• Cross Lake Recreation Area
• Grand Rapids
• Little Falls
• Long Prairie
• Milaca
• Mora
• Park Rapids
• Wadena
• Walker