Grand Portage lodging - Casino the only real option?

[dr_nixon]

Taking 2 groups of Scouts to Isle Royale in early July (14 total attendees, hence 2 groups). Looking at the map it seems that Grand Portage Casino is the only real camping option near the ferry terminal. Anyone used the RV park there as a tent site? $25/tent will add up for our group, especially as we are driving up together but heading to island one day apart, so we'll have half our group staying 2 nights in Grand Portage before catching the ferry (outbound reservations are July 8 and 9 for our two crews).

Open to other suggestions - RV park is close to the terminal, there's food available, but I'm also thinking it's a bit weird to take a bunch of Scouts to a casino... we're not there for the slot machines, of course!

[S_R_L]

Judge Magney State Park?
It's not too far....20 miles.

EDIT: Its also a nice place to spend the day for those left behind.

[Bobcat1]

We’ve stayed in tents at the rv park. The closest place to stay other than that is Pidgeon River Provincial Park but that may not be as practical for a quick overnight for your group because of the logistics of crossing the international border. There are a couple NF campgrounds not too far off the beaten track, and several MN state parks as mentioned.

[fonixmunkee]

I'd give the front desk at the Casino a call and see if they can work out a deal for your group. In my experience, it seems like they'd be willing to work with you.