Lake Superior, Taconite Safe Harbor State Water A*

Taconite Safe Harbor offers public boat access to Lake Superior with excellent protected launch facilities. The site features two concrete boat ramps with 5-foot minimum depths, three make-ready docks (one primarily for divers), and a small craft harbor with additional protected ramp access. This makes it an ideal location for kayakers and canoeists launching onto Superior, as well as larger vessels seeking shelter. Paved parking accommodates approximately 20 car/trailer combinations, with vault toilets and a fish cleaning station on-site.

Located off Highway 61 between Schroeder and Finland in Cook County, this is one of Minnesota's most frequently used safe harbors on Lake Superior. The site provides the protected conditions valuable for Superior paddlers, particularly those planning to explore local bays and inlets. The historic town of Taconite Harbor once occupied the area; today visitors will find mostly open space with remnants of the old community. This is a day-use facility ideal for launching and recovery, though overnight camping is available nearby at Ninemile Lake Campground (reservable through Recreation.gov; 218-663-8063), located approximately 10 miles away via County Roads 1 and 7.

Overview
Ninemile Lake Campground is perfect for people wanting to do some exploring while camping. A boat ramp leads to Ninemile Lake, complete with islands and hidden bays. For birders and hikers, there is a trail through boreal hardwoods, beginning across the road from the campground entrance, with 0.5 miles of maintained hiking trail. North of the campground, on County 7, is access to...

Overview
Ninemile Lake Campground is perfect for people wanting to do some exploring while camping. A boat ramp leads to Ninemile Lake, complete with islands and hidden bays. For birders and hikers, there is a trail through boreal hardwoods, beginning across the road from the campground entrance, with 0.5 miles of maintained hiking trail. North of the campground, on County 7, is access to Echo Lake, a portage access to Goldeneye Lake.
Recreation
Ninemile Lake is close to 300 acres in size. It is a popular fishing spot for walleye, northern, bass, and pan fish. The surrounding National Forest offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking in secluded woodlands, canoeing, and hunting. 
Facilities
This is a moderate size facility, with 13 first come, first served campsites and 13 reservable sites that are private and close to the water. Trash collection, solar powered water pump, and restrooms are provided.
Natural Features
The area is scenic and easily accessible. Superior National Forest is known for its boreal forest ecosystem, numerous clean lakes, diversity of plants and animals, and colorful cultural history.

Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (218) 663-8060.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous outdoor recreation opportunities lie within Superior National Forest's 77 lake access areas, 13 fishing piers, 10 swimming beaches, and 22 picnic areas. The forest is also home to three scenic byways.
Charges & Cancellations
Rules and Reservation Policies 

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