Photo: Grand Marais Rec Park Facebook Page

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - May 1, 2025

Despite recent snow and frost earlier this week, spring is emerging in Grand Marais, including at the Rec Park and Campground. Water and bathhouse services will officially open for the 2025 season on Thursday, May 1st. According to Dave Tersteeg, Parks Manager for the City of Grand Marais, preparations have been underway for the seasonal process, which involves bringing seven water zones, four bathhouses, and the Rec Hall out of their winter "hibernation." 

With the changing season comes campers. Tersteeg shared that while the total number of advanced reservations stands slightly below last year's figure at this time (4,728 compared to 4,829), revenue projections indicate a positive outlook. He noted that current revenue from these reservations is 17% ahead of last year's projection. This increase is partially attributed to a 5% year-over-year rate adjustment, suggesting approximately 12% more nights booked or revenue for the current season. However, Tersteeg cautioned that it's still early in the season. 

Those who are able to make the trip to the Rec Park this season will not encounter any major construction projects, unlike in recent years, which saw activity related to the Parkside public water access, Overlook Landing, and the resurfacing of 8th Avenue South. 

In the future, the city is utilizing its master plan to develop detailed designs for the reconstruction of Bathhouse #3 and the Rec Hall. These older structures, located in the central part of the park, are slated to be combined into a "modern comfort station," according to Tersteeg. Plans include a trailhead parking lot for users of the Gitchi Gami State Trail, located at the former municipal pool site, to accommodate both campground and trail users. Additionally, the facility will include a community room for local gatherings. The city intends to seek State Legacy funding through the Greater Regional Parks and Trails Commission to support the seven-figure project over the next couple of years. 

As noted in the weekly City of Grand Marais Newsletter, water has also been restored to the Gunflint Hills Golf Course clubhouse, with the golf season anticipated to open in mid-May. Other seasonal signs include the Cook County ISD 166 girls' softball team hosting their first home game at Pappy Wright Field and the installation of roll-in docks at the Parkside public water access.