Forest History Center - Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Forest History Center - Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Do you want first hand experience on what it was like to live in a logging camp in the 1900’s?  At the Forest History Center you will have the opportunity to experience life by walking back in time to Northwoods #1, an authentically recreated white pine logging camp complete with cook shack, bunkhouse, blacksmith shop, office wanigan, filer’s shack and horse barn.

You will be able to stop and visit with the cook, clerk, bull cook, blacksmith and other lumberjacks who may be in camp.  Would you like to try your hand at sawing or perhaps pet the Percheron draft horses?

You can wander down to the 1901 Mississippi River Wanigan, drop in on the 1934 Forest Service patrolman and get a bird’s eye view of the forests from atop the 100 foot fire tower (be ready for the climb, it’s not for the weak of heart of those that don’t like heights.)

Explore the visitor center’s interactive exhibits and browse the fits shop featuring items unique to northern Minnesota.  Stroll the nearly 5 miles of accessible trails and wind throughout the beautiful forests and along the river’s edge.  If you want a special nature program you need to call ahead to find out when they are being held.

Logging camp tours are available Memorial Day - Labor Day Monday through Saturday 10 - 5 and on Sundays fro noon to 5.  Plan on 2.5 hours for the tour.

Interpretive Center winter hours are Tuesday - Friday 10 - 2.  Closed Winter Holidays.

Summer admission: $7 Adults, $6 Seniors, students and military personnel, $4 for children

Winter admission: $3 Adults, $2 Seniors, students and military personnel, $1 for children.

Location: 2609 County Rd. 76, Grand Rapids, Minnesota 55744

Phone: 218-327-4482