Skip to main content
Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve

Cotton, Minnesota · St. Louis County

The 16,697-acre Lake Superior Reserve is a combination of four distinct land areas and portions of connecting waterways in Douglas County, in the northwest corner of Wisconsin where the St. Louis River flows into Lake Superior. Each area possesses its own combination of habitats. The Reserve includes uplands and submer…

Advertisement
47.15000, -92.28333
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve

The 16,697-acre Lake Superior Reserve is a combination of four distinct land areas and portions of connecting waterways in Douglas County, in the northwest corner of Wisconsin where the St. Louis River flows into Lake Superior. Each area possesses its own combination of habitats. The Reserve includes uplands and submerged lands; riparian and riverine habitat; riverine islands; emergent freshwater marshes, interdunal wetlands and scrub swamp; aspen, dry and hardwood forests; and open sand beach and dunes. The four non-contiguous areas are located within 10 miles of each other. The site consists exclusively of public lands and waters owned by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, City of Superior, Douglas County and the University of Wisconsin. The Reserve will provide a wide range of estuarine research and public education opportunities.

How to Get There

The site is located in Douglas County, in the northwestern corner of Wisconsin along the St. Louis River, bordering Minnesota and Lake Superior.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve

Heading to Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve?

No central reservation system listed for Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1805) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve?

The site is located in Douglas County, in the northwestern corner of Wisconsin along the St. Louis River, bordering Minnesota and Lake Superior.

How do I contact Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve?

You can reach the park at phone: 715-392-3141.