🌤 Weather at Big Fork State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10–63 °F | 51–77 °F | 19–67 °F | -5 to 23 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Northome 3S, 15 mi away, elevation 1,415 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Big Fork State Forest is located in Minnesota near Liberty in Itasca County and is managed by the Minnesota DNR Division of Forestry, not by Minnesota’s state park system. Established in 1963, the forest offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Minnesota |
| Nearest City | Liberty |
| County | Itasca County |
| Established | 1963 |
Location & Getting There
Big Fork State Forest is located near Liberty, Minnesota. The park’s coordinates are 47.7972, -93.9419.
Things to Do
Big Fork State Forest covers 74,817 acres of forest dotted with lakes and streams, including rapids on the Big Fork River. Trails and forest roads are open to hiking, horseback riding and off-road biking unless posted closed, and off-trail hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are allowed too. You can canoe or kayak many of the area’s lakes and rivers, and hunting is allowed in season. Nearby, the U.S. Forest Service’s Lost Forty trail loops one mile through 144 acres of old-growth red and white pine.
Best Time to Visit
Minnesota state forest land is open at all times unless posted closed, so you can visit year-round. In winter, a Great Minnesota Ski Pass is required on ski trails, and the Caldwell/Blue Ox and West Bowstring snowmobile trails run just outside the forest.
Visitor Tips
Big Fork is a state forest run by the Minnesota DNR Division of Forestry, not a state park, so the state park vehicle permit and reservation system do not apply. Dispersed camping is free on state forest land at least one mile outside a campground, and the two boat-in sites on the Big Fork River, Harrison Landing and Little Minnow, have a fire ring, toilet and picnic table. Bring only approved firewood. For questions, call the Minnesota DNR at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.
Explore More Minnesota State Parks
Looking for state parks in Minnesota? Discover them in our Best State Parks in Minnesota guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Big Fork SF — in Itasca County — provides public land recreation in Minnesota’s northern boreal forest. The forest’s lakes, bogs, and mixed conifer-hardwood stands support moose, black bears, and gray wolves. Common loons nest on the lakes. Ruffed grouse drum in spring. Brook trout inhabit the cold streams.
Nearby Attractions
Bigfork — adjacent. Grand Rapids — 30 miles south — has the Judy Garland Museum. Scenic State Park — 10 miles south.
Nearby parks: If you have extra time, Scenic State Park is a short drive away, and Arrowhead State Trail is within about an hour’s drive.
Park Map
Plan your gear for Big Fork State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Minnesota
from $79
from $110
from $195