🌤 Weather at Rum River State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17–66 °F | 54–80 °F | 21–70 °F | 0–26 °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 Milaca, 12 mi away, elevation 1,064 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Rum River State Forest is located in Minnesota near Kathio Township in Mille Lacs County and is managed by the Minnesota DNR Division of Forestry, not by Minnesota’s state park system. Established in 1943, the forest offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Minnesota |
| Nearest City | Kathio Township |
| County | Mille Lacs County |
| Established | 1943 |
Location & Getting There
Rum River State Forest is located near Kathio Township, Minnesota. The park’s coordinates are 45.9078, -93.5703.
Things to Do
Rum River State Forest covers 40,605 acres of mostly level land in east-central Minnesota. About a third of it is marsh and swamp, and a glacial esker crosses its south end. The north unit borders Mille Lacs-Kathio State Park. The Rum River, a federally designated Wild and Scenic River and a state water trail, starts at Mille Lacs Lake and has excellent fishing for walleye and smallmouth bass, and hunting is allowed in the forest in season.
Best Time to Visit
Minnesota state forest land is open at all times unless posted closed, so you can visit year-round. Summer camping on state forest land is limited to 14 days, and winter camping to 21 days between the second Sunday in September and the first Saturday in May.
Visitor Tips
Rum River is a state forest run by the Minnesota DNR Division of Forestry, not a state park. The vehicle permit and camping reservations apply only in the neighboring Mille Lacs-Kathio and Father Hennepin state parks. In the forest, dispersed camping is free at least one mile outside a designated campground, and the water-trail campsites along the Rum River are first come, first served with no fee. Bring only approved firewood.
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
Rum River SF — along the Rum River in central Minnesota — provides boating, fishing, and forest recreation. The Rum River — flowing from Mille Lacs Lake to the Mississippi — supports smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. Bald eagles fish the river. White-tailed deer and ruffed grouse inhabit the forest.
Nearby Attractions
Milaca — nearby. Mille Lacs Kathio SP — upstream. Princeton — downstream.
More parks nearby: Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is a short drive away, while Father Hennepin State Park lies a short drive away.
Park Location
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