Campers settling in at new campground at Lake Vermilion
March 5, 2019

Lake Vermilion: park development

This project is included in Parks & Trails Council’s 2019 Legislative Agenda.

2019 Legislative Summary

Bill Funding AmountStatus
$9.5 millionFully funds P&TC’s recommendation, but is designated for the development of an OHV campground, which we oppose.

2019 Funding Source Sought

Seal of Minnesota
General Obligation Bonds

2019 Bills Introduced

HF 1772 – Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park development funding provided, and money appropriated.

SF 1770 – Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine state park appropriation.

View status in our Bill Tracker

Final Language in Law

Final language will be added here if passed.

Proposed Project Overview

Continue to develop Minnesota’s newest state park. This development includes the construction of the Lodge Visitor Center, Murray Campground, a solar plant to provide renewable energy for the park, a trailhead for a hiking trail to Jasper Peak, and associated roads and parking.

In 2008, Lake Vermilion was established as Minnesota’s newest state park, protecting the highly scenic land around 5 miles of Lake Vermilion shoreline. The park abuts Soudan Underground Mine State Park, which provides a unique cultural experience of touring a former mine site, and was officially joined with this park as one unit a few years ago. This project would solidify this park as a premiere destination and landmark for the next generation of Minnesotans.

This project received $4 million in funding in 2018. This represents the remaining, unfunded need. See details on past funding.

Project Support

This project was identified by the MnDNR as a priority.

Other Investment Projects on P&TC's 2019 Legislative Agenda

About Lisa Filter

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