International Paper John Dillon Park

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of staying at John Dillon Park?

The park operates using an endowment fund and additional donations. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation to help keep the park operational, please see the Donation Tab.

Do you supply medical assistance for your visitors?

No we do not. John Dillon Park is an accessible wilderness facility and as such, we supply you with a place to experience the great outdoors in all its glory. If you are in need of ongoing medical assistance you will have to provide that via your caregiver, friends or family. However, in an emergency, the Long Lake Rescue Squad is only 5 miles away.

I plan on using one of the sleeping platforms during my stay. Is there a mattress?

There is no mattress on the wooden sleeping platforms so you will want to bring some sort of sleeping pad. The platforms are built to be 19-20 inches off the floor, so you will want to take that into account when deciding on what kind of sleeping pad to bring.

Do I need to bring firewood if I want to have a campfire?

Each campsite has firewood provided. Please be mindful and only burn what is needed and avoid unnecessary burning to allow availability for all campers throughout the season. The staff does daily campsite checks to resupply as needed. Please do not burn any wood aside from what is provided (like other wood around from the park). 

Can I swim at the park?

There is no swimming area at John Dillon Park. If you would like to go for a swim there is an accessible municipal beach just 4 miles away in Long Lake and another at Lake Eaton State Park, 2 miles from our entrance.

I’ve never been camping in a lean-to, what are they like?

The lean-tos are three sided shelters with large roof overhangs in the front to keep the rain out. They are open to the air so you’ll be assured of plenty of ventilation. The floors are 18 inches off the ground so you will be nice and dry even during a spring or fall shower.

How do I get my gear to my campsite?

Pull carts are available to bring in gear to the sites. Each campsite description lists the distance to the sites from the parking area. The staff of John Dillon park can help move gear for those with functional differences and to Handsome Pond (within park operating hours).

How big is Grampus Lake?

255 Acres, approximately 1 mile from end to end.

Do you have electricity at the campsites?

No, but we do provide battery carts if needed to recharge wheelchairs and other medical equipment. These carts can be brought to your campsite for the night if needed.

I just want to come for the day, is that okay?

Certainly. Come and enjoy a nice walk on our trails and stay for a meal if you are so inclined. We also have three picnic areas for day use.

I have a heart condition and my doctor says I should walk but only on gentle slopes. How steep are the trails?

All of our over 3 miles of trails are built be be accessible to everyone. The steepest grade is 8% over a very short section of trail. Most of the trails are under a 6% grade. Contrast this to the normal accessible ramp at 10% grade and you can see how easy it can be to get around at John Dillon Park. When you check in at the Welcome Center let us know that you would like to walk on gentle slopes and one of our staff would be happy to point you in the direction that lets you take the steeper part on the downhill route.

Do you have any suggestions on what camping gear I’ll need when I come to stay overnight?

What type of gear you will need really depends on your outdoor skill level. Use our suggested list of gear to use as a starting point. View in PDF Format.