Casper

Located at 28943 Sunny Beach Road in Grand Rapids, the Casper Public Access—also known as Troop Town—provides a convenient launching point for paddlers and boaters accessing Pokegama Lake. This public ramp offers basic amenities including portable bathrooms (available May through October) and serves as a gateway to explore the scenic Mississippi River Headwaters area near its source in northern Minnesota.

Pokegama Lake offers a mix of recreational opportunities for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The surrounding landscape features mixed hardwoods and towering red pines, creating excellent wildlife viewing opportunities including bald eagles and seasonal berry picking. For those seeking overnight stays, Pokegama Dam Campground is located within 10 miles and offers full amenities including flush toilets, showers, a dump station, and a fish cleaning station.

Before launching, check that facilities are open (portable bathrooms are seasonal) and be prepared for the conditions typical of the Headwaters region. The area is well-known for fishing and peaceful paddling experiences through northern Minnesota's natural landscape.