Access Site
MN
St. James Mine Pit Lake
City: Aurora, MN
County: St. Louis County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 47.53414440, -92.23022158
Air Temp: --
Location
Interactive access map
Loads when you reach this section.
Nearby Gauge Conditions
St. Louis River near Skibo, MN
6 mi away
Sand River near Britt, MN
10.3 mi away
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
About This Access Site
St. James Mine Pit Lake offers a concrete boat ramp on the southeast shore just north of Aurora in St. Louis County. This 100-acre former mining pit is now managed for recreation and provides clear water conditions ideal for paddling and boating. The ramp is a straightforward public access point with no reported launch fees.
Boaters and paddlers should be aware that this is a deep pit lake with a maximum depth of 381 feet, which means water conditions can vary significantly. The lake's clear water makes it attractive for recreation, though visitors should note that water levels may be subject to change depending on historical mining operations and groundwater dynamics. Standard recreational boats up to 12-18 feet can typically be launched at this facility. The site is best suited for paddlers comfortable with larger, deeper water bodies rather than those seeking shallow creek paddling.
Boaters and paddlers should be aware that this is a deep pit lake with a maximum depth of 381 feet, which means water conditions can vary significantly. The lake's clear water makes it attractive for recreation, though visitors should note that water levels may be subject to change depending on historical mining operations and groundwater dynamics. Standard recreational boats up to 12-18 feet can typically be launched at this facility. The site is best suited for paddlers comfortable with larger, deeper water bodies rather than those seeking shallow creek paddling.