Wildfire reported in state park, near Cook County and Lake County line

Updated 6:30 p.m.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wildland firefighters and U.S. Forest Service officials are responding to a wildfire burning within the George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.

The wildfire, reported to law enforcement at approximately 2 p.m. on Wednesday, is about 1.5 miles inland from Hwy 61.

The George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is located near Finland and encompasses over 6000 acres.

The size of the fire is approximately 30 acres.

WTIP’s Chuck Olsen was on scene at the staging area as the DNR and Forest Service fire personnel responded to the wildfire.

According to Olsen, who spoke with fire officials on scene, it is unknown if any structures have been destroyed. Fire personnel also dispatched an airplane to survey and investigate the wildfire from the air.

The cause of the wildfire is unknown at this time.

This is a developing story. WTIP will provide updates as they are made available. 

Kalli Hawkins October 8, 2025