Itasca State Park
Douglas Lodge
Clarence H. Johnston Sr.'s 1905 lodge, the oldest surviving building in Minnesota's state parks; seven seasonal rooms at $85 to $145 a night.
- Built
- 1905Completed 1905 to plans by Clarence H. Johnston Sr.; the oldest surviving building in the Minnesota state park system (nomination).
- Style
- Rustic
- Architect
- Clarence H. Johnston Sr.
- Type
- Lodge
- Rooms
- 7
- Price
- $
- Credentials
- Inside a National Register historic district
The story
The state contracted in 1904 for a lodge in Itasca Park built from dead and down timber on the site to plans by Clarence H. Johnston Sr., architect of the Minnesota Historical Society building. Finished in 1905 at more than twice its budget, it was named for Attorney General Wallace B. Douglas, who fought to save the park’s pines. It has served tourists since 1911 and is the oldest surviving building in the state park system, with guest rooms on the second floor above the lounge and dining room.
Good to know
- No elevator
- No pets
- Address: Park Rapids, MN
Sources (2)
Last verified October 2026. Details change; confirm with the inn before you book.