WDIO News - Bear Head Lake State Park in Ely is a great place for camping, fishing, hiking…. and going to the bathroom.
The lavatory and shower building was crowned the 2025 Best Public Restroom in the United States.
Cintas has been putting this contest on for 24 years. They collect nominations, compile a list of finalists, and then the public votes.
Cintas said this restroom is more than just functional; it has a thoughtful design. The layout meets ADA guidelines. Plus, there is a sink outside for dishwashing, which is a convenience for campers.
Cintas said of the winning restroom, “Nestled within one of Minnesota’s most beloved parks, the restroom and shower building at Bear Head Lake State Park provides more than just function — it offers thoughtful design in a stunning setting. With a fully accessible layout that meets all ADA guidelines, this facility ensures comfort for all visitors. The exterior dishwashing sinks are a camper-friendly touch, providing a convenient space to clean up without trekking back to a waterless site. Surrounded by the serene beauty that earned Bear Head Lake the title of America’s Favorite State Park in 2010, this restroom is proof that practicality and natural beauty can go hand in hand.” The state park restroom won a cleaning from Cintas and $2,500 in cleaning products.
The other 8 finalists on the list included: City of Fruita (Fruita, Colorado); Footprints (Lawrence, Kansas); Little America Hotel (Salt Lake City, Utah); Moderne Bar (Orlando, Florida); The Rooftop at Pier 17 (New York, New York); Rosebrook Lodge (Bretton Woods, New Hampshire); Tatsu (Dallas, Texas); Tecolote Shores (San Diego, California).
