Right, theres a big sports center on the outskirts of Blaine. Thats about 1/2 hour out of the city to the the north, so you're on your way up to the good backpacking country in the north woods.

Im probably too hard on Blaine, but its a little too far from the city for my taste, but not far enough away to take advantage of the nice country you can see if you go a little further. Personally, I just like being in the city.

If you come again in the summer, you should check out a place on the border of Wisconsin (only about 45 minutes due west) called Taylor's Falls You could easily work a night of camping there into your trip. You really shouldn't miss it.