I've searched and I'm getting some confusing answers. MN doesn't honor my state's CC handgun license. I do know that I can transport one locked in it's case with ammo stored separately during the trip up. My question is this. Once I'm in the park can I carry it and be protected under the Public Law 111-24 or am I still under MN state law for carrying a handgun? Some articles make it seem like anyone no matter where you're from can carry once you're in the park and other places make it sound like state law still applies

You'd be under state firearms law. If you want to carry it you would need a MN approved CWP to carry it out and loaded.

I would think if it was in your backpack/locker whatever, and it was in its own pistol case not loaded, you wouldn't get into any trouble.

@Big_Rig_416
Thanks for the clarification. I'm also having problems finding solid info on packing in long guns. I thought of breaking down an AR and putting it in my pack. I'm wanting something to keep in the camp. I wouldn't be toting the rifle around. What's the legalities of non residents having a long gun?

Long guns are pretty lax. They just be unloaded and cased when in "transport." IE in your truck, in your boat, on your four wheeler, etc. Once you get to your camp site/trail/hunting area/state land/etc you can uncase and load, carry them around pretty much wherever. In the BWCA firearms are not allowed to be discharged within like 200 ft of a campsite or portage. AR's aren't restricted here at all.