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Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Free and first-come, first-served, Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground sits along the lake in the Superior National Forest outside Ely, Minnesota, with numbered sites that require no reservation or payment. Sites have fire rings and picnic tables, but they run close together with surrounding brush. No potable water is available, so campers need to arrive with jugs or a filtration system. A vault toilet is on-site, and all trash must be packed out. The campground sits adjacent to a Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness entry point, making it a practical overnight stop for paddlers staging or finishing multi-day trips, as well as anglers who can purchase a day-use pass at the nearby put-in. RVs up to 25 feet can access the site. Pets are welcome.

Fee Info

No fee - but a day use pass (available at the put in) is for NON MOTORIZED craft only if you are fishing. Motorized craft are not allowed.

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Map & DirectionsKawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground is located in Minnesota near Tofte

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

This is at the end of a 14ish mile road outside of Tofte. Please watch for the well marked directional signs. From MN 61 in Tofte: Drive north on Co 2 (Sawbill Trail) about 18 miles. Turn left on Co 3, which may be labeled as Co 33. After 8 miles, at the county border (not labeled), Cook County 3 will become Lake County 7. Follow Co 7 an additional 2 miles. Turn right from Co 7 onto FR 354. Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground is at the end of FR 354.

Coordinates

47.839 N
91.1036 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground

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3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 25, 2022

Definitely not fancy, but good location for entry/exit into the BWCA

This camp is not likely to win awards for "wide open spaces" or "fancy and pretty", but it does have all you need for an overnight camp.  The spaces do seem a bit cramped, and perhaps are more aimed at fisherman (or, as the other reviewer said - great quick overnight for someone entering or exiting the BWCA on Kawishiwi Lake entry point).

Each did appear to have a fire ring, but they are close together and lots of brush could potentially mean lots of mosquitoes.

Even thought the sites appear to be "numbered" they are FREE.  No reservations or payments needed.  You do need a day pass (at the put in next to the campground) if you are going to fish on the lake.

There is no potable water, so come prepared with jugs you bring, or a filter system. There is a vault style outhouse. You need to pack out your trash.

If all you want is quick access to the lake, a very pretty view (some sites have lake views) and a free place to drop your tent, then this would work!

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Apr. 21, 2022

Beautiful Rustic

There is an entry point to the BWCA next door. Paddlers coming out after multi day trips had some good stories to tell. I have always enjoyed staying here and taking day trips into the BWCAW.

Month of VisitSeptember
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Kawishiwi Lake Campground?

Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground offers basic amenities for campers. The campground provides the essentials needed for an overnight stay, though facilities are minimal and rustic. Sites are relatively compact and designed with simplicity in mind. While the campground may not offer luxury accommodations, it provides the necessary facilities for campers looking to experience the natural surroundings without modern conveniences. For specific details about current amenities, contact the Superior National Forest office before your trip.

How do I access Kawishiwi Lake Campground?

Kawishiwi Lake Campground is accessible by road, though the approach is fairly remote. The campground is situated near an entry point to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA), making it a convenient location for those planning wilderness trips. The access road leads directly to the campground area, allowing for vehicle entry. For specific directions, check with the Superior National Forest or use navigation tools before heading out, as the campground's remote nature can make it challenging to find for first-time visitors.

What recreational activities are available at Kawishiwi Lake?

Kawishiwi Lake offers excellent recreational opportunities, particularly for paddling enthusiasts. The lake serves as an entry point to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA), making it ideal for day trips or as a starting point for longer wilderness expeditions. Fishing is popular at the lake, with many campers utilizing the area primarily for angling. The surrounding wilderness provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Many visitors enjoy telling stories of their multi-day paddling trips, creating a community atmosphere among outdoor enthusiasts.

Are reservations required for Kawishiwi Lake Campground?

Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis rather than a reservation system. Due to its relatively small size and somewhat cramped spaces, it's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot. The campground is frequently used by those entering or exiting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, so occupancy can fluctuate based on BWCA traffic. Contact the Superior National Forest office before your trip for the most current information about any potential changes to the reservation policy.

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