Camper submitted image from McFarland Lake Campground - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from McFarland Lake Campground - 2
Nature
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Established Camping

McFarland Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

McFarland Lake Campground is located near Grand Marais, MN, surrounded by forested terrain and a lake. The area experiences temperatures ranging from lows of 10°F in winter to highs of 75°F in summer. Nearby, campers can explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the scenic views of the Gunflint Trail.

Fee Info

If you are entering the Boundary Waters from here or hiking the Border Route Trail, permits are required.

Suggest an Edit

Location

McFarland Lake Campground is located in Minnesota

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Hovland take Arrowhead Trail 17 mi to McFarland Lake. Access to BWCA and Border Route hiking trail.

Coordinates

48.053603216415205 N
90.05538753300665 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
100%
0%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 5, 2019

McFarland lake campgrounds

There are 5 primitive campsites at this campground.  They are all free.  There all nicely spaced apart.  There is one outhouse and no running water.  There is a Portage for both mcfarland lake and little john lake.  Nice clean lakes. McFarland has a boat launch and motorized boats allowed on the lake.  All the other lakes are in the boundary waters and boats are not allowed.  Canoes and kayaks are.  There is a self issuing permit station located at little john lake portage.  Caught some northern about 2 feet in length but skinny.

SiteLast one near little john lake
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of McFarland Lake Campground by Josh M., August 5, 2019
  • Review photo of McFarland Lake Campground by Josh M., August 5, 2019
  • Review photo of McFarland Lake Campground by Josh M., August 5, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at McFarland Lake Campground?

McFarland Lake Campground offers 5 primitive campsites that are free to use. The campsites are nicely spaced apart to provide privacy. Amenities are minimal, with just one outhouse available and no running water. The campground maintains a rustic, natural setting typical of wilderness camping. Visitors should come prepared with their own water supply and essential camping gear for a self-sufficient stay.

Where is McFarland Lake Campground located in Minnesota?

McFarland Lake Campground is located in northeastern Minnesota and provides access to both McFarland Lake and Little John Lake. The campground sits in a natural setting that offers a true wilderness experience. It's positioned to provide convenient access to a boat launch on McFarland Lake, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding waterways and wilderness areas.

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at McFarland Lake?

McFarland Lake offers excellent recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake features a boat launch with motorized boats permitted on the water. Fishing is popular in the clean waters of McFarland Lake. Visitors can also access Little John Lake via a portage trail from the campground. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are ideal activities on these pristine waters. The surrounding wilderness area provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography in a peaceful natural setting.