Within Superior National Forest, Pfeiffer Lake operates as a US Forest Service campground that accommodates RVs up to 45 feet alongside tent campers. The forested sites provide direct access to a small lake where multiple generations of families have established camping traditions. Camp hosts maintain the grounds and facilities, which include vault toilets, drinking water, and a boat landing.
The lake supports fishing and swimming activities, with reviewers noting catches during their stays. A shallow swimming beach extends into the water, making it accessible for families with children. The campground also features a small playground and fishing pier. "Excellent swimming areas and playground for kids, caught a few fish as well," reports one camper who stayed over Labor Day weekend. Sites offer privacy and spacing between neighbors.
Basic amenities define the camping experience here. About half the sites accept reservations through Recreation.gov, while others operate on a first-come basis. Cell service reaches the campground, and campers can purchase firewood on-site. The boat launch accommodates smaller watercraft, though the lake's size limits larger recreational boating. For additional camping options in the region, visitors can explore campgrounds near Superior National Forest.
The $18 nightly fee covers the May through mid-October season. Reserve ahead for holiday weekends when the campground fills despite maintaining a relatively quiet atmosphere.
Description
Overview
Pfeiffer Lake Campground, located adjacent to it's namesake lake, is a small, peaceful and scenic facility in the Superior National Forest of Minnesota. The lake's healthy population of fish make it a favorite spot for anglers, and the swim beach, playground and picnic area provide fun for the whole family. Superior National Forest, located in northeastern Minnesota's arrowhead region, is comprised of 3 million acres. The forest spans 150 miles along the United States-Canada border. Visitors can find recreation opportunities year-round, including travel in the famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Recreation
Pfeiffer Lake has many activities, fishing being one of the most popular. Panfish, bass, perch and walleye can be caught from the fishing dock or offshore, accessible via the facility's boat ramp. Canoeing and kayaking are also a favorite pastime. The picnic area is next to a grassy swimming beach and 3-mile hiking trail.
Facilities
The campground has 16 total campsites 8 reservable and 8 first-come, first-served campsites, some of which can accommodate RVs. The campground provides fire rings, tables, drinking water, vault toilets and a centrally located playground that offers children a great place to run off the day's energy.A campground host is on site to answer questions.
Natural Features
The campground sits in a forest of mixed hardwoods and pine and new pine and cedar have been planted.The lake is 57 acres and has an irregular shoreline great for exploring by canoe or kayak. The lake area is also a nesting place for loons and a habitat for other birds and wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous outdoor recreation opportunities lie within Superior National Forest's 77 lake accesses, 13 fishing piers, 10 swimming beaches and 22 picnic areas. The forest is also home to three scenic byways.Additional sites of interest
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundPfeiffer Lake is located in Minnesota
Directions
From Virginia, Minnesota, take Highway 53 north for 21 miles to County Road 22. Turn onto County Road 22 and travel east for 10 miles. Turn south on Forest Road 256 and travel 1.2 miles to Pfeiffer Lake Campground.
Address
LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT
PFEIFEER LAKE CAMPGROUND
318 FORESTRY ROAD
Aurora, MN 55705
Coordinates
47.7530556 N
92.4722222 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/22/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/22/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 30 min from Duluth, MN
- 3 hrs 14 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 3 hrs 28 min from St. Cloud, MN
- 3 hrs 44 min from Eau Claire, WI






