Established Camping

Poplar River Rustic Campground

1 Review

About

National Forest

Poplar River Rustic Campground is unusual in that it is located on the edge of a river rather than a lake. Several of the sites have access directly to the river, so stream fishing for trout can be done right from your campsite! Trout and salmon fishing does require a trout/salmon stamp in addition to a valid Minnesota fishing license. This campground is also right on one of the roads included in our Fall Color Tours, so it is good spot to stay during the fall color season. The Poplar River is either named after the quaking aspen tree, locally referred to as popple or poplar, or the balsam poplar. Balsam poplar has a distinctive and wonderful smell most noticible during leaf out in the spring.

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Dan W.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 4, 2020

Beautiful spot tucked off the honeymoon trail

I’ve camped here many times and also “tried “to camp many times as it’s first come basis . Multiple spots off the popular river which consists of brook trout . A vault style bathroom on site . Be very bear aware and keep things clean and out of site . Great area half way down the honeymoon trail a must see in the fall color change !

Location

Poplar River Rustic Campground is located in Minnesota

Directions

Poplar River Rustic Campground is located on the Honeymoon Trail, midway between Co 2 (Sawbill Trail) and Co 4 (Caribou Trail). Due to the angle of MN 61 and the paving of the roads, even if you are coming from the south, the route via Lutsen is shorter both in time and distance even though it backtracks. From MN 61 in Tofte: Turn north on Co 2, drive approx 11 miles to FR 164 (Honeymoon Trail) Turn right and drive 5.5 miles. The campground is on the left, just past the bridge over the Poplar River. From MN 61 in Lutsen: Turn north on Co 4, drive approx 6 miles to FR 164 (Honeymoon Trail). Turn right and drive approx 4 miles. The campground is on the right, just before the bridge over the Poplar River.