Best Dispersed Camping near Bigfork, MN

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Bigfork, MN (5)

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Recent Dispersed Reviews in Bigfork

5 Reviews of 5 Bigfork Campgrounds


  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Cassaway Dispersed
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Camp Cassaway Dispersed

    Free dispersed camping

    About a quarter mile from main road but very rough road meaning huge holes, just go slow. A few spots right next to the lake maybe 5 but the loop is generally close together for 3 of them. Its a really nice secluded spot actually with fresh clear cool waters. The mid summer bugs werent as bad when there was slight winds. May get adventurous and explore the rustic trails around the lake. Lots of wood sticks around to gather as well. Maybe you get lucky and are only one there to feel like in the movie castaway.

  • Michael K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite
    Jun. 5, 2022

    Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite

    Swarms of mosquitos

    The road getting back to the diapered sites had 5+ branches reaching out into the road (one of us had to get out and pull them back to avoid roof damage to the camper). Once we were near the first site we were swarmed with mosquitos. We had to discuss whether we wanted to sacrifice not spending anytime outside during our stay (use the site for free) or go look somewhere else. We chose the ladder. The mosquitos are probably intense right now because 1. It’s June and 2. Flooding. We might try it here again in the fall.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crazy James Water Trail - Campsite for Paddlers
    Jun. 14, 2021

    Crazy James Water Trail - Campsite for Paddlers

    Crazy James landing watercraft campsite

    This is a paddle-in only campsite within the Chippewa National Forest, and is an official campsite on the Mississippi River State Water Trail in Minnesota. It is located downstream from the Lake Winnie Dam, and is a good place to stay after portaging the dam if you dont want to stay at the Winnie Dam Campground. It is located near upper River mile 1225, on the left side of the river. The access point appears very overgrown from the river, but look for the brown watercraft campsite sign with the yellow canoe, and if you land at that point you will see a mall trail that leads to wooden timbered steps up to the campsite. There is a nice view over the river here, and a bit of a breeze, which is especially good in early summer when bugs are bad. This is a typical water access only campsite for paddlers on the water trail, and includes the basic such as picnic table, fire ring, and pit toilet. There is no potable water water avaialble here, so be prepared. There is room for several tents, so a small group could camp here. 

    The next watercraft campsite is downs stream quite a few miles, so if you are passing mid in the afternoon it might be good to stop here. The next recommended campsite is at Gambler's Point, the previous campsites on Lake Winnie include Lake Winnie Dam and Tamarack Point.

    If you are a through paddler on an extended trip you may already have maps and water trail info, but if not, check out these links: 

    Info for camping at watercraft campsites: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/watercraft-campsites.html info and maps for all of Minnesota state water trails: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/index.html map for Mississippi River State Water Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/mississippiriver/index.html section map on which Crazy James landing is located, just upstream from River Mile 1225: https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/canoe\_routes/mississippi2.pdf

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Birches Landing on Lake Winni
    Aug. 27, 2020

    Birches Landing on Lake Winni

    One night stop for paddlers only the water trail only

    This is a US Forest Service Boating area on Lake Winnie in the Chippewa National Forest. It is primarily set up as a boat and canoe landing, with large beautiful group picnic area as well. However, it is also a stop at the Mississippi Headwaters Water Trail, and is a canoe stopover spot. At times, the winds and storms on Lake Winnie are very dangerous, and paddlers are not able to get further up the point to the Tamarack Point campsites, or around the point to the Winnie Dam camground. Under those conitions, it would be dangerous to go further, and paddlers may stay here for the night. Bathrooms, plenty of tent space, easy landing and launching for canoes and kayaks as well as boats, new picnnic shelters, great place for paddlers to shelter.


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Guide to Bigfork

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bigfork, Minnesota, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy unique experiences in this picturesque region.

Dispersed campers should check out Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite

  • Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite offers a rustic experience with no reservations required, allowing for spontaneous adventures in the heart of nature.
  • While enjoying the area, be prepared for some pesky insects, as reviews mention swarms of mosquitoes during the warmer months.
  • The campsite features essential amenities like drinking water and picnic tables, making it a convenient choice for those looking to enjoy a campfire under the stars.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Bigfork, Minnesota

  • When visiting Camp Cassaway Dispersed, be ready for a rough road leading to the site, which adds to the adventure of reaching a secluded spot.
  • It's advisable to bring your own firewood, as some areas do not provide this amenity, ensuring you can enjoy a warm fire during your stay.
  • Keep in mind that many dispersed sites, like Birches Landing on Lake Winni, are primarily designed for boat-in access, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Outdoor activities while free camping near Bigfork

  • Paddlers will appreciate the unique location of Crazy James Water Trail - Campsite for Paddlers, which serves as a great stopover after navigating the Mississippi River.
  • Fishing enthusiasts may want to explore the nearby waters, but be cautious of the water quality at certain sites, as noted by visitors at Koochiching State Forest.
  • The area is perfect for hiking and exploring rustic trails, especially around Lake Winnibigoshish Lakeside Camp, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and surrounding forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bigfork, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bigfork, MN is Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite with a 2.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bigfork, MN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Bigfork, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.