Looking for the best campgrounds near Deer River, MN? Deer River is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Deer River, reviewed by campers like you.
"Along the river, there are many "free" sites that are maintained by the DNR in Minnesota."
"About a 25 minute drive west of Grand Rapids, MN, Schoolcraft State Park is a less-often visited park that makes up for its lack of hiking trails and in-park amenities with cozy, quiet charm."
$14 - $35 / night
"Pokegema Dam This is a campground established by the Army Corps of Engineers, adjacent to the Pokegama Dam."
"The Pokegama Dam & Recreation Area is a small but comfortable campground just minutes from Grand Rapids, Minnesota."
$20 / night
"Popular backcountry sites in the Marcell area of the Chippewa National Forest include Spider Lake, the birch forest of the Suomi Hills and Trout Lake."
$14 / night
"We celebrated the 2017 Minnesota Walleye Fishing Season opener at one of our favorite campgrounds. North Star campground has 38 sites between north and south loops."
"Good fishing in the lake. Like all good forests it’s primitive and non reservable. Wouldn’t worry about getting a site tho. We stayed in 7 and had nobody around us."
$14 - $50 / night
"Our family just returned from a 9 day stay at Leech Lake Receeation Area, and wish we could have stayed 9 more!!"
"We were able to go and take a walk to the lake which is super short walk from pretty much any of the sites but really close from our site."
"The walk-in sites are nice and off-the-beaten path. Hiking is a bit underwhelming, but overall a nice easy trip from the twin cities"
"This park is beautiful and right next to a lake. Very green and full of trees. Park is clean. The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the long-term residence aren't very friendly."
"Very nice owners and they helped us get situated in our sites making sure we had everything we needed! Very laid back campground with a great area for both boats and swimming! I loved the vibe here!"
$24 / night
"With access to the Mississippi River near and Lake Winnibigoshish you have plenty to choose from."
"It is adjacent to the Dam that marks the outlet of the Mississippi River from Lake Winnibigoshsish."
$25 - $3000 / night
"As are most of the campsites in upper Minnesota this time of year, the owner told me they were closed. But he was happy to let me stay overnight for a reduced off-season fee."
"Beautiful spot, kind of secluded away from the rest of the campers but not tucked away by any means. Right on the lake. Grills are at all the tent sites but we used the fire."
TravelerPerhaps this was a Chippewa national Forest campground in the past, but it has not been upkeep at all. It would be good for dispersed camping but none of the sites are cleared, and the roads are overgrown.
GuideThe owners and staff are very friendly. This place is dog friendly, great for kids. They have small splash pad, kayaks, paddle boards and baffles boats to use. Boat rental available.
ScoutThe experience was good but they look down on special breeds of dogs.
TravelerIt’s what camping should be. Wooded between sites. Peaceful. Ahhhhh!
GuideThere are 5 or 6 nonreservables sites here. Great for biking the Migizi and Paul Bunyan. Sites are spacious enougha and provate for the most part. 1 of 3 bathrooms were open and only 2 showers.
GuideThere are several obvious homeless sites here. People from the local tribe can stay here for free with no time limit. It wouldn't be a problem, but several sites look like homeless encampments. If you've seen a homeless encampment you know what I mean. If they were clean I wouldn't complain. This loop has electric, so this is where they stay.
GuideI stayed in the campground while volunteering for Smokey Bear's 81st birthday celebration at the Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center in Marcell. Much to my surprise, the campground was almost empty. Only one other of the 38 sites was occupied. We've stayed in this campground previously, but in 26 years as a volunteer on the Chippewa, I've never seen any campground this quiet at the height of summer. Needless to say, other than an occasional motorboat on North Star Lake, the only noise was the cry of the loons and the call of an Osprey. I had a nice staircase down to the lakeshore with a bench so I could sit and look out at the lake.
Latrines were immaculate. The three sites I looked at before choosing #33 were all clean as well. The cost per night is a reasonable $14.00, or only $7.00 if you have a access pass. As of 2025, the campground does not accept reservations. This may change in the future.
Before and after the Smokey event, I had the opportunity to visit and fish some backcountry designated trout lakes. Ironically, although I caught was a bass.
A lot of visitors never get beyond fishing and being in the campground, but as a former volunteer Backcountry Ranger on the Chippewa, I would encourage campers to seek out new opportunities and adventures. Discover the forest, and find where you come alive!
ScoutThis campground has 2 parts, the north section and the south section. The south is on a peninsula with just a few campsites. The north is the bigger part of the campground. The sites in the north are large and very well kept, each with a picnic table, fire ring and level sights. Two campground hosts who are very friendly and accommodating. Just a few vault toilets. If there's anywhere to improve, it is the number of toilets in the bigger campground. The south campground has the shower house and laundry, along with flush toilets. All in all, a very nice place to stay.
GuideNice campground with several lakeside sites. Has all the basics: table, firepit, water and pit toilets. Peaceful campground on a beautiful lake. Loons calling. Only a few other campers, spread out throughout campground.
Camping near Deer River, Minnesota, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful lakes and lush forests, it’s a perfect spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.
Camping near Deer River, Minnesota, has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, you’ll find it here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available at Deer Lake near Deer River?
Around Deer Lake near Deer River, you'll find several camping options providing lake access. Winnie Campground offers peaceful lakeside campsites with beautiful views over Lake Winnie and spacious sites that can accommodate larger RVs. Trout Lake Campground is another option in the area, offering RV sites and seasonal availability (note that some facilities may be limited during off-season). For those seeking a more primitive experience, the surrounding area also includes camping at Moose Lake with basic amenities.
Where are the campgrounds located in Deer River, MN?
The Deer River area offers several campground options in scenic northern Minnesota. Winnie Dam Campground is located near Lake Winnibigoshish with Mississippi River access and is maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers. Northeast of Deer River, you'll find Pokegama Dam Campground, another Army Corps facility positioned adjacent to Pokegama Dam with fishing opportunities in the rapids. Other nearby options include Little American Falls County Park along the Big Fork River and Minnesota National RV Park located inside a golf course.
How far is Deer River from Hibbing, MN?
Deer River is approximately 60 miles from Hibbing, MN, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes via US-2 E and MN-6 N. Along this route, you'll find several camping options including Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park, which is closer to Hibbing and offers access to Sturgeon and Side Lake with water activities. Savanna Portage State Park Campground is another option between the two locations, situated near four lakes with hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.
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