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Best Dispersed Camping near Finland, MN

18 Reviews

Several dispersed camping sites dot the forests surrounding Finland, Minnesota, primarily along the shores of Lake Superior and interior woodland areas. State Land near Lax Lake Area offers primitive backcountry sites accessed via dirt roads that may require clearance for vehicles. Castle Danger provides secluded spots requiring 4WD access over rough terrain with multiple established fire rings. Both locations permit campfires, allow pets, and are free to use.

Lake Isabella offers two dispersed camping options approximately 25 miles north of Finland. The Open Field site accommodates larger vehicles with vault toilets available 300 yards away at the BWCA entry point. The Hilltop site provides more seclusion but similar amenities. Carrol Truck Trail, located about 30 miles west, features multiple primitive sites along a 5-mile gravel road ending at a canoe/kayak launch. One camper noted that "couple fire pits [are] already built" but warned that wildlife, including "a pack of yoties or wolves," may be active near campsites. Most sites lack amenities entirely, requiring visitors to pack in water and pack out waste.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Finland, Minnesota (10)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Finland, MN

18 Reviews of 10 Finland Campgrounds

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2023

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Hidden Gem for Hike in/Drive in

    Upon reaching the end of the trail, there is a small dirt road that leads to a public Canoe/Kayak launch. No amenities, but you can filter your water. Surrounded by woods, so there is no shortage of wood for a campfire. Service is a measly 2 bars through ATT. Overall, a lovely hidden gem if you pack accordingly. Recovery gear would be beneficial.

  • Anna P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Buggy, limited spots

    Very buggy (mosquitos, ticks), no cell service. Approx three spots for tents or cars/trucks/vans, not suitable for larger vehicles. River access. There were multiple pull offs along the long road to get to the site, but most of them are not on public land.

  • goose10091203 The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Secluded! But nothing else

    It's a fine place to go to get away from everything. No reason to drive all the way out unless you're trying to camp. There are 3 campsites at the end of the road where the GPS takes you. There are a few other pull offs along the way. I'm guessing all the forest roads around here have sites so even if this one is occupied, there are others close.

    BRING BUG SPRAY! the mosquitoes are no joke

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Castle Danger

    Awesome extremely private and primitive camping

    DO NOT COME HERE UNLESS YOU HAVE A HIGH CLEARANCE 4x4. The “road” up to the campsite is basically a jeep trail. But if you can get to it I recommend taking the first right if you have a pickup truck or going immediately left if you have anything else. The spot on top of the hill is a great spot.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2021

    Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite

    Boundary waters hike-in experience

    If you like primitive wilderness camping but want to be only a short backpack hike away from your car, this campsite is for you! There are actually two campsites at this location, offset from each other on the lakeshore but close enough for a group to spread out into. This is a backcountry camping exprience on Blackstone Lake, of the Fernburg Trail east of Ely in the Superior National Forest. The trail access is near the Moose Lake entrance to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area wilderness. You park your car, then have about a half mile hike in to the campsite. Once you are set up, you have an amzing pristine lake to gaze at or swim in, or paddle on if you portage in a canoe or kayak! Then, you have a maze of hiking trails to hike from the campsite, over rugged roky terrain and to some of the most breathtaking vistas in the area! If you are a rock climber, the cliffs at Ennis Lake are sought after by rock climbers all over the region who are up for the challenging hike in before even tackling the cliffs. Wildlife abounds, pristine wilderness beauty, an amazing opportunity! We came in the third week of June, and experienced no ticks, no bugs, which was blissful!

  • H
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite

    Eaten by mosquitos

    This place had so much potential but unfortunately I was not as lucky as the other reviewer. Got absolutely eaten alive by mosquitos the first night, tried to thug it out, and ended up leaving. I had long sleeves / pants and bug spray but it did not stop them. Would not recommend going here in August.

  • TexasRed (.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping

    Nice quiet spot

    Nice secluded spot near many cool attractions but a few miles off the beaten path so it’s a lot less busy. The dirt road in was fine, the driveway was overgrown and the clearing has lots of rocks and vegetation so glad I checked it out in the daytime. I left and came back to find some other Dryters who were really cool and let me stay next to them. Had a fun night by the fire talking with the couple and looking at the stars. Overall very cool spot.

  • Amy G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2022

    Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field

    Wide open space for any number of people

    This is an established dispersed site - there is a massive fire ring, but it's 100% primitive.  There is a vault toilet about 300 yards away at the BWCA Lake Isabella entry point, so easy to drive to. 

    This site is fairly large and would easily accommodate any number of people  We were in a group of 4 with 3 dogs, and there was more than enough room.  There were a few trees for hammocks, decent shaded areas under pines for a few folks, but if you had more than a few tents/trailers, you'd be dropping camp in the sun.  There is no potable water, so make sure to bring plenty. It's a long way back to a town to get more if you need it.  We brought a 5 gallon jug with us and that worked for 2 days. 

    The site is set about 100 or more yards off the road, so it's pretty well secluded from traffic and it feels very private. Except for the grouse and birds and squirrels.

    This site has a massive fire ring that has been built from rocks, but it's really far too big to be usable for a reasonable sized fire.  Seems like someone might have built it for a ginormous bonfire when lots of people were here.  We built a smaller fire to one side, but it was a bit of an odd situation to get 4 people around a warm fire when you could only really use part of it. 

    Lake Isabella entry point for the BWCA is by the vault bathroom, so you could easily boat in, get out and get to this camp with a fairly easy portage. About a 1/4 mile from the lake to the parking area and 300-ish yards to the campsite. 

    Lots of hunters this time of year (fall - October) so wear blaze orange is my recommendation. We heard shots fired for bird hunting, so just be aware it's allowed in this area (with a license) this time of year.

  • Jasmine L.
    Oct. 8, 2023

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Hidden Gem!

    Beautiful! Absolutely dispersed, we went all the way down the gravel road 5 miles in by SUV to the landing. Couple spots where you could clearly tell people were here before. (garbage, but we picked up as we came across) no one else out there but us! Couple fire pits already built. No bugs! Lots of wildlife for sure. But a pack of yoties or wolves was making our dog very alert they ran right next to us when we had our fire going. We had to pack up and take off they were not scared of the car horn or anything. Our dog wouldn’t sleep so had to take off. Otherwise definitely going back again!

Guide to Finland

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Finland, Minnesota, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the North Shore.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Finland, Minnesota

  • When visiting Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park, be prepared for a primitive experience as there are no amenities like water or toilets available.
  • For those seeking a more secluded spot, Castle Danger offers a hidden gem with minimal traffic and plenty of natural beauty, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
  • If you enjoy hiking, consider the Carlton Peak Dispersed Camp, which is conveniently located near trails that lead to breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

Dispersed campers should check out State Land Lax Lake Area

  • This area allows for campfires and alcohol, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind in nature while enjoying a cozy fire at night.
  • The State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping is perfect for those who appreciate rustic camping, as it encourages resourcefulness with wood gathering for fires.
  • With no permits required, this location offers a hassle-free experience for spontaneous campers eager to explore the wilderness.

Enjoy kayaking and fishing while free camping near Finland

  • The Last Creek Kayak Site is ideal for boaters looking for a private spot to set up camp after a day on the water, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Superior.
  • If you’re up for a challenge, the Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite offers a serene environment for fishing and swimming, just a short hike from your vehicle.
  • For those who prefer a more rugged experience, the Carrol Truck Trail provides access to beautiful waterways and wildlife, perfect for a day of kayaking or fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits are required for dispersed camping in Finland State Forest?

Dispersed camping in Finland State Forest typically doesn't require specific permits for standard overnight stays. At Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field, which is an established dispersed site near the BWCA entry point, no special permits are needed for regular camping. However, if you're planning to visit Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite, be aware that backcountry camping rules apply. Always check with the Finland State Forest office before your trip, as regulations may change seasonally, especially during fire restriction periods.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Finland State Forest?

Finland State Forest offers several dispersed camping locations. Carrol Truck Trail is a popular option with approximately three camping spots at the end of a gravel road, plus additional pull-offs along the way. The trail includes access to a public canoe/kayak launch. Another option is Castle Danger, which features secluded spots with stone fire rings accessed via a narrow trail. This area requires careful navigation, and while some sites are easily accessible, others may require 4WD to reach higher plateau camping areas.

Are there any amenities available at Finland State Forest dispersed camping sites?

Dispersed camping in Finland State Forest is primarily primitive with minimal amenities. At most sites, you'll need to be self-sufficient. While Lake Isabella Hilltop Dispersed offers access to vault toilets located about 300 yards away at the BWCA entry point, most areas have no facilities. Water must be filtered from natural sources - for example, campers at Last Creek Kayak Site need to bring filtration equipment. No garbage service is available, so pack out all trash. Cell service varies significantly by location, with most sites having limited to no coverage. Established fire rings are common at popular sites, but you should bring everything else you need.

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