Finland is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Minnesota camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Finland, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"Nice secluded spot near many cool attractions but a few miles off the beaten path so it’s a lot less busy."
"If you’re a serious boater who loves a good challenge with the goal of spending buggy days in the thickets of the woods along Lake Superior, this private boat-in site has been tailored for you."
"This spot is pretty well hidden in the woods with a tight trail in. There are a few spots you could camp with stone firepits. Didn't look to be visited often, but I came in winter."
"The location on the dirt does take you to a persons property but check out Skips review for a detailed location. Overall great spot and close to a superior hiking trailhead"
"This is an established dispersed site - there is a massive fire ring, but it's 100% primitive. "
"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."
"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."
"If you like primitive wilderness camping but want to be only a short backpack hike away from your car, this campsite is for you!"
TravelerUpon 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.
GuideVery 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.
GuideIt'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
LegendIf 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!
ScoutThis 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.
GuideNice 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.
LegendThis 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.
TravelerBeautiful! 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!
RangerThis spot is pretty well hidden in the woods with a tight trail in. There are a few spots you could camp with stone firepits. Didn't look to be visited often, but I came in winter. There are low sites, and if you have 4x4, you can drive up to another plateau of sites. There's plenty of wood, but depending on location, you'll have to walk for it.
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.
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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