Best Dispersed Camping near Illgen City, MN

Looking for dispersed camping near Illgen City? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Minnesota excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Illgen City, MN (11)

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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Illgen City

11 Reviews of 11 Illgen City Campgrounds


  • ashley L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlton Peak Dispersed Camp
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Carlton Peak Dispersed Camp

    Up on a hill alone

    This spot was easy to get to with our truck camper. Road is alittle bumpy and rocky on the way up. The spot is near Carlton peak trail head and not to far from superior hiking trail. At this spot you can see views of superior lake and the lusten mountains. We went in October and it was quiet and secluded.

  • Carissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Danger
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Well hidden dispersed spot

    This area is definitely off the beaten path. Super skinny road with lots of rocks/hills and puddles coming in. I would recommend a car with 4WD for it and would not suggest pulling a camper unless you have experience bringing it over rough terrain. The sites themselves appeared to not be visited often. I went in early August and a lot of the places were over grown with plants! It was nice to be right by the north shore but in a spot that felt very much secluded. There was also no bugs here which was amazing! Great spot to hang out by a campfire without getting swarmed. You’ll be able to find plenty of wood from the nearby trees for a fire as well.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Arrived after dark

    Easy to access, trails are all obvious, and near a water supply. We decided to go off the cuff, and the only thing we weren’t ready for was the damn mosquitos! Will be bringing repellent next time. BEAUTIFUL SPOT.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Danger
    Jan. 18, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Great dispersed camping!

    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. 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.

  • Jasmine L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    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!

  • Chelsea N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    Jul. 8, 2023

    Carrol Truck Trail

    As advertised

    No marked sites or mowing/trimming done that we could find. There's a shooting range that is not marked as such and we didn't realize that's what it was until we had already camped. Easy to find if out of the way quite a bit. Very quiet.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    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.

  • Lesley R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Creek Kayak Site
    Dec. 20, 2022

    Last Creek Kayak Site

    Private with Views

    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. Perhaps early spring or late fall would be an ideal time to visit this location, either way, the landscape is stunning, no one else around. Bring your bug nets, spray, bear rope, you’ve joined nature.

  • Lesley R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 5, 2022

    State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping

    Back Country Wonder

    If you like wilderness, rustic, resourcing wood for fires and pure relaxation in the woods, here’s the place for you to add to your trip. No where you’d find on the main searches, it’s a place to respect.

  • Amy G.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field
    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.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite
    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!


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Guide to Illgen City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Illgen City, Minnesota, where nature enthusiasts can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness.

Dispersed campers should check out Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park

  • This spot is perfect for those who enjoy car camping, with ample parking available, although it lacks amenities like bathrooms and drinking water.
  • Visitors appreciate the stunning views and the opportunity to hike in with a low-key backpacking setup, making it a great choice for a peaceful retreat.
  • Pets are welcome, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure at Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Illgen City, Minnesota

  • For a truly secluded experience, consider Castle Danger, which is tucked away off the beaten path and features a rugged access road best suited for 4WD vehicles.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of building campfires and sourcing firewood from the surrounding area, enhancing the rustic camping experience.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, as this area is known for its serene environment and lack of pesky bugs, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.

Scenic views await at Carlton Peak Dispersed Camp

  • Located near the Carlton Peak trailhead, this site offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the surrounding mountains, perfect for those who appreciate scenic landscapes.
  • The road leading to the site may be bumpy, but the tranquility and seclusion make the journey worthwhile for campers seeking a peaceful escape.
  • With the option to hike nearby trails, visitors can easily explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying their stay at Carlton Peak Dispersed Camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Illgen City, MN is Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Illgen City, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.