Best Dispersed Camping near Eveleth, MN
Dispersed camping in the Eveleth, Minnesota region includes two notable free camping areas on public land. Big Rice Lake offers primitive camping with minimal amenities, while Carrol Truck Trail provides more remote forest access for those seeking a backcountry experience. Both locations support tent and RV camping, though without developed facilities typical of established campgrounds. The surrounding area features mixed forest terrain with access to lakes and waterways.
Road conditions vary significantly between the two dispersed camping areas. Carrol Truck Trail requires navigating approximately five miles of gravel road that may challenge larger vehicles or those without sufficient clearance. Big Rice Lake has only three primitive campsites, all potentially suitable for small RVs or travel trailers. Neither location provides drinking water, electric hookups, or sewer connections. Big Rice Lake offers the advantage of vault toilets, while Carrol Truck Trail lacks any bathroom facilities. Fire rings exist at both locations, with abundant natural firewood available at Carrol Truck Trail.
These primitive camping areas attract visitors seeking different levels of seclusion and wilderness experience. Big Rice Lake provides a more accessible option with boat access and limited amenities. Carrol Truck Trail delivers a deeper backcountry experience with multiple access methods including drive-in, hike-in, boat-in, and walk-in opportunities. Wildlife encounters are common, particularly at Carrol Truck Trail. Cell service varies between the locations, with limited connectivity reported at both sites. "Very buggy (mosquitos, ticks), no cell service. Approx three spots for tents or cars/trucks/vans, not suitable for larger vehicles," noted one visitor to Carrol Truck Trail. Another camper at Big Rice Lake reported, "Campground is small with 3 free campsites, all of which can fit a small RV or travel trailer. There is a boat landing with a vault toilet that was clean."
