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Best Dispersed Camping near Lutsen, MN

6 Reviews

The Superior National Forest surrounding Lutsen offers several primitive dispersed camping options, with Lake Isabella providing two notable sites. Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field features a large clearing suitable for multiple tents or vehicles, located about 100 yards from the road for privacy. A vault toilet is accessible at the nearby BWCA entry point, though no potable water is available. The hilltop dispersed site at Lake Isabella offers similar amenities with fires permitted at both locations.

For paddlers, several kayak sites dot Lake Superior's shoreline near Lutsen. Last Creek Kayak Site, Fall River Kayak Site, and County Road 67 Kayak Site are all boat-in primitive locations that provide picnic tables and allow campfires but have no facilities. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, Last Creek offers "private boat-in sites... no one else around. Bring your bug nets, spray, bear rope, you've joined nature." Backpackers can access Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Campsite via a half-mile hike, providing lakeside wilderness camping with access to extensive trail networks, though mosquitoes can be intense during summer months.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lutsen, Minnesota (9)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lutsen, MN

6 Reviews of 9 Lutsen Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • Lesley R.The Dyrt PRO User
    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
    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.

Guide to Lutsen

Experience the beauty of nature with dispersed camping near Lutsen, Minnesota. This area offers a variety of stunning locations where you can immerse yourself in the wilderness while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Lutsen

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Lutsen, Minnesota

  • Always bring your own water, as sites like the Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field do not offer drinking water, and it's essential to stay hydrated during your outdoor adventures.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; the Baker Lake Rustic Campground offers no amenities, so pack accordingly with all necessary supplies.
  • If you're camping in the fall, consider wearing blaze orange, especially near areas like Lake Isabella Hilltop Dispersed, where hunting is permitted during that season.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Scenic Views

  • The Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park offers stunning views and is ideal for those who want to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars without the noise of traditional campgrounds.
  • For a truly secluded experience, the County Road 67 Kayak Site is a great choice, providing a serene environment for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • The Fall River Kayak Site is perfect for adventurous campers who want to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying the tranquility of a boat-in site.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Superior National Forest near Lutsen?

When dispersed camping in Superior National Forest near Lutsen, you must camp at least 150 feet from water bodies, trails, and roads. Pack out all trash (pack in, pack out policy), and use existing fire rings when available. A free permit is required for overnight stays in the BWCA portion of the forest. At sites like State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping, you'll need to source your own wood for fires and practice Leave No Trace principles. Most dispersed sites have a 14-day stay limit. During high fire danger periods, fire restrictions may be implemented, so check with the Forest Service before your trip.

Are there any free campsites near Lutsen during winter for ski trips?

Yes, there are free winter camping options near Lutsen for ski trips. Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park provides a convenient spot for vehicle camping with ample parking, making it accessible during winter months. It's particularly suitable for those with proper winter camping gear. Baker Lake Rustic Campground is another option, though be prepared for very cold temperatures and minimal facilities during winter. Winter camping in this region requires proper preparation with cold-weather gear, as temperatures can drop significantly. Always check road conditions and accessibility before heading out, as some forest roads may not be plowed.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Lutsen, Minnesota?

Dispersed camping near Lutsen can be found throughout Superior National Forest. Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite offers primitive wilderness camping with a short hike from your car and features two campsites along the lakeshore. For those preferring drive-in options, Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field provides a spacious established site with a large fire ring and access to a vault toilet nearby at the BWCA Lake Isabella entry point. Both offer true wilderness experiences with varying levels of accessibility, making them ideal for experiencing the North Shore's natural beauty.

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