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Best Dispersed Camping near Orr, MN

4 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Orr, Minnesota includes several free primitive sites across public lands. Kab-Ash Trail Dispersed Campsites provides drive-in access for tents and RVs, while Vermilion Gorge Trailhead offers hike-in options. Big Rice Lake features free camping with toilet facilities and allows both tents and RVs. Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite, located near Big Falls, provides basic amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, and toilet facilities. These areas permit camping without reservations, typical of dispersed sites on public lands.

Access conditions vary significantly between sites. Kab-Ash Trail sites are located right off the main road near Ash River Visitor Center. Big Rice Lake accommodates small RVs or travel trailers at its three free campsites. Johnson Landing Campsite has challenging access roads with branches extending into driving paths that may require clearing. Most sites lack amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, or shower facilities. Pets are permitted at Big Rice Lake and Johnson Landing but may be restricted at other locations. Fire regulations differ by site, with some areas permitting campfires while others prohibit them.

The dispersed camping experience around Orr offers varying levels of seclusion and natural settings. Kab-Ash Trail provides "quiet and secluded" camping according to a recent visitor. Big Rice Lake features a boat landing with clean vault toilets and sufficient cell reception for basic connectivity. One camper noted, "Verizon cell reception of 2 bars. I was able to stream YouTube video." Seasonal conditions significantly impact the camping experience. Johnson Landing Campsite can have intense mosquito activity, particularly during June and after flooding events. Another visitor mentioned that "water in the stream was an ugly rust color," which deterred fishing attempts. Wildlife encounters are common throughout these areas, though insect activity may be substantial during warmer months.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Orr, Minnesota (4)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Orr, MN

4 Reviews of 4 Orr Campgrounds

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Big Rice Lake

    Beautiful view

    We have a 40’ 5th wheel, so decides not to stay in the “formal” campground. There is an open spot near the lake where we set up for the night. The road to drive in is gravel but very smooth.

  • Michael K.
    Jun. 5, 2022

    Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite

    Swarms of mosquitos

    The road getting back to the diapered sites had 5+ branches reaching out into the road (one of us had to get out and pull them back to avoid roof damage to the camper). Once we were near the first site we were swarmed with mosquitos. We had to discuss whether we wanted to sacrifice not spending anytime outside during our stay (use the site for free) or go look somewhere else. We chose the ladder. The mosquitos are probably intense right now because 1. It’s June and 2. Flooding. We might try it here again in the fall.

  • S
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Big Rice Lake

    Peaceful location

    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. Verizon cell reception of 2 bars. I was able to stream YouTube video.

  • Jodi V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite

    Lots of biting flies

    Campsites we’re ok. One had 2 picnic tables other 2 had none. Water in the stream was an ugly rust color. Just the sight turned us off of trying to fish

Guide to Orr

Dispersed camping near Orr, Minnesota offers primitive camping experiences on public lands within the Superior National Forest and nearby state forests. Located in northern Minnesota approximately 100 miles from the Canadian border, the area experiences extreme seasonal variations with winter temperatures regularly dropping below 0°F and summer temperatures averaging in the mid-70s. Camping locations range from roadside pull-offs to secluded spots along waterways with most sites situated below 1,400 feet elevation.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Big Rice Lake provides access for anglers with a boat landing near the free campsites. According to Scott K., "There is a boat landing with a vault toilet that was clean. Verizon cell reception of 2 bars."

Hiking trails: Vermilion Gorge Trailhead Dispersed Camping offers hike-in only camping along trails that follow the scenic river gorge. The site requires visitors to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste as no facilities are provided.

Wildlife viewing: Multiple dispersed sites provide opportunities to observe local wildlife including deer, moose, black bears, and numerous bird species. Many campers report early morning hours as optimal for wildlife sightings.

What campers like

Peaceful settings: Big Rice Lake receives positive reviews for its tranquil atmosphere. Pamela B. noted, "There is an open spot near the lake where we set up for the night. The road to drive in is gravel but very smooth."

Affordability: The no-cost camping options throughout the region appeal to budget-conscious travelers. Several sites offer free camping with basic amenities like vault toilets.

Solitude: Kab-Ash Trail Dispersed Campsites provides isolation from crowds despite convenient access. Shannon observed the area has "Maybe 3 sites. Right off main road. Close to Ash River Visitor Center."

What you should know

Seasonal insect activity: Bug populations vary dramatically by season with peak mosquito activity during June through August. Michael K. from Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite reported, "Once we were near the first site we were swarmed with mosquitos. We had to discuss whether we wanted to sacrifice not spending anytime outside during our stay."

Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites deteriorate during wet weather periods. Some roads have obstacles requiring clearance. Michael K. noted, "The road getting back to the dispersed sites had 5+ branches reaching out into the road (one of us had to get out and pull them back to avoid roof damage to the camper)."

Water quality concerns: Some waterways in the region contain high iron content that affects water color and fishing. Jodi V. observed, "Campsites were ok. One had 2 picnic tables other 2 had none."

Tips for camping with families

Site selection: Choose sites with toilet facilities when camping with children. Free camping near Orr includes options with basic bathroom facilities.

Entertainment options: Pack games and activities as many sites lack developed recreation areas. Several dispersed camping areas have limited space for play.

Safety precautions: Bear-proof food storage containers or proper food hanging techniques remain essential. Store all scented items securely away from sleeping areas at night.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate smaller RVs only. Scott K. mentioned Big Rice Lake "Campground is small with 3 free campsites, all of which can fit a small RV or travel trailer."

Leveling challenges: Prepare with leveling blocks as most free sites have uneven terrain. Bring extra stabilizing equipment.

Water access: No-cost camping sites near Orr typically lack hookups. Plan to arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks when using RVs at these locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Orr, Minnesota?

Big Rice Lake offers free dispersed camping with 3 sites that can accommodate small RVs and travel trailers. The area features a boat landing with clean vault toilets and decent Verizon cell reception (2 bars). The access road is gravel but well-maintained and smooth, making it accessible for larger vehicles including 40' 5th wheels. Look for the open spot near the lake that provides additional space for overnight camping beyond the formal sites.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in the Superior National Forest near Orr?

Dispersed camping in the Superior National Forest near Orr typically follows standard Forest Service regulations. At Kab-Ash Trail Dispersed Campsites, you'll find approximately 3 sites located right off the main road near the Ash River Visitor Center. Dispersed camping regulations generally include a 14-day stay limit, maintaining at least 100 feet distance from water sources, proper waste disposal, and following fire restrictions. Always check current regulations with the Superior National Forest Service before your trip, as rules may change seasonally or with fire danger levels.

Is dispersed camping available year-round near Orr, Minnesota?

Dispersed camping is generally available year-round near Orr, Minnesota, though accessibility varies by season. Koochiching State Forest Johnson Landing Campsite offers basic sites with varied amenities (some sites have picnic tables, others don't), but access can be challenging in certain seasons. During summer, expect significant mosquito activity and potentially overgrown access roads with branches that might damage taller vehicles. Winter camping is possible throughout the region but requires proper preparation for snow and cold conditions. Always check road conditions before attempting winter access to remote dispersed sites.

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