Top Free Dispersed Camping near Superior National Forest

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Superior National Forest? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Minnesota camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Superior National Forest, MN (9)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Superior National Forest

5 Reviews of 9 Superior National Forest Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rice Lake
    September 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Last Creek Kayak Site
    December 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from State Land Lax Lake Area - Dispersed Camping
    November 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field
    October 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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite
    September 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!



Guide to Superior National Forest

Camping near Superior National Forest, Minnesota, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the campfire, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers rave about the beautiful hikes, like one reviewer who said, "The hike to get to this campsite was rough. Trails were very overgrown, but the views were worth it." This is especially true at Bear Head Lake State Park Campground, where you can enjoy the Northwoods scenery.
  • Fishing: The lakes are great for fishing. One camper at Fall Lake Campground mentioned, "I have caught a lot of Northern and Small Mouth just north of the boat ramp." So, bring your fishing gear!
  • Canoeing: Many campgrounds provide easy access to canoeing. A visitor at Sawbill Lake Campground noted, "The outfitters on site are amazing. They have pay showers and all the rentals you need." Perfect for those wanting to paddle into the Boundary Waters.

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. One reviewer at Superior National Forest Fall Lake Campground said, "The people who run the campground were also super nice!" Many sites are well-separated, giving a sense of seclusion.
  • Natural Beauty: The scenery is a big hit. A camper at Lake Vermillion - Soudan Mine State Park shared, "The campground itself was very nice and the bathroom lodge was immaculate." The views of the lakes and forests are breathtaking.
  • Wildlife: Many campers enjoy the wildlife. One visitor at Trail's End Campground mentioned, "The atmosphere here is great. Secluded campgrounds but some sites are close together." Keep your eyes peeled for local critters!

What you should know:

  • Bugs: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. A camper at Toohey Lake Rustic Campground warned, "The mosquito hatch at the end of the summer was truly awful." Bring bug spray!
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Fenske Lake Campground, have basic facilities. One reviewer noted, "There are no showers, but the pit toilets were pretty clean." Know what to expect before you go.
  • Reservations: Many sites are first-come, first-served. A camper at Birch Lake Campground mentioned, "Some sites are reservable while others are FCFS." Arrive early to snag a good spot!

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. One family at Wildhurst Campgrounds said, "A great campsite just a few minutes from the main highway up the coast of Lake Superior."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A camper at Lake Jeanette Campground shared, "Watching the storms come in across the lake was well worth it!"
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled for adventures. A visitor at Bear Head Lake State Park Campground noted, "Be sure to practice proper bear safety precautions," so keep food secure!

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites can accommodate larger rigs, while others cannot. A reviewer at Lake Vermillion - Soudan Mine State Park mentioned, "The site was long enough for our 40’ toy hauler."
  • Water Access: Make sure to fill up your water tank before heading to your site. A camper at Sawbill Lake Campground said, "There’s a spigot to fill your RV’s water tank."
  • Stay Connected: Some campgrounds have good cell service. A visitor at Trail's End Campground noted, "AT&T service was good (2 bars, fast internet and streaming)." Check your provider before you go!

Camping near Superior National Forest, Minnesota, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Superior National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Superior National Forest is Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Superior National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Superior National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.