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Best Dispersed Camping near Tower, MN

13 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist in the Superior National Forest near Tower, Minnesota. Big Rice Lake provides three free campsites that accommodate small RVs and travel trailers, with a boat landing and vault toilet. The gravel access road is smooth enough for larger rigs, with some visitors reporting successful stays with 40-foot fifth wheels. Verizon users report 2-bar cell reception capable of streaming video.

Carrol Truck Trail offers more remote forest service road camping approximately 5 miles down a gravel road. The area features multiple unmarked sites with existing fire rings and river access, but no facilities. Campers report mixed experiences with insects, from "no bugs" to "absolutely eaten alive by mosquitoes." The area attracts wildlife, with one visitor noting proximity to wolves or coyotes. Lake Isabella provides two dispersed camping options: an open field site that accommodates large groups and a hilltop location. Both are primitive but located about 300 yards from vault toilets at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area entry point. As one visitor noted, "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."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tower, Minnesota (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tower, MN

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tower, MN

13 Reviews of 7 Tower Campgrounds

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Anna P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Buggy, limited spots

    Very buggy (mosquitos, ticks), no cell service. Approx three spots for tents or cars/trucks/vans, not suitable for larger vehicles. River access. There were multiple pull offs along the long road to get to the site, but most of them are not on public land.

  • goose10091203 The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Secluded! But nothing else

    It's a fine place to go to get away from everything. No reason to drive all the way out unless you're trying to camp. There are 3 campsites at the end of the road where the GPS takes you. There are a few other pull offs along the way. I'm guessing all the forest roads around here have sites so even if this one is occupied, there are others close.

    BRING BUG SPRAY! the mosquitoes are no joke

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Jasmine L.
    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!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • 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.

Guide to Tower

Dispersed camping near Tower, Minnesota, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of primitive camping. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Tower

  • At Big Rice Lake, you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with three free campsites that accommodate small RVs and travel trailers, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway.
  • The Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite is perfect for those who love hiking, as it requires a short backpack hike to reach stunning lakeside views and access to numerous trails.
  • For a more adventurous experience, head to Carrol Truck Trail, where you can explore the area by boat, hike, or drive in, all while surrounded by beautiful wilderness.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field offers a massive fire ring and a vault toilet nearby, making it a convenient spot for larger groups looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
  • If you're seeking solitude, the Vermilion Gorge Trailhead Dispersed Camping provides a serene environment with no amenities, perfect for those who want to truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
  • The Lake Isabella Hilltop Dispersed site is a great choice for those who appreciate elevated views and a more secluded camping experience, all while being close to nature.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Blackstone Lake

  • The Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite not only offers a pristine lake for swimming and paddling but also provides access to breathtaking vistas and rugged hiking trails.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the abundant fauna around Carrol Truck Trail, where you might spot deer and other creatures while enjoying a campfire under the stars.
  • For those who enjoy fishing, Big Rice Lake is a great spot to cast a line and relax by the water, making it a well-rounded destination for outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in the Tower area?

Dispersed camping in the Tower area generally follows Superior National Forest regulations. At Superior Forest Blackstone Lake Backpack Campsite, camping is primitive with no facilities, requiring proper backcountry practices. Lake Isabella Dispersed Open Field is an established dispersed site with a fire ring but completely primitive otherwise, with vault toilets available 300 yards away at the BWCA entry point. Most dispersed sites require pack-in, pack-out ethics, proper human waste disposal, and using existing fire rings. Check with the Superior National Forest office for current fire restrictions and permits, which may be required seasonally.

Is dispersed camping available year-round near Tower, MN?

Yes, dispersed camping is available year-round near Tower, though conditions vary dramatically by season. Kab-Ash Trail Dispersed Campsites offers sites right off the main road, making them accessible in multiple seasons and convenient to the Ash River Visitor Center. Winter camping has been reported at several sites, with one review noting camping at Vermilion Gorge Trailhead Dispersed Camping surrounded by snow but with plenty of wood for fires. Be prepared for intense mosquitoes and ticks in summer months (particularly July-August), while spring may bring muddy access roads and fall offers fewer insects and beautiful colors.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Tower, Minnesota?

Several excellent dispersed camping options exist near Tower. Carrol Truck Trail offers about three primitive campsites at the end of a 5-mile gravel road, with additional pull-offs along the way. The area includes a canoe/kayak launch and is surrounded by woods. For RVers, Big Rice Lake provides free camping with three sites that accommodate small RVs and travel trailers, plus a boat landing and vault toilet. Other options include Superior Forest Blackstone Lake for backpackers and Kab-Ash Trail for those seeking sites near the Ash River Visitor Center.

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