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Best Dispersed Camping near Two Harbors, MN

14 Reviews

Several dispersed camping areas can be found near Two Harbors, Minnesota, primarily on forest service land. Castle Danger offers secluded primitive camping with established stone fire rings in a wooded setting. Carrol Truck Trail provides access to multiple dispersed sites along a 5-mile gravel road leading to a canoe/kayak launch area. Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park serves as a potential overnight spot for those with low-key setups. State Land in the Lax Lake Area contains backcountry dispersed camping zones. These primitive sites require no reservations and most are free to use.

Access roads to these camping areas vary significantly in quality and navigability. Castle Danger features narrow, rocky trails that often require high-clearance 4WD vehicles, making it unsuitable for campers or trailers. Carrol Truck Trail's gravel road is more accessible but still remote. Most dispersed sites lack all amenities - no drinking water, toilets, trash service, or hookups are available. Campfires are permitted at most locations except Lake Superior Overlook. Campers must pack out all waste and come prepared with sufficient supplies. Cell service is limited across most areas, with reviews noting "a measly 2 bars through ATT" at Carrol Truck Trail.

These primitive camping areas offer genuine wilderness experiences with varying levels of seclusion. Castle Danger remains relatively undisturbed, with a review noting it "appeared to not be visited often" and another mentioning it was "super secluded" with only one other visitor during Labor Day weekend. Carrol Truck Trail provides waterfront access and wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor reported, "There's plenty of woods/dead things to burn meaning the fire never goes out," though multiple reviews warn about intense mosquito activity during summer months. The State Land Lax Lake Area is described as a "backcountry wonder" ideal for those who enjoy "wilderness, rustic, resourcing wood for fires and pure relaxation in the woods."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Two Harbors, Minnesota (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Two Harbors, MN

19 Photos of 7 Two Harbors Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Two Harbors, MN

14 Reviews of 7 Two Harbors 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

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Castle Danger

    Awesome extremely private and primitive camping

    DO NOT COME HERE UNLESS YOU HAVE A HIGH CLEARANCE 4x4. The “road” up to the campsite is basically a jeep trail. But if you can get to it I recommend taking the first right if you have a pickup truck or going immediately left if you have anything else. The spot on top of the hill is a great spot.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 18, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Great dispersed camping!

    This spot is pretty well hidden in the woods with a tight trail in. There are a few spots you could camp with stone firepits. Didn't look to be visited often, but I came in winter. There are low sites, and if you have 4x4, you can drive up to another plateau of sites. There's plenty of wood, but depending on location, you'll have to walk for it.

  • TexasRed (.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Castle Danger

    Great Spot

    Very nice n secluded spot, only had one other person stay there on labor day weekend. There are a couple of designated spots with fire rings, some are harder to get to. The road in is kind of rough but my subie handled it fine. The location on the dirt does take you to a persons property but check out Skips review for a detailed location. Overall great spot and close to a superior hiking trailhead

  • Carissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Well hidden dispersed spot

    This area is definitely off the beaten path. Super skinny road with lots of rocks/hills and puddles coming in. I would recommend a car with 4WD for it and would not suggest pulling a camper unless you have experience bringing it over rough terrain. The sites themselves appeared to not be visited often. I went in early August and a lot of the places were over grown with plants! It was nice to be right by the north shore but in a spot that felt very much secluded. There was also no bugs here which was amazing! Great spot to hang out by a campfire without getting swarmed. You’ll be able to find plenty of wood from the nearby trees for a fire as well.

Guide to Two Harbors

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Two Harbors, Minnesota, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure away from the crowds.

Dispersed campers should check out Carrol Truck Trail

  • This spot is known for its easy access and beautiful surroundings, making it a favorite among those who enjoy hiking and exploring. Check it out at Carrol Truck Trail.
  • Be prepared for the local wildlife; visitors have reported encounters with coyotes, adding an exciting element to your camping experience.
  • With no amenities available, it's essential to pack everything you need, including water and firewood, to fully enjoy your stay.

Hidden gems for dispersed camping: Castle Danger

  • Nestled off the beaten path, Castle Danger offers a secluded atmosphere perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • The area features overgrown sites that provide a sense of privacy, allowing campers to immerse themselves in nature without disturbances.
  • Campers can find plenty of firewood nearby, making it easy to enjoy cozy campfires under the stars.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Two Harbors, Minnesota

  • Consider visiting Lake Superior Overlook at Northshore Park for stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for car camping.
  • Always check the accessibility of the roads leading to your chosen spot, as some areas may require a vehicle with 4WD due to rough terrain.
  • Bring your own water and be prepared for a lack of facilities, as many dispersed camping areas do not offer amenities like restrooms or trash disposal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Two Harbors?

Dispersed camping in Two Harbors follows typical national forest regulations. At Afterhours Meadow, camping is allowed in designated clearings at the end of forest spur roads. Practice Leave No Trace principles by using existing fire rings and packing out all trash. Several campers report cleaning up after previous visitors, indicating the importance of proper waste disposal. At Last Creek Kayak Site, access is limited to boaters only, with specific boat-in sites available. Always camp in previously used areas indicated by fire rings, and check local fire regulations before your trip as restrictions may apply seasonally.

What amenities are available for dispersed camping in Two Harbors?

Dispersed camping around Two Harbors is truly primitive with minimal amenities. At Brule River State Forest Backpacking Sites, you'll find hike-in access with no facilities but proximity to water sources. Most dispersed sites have no toilets, potable water, or garbage service. Cell coverage varies significantly by location—for instance, at State Land Lax Lake Area, reception can be limited. Many sites feature established fire rings, and surrounding forests provide ample firewood. Water is available from nearby rivers and lakes but requires filtering or treatment. Some areas offer level spots for multiple rigs and beautiful surroundings like wildflower fields in summer, but expect to be fully self-sufficient.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Two Harbors?

Two Harbors offers several dispersed camping options. Carrol Truck Trail is accessible via a 5-mile gravel road, with approximately three established camping spots at the end near a canoe/kayak launch. The trail includes multiple pull-offs along the way, though some may not be on public land. Castle Danger provides more secluded options, hidden in the woods with a tight trail access. It features several spots with stone fire pits, including both lower sites and higher plateau sites accessible with 4x4 vehicles. Look for established fire rings to identify previously used camping spots at these locations.

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