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Established Camping

Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground is located near Grand Marais, MN, within the expansive Superior National Forest. The terrain consists of dense forests and numerous lakes, providing a natural setting for camping. Temperatures range from lows in the 40s Fahrenheit in spring and fall to highs in the 70s during summer, with nearby attractions including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the Gunflint Trail.

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Location

Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground is located in Minnesota

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Grand Marais, Minnesota, take Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) 36 miles north, turn left on County Road 92 and travel 2 miles on a narrow gravel road to Iron Lake Campground.

Coordinates

48.0677778 N
90.6147222 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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3 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 21, 2020

On the Gunflint

Site 4 September 2-4, 2020. This is another great drive in site. We stayed at site 3 last time. This site is very level with the same class 5 gravel. Great to keep it dry, but we use snow peak stakes, especially for the high winded storms of the north. The saplings are young as there was a fire in 2013. It is a very open site with an open view of the lake and very big for groups. There is a privacy barrier between site 3 and 4, but you can still hear your neighbors. There is a steep water access point for canoes and kayaks within the site. There is a full picnic table and fire pit. There is a bathroom and water spigot within a very short distance. Close to the Trail Center if you need anything.

  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Jennifer H., September 21, 2020
  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Jennifer H., September 21, 2020
  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Jennifer H., September 21, 2020
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jun. 23, 2020

Site 3 on the water Lovely Lake for canoeing

A fire in 2007 hasn’t stopped this lake on the Gunflint Trail from its beauty, and it's thriving. The saplings are dense, but consider this when needing tie-outs for things.

Site 3 is reservable and on water. It is a steep climb down, but the ”lake access” launch is right next door for canoes. Carry down only. Dense saplings divide 3 and 4 as well as 3 from the launch. You cannot see through, but you can hear your neighbors.

Close and convenient drinking water, double pit toilets, and dumpster. The site has a fire pit with a grate and a picnic table. Site 3 has a long driveway for drive-up camping. Site 4 is a short driveway. Site 3 has a fair amount of room of even class 5 for RVs and trucks. It has wood bumpers before the picnic area. There is room on the class 5 for a tent pad, but there is another smaller space for an additional tent. The class 5 is excellent for staking down and draining water for rain. Bring something to hammer in stakes.

Lots of turtles laying eggs, foxes, dragonflies, fireflies, and beavers at work. It is still really full of pest bugs too.

The Trail Center is right down the road if you need anything. Groceries, fuel (double price), bar food, camp gear, and dehydrated meals.

  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Jennifer H., June 23, 2020
  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Jennifer H., June 23, 2020
  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Jennifer H., June 23, 2020
  • (9) View All
Reviewed May. 29, 2017

Border Route Trail Bound

Graet little site near the BRT. Burned out some years ago, there are signs of new growth while still showing the history of the burn. No trees for hammocks. But quiet, pretty views of the water. Moose tracks though :) Little outhouse style bath, but no shower. They do have water for drinking.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Amy G., May 29, 2017
  • Review photo of Superior National Forest Iron Lake Campground by Amy G., May 29, 2017

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Iron Lake Campground located on the Gunflint Trail?

Iron Lake Campground is located along the scenic Gunflint Trail in northeastern Minnesota. The campground sits on the shores of Iron Lake, offering beautiful water views and access. The area experienced a forest fire in 2007, which has created a unique landscape of new growth while still showcasing the history of the burn. The location provides a peaceful setting with opportunities to spot wildlife, including moose, as evidenced by tracks in the area.

How do I make a reservation at Iron Lake Campground in Minnesota?

Iron Lake Campground offers reservable sites, with Site 3 being specifically noted as a reservable waterfront option. To secure your spot, contact the Superior National Forest reservation system through Recreation.gov or call the USDA Forest Service directly. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months. Be prepared with your preferred dates and group size when making your reservation. For the most current reservation policies and availability, check with the Superior National Forest office.

What amenities and facilities are available at Iron Lake Campground?

Iron Lake Campground offers basic facilities including outhouse-style bathrooms but no showers. Drinking water is available on site. The campground features several drive-in sites with level, gravel surfaces that help keep the area dry during wet weather. Site 3 is on the water but requires navigating a steep path to reach the shore. Conveniently, there's a lake access launch next to this site for canoes. Due to the 2007 fire, the area has dense saplings but limited mature trees, so hammock users should note the lack of suitable hanging spots. The campground's remote location provides quiet surroundings and pretty views of Iron Lake.