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When you experience Superior National Forest camping, you will never forget it. The memories you make amidst the forests and lakes of these gorgeous Minnesotan campsites will last a lifetime. For boaters, anglers, birdwatchers, hikers, or just those who appreciate a lovely view, these seven campsites are incomparable.

The Best Superior National Forest Camping Spots

map of camping near superior national forest

1. Sawbill Lake Campground

sawbill campground sign

Image from The Dyrt camper Rachel O.

There is a cluster of campgrounds sitting at the edge of Sawbill Lake, and this one is one of the prettiest. If you plan on visiting or canoeing in the Boundary Waters, either for day-use or overnight, you’ll need a permit, so plan ahead.

Sawbill Lake Campground has sites tucked into the stands of pine but no sewer or electric hookups. Spigots are scattered throughout the campground. Many canoeists love this campground and keep a lookout for moose, bald eagles, or loons.

“I was impressed with how well kept and clean the campground was.”Molly Y.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $18
  • Number of sites: 52
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

2. Fall Lake

vintage pull behind camper in forest

Image from The Dyrt camper B.M.

This lovely campground backs right up to Fall Lake and is beloved by birders and anglers. A mix of partial and full hookups, Fall Lake has some sites you can reserve and some that are first-come-first-serve.

Fresh water and showers are available, and kids love the playground and swimming beach. Don’t miss the International Wolf Center or the hike to Kawishiwi Falls.

“The mixture of trees surrounding are beautiful. Great vibes at this campground.” – Stephanie K.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $24-110
  • Number of sites: 64
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

3. Two Island Lake Campground

pop-up tent on a jeep in campsite

Image from The Dyrt camper Jeremy W.

When you camp at Two Island Lake Campground, you feel truly away from it all. It’s farther afield than other spots in the Superior National Forest but has basic amenities, including vault toilets. Trash containers are available on-site, and there’s a boat ramp so you can get out there and bag some big walleye, smallmouth bass, or Northern pike.

“With a nice breeze coming off the lake, many with their own personal beach on your site!”Anne G.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $16-18
  • Number of sites: 38
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

4. McDougal Lake Campground

side by side images of beach and a dog on a kayak

Images from The Dyrt camper Adam

This area of Superior National Forest has so many lakes; a camper would be hard-pressed to see them all. McDougal Lake is a sizable body of water that is home to many species of fish. McDougal Lake Campground backs right up to the lake, and swimmers love its sandy swimming beach. They have several sites set aside for campers who want to stay for more than the 14-day limit.

“This is a campground that, unless you know it is there, you might just pass it by.”g. M.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $15
  • Number of sites: 21
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

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5. Temperance River

trailer set up at campground

Image from The Dyrt camper Erolf P.

There are two different areas of the Temperance River Campground – an upper and a lower loop. There are showers available in the upper level but not the lower.

If you snag one of the six sites located on the Temperance River banks, you can fish for your supper from your campsite. The campsites are shady and tucked into a thick, private copse of pines in the river’s bend.

Bikers love to roam the areas around Temperance River. If you’re a cyclist, download and print out a current map as access and upkeep of trails differ from year to year.

“Temperance River State Park has the best natural playground.”Steph H.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $18
  • Number of sites: 60
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

6. Ninemile Lake Campground

water and dock

Half of the two dozen campsites at Ninemile Lake Campground have direct lake access, giving you the best views when you come for a visit.

The swimming isn’t great in Ninemile Lake (named because it is nine miles from Lake Superior) because the lake floor is muddy, but there are three islands you can kayak or canoe out to, and a large boulder on one provides a perfect place on which to admire the sunset.

“Ninemile Lake Campground seems to be the gem that no one knows about. I’ve stayed there multiple times and it has remained my favorite campground.”Sean C.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $15
  • Number of sites: 24
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

7. Fenske Lake Campground

empty campsite

Image from The Dyrt camper Janet R.

This campground is remote and primitive but is the ideal spot to explore the many lakes and forests of Superior National Forest. There’s a boat ramp, picnic area, and open log shelter if the weather turns at Fenske Lake Campground. There are some tight turns in this campground, so it’s not well-suited to longer rigs.

“There were even littles coves down by the lake to leave your canoe like your own personal water garage!”Jordan L.

Campground Details:

  • Price: $17-55
  • Number of sites: 15
  • RV sites: Yes
  • Fires allowed: Yes
  • Pets allowed: Yes

There are millions of acres of trees and lakes in Superior National Forest. Camping in this majestic Minnesotan locale is like traveling to a different, more peaceful world. For other suggestions, check out The Dyrt’s complete list of places to camp in Superior National Forest.

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