Crescent Lake
Closed for the season. The campground operates from May 12 through October 21.
Flood Advisory issued May 1 at 9:54AM CDT until May 2 at 7:00PM CDT by NWS Duluth MN
High water continues across portions of the far eastern Rainy River watershed due to the effects of runoff from heavy rains and snowmelt from earlier this week. Expect high, fast moving water on area rivers and elevated lake levels. Water levels are near or just surpassed those seen during flood events in Spring 2022 and June 2024. Further water level increases are possible through this weekend after which slow declines should begin. * WHAT...Flooding caused by runoff from rain and snowmelt continues. * WHERE...In Minnesota, Cook and Lake Counties. * WHEN...Until 700 PM CDT Saturday. * IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Some low-water crossings may become impassable. River or stream flows are elevated. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 948 AM CDT Friday, automated river gages and the public reported flooding in the advisory area. Minor flooding is occurring. - Expect high, fast moving water on area rivers and elevated lake levels. Water levels are near or just surpassed those seen during flood events in Spring 2022 and June 2024. Further water level increases are possible through this weekend after which slow declines should begin. - Some locations that will experience flooding include... Gunflint Lake, Forest Center, Little Saganaga Lake, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Snowbank Lake, Alpine Lake, Sea Gull Lake, Isabella, Saganaga Lake, Basswood Lake, Fall Lake, White Iron Lake, Birch Lake, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness North of the Gunflint Trail, Pine Lake, Alice Lake, Malberg Lake, Lake Polly and Thomas Lake. - Flood safety information can be found at www.weather.gov/safety/flood.
About
Crescent Lake Campground is located on an undeveloped lake surrounded entirely by the remote Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota. The campground sits on a peninsula jutting out into the lake, providing many of its 32 sites with excellent water views and direct lake access. The heavily wooded setting features white pines, red pines, spruce, balsam, birch, and aspen. Most campsites are available for reservation, with a few first-come, first-served sites. One accessible site is available, and there's a group site suitable for small scout groups. Additionally, one primitive backcountry site accessible by boat is located south of the campground, reached via the boat ramp on the northwest side of the lake. The campground provides picnic tables, campfire grates, solar-powered water faucets, vault toilets, and an accessible fishing pier. Crescent Lake offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and muskie. Motorized boats are allowed without horsepower limits, though the lake is most appropriate for small fishing boats. The surrounding Superior National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, canoeing in pristine lakes and rivers, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness extends nearly 150 miles along the International Boundary. Wildlife is abundant, including moose, bear, bald eagles, and loons.
Directions
From Tofte, turn north on County 2 (Sawbill Trail) off MN 61 just east of Tofte. Drive 16 miles up the Sawbill Trail, then turn right on FR170 at the stop sign. Proceed 8 miles on FR170 to the campground entrance on the right. From Lutsen, take County 4 (Caribou Trail) to FR170 and turn left to the entrance.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 - $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 45ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 45ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (218) 663-0012 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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