Deer Lake

About

Deer Lake Campground occupies the northwest shore of Cut Foot Sioux Lake, 20 miles northwest of Deer River in the heart of Chippewa National Forest. The campground is divided into two distinct loops: North Deer Lake with 17 sites under a hardwood canopy of maple and oak, and South Deer Lake with 31 sites nestled among mature red and white pines. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets and hand-pump drinking water serve both loops. Cut Foot Sioux Lake connects to Lake Winnibigoshish, one of Minnesota's premier walleye fisheries. A boat ramp between the two loops provides lake access via Biauswah Creek, and boats may be moored offshore. Both loops feature sandy swimming beaches. The area supports abundant wildlife including loons, osprey, and bald eagles. The 26-mile Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Trail runs through the campground and connects with Simpson Creek Trail, offering hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. OHVs may be brought to the campground but must be trailered to legal roads for riding. Quiet hours are 10pm to 6am with generator use prohibited during this period. A bear-country food storage order is in effect.

Directions

From Deer River, MN, take Highway 46 northwest approximately 16 miles. Turn left onto Eagle Nest Road (Forest Road 2198) and travel 4 miles west. North Deer Loop is on the left; South Deer Loop is another half-mile further.