Closed
Closed for the season. Opens May 8, 2026 and operates through October 1. First-come, first-served with no fees or reservations. No potable water available; bring your own. Pack out all trash.
About
Hogback Lake Rustic Campground is a small, free campground tucked into the Superior National Forest near Tofte, Minnesota. The campground features just 3 pull-in campsites with fire rings and tent pads, offering a quiet, primitive experience for tent campers and small RVs. Vault toilets are available, but campers must bring their own drinking water and pack out all trash including fish remains.
The area is a hub for exploring the surrounding lake country. A 5-mile trail system winds past 6 lakes (Hogback, Canal, Lupus, Scarp, Mound, and Steer) with multiple loop options and scenic views along a narrow hogback ridge. Five backcountry campsites are accessible via trail or canoe portage. Hogback, Canal, Scarp, and Steer lakes are stocked designated trout waters.
A concrete boat launch provides access to Hogback Lake, and an accessible fishing pier is available near the campground. Sites can accommodate vehicles over 21 feet, though the rustic setting is better suited to tents and smaller RVs than large rigs.
Directions
From Tofte on MN 61 at Temperance River State Park, take FR 343 (Temperance River Road) inland 4.5 miles to a T intersection with FR 166. Turn left on FR 166 and drive 5 miles to County Road 7. Turn right and drive approximately 5 miles to FR 172 (Wanless Road). Turn left; Hogback Lake is a short distance on the left.
