OXBOW RUSTIC CAMPGROUND

Closed — Closed for the season. Superior National Forest rustic campgrounds typically operate from May 15 through October 1. Roads are unplowed in winter and may be impassable during spring snowmelt.

About

Oxbow Rustic Campground is a small, free USFS campground located in the Tofte Ranger District of the Superior National Forest in Cook County, Minnesota. With only 3 campsites, this quiet campground offers a rustic car camping experience along the Temperance River. The first campsite is considered better than the second, and the location of the third is less defined. The approach road is rugged, and the sites are somewhat grown in, resulting in fewer visitors compared to other area campgrounds. The campground provides basic amenities including metal fire rings with cooking grates, picnic tables, and vault toilets. There is no potable water available, though campers can treat water from the nearby Temperance River. Direct river access from the campsites is not easy; the river crossing on Forest Road 600 just north of the campground provides better access. The surrounding forest is typical of the northwoods, with mixed deciduous and coniferous trees. Oxbow functions primarily as a no-frills base camp for anglers targeting spring fishing runs and for campers seeking access to the surrounding national forest. The campground's relative remoteness and lack of amenities keep it quiet, making it a good option when more developed campgrounds are full. Like all Superior National Forest rustic campgrounds, campers must pack out all trash and practice proper backcountry food storage to avoid attracting wildlife, including black bears.

Directions

Oxbow Rustic Campground is located within Oxbow Regional Park, east of Portland, Oregon. Follow Division Street east from Portland, then follow signs to Oxbow Regional Park. Once inside the park, proceed to the campground area by following the main road; gates close in the evening, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Nearby Campgrounds