Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Currently closed for the season. Opens May 8, 2026 and operates through October 19. Of 51 sites, 27 are reservable through Recreation.gov; the remainder are first-come, first-served. Winter camping available at no charge.
Special Weather Statement issued July 21 at 9:57AM CDT by NWS Duluth MN
Due to continued dry conditions in forested areas and gusty north to northwest winds around 20 to 30 mph today, conditions will remain favorable for near-critical fire weather conditions through this afternoon. This is despite relatively higher minimum RH values expected today at 40 to 50 percent. The situation is evaluated daily by the National Weather Service and the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center. Dry and windy conditions could lead to the rapid spread of fires today. For more information on burning restrictions for Minnesota, see www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html.
About
Sawbill Lake Campground is nestled in a thick pine forest of mature red and white pines with dispersed birch, providing excellent privacy between campsites. Located at the end of County Road 2 (Sawbill Trail), 23 miles north of Tofte on Minnesota's North Shore, the campground sits on a hill above the 765-acre Sawbill Lake, which lies within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The campground draws paddlers seeking convenient access to the BWCAW's over 1,200 miles of canoe routes and 2,000+ designated backcountry campsites. Day and overnight wilderness use requires permits. Sawbill Canoe Outfitters, the campground concessionaire located within walking distance, provides canoe and gear rentals, trip outfitting, BWCAW permits, showers, laundry, groceries, and fishing licenses. Beyond paddling, visitors can fish for northern pike and bass, swim, hike, mountain bike, and enjoy wildlife viewing. The campground is home to moose, black bear, bald eagles, and loons. Winter camping is available at no charge for those seeking solitude among the snow-covered pines.
Directions
From Highway 61 in Tofte on Lake Superior's North Shore, turn north onto County Road 2 (Sawbill Trail). Follow Sawbill Trail 23 miles to its end at the campground entrance. Watch for pedestrians and canoe portagers crossing the road at the stop sign.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 45ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 45ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| info@sawbill.com | |
| Phone | +1 (218) 663-7150 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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