Toohey Lake Rustic Campground
Closed for the season. The campground operates from May 10 through October 1. The access road is not plowed during winter.
Flood Advisory issued May 2 at 5:42PM CDT until May 6 at 3:45PM CDT by NWS Duluth MN
High water continues across portions of the far eastern Rainy River watershed due to the effects of recent heavy rains and snowmelt. * WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt is occurring. * WHERE...In Minnesota, Cook, Lake and St. Louis Counties. * WHEN...Until 345 PM CDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Some low water crossings may become impassable. River or stream flows are very elevated. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 533 PM CDT Saturday, the public and automated river gauges reported flooding in the advisory area. Rapid river rises have already caused minor flooding in the advisory area. - This includes the following streams and drainages... Isabella River, Moose River, Jeanette Creek, Horse River, Kawishiwi River, and Hustler River. Additional rainfall amounts up to 0.2 inches are expected over the area in the next couple of days. - Expect high, fast moving water on area rivers and elevated lake levels. Water levels are near or above those seen during flood events in Spring 2022 and June 2024. - Far eastern and southern areas of the advisory near the end of the Gunflint Trail and Ely are likely reaching peak levels this weekend, with decreases expected through the coming week. For areas near and on Basswood Lake and Lac La Croix, expect rises to continue into and through much of the week of May 4. The advisory may need to be extended. - Those venturing into the Boundary Waters should prepare for high water and possible inundation of portages and campsites, as well as dangerous rapids and very cold water. - Some locations that will experience flooding include... Gunflint Lake, Snowbank Lake, Basswood Lake, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Fall Lake, White Iron Lake, Sea Gull Lake, Saganaga Lake, Ensign Lake, Disappointment Lake and Lac La Croix. - Flood safety information can be found at www.weather.gov/safety/flood.
About
Toohey Lake Rustic Campground offers a peaceful camping experience in Cook County's Superior National Forest, located along the historic Grade Road (Forest Road 170). This free, seven-site campground provides direct access to Toohey Lake, a shallow lake ideal for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming. The campground features a boat launch, dock, and trailer parking, making it convenient for water-based recreation. The campground is situated right off a well-traveled and well-maintained gravel forest road that follows the grade of an old railroad, ensuring easy access even for larger vehicles. Three of the seven sites can accommodate RVs over 21 feet, though sites are pull-in rather than pull-through. OHV enthusiasts will appreciate the ride-in and ride-out opportunities available from the campground. As a rustic facility, amenities are basic: vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water or garbage service. Campers must treat lake water before use and pack out all trash, including fish remains. Each site includes a fire ring and tent pad. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system and no camping fees, making it an excellent choice for spontaneous trips and budget-conscious campers seeking a more remote, low-amenity experience in Minnesota's North Woods.
Directions
From MN 61 in Tofte, take County Road 2 (Sawbill Trail) north for 15 miles to Forest Road 170 (The Grade). Turn left on FR 170 and drive 5 miles. The campground is directly off FR 170 on the right.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 21ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| 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 |
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