Wilson Lake Rustic Campground

About

Wilson Lake Rustic Campground is a free, primitive campground located on the scenic shore of Wilson Lake in the Superior National Forest of northeastern Minnesota. The campground offers four vehicle-accessible campsites, each equipped with a fire ring. A vault-style outhouse serves the campground, though no potable water is available, so campers must bring their own drinking water or properly treat lake water. The campground features a drive-down boat ramp with a dock, providing easy access to Wilson Lake's fishing opportunities for northern pike and walleye. Two additional backcountry campsites are available: one on the shore of Wilson Lake accessible by boat, and another on nearby Little Wilson Lake. A portage trail connects Wilson Lake to Sister Lake for those seeking extended paddling. Three of the four drive-in sites exceed 21 feet and can accommodate RVs, with space for one vehicle plus one towed vehicle per site. This is a pack-it-out facility with no garbage service. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required.

Directions

From MN 61 northeast of Schroeder: Between Schroeder and the entrance to Temperance River State Park, turn inland on FR 343 (Temperance River Rd.). Drive 4 miles to a T intersection with FR 166 (The "600" Road). Turn left, drive 1 mile to FR 346. Turn right on FR 346. Drive 5.5 miles to FR 170 (The Grade). Turn left on FR 170. Drive 3 miles to FR 355 (Wilson Lake Access). Turn right on FR 355. Drive 0.5 miles to a fork in the road. Veer right to Wilson Lake Rustic Campground, veer left to Little Wilson Lake boat launch.