Wilson Lake Rustic Campground
Open for the 2026 season from May 8 through October 1. First-come, first-served with no reservations. Roads are unplowed in winter. Quiet hours 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
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
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.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (218) 663-8060 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Wilson Lake Campground |
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