Pokegama Dam Campground
4.50169 reviews34385 US HWY 2
Pokegama Dam Campground
$14.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates include $26 for Standard Electric sites, $14 for Tent Only Non-electric sites, and $35 for Group Shelter Electric sites. These rates apply from May 01 to October 15.
About this campground
Nestled along the gentle banks of the Mississippi River, Pokegama Dam Campground invites adventurers to experience where pristine wilderness meets modern comfort. Whether you're casting a line into the river's legendary waters, paddling through morning mist, or following the calls of rare birds through wooded trails, this riverside sanctuary offers endless ways to connect with Minnesota's natural splendor. Each campsite serves as your personal basecamp for exploration, complete with thoughtful amenities that enhance rather than intrude upon your outdoor experience.
Pokegama Dam Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure places you at the crossroads of natural wonder and rich cultural heritage. Just a short drive away, the Judy Garland Museum celebrates the beloved icon who called this region home, while the Itasca County Historical Society preserves fascinating stories of Minnesota's logging and mining past. For those seeking more outdoor adventures, the sandy shores of Tioga Beach beckon swimmers and sunbathers, while the scenic Mesabi Bike Trail winds through forests and former mining lands, offering cyclists a journey through both nature and history.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Pokegama Dam transforms into a vibrant outdoor paradise where warm sunshine filters through the canopy and gentle breezes carry the scent of pine. Summer days invite lazy afternoons by the water, though nature occasionally refreshes the landscape with passing showers. Early May arrives with a delightful unpredictability—brilliant sunshine one moment, dramatic clouds the next—keeping each day full of surprise. As autumn approaches, the campground prepares for its winter slumber, closing for the season as northern Minnesota's famous cold settles over the land.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of mixed hardwoods and towering red pines creates a living canopy above the campground, where dappled sunlight dances across the forest floor. During summer months, nature's bounty reveals itself to observant visitors—wild blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries dot the understory, offering sweet rewards to those who venture off the beaten path. Keep your eyes skyward for the majestic silhouette of bald eagles soaring overhead, while curious chipmunks dart between campsites and the occasional porcupine ambles through at dusk, reminding all that this is their home you're privileged to share.
Geological RegionSet in the heart of Northern Minnesota's famed lake country, Pokegama Dam Campground occupies a stunning position where the mighty Mississippi River flows through a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers. This enchanting region showcases nature's artistry through its tapestry of mixed hardwood forests and majestic red pine groves, creating a quintessentially northern wilderness experience that captures the essence of Minnesota's outdoor heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as accessible boat ramps, campsites, drinking water, fishing docks, flush toilets, grills, parking, picnic areas, shelters, pit toilets, playground, showers, and walkways.
Sites SizeMost sites are spacious, clean, and well-maintained. Specific reviews highlighted large sites with privacy and shade.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a good degree of privacy due to spacing and tree cover, although some sites near the highway or train tracks experience noise issues.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid tent sites 20 and 21 due to proximity to train tracks and highways. River-facing sites are ideal for campers seeking scenic views.
Best CampsitesCampsites along the river (e.g., site numbers 05, 06, 12) are frequently praised for views and tranquility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in time not explicitly mentioned
- general check-in policies apply.
Check-out
- Check-out time not explicitly mentioned
- general check-out policies apply.
Stay Limit
- 14 nights maximum stay during a visit
- 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 19 electric back-in sites, 2 tent-only sites, and 1 group picnic shelter. Sites are generally spacious and tree-shaded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 01 to October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online platform, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified explicitly; reservation is highly recommended, and sometimes the campground indicates 'full' despite visible empty sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservation cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late. Late cancellation starts from midnight one calendar day before scheduled check-in.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Pokegama Dam Campground is rich in recreational opportunities. Popular activities include fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife viewing, and berry picking. The campground’s proximity to the Mississippi River enhances its recreational value.
Hiking
There are hiking trails on the other side of the dam, described as 'very nice' and 'well-maintained.' Trails offer scenic views and opportunities to explore the area.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with species such as Walleye, Northern Pike, and Large and Smallmouth Bass available. Some reviews described the fishing experience as excellent.Biking
Biking opportunities include routes within the campground and nearby trails such as the Mesabi Bike Trail, which is highly rated.Boating
Boating is popular at Pokegama Dam Campground, with access to the Mississippi River. However, one user review highlighted the inadequacy of the boat ramp for larger boats.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can see bald eagles, loons, ducks, geese, and other species. One user mentioned finding turtles laying eggs near their site.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground features occasional ranger-led activities, such as dam tours. Nearby attractions include the Judy Garland Museum and Forest History Center.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is listed as a winter activity.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as canoeing and kayaking, are available. One user noted enjoying a canoe trip on the Mississippi River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood is not provided onsite and must be bought locally. Fires restricted to designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsNoise pollution from trains and Highway 2. Seasonal berry picking might involve wildlife encounters.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and police services are likely located in Grand Rapids, which is 2 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 - October 15
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. However, some user reviews noted issues such as outside visitors using the dumpster to dispose of large amounts of trash.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to the Mississippi River, with nearby fishing docks and a boat ramp.
Common complaintsNoise from trains and Highway 2 is a recurring complaint. Some sites are challenging for backing in RVs due to gravel or drop-offs.
HostSome reviews mention lack of host presence and delayed check-in assistance.
Campground Map
34385 US HWY 2
Driving directionsFrom Grand Rapids, Minnesota, take Highway 2 west for 2 miles, turn left at signs and follow to campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 2 west from Grand Rapids, MN, with no specific challenges or seasonal closures mentioned.Nearby places
Grand Rapids - 2 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel stations are located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, approximately 2 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
169 reviews
Pokegama Dam Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Pokegama Dam Campground are mixed. Many praise the cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to the Mississippi River, while some complain about noise from the nearby highway and train tracks.
Review Summaries
Based on 169 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean facilities, spacious campsites, and scenic views of the river. Many recommend the campground for RV camping and highlight the good fishing opportunities.
Based on 169 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from Route 2 and train tracks are frequent complaints. Issues with site descriptions, inadequate boat ramp facilities, and lack of monitoring by rangers were also noted.
Based on 169 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent and reserving sites close to the river for scenic views. For tent camping, avoid sites near the highway and train tracks.
Based on 169 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with many positive reviews highlighting the sunny weather and outdoor activities. However, noise issues are more noticeable during peak season.
Based on 169 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is our favorite campground, and is always our first trip of the season!' - Teresa L.
2. 'The view from our site was super great... Pokegama is one of our favorites.' - Donald L.
3. 'The...
Based on 169 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 20 is frequently criticized for being noisy due to its proximity to the highway and train tracks. Sites near the river, such as #5 and #6, receive praise for their scenic views and spaciousness.
Based on 169 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features receive positive feedback, particularly the clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers.
Based on 169 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some campers complained about off-leash dogs and pet waste not being cleaned up.
Based on 169 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025