Leech Lake Rec Area

Star4.57
483 reviews
01217 Federal Dam Dr. NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641, USA
FishingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,293 ft

Price

$14 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

73 campsites

Season

Peak season runs fro...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Leech Lake Rec Area
$14.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $14 for walk-in sites to $50 for premium waterfront sites. Additional fees apply for group shelters ($35) and standard electric sites...
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Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
218-654-3145
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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 483 reviews

142 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersspaciousstaff

Some mention

noise

"Leech Lake Recreation Area receives high praise for its cleanliness, spacious campsites, and well-maintained facilities. However, mosquitoes are a recurring issue mentioned in user reviews. Fishing and boating activities are highly appreciated, and the campground's overall atmosphere is described as quiet and relaxing."

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Campground Map

01217 Federal Dam Dr. NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641, USA

Leech Lake Rec Area

01217 Federal Dam Dr. NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641, USA

Driving directionsFrom Grand Rapids, Minnesota, take Highway 2 west for 33 miles to Bena. Turn south onto County Road 8 and proceed 8 miles to Federal Dam. From Bemidji, Minnesota, take Highway 2 east for 35 miles to Bena, turn south onto County Road 8 and proceed 8 miles to Federal Dam. From Walker, Minnesota, take Highway 200 east for 20 miles to County Road 8. Turn north onto County Road 8 and proceed 14 miles to Federal Dam.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from County Road 8. These roads are in good condition and accessible year-round, though caution is advised for narrower road sections.
Nearby places
Grand Rapids (33 miles, ~40 minutes)
Bemidji (35 miles, ~45 minutes)
Walker (20 miles, ~25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Minimal supplies available at a mart across the street from the campground entrance. Larger grocery and camping supply stores are found in nearby towns like Bemidji (~45 minutes) and Grand Rapids (~40 minutes).

Best Time to Camp at Leech Lake Rec Area

Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for casting lines and exploring wooded trails, while evenings bring a refreshing coolness that invites campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. Though the warm months awaken clouds of mosquitoes—true companions of any authentic northwoods experience—the minor inconvenience fades against spectacular sunsets over the water. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a painter's palette of crimson maples and golden birches, offering crisp air and fewer bugs for those who prefer their outdoor adventures with a side of fall splendor.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Summer offers boating and warm days but mosquitoes are frequently cited as a major issue.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall praised for scenic beauty, reduced insects and good cooler-season fishing.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open beginning May 1; cooler fishing noted but limited detail on spring conditions and bugs.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed for bookings outside May 1–Oct 14; winter rating not applicable.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 to October 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season runs from May 1 to October 14. The campground is closed for bookings outside this period.
  • Current Alerts: Information on active alerts is currently unavailable.

About Leech Lake Rec Area

Nestled along the shores of Minnesota's third-largest lake, Leech Lake Recreation Area beckons anglers and nature enthusiasts to discover a freshwater paradise. Here, where mixed forests of towering pines and hardwoods meet crystal-clear waters, visitors find themselves immersed in 640,000 acres of legendary fishing grounds. The campground seamlessly blends modern comforts—including electric hookups and hot showers—with the timeless tranquility of the northwoods, creating an ideal basecamp for both seasoned outdoor adventurers and families seeking their first taste of wilderness camping.
The campground offers a variety of site types to accommodate diverse camping preferences. These include standard electric sites, walk-to primitive tent sites, full hookup sites, and group shelter sites.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
1PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights per visit within a rolling 30-day period

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Leech Lake Recreation Area offers numerous activities tailored to outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing and boating are particularly popular, thanks to the lake's reputation as a great spot for walleye, perch, and musky. Miles of scenic hiking trails surround the area, providing opportunities for nature exploration. The campground also features recreational courts for basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes.
HikingMiles of scenic hiking trails are available, including the Soo Line, Heartland, and North Country National Scenic Trails. The trails are appreciated for their beauty, though some users noted the lack of trailheads nearby.
FishingFishing is a highlight at Leech Lake, offering opportunities to catch walleye, perch, bass, northern pike, and musky. User reviews often mention the excellent fishing experience, with some catching trophy-sized fish.
BikingThe campground features blacktopped roads suitable for biking, making it an enjoyable activity for families.
BoatingBoaters can access Leech Lake via a mile-long scenic channel. The campground includes a docking facility, noted as 'excellent' by users.
Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant, with loons, owls, and various bird species commonly observed. The area provides excellent opportunities for bird watching.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are a significant issue during summer months. Some reviews note difficulty backing into campsites due to narrow roads and dense tree coverage.
Active AlertsInformation on active alerts is currently unavailable.

Weather at Leech Lake Rec Area

Reviews

4.6
483 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Leech Lake Rec Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Leech Lake Recreation Area receives high praise for its cleanliness, spacious campsites, and well-maintained facilities. However, mosquitoes are a recurring issue mentioned in user reviews. Fishing and boating activities are highly appreciated, and the campground's overall atmosphere is described as quiet and relaxing.
Review Summaries
Based on 483 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently compliment the cleanliness of the campground, spacious sites, friendly staff, and excellent amenities like flush toilets, showers, and free laundry facilities. 'The campground has so...
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Based on 483 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes are a significant concern during warmer months, with many reviewers mentioning their inability to enjoy outdoor activities. Some users also reported issues with campsite size...
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Based on 483 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent and a screened tent for outdoor activities. Early-season trips may help avoid peak mosquito times. For RV users, consult maps carefully to choose sites suitable for larger...
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Based on 483 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews frequently mention mosquitoes as a major challenge, while fall receives praise for its scenic beauty and reduced insect activity. Fishing is noted as better during cooler months.
Based on 483 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The campground is very clean and well maintained,' 'Mosquitoes were terrible; bring bug spray,' 'Beautiful grounds, lake for fishing, and large private campsites,' 'Restrooms and showers...
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Based on 483 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #31 is highly recommended for its spaciousness and privacy. Site #74 is noted for its proximity to family-friendly amenities but is noisier. Site #8 received negative feedback due to difficulty...
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Based on 483 reviews

Accessibility Features

Campground amenities are accessible, with positive reviews about the accommodating volunteers and clean facilities.
Based on 483 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some users reported issues with barking dogs. Pet waste stations are available throughout the campground.
Based on 483 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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