Pokegama Dam Campground
4.50169 reviews34385 US HWY 2
Quick Facts
Price
$14 - $35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Open for reservation...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$14 - $35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Open for reservation...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsPokegama Dam Campground
$14.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates include $26 for Standard Electric sites, $14 for Tent Only Non-electric sites, and $35 for Group Shelter Electric sites. These...
Show more
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
Total Campsite Fees$26.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider218-326-6128
What Campers Say
4.50
Recommended
Based on 169 reviews
261 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspacioussites
Some mention
noisetrain
"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."
Fees & Passes at Pokegama Dam Campground
$14 - $35/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 nights maximum stay during a visit; 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Cancellation: Reservation cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee if cancel...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website.
Best Time to Camp at Pokegama Dam Campground
From 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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 01 - October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open for reservations from May 01 to October 15.
About Pokegama Dam 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.
Advertisement
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 Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
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.Advertisement
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 at Pokegama Dam Campground
7
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
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 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement