How much does camping cost at Kemo Lake?

Camping fees at Kemo Lake range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

What is the best time to visit Kemo Lake?

Kemo Lake is open Not applicable; dispersed camping does not have peak pricing.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Kemo Lake?

Kemo Lake does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Kemo Lake have?

Kemo Lake has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Kemo Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at Kemo Lake. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Kemo Lake?

Kemo Lake offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Kemo Lake?

Popular activities at Kemo Lake include Hiking, Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Kemo Lake

Q: Is Kemo Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

Kemo Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All dispersed camping spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This includes the one campsite on Kemo Lake.

Q: Can I have a campfire at Kemo Lake?

Fire policies at Kemo Lake: Campers must use the provided fire grate and extinguish fires completely before leaving the campsite. Creating new fire rings is prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

1 review

2020 W. Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Primitive Camping Minnesota

Quick Facts

1,926 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 15th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,926 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 15th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Kemo Lake

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There is no fee for camping at the site as this is a dispersed backcountry camping location.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

(218) 387-1750SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

2020 W. Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Kemo Lake

2020 W. Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Nearby places

Grand Marais: 26 miles northwest (approximately 38-45 minutes driving)

Nearby supplies

Grand Marais offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel. The Gunflint Ranger District Office does not provide retail sales or permit issuance.

Driving directionsNorth Entrance: East and West Twin Lakes boat landing is 26 miles northwest of Grand Marais. From MN 61 in Grand Marais, take the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) north for 16.5 miles. Turn left (west) on Forest Road 325 and travel 6 miles. Turn left (south) on FR 152 and go 4 miles to the boat landing. South Entrance: There is also a canoe landing on Pine Lake. It can be accessed from County 27 from the south. From MN 61, take the Gunflint Trail north for 3 miles. Turn left on County 8 and travel along the north edge of Devil Track Lake to County 27. Follow 27 an additional 4 miles to FR 1365. The canoe access is 1.5 miles up this minimal maintenance road.

The campground is accessible via paved and unpaved roads. FR 1365 is noted as a 'minimal maintenance road,' which may pose challenges for some vehicles. Seasonal closures are not explicitly stated.

Weather at Kemo Lake

Best Time to Camp at Kemo Lake

Summer brings mid-60s to mid-70s°F days and cool nights in the 40s–50s°F. This is when paddling and fishing are easiest, with calmer water and longer daylight. Spring opens around mid-April but can still see late snow and moderate temperatures. Afternoon rain showers sweep through often during summer. Come ready for wet conditions and temperature swings. Winter closes the route but opens opportunities for those equipped to handle snow and cold.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers best paddling and fishing; mild days and cool nights make camping pleasant.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not applicable; dispersed camping does not have peak pricing.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 15th onwards. Closing dates are not explicitly mentioned.

About Kemo Lake

Kemo Lake sits at 1,926 feet in Superior National Forest, accessible only by paddle or trail. The single backcountry campsite comes with a fire ring and vault toilet. That's it. You're on your own here, and that's the point.

Kemo Lake offers a single, primitive backcountry campsite accessible only by foot or boat. It is first-come, first-served and emphasizes a wilderness experience.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings mid-60s to mid-70s°F days and cool nights in the 40s–50s°F. This is when paddling and fishing are easiest, with calmer water and longer daylight. Spring opens around mid-April but can still see late snow and moderate temperatures. Afternoon rain showers sweep through often during summer. Come ready for wet conditions and temperature swings. Winter closes the route but opens opportunities for those equipped to handle snow and cold.

ElevationElevation information is not provided.

Natural Features and SceneryThe 189-acre lake is the largest along the Twin Lakes Canoe Route, rimmed by three miles of undeveloped shoreline. Dense coniferous forest presses close to the water. Pines, birches, and the occasional rocky outcropping left by glaciers. Depth hits 65 feet in places. The terrain around camp can be boggy, and some areas show evidence of past burning. Loons call across the water. Eagles pass overhead. The landscape looks much like it did centuries ago.

Geological RegionNestled within the vast Superior National Forest, Kemo Lake exemplifies the raw beauty of Minnesota's boreal wilderness. This glacially-carved gem stands as the largest lake along the renowned Twin Lakes Canoe Route, its waters cradled by rugged terrain that tells the story of ancient ice sheets and timeless forests. The surrounding landscape showcases the region's characteristic mix of pristine lakes, dense coniferous forests, and rocky outcroppings—a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped this corner of the North American wilderness.

Scenic ViewsCampers can enjoy serene water views and boreal forest surroundings. User reviews suggest some areas may be boggy or affected by past burn incidents.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodging or formal accommodations are available.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this site.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not applicable
campsite is first-come, first-served.

Check-out

Not specified.

Stay Limit

Maximum of nine people per site. Campers must pack out all garbage.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Nine.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutOne dispersed campsite with a fire ring and latrine. Boggy ground in places. Wear good boots. No loop, no sections, no neighbors.

Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; this site operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll dispersed camping spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This includes the one campsite on Kemo Lake.

Cancellation PolicyNot applicable due to non-reservable status.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. This is a primitive site that requires access by foot or boat, which may limit accessibility for some users.

Site SizeThe single campsite is typical of a backcountry setup, with space for a single party.

PrivacyHigh privacy is expected due to the lake having only one campsite.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesPrepare for boggy terrain and bring sturdy boots. Ensure food is hung safely and water is treated prior to consumption.

Best CampsitesThere's one site. It's yours if you get there first.

Amenities available

Kemo Lake offers limited amenities, emphasizing a primitive backcountry experience. There is one campsite on the lake equipped with a fire grate and a latrine. However, there are no restrooms, potable water, or other modern facilities. Campers are expected to pack out their garbage and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Fire rings

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Kemo Lake provides opportunities for a range of outdoor activities suited to its remote, backcountry setting. Popular activities include day hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife (bears), boggy terrain, and limited potable water. Campers must hang food packs and treat or boil all water.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; a latrine is provided.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampers must use the provided fire grate and extinguish fires completely before leaving the campsite. Creating new fire rings is prohibited.

Emergency ServicesGunflint Ranger District Office: 2020 W. Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604, Phone: (218) 387-1750. Hours: April 28 – September 30, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed weekends.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers must pack out all their garbage.

Water FeaturesDirectly adjacent to Kemo Lake, which spans 189 acres with 3 miles of shoreline.

Camp HostThere is no campground host at this dispersed site.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is not mentioned in the data, implying limited or no coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

0.0

1 reviews

Limited Reviews

Kemo Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the site's remote and primitive nature. Some users appreciate the solitude, while others note challenges such as difficult terrain and limited facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

The serene setting and the opportunity for solitude are major positives. As one official source notes: 'This is one of our Backcountry sites which is a near-wilderness single party site.'

Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues cited by users include 'big boggy area with low water' and the presence of a 'burnt area,' making the site less appealing for camping.

Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback mentions challenges with the 'boggy area' and limited camping space.

Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are advised to wear good boots due to boggy terrain and to prepare for the absence of facilities by bringing all necessary supplies.

Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The site is open starting from April 15, aligning with warmer seasons. Winter camping is not emphasized due to accessibility and weather challenges.

Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

Chase Weathersend notes, 'Big boggy area with low water wear good boots noplace to camp. Burnt area.'

Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews from users with disabilities were found, but the site's primitive nature suggests limited accessibility.

Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific pet-related reviews are available, but guidelines for pet owners emphasize leash use and safety measures.

Based on 1 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Paddlers who want the whole lake to themselves: it's single-party only, first-come, free, and the brook trout, lake trout, and splake fishing is legitimate. Summer days in the mid-60s to mid-70s with loons calling at dusk is the real draw.

Skip if

Boggy ground around the campsite is a real issue, not a minor footnote, and past burn damage has shrunk usable camping space. No potable water means filtering everything, and you're 26 miles from Grand Marais if you forgot something.

Nearby Campgrounds

4.2

(55)

Two Island Lake Campground

Superior National Forest

Two Island Lake Campground sits in Superior National Forest near Grand Marais, offering mid-sized lakefront camping operated by the US Forest Service. The campground provides both tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors fish, kayak, and use the boat ramp for lake access, while spacious sites near the water deliver privacy and scenic views.

Kemo Lake

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Kemo Lake

Campground Map

Weather at Kemo Lake

Best Time to Camp at Kemo Lake

Planning Tips

About Kemo Lake

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

Activities

Plan a trip to Kemo Lake

Best Time to Camp at Kemo Lake

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews