Clara Lake Rustic Campground
4.086 reviewsClara Lake Rustic Campground, MN
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Open from May 10 to ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Open from May 10 to ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsClara Lake Rustic Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are charged for camping at Clara Lake Rustic Campground. It is designated as a rustic site with no fee requirements.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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$0.00
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USFS
Provider(218) 663-8060SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
What Campers Say
4.08
Satisfactory
Based on 6 reviews
13 Google reviews
Most mentioned
lakesites
"User reviews highlight the peaceful and private nature of the campground, its suitability for fishing and wildlife viewing, and the rustic charm of the sites. Some users commented on the bugs and the difficulty of accessing the campground via certain routes."
Fees & Passes at Clara Lake Rustic Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum of nine people per site.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Tofte Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Clara Lake Rustic Campground
Experience the full spectrum of Minnesota's dramatic seasons at Clara Lake, where warm, humid summers invite lazy afternoons by the water and crisp autumn days paint the forest in brilliant golds and reds. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland, with temperatures that demand proper cold-weather gear and preparation. July visitors should note that the lush summer environment also attracts nature's smaller residents – mosquitoes and other insects thrive in the humid conditions, making bug spray an essential companion for your wilderness adventure.
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
- Operating Season: Open from May 10 to October 1.
About Clara Lake Rustic Campground
Tucked away on the pristine shores of Clara Lake, this intimate rustic campground beckons those who yearn for authentic wilderness solitude. With only three thoughtfully spaced campsites nestled beneath towering pine canopies, Clara Lake Rustic Campground promises an escape from the crowds and a return to camping's purest form. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring for evening gatherings under starlit skies, while vault toilets provide basic comfort. True to its rustic nature, campers should come prepared with their own water supplies and pack-out plans, as the campground maintains its wilderness character without potable water or garbage services.
Clara Lake Rustic Campground provides a basic and secluded camping experience with three sites suitable for tent camping, one of which can also accommodate a small RV.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Minnesota's dramatic seasons at Clara Lake, where warm, humid summers invite lazy afternoons by the water and crisp autumn days paint the forest in brilliant golds and reds. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland, with temperatures that demand proper cold-weather gear and preparation. July visitors should note that the lush summer environment also attracts nature's smaller residents – mosquitoes and other insects thrive in the humid conditions, making bug spray an essential companion for your wilderness adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle lapping of Clara Lake's crystal waters against the shore, where morning mist dances between ancient pine sentinels. This remarkable pocket of Superior National Forest showcases nature's artistry at every turn – from the cathedral-like pine groves that filter golden sunlight to the network of forest trails that wind through stands of old-growth timber. The campground's lakefront setting offers front-row seats to spectacular sunrises and the endless entertainment of wildlife visitors, while neighboring lakes beckon paddlers to explore the interconnected waterways that define this pristine northern landscape.
Geological RegionClara Lake Rustic Campground sits within the magnificent tapestry of Superior National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of crystalline lakes and dense pine forests. This freshwater ecosystem represents the heart of Minnesota's famed lake country, where glacial activity carved countless basins now filled with clear, clean water. The surrounding boreal forest creates a living buffer around Clara Lake, its pine-dominated canopy providing habitat for diverse wildlife while offering campers an authentic taste of the great North Woods that has captivated adventurers for generations.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground has three campsites. Only one site is long enough to accommodate an RV larger than 21 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as 'nicely spaced apart' and 'very private' in user reviews, offering some seclusion.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews recommend bringing bug spray due to heavy bug activity in summer. Driving directions suggest avoiding Pancore Loop and instead using the Caribou Trail for safer access.
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Stay Limit
Maximum of nine people per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of nine guests allowed per campsite.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three campsites, spaced apart for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 10 to October 1.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll three sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews suggest the campground can be quiet and empty during certain times, such as the off-peak season.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers opportunities for fishing, non-motorized boating, and enjoying the natural surroundings. Visitors have noted the peaceful environment and wildlife like loons and foxes.
Fishing
The lake offers fishing opportunities, and users have described it as 'decent' for fishing. Specific types of fish are not mentioned.Boating
Non-motorized boating is available, as there is a boat launch on Clara Lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are a highlight, with users mentioning loons and a curious fox. One user described hearing 'the sound of the loons calling in the distance.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as canoeing or kayaking, are implied by the mention of boating opportunities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campers are advised to use provided fire rings and avoid burning garbage.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews indicate potential hazards such as heavy bug activity during summer months and navigation challenges leading to the campground via certain routes.
Weather at Clara Lake Rustic Campground
4
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Tofte Ranger District (Address: 7355 West Hwy 61 Tofte, MN 55615) provides ranger services. It is operational Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM during the season.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage pick-up at the campground. Campers must pack out all trash, including fish remains.
Proximity to water featuresLocated right by Clara Lake, with lake access available approximately 0.3 miles from the campsites.
Common complaintsComplaints include heavy bug activity in July and navigation difficulties when using Pancore Loop as a route.
Campground Map
Clara Lake Rustic Campground, MN
Driving directionsFrom MN 61 just north of Lutsen: Turn north on Co 4 (Caribou Trail) and drive about 8 miles to FR 340. Turn left on FR 340 and drive 3.5 miles. Clara Lake Campground is on the right down a 3/4 mile entrance road.
The campground is accessed via paved roads and a 3/4 mile entrance road. Some user reviews warned against navigation challenges when approaching from Pancore Loop, which might not be suitable for regular vehicles. Reviews generally recommended accessing from the Caribou Trail (East side) for ease.Nearby places
Grand Marais: Approximately 30 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Grand Marais, located roughly 30 minutes away, is the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
6 reviews
Clara Lake Rustic Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and private nature of the campground, its suitability for fishing and wildlife viewing, and the rustic charm of the sites. Some users commented on the bugs and the difficulty of accessing the campground via certain routes.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Rustic camping at its finest.' - 'The lake is beautiful.' - 'Three campsites and we were the only ones there!' - 'Very private campgrounds with only 3 campsites located right by the lake access.'...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- One user noted: 'Not worth the drive, much better sites in other campgrounds closer to the shore.' - Bugs were frequently mentioned, with one user advising: 'Make sure to bring the bug spray!' -...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Avoid approaching from the west side via Pancore Loop, as it is challenging for vehicle traffic. Approach via Caribou Trail (East). - Bring bug spray. - Treat or boil lake water before use.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention bugs, while fall reviews highlight the beautiful old growth and wildlife like loons. Winter camping is not discussed.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Rustic camping at its finest.' - 'The sound of the loons calling in the distance; the curious fox looking for the next meal.' - 'Three campsites and we were the only ones there! It was pretty...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Sites are nicely spaced apart, providing privacy. - Only one site can accommodate an RV longer than 21 feet.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed, but users are advised to keep them on a leash and pick up after them. One user suggested storing dog food in bear-resistant containers.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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