Clara Lake Rustic Campground

Star3.93
17 reviews
Clara Lake Rustic Campground, MN
Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,739 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from May 10 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Tofte Ranger District site

Official Website
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Clara 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

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USFS
Provider
(218) 663-8060SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
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What Campers Say

3.93

Mixed Reviews

Based on 17 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."

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Campground Map

Clara Lake Rustic Campground, MN

Clara Lake Rustic Campground

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.

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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open in summer; warm humid weather but multiple reviews cite frequent bugs.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 11% in MN

Fall reviews highlight beautiful old growth and wildlife (loons), making fall especially appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open from May 10 so late spring possible; limited review detail on spring conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed Oct 1; winter camping and conditions not discussed.

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.
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Stay Limit
Maximum of nine people per site.

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.
FishingThe lake offers fishing opportunities, and users have described it as 'decent' for fishing. Specific types of fish are not mentioned.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is available, as there is a boat launch on Clara Lake.
Wildlife viewingWildlife 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
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews indicate potential hazards such as heavy bug activity during summer months and navigation challenges leading to the campground via certain routes.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Clara Lake Rustic Campground

Reviews

3.9
17 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Clara Lake Rustic Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 17 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.'...
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Based on 17 reviews

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!' -...
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Based on 17 reviews

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 17 reviews

Seasonal 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 17 reviews

Camper 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...
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Based on 17 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Sites are nicely spaced apart, providing privacy. - Only one site can accommodate an RV longer than 21 feet.
Based on 17 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 17 reviews

Pet-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 17 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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