How much does camping cost at Mcdougal Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Mcdougal Lake Campground are $18/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mcdougal Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mcdougal Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mcdougal Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Mcdougal Lake Campground has 2 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mcdougal Lake Campground?

Mcdougal Lake Campground is open May 08 to September 30. 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 Mcdougal Lake Campground?

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

How many campsites does Mcdougal Lake Campground have?

Mcdougal Lake Campground has 21 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mcdougal Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mcdougal Lake Campground. 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 Mcdougal Lake Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Mcdougal Lake Campground?

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

Mcdougal Lake Campground

3.38

20 reviews

McDougal Lake Road (Forest Road 106), Isabella, MN 55607

Summer Destination

Featured in:Tent Camping Minnesota

Quick Facts

1,800 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Reservable season ru...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tofte Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,800 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Reservable season ru...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tofte Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Mcdougal Lake Campground

$18.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard, Long-Term: $18.00; Standard: $18.00; Walk-In: $18.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$18.00

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

218-663-8063

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Campground Map

McDougal Lake Road (Forest Road 106), Isabella, MN 55607

Mcdougal Lake Campground

McDougal Lake Road (Forest Road 106), Isabella, MN 55607

Nearby places

Isabella (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

Weather at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Current alerts(10)

closed until further notice. | will be closed until further notice.
Dispose of waste in containers provided.
Maximum of nine people per site. There is space for one vehicle and one towed vehicle (such as a boat trailer). Additional vehicles on the site require additional half fee and must park on the spur. No vehicles may park on the grass or where they impede traffic.
No campground host on site.

Best Time to Camp at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most comfortable weather (typical daytime highs 65–80°F, nights 45–55°F) and the longest daylight for paddling, swimming, and shoreline fishing on McDougal Lake. Water activities (canoeing, boating, swimming) and wildlife viewing — including loons and migrating songbirds — are at their peak, and most campground services are open May 8 through September 30. Expect moderate weekend crowds and steady weekday availability thanks to a mix of 8 reservable sites and 13 first- Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: warm days (65–80°F), ideal for paddling, swimming and fishing; peak use in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 08 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Reservable season runs from May 8, 2025, through September 30, 2025.

About Mcdougal Lake Campground

McDougal Lake Campground sits in the Superior National Forest foothills near Isabella, Minnesota, operated by the Tofte Ranger District. This small lakefront campground offers spacious, private sites with direct access to paddling, fishing, and swimming. Reviewers praise the clean vault toilets, fresh water, and frequent wildlife sightings, though some note fire damage scars and occasional mucky swim conditions.

The campground accommodates various camping preferences, offering 21 campsites in total. These include both drive-in sites for RVs and trailers and hike-in sites for tent campers. Group camping and cabin lodging options are not described.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most comfortable weather (typical daytime highs 65–80°F, nights 45–55°F) and the longest daylight for paddling, swimming, and shoreline fishing on McDougal Lake. Water activities (canoeing, boating, swimming) and wildlife viewing — including loons and migrating songbirds — are at their peak, and most campground services are open May 8 through September 30. Expect moderate weekend crowds and steady weekday availability thanks to a mix of 8 reservable sites and 13 first- Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1800 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe 323-acre lake anchors a forest of white pine, paper birch, and sugar maple at the southern edge of the boreal forest, where northern and temperate species mix. Wild rice beds grow along the shoreline, attracting waterfowl and the occasional moose at dawn. Eagles circle overhead and deer browse the edges. The Canadian Shield geology creates the kind of hard-rock lake country that defines northeastern Minnesota's Arrowhead region. Some areas still show scars from the Greenwood Fire, a visible reminder of the forest's burn-and-regrow cycle.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or other accommodations are mentioned as part of the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no mentions of cultural or educational programs at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum of nine people per site
space for one primary vehicle and one towed vehicle.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of nine guests allowed per site.

Groups

Group camping details are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov's mobile app or website.

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets, drinking water, parking, and campsites.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and can accommodate tents or midsized trailers/RVs. A user noted, 'Nice big sites. Plenty of room for tents or a midsized trailer/RV.

PrivacyThe campsites are private and well-separated by woods. One user commented, 'Campsites are private and separated by woods.

Total Campsites21 campsites

Recommended SitesSelect sites near McDougal Lake for direct views. Site-specific recommendations include choosing spacious and private sites for larger groups.

Best CampsitesReviewers prefer sites with direct views of McDougal Lake, though specific site numbers aren't mentioned in the available data.

Need help booking Mcdougal Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

McDougal Lake Campground features a variety of amenities, offering both comfort and convenience to visitors. "This comfortable facility" provides 13 first-come, first-served campsites and 8 reservable ones, catering to both RV and tent campers. Amenities include a solar-powered pump station for water and vault toilets. Notably, the water quality has been praised by campers: "Nice fresh-tasting water & clean facilities." Additionally, "Bathrooms (pit toilets) are clean," according to user reviews. Each campsite is private, separated by woods, and has access to campfire rings and picnic tables for ease of use.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Mcdougal Lake Campground

McDougal Lake Campground offers a range of recreational activities, making it a versatile destination for campers. Opportunities include swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The facility features a sandy swimming beach and a boat ramp, which are ideal for family-friendly recreation. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy targeting species like walleye and northern pike, with one visitor mentioning they 'caught a few massive sunnies.' The area also boasts birding and wildlife observation, with sightings of otters, beavers, and turtles reported by users.

Fishing4.0/5

Boating4.0/5

Boat ramp and shoreline access make the site friendly to motors, canoes and other boats.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Otters, beavers, turtles, eagles, deer and occasional moose; wild rice beds attract waterfowl.

Water Sports4.0/5

Direct paddling access on the lake and calm shoreline make it well-suited for kayaks/canoes.

Swimming3.5/5

Hiking2.0/5

One-mile trail exists but is currently closed due to Greenwood Fire impacts.

Signature experiences

Photography3.5/5Eagles, waterfowl, moose, lake overlooks and forest contrast provide good photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsThere are no flush toilets at McDougal Lake Campground. Instead, the facility offers vault toilets, which have been described as clean by users.

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 Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Mcdougal Lake Campground

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From Booking Sources

3.4

20 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Mcdougal Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, McDougal Lake Campground is praised for its tranquility, spacious sites, and natural beauty. Users frequently highlight the privacy of campsites and the clean facilities. Some noted the impact of the Greenwood Fire, with 'some places still look[ing] scarred.' The lack of a sandy beach was mentioned as a minor drawback by some.

Review Summaries

Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious and private campsites, clean facilities, fresh-tasting water, and abundant wildlife.

Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Closure of sites and trails due to the Greenwood Fire, lack of a clear beach area, and occasional issues with communication regarding closures.

Based on 20 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 7-16 are currently blocked for the season, as mentioned by one user. Specific positive mentions include spaciousness and lake views at several sites.

Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Download the Recreation.gov app for on-site reservations using Scan and Pay. Visitors are advised to bring their own firewood and ensure proper food storage to avoid attracting wildlife.

Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular in spring and summer, with visitors enjoying activities like boating and fishing. Fall may highlight the resilience of the forest post-fire. No specific winter data is...

Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Nice big sites. Plenty of room for tents or a midsized trailer/RV." 2. "The campground has nice fresh-tasting water & clean facilities." 3. "Certainly some places still look scarred from the...

Based on 20 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility were found.

Based on 20 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground, but no specific reviews discuss pet-related features or experiences.

Based on 20 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Mcdougal Lake Campground

$18.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard, Long-Term: $18.00; Standard: $18.00; Walk-In: $18.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$18.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

218-663-8063

Go if

You want a quiet, budget-friendly base for paddling and fishing in Superior National Forest with good odds of seeing loons and other wildlife.

Skip if

You need guaranteed clear swimming conditions or want a campground without visible fire damage.

Nearby Campgrounds

Dragon Lake's two primitive campsites sit at 1,709 feet in Superior National Forest near Ely. Sites cost $9 per night and include fire rings and picnic tables. Reviewers note the main site is excellent, the secondary one less so.

Mcdougal Lake Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Mcdougal Lake Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Current alerts(10)

Best Time to Camp at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Planning Tips

About Mcdougal Lake Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mcdougal Lake Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Mcdougal Lake Campground

Current alerts(10)

Best Time to Camp at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mcdougal Lake Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Mcdougal Lake Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews