Poplar River Rustic Campground

Star4.33
25 reviews
7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615

Quick Facts

1,581 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open May 10 to Octob...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Superior National Forest site

Official Website
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Poplar River Rustic Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site as it is a rustic campground.
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

4.33

Recommended

Based on 25 reviews

18 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietspacioussites

Some mention

noise

"User reviews praise the campground for its rustic charm, tranquility, and proximity to the Poplar River. Many users highlight the fishing opportunities and the spacious campsites as standout features. However, the lack of amenities and occasional disturbances, like generators, are noted."

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Campground Map

7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615

Poplar River Rustic Campground

7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615

Driving directionsFrom MN 61 in Tofte: Turn north on Co 2, drive approx 11 miles to FR 164 (Honeymoon Trail). Turn right and drive 5.5 miles. The campground is on the left, just past the bridge over the Poplar River. From MN 61 in Lutsen: Turn north on Co 4, drive approx 6 miles to FR 164 (Honeymoon Trail). Turn right and drive approx 4 miles. The campground is on the right, just before the bridge over the Poplar River.
The campground is accessible from MN 61 via Honeymoon Trail. The road to the campground is not plowed during the winter, which may limit access during snowy seasons.
Nearby places
Tofte (approx. 11 miles), Lutsen (approx. 6 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can likely be found in nearby towns such as Tofte and Lutsen, approximately 6-11 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Poplar River Rustic Campground

Open from the spring thaw on May 10th through the crisp days of October 1st, this seasonal sanctuary transforms with each passing month. While summer brings warm days perfect for riverside relaxation, autumn steals the show as nature's grand finale. During the renowned Fall Color Tours, the surrounding forest erupts in a spectacular display of gold, crimson, and amber—creating a photographer's paradise and memories that last long after the leaves have fallen.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Open in summer; warm days good for riverside relaxation but no swimming amenities noted.

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

Fall is peak season; fall colors and position on a fall color tour are emphasized.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open from May 10; balsam poplar fragrance in spring is noted, but season is short.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 1–May 10; not available in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Fall season emphasized due to the Fall Color Tours.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 10 to October 1.

About Poplar River Rustic Campground

Nestled along the banks of the pristine Poplar River, this rustic campground beckons anglers and nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. Wake to the gentle murmur of flowing water and cast your line into prime trout habitat just steps from your tent. While embracing the simplicity of backcountry camping with vault toilets and sturdy picnic tables, visitors should note this off-the-grid destination requires bringing your own water and packing out all waste—a small price for such untouched tranquility.
Poplar River Rustic Campground offers primitive camping options only, with no fees required for staying at the sites.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
No specific check-in time stated.
Check-out
Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., suggesting departure by early morning.
Stay Limit
May 10 - October 1

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Poplar River Rustic Campground provides a range of outdoor activities focused on its natural environment. Trout fishing in the river is a key highlight, with some campsites offering direct river access. The campground is also situated on a road included in fall color tours, making it a popular spot during autumn.
FishingFishing is a significant activity at Poplar River Rustic Campground. The river offers trout fishing opportunities, requiring a trout/salmon stamp and a valid Minnesota fishing license. User reviews frequently mention the quality of trout fishing, with one camper observing a neighbor catch a dozen Brook trout within 20 minutes.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include lack of potable water, wildlife encounters, and noise pollution from generators as noted by some campers.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Poplar River Rustic Campground

Reviews

4.3
25 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Poplar River Rustic Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the campground for its rustic charm, tranquility, and proximity to the Poplar River. Many users highlight the fishing opportunities and the spacious campsites as standout features. However, the lack of amenities and occasional disturbances, like generators, are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects from reviews include the quiet and remote nature of the campground, spacious campsites, proximity to the Poplar River, and the ability to fish for trout directly from certain sites....
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Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of potable water, occasional noise from generators, and limited amenities. One user noted that the generator noise drowned out the sound of the waterfall.
Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring treated water or a filtration system, pack out all trash, and plan visits during fall for spectacular foliage views. Fishing enthusiasts should ensure they have the...
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Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest fall is the most popular season due to the vibrant foliage and pleasant weather. The campground's location on a fall color tour route enhances its appeal during autumn.
Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "Please remember this is a rustic site. No amenities. However, this is why I like it. Remote, on the Poplar River, and only about 6 or so sites." (Eric Carrier) - "Last time I was here, Poplar...
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Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

User reviews highlight specific campsites as desirable, particularly those located closest to the river with steps down to the water.
Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users are reminded to keep them on leashes and clean up after them. Bear-resistant containers should be used for dog food.
Based on 25 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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