Sand Lake Rustic Campground

Star4.16
13 reviews
Sand Lake Rustic Campground, Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,683 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Open May 10th throug...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District site

Official Website
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Sand Lake Rustic Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
There is no fee for camping at Sand Lake 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) 365-7600SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
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What Campers Say

4.16

Satisfactory

Based on 13 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefulcleanwell-maintained

"Sand Lake Rustic Campground is praised for its tranquility, simplicity, and proximity to the lake. However, some visitors have noted challenges such as horse flies during certain times of the year."

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Campground Map

Sand Lake Rustic Campground, Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest

Sand Lake Rustic Campground

Sand Lake Rustic Campground, Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest

Driving directionsFrom MN 61 at Silver Bay: Turn at the traffic light on MN 61 at Silver Bay. You will be on Co 5, also called Outer Drive, or the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway. Drive through Silver Bay. The road name will change several times even though you will be on the same road. Follow the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway, and you will end up on Co 15. Continue for approximately 18 miles to Co 2. Turn right (north) on Co 2, drive 15 miles. Turn left on Sand Lake Road. After a short distance, veer left onto the two-track road labeled Sand Lake Access. There is a camping icon with an arrow at this intersection. The campground is at the end of the road.
The access road is gravel and a low-maintenance two-track road. While flat and generally easy to drive, it is not plowed during winter and has limited turning space, making it unsuitable for RVs.
Nearby places
Silver Bay (about 33 miles, 45-minute drive), Finland (approximately 35 miles, 50-minute drive), Isabella (6 miles, 10-minute drive), Ely (about 41 miles, 65-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies for groceries and camping essentials are available in Silver Bay, Finland, and Ely. Fuel stations are also located in these towns.

Best Time to Camp at Sand Lake Rustic Campground

From its opening on May 10th through the golden days of October 1st, Sand Lake Rustic Campground showcases the full spectrum of Minnesota's seasonal beauty. Summer arrives with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for paddling, fishing, and lakeside relaxation, though seasoned campers come prepared for the occasional horse fly that calls these woods home. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forest transforms into a tapestry of golds and crimsons, offering some of the region's most spectacular camping conditions with crisp air and fewer insects.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer praised for scenic lakeside camping; horse flies noted as a seasonal downside.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through Oct 1; fewer insects and cooler weather likely improve experience.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open beginning May 10; late spring can be pleasant but limited seasonally.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed October 1 through May 10; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Late spring through early fall (May 10 to October 1).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 10th through October 1st.

About Sand Lake Rustic Campground

Tucked away in an enchanting cedar grove along the pristine shores of Sand Lake, this intimate two-site campground offers an authentic wilderness escape within Superior National Forest. Here, where ancient cedars cast their aromatic shade and gentle waves lap against the shoreline, you'll discover the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. This hidden gem provides just enough space for two lucky groups to experience the tranquility of Minnesota's northwoods without the crowds.
Sand Lake Rustic Campground is a dispersed camping area offering basic, primitive sites with minimal facilities. It is most suitable for tent camping, small campers, or backcountry-style experiences.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
  • Open 24 hours/day
  • check-in anytime.
Check-out
  • Open 24 hours/day
  • no specific check-out time enforced.
Stay Limit
Maximum of nine people per site.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Sand Lake Rustic Campground offers limited but enjoyable recreational activities focused on nature and water-based experiences. Campers can access the lake for non-motorized boating and fishing. The area is also suitable for those looking to enjoy a quiet and natural setting.
FishingFishing is a popular activity at Sand Lake with a variety of fish species available, including bluegill, northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch. Campers are advised to clean fish away from the campsite and pack out remains.
BoatingThe campground offers carry-down access for non-motorized boats like canoes and kayaks. The lake has a maximum depth of 11 feet, and the access consists of gentle, wide steps suitable for launching small watercraft.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHorse flies and biting insects have been noted during summer months. Lake water must be treated before consumption.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Sand Lake Rustic Campground

Reviews

4.2
13 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Sand Lake Rustic Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sand Lake Rustic Campground is praised for its tranquility, simplicity, and proximity to the lake. However, some visitors have noted challenges such as horse flies during certain times of the year.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users appreciated the campground's secluded and quiet nature. "Great campsite in the Superior National Forest," one reviewer wrote, noting the peaceful environment. Reviewers also highlighted...
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Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

The most commonly mentioned issue is the prevalence of horse flies, particularly during the summer. As one reviewer noted, "The sheer number of horse flies was the biggest complaint." Some also found...
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Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing a water filtration system to treat lake water and preparing for horse flies, especially in summer. Pack plenty of supplies, as there are no stores or potable water nearby.
Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are generally favorable due to the campground's scenic location by the lake, but horse flies can be an issue. Fall may offer fewer insects, but campers should prepare for cooler...
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Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "Sand Lake is a small rustic campground maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. There are two sites suitable for tents or small campers." - Jim Bjork - "Great campsite in the Superior National...
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Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

There are only two campsites, both located near the turnaround at the end of the access road. Reviewers found the sites well-suited for tents and small campers but unsuitable for larger RVs.
Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

The accessible vault toilet is appreciated, but no further accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 13 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed at the campground but must be leashed when not in a tent. Campers are reminded to clean up after their pets and to store food securely to avoid wildlife encounters.
Based on 13 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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