Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground
03 reviewsSection 29 Lake Rustic Campground, Section 29 Township, Superior National Forest, MN
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
4 campsites
Season
Open from May 10 to ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
4 campsites
Season
Open from May 10 to ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsSection 29 Lake Rustic Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are charged at this 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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider218-663-8060SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 3 reviews
5 Google reviews
Most mentioned
spacioussites
"User reviews highlight Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground as a remote, peaceful, and wildlife-rich destination. The campground’s minimal facilities and quiet atmosphere are consistently appreciated. However, some recent visitors noted concerns about fish availability in the lake."
Fees & Passes at Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum of nine people per site and one vehicle with one towed vehicle.
Cancellation: Not applicable as reservations are not required.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Superior National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground
Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the North Woods, where each season paints the landscape in distinctive hues. Late spring through early fall reveals the campground at its finest, with warm days perfect for paddling and cool nights ideal for campfire conversations. Summer brings refreshing breezes across the lake, while autumn transforms the forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Though recent winterkill has affected fish populations, the lake continues to offer peaceful paddling and wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter visitors should prepare for true northern conditions, with deep snow and freezing temperatures creating a crystalline wonderland.
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
- Peak Season: Mid-May to late September, corresponding to the open season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 10 to October 1.
- Current Alerts: Exercise caution when exploring the northeast shore due to remnants of the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire. Standing burnt trees may pose safety risks.
About Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness at Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground, where just four intimate campsites await along the pristine shoreline. This hidden gem offers the rare opportunity to experience true solitude in nature, with each site providing direct access to the tranquil waters of Section 29 Lake. Far from the crowds and noise of modern life, this remote sanctuary promises an authentic backcountry experience for those seeking genuine connection with the natural world.
This is a rustic campground offering a back-to-basics experience with minimal amenities. It is suitable for tent campers, RV users, and small groups.
Historical SignificanceThe landscape here tells a powerful story of nature's resilience. In 2011, the Pagami Creek Fire swept through portions of this wilderness, leaving its mark on the surrounding forest. Today, visitors witness an extraordinary natural renewal as young growth emerges among the weathered remains of fire-touched trees, creating a unique mosaic of life and regeneration that serves as a living testament to the forest's enduring spirit.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the North Woods, where each season paints the landscape in distinctive hues. Late spring through early fall reveals the campground at its finest, with warm days perfect for paddling and cool nights ideal for campfire conversations. Summer brings refreshing breezes across the lake, while autumn transforms the forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Though recent winterkill has affected fish populations, the lake continues to offer peaceful paddling and wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter visitors should prepare for true northern conditions, with deep snow and freezing temperatures creating a crystalline wonderland.
ElevationNestled within the rolling terrain of the Superior National Forest, the campground rests at the characteristic elevation of Minnesota's North Woods, where the ancient bedrock meets the sky in gentle undulations shaped by millennia of glacial activity.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the quintessential beauty of the boreal forest, where towering pines and paper birches frame your lakeside retreat. The interplay of water and woodland creates endless vistas of natural splendor, from mirror-like morning reflections to the haunting silhouettes of fire-sculpted trees against sunset skies. The northeast shores bear witness to nature's regenerative power, where new growth mingles with the artistic remains of the 2011 fire, creating a landscape both humbling and inspiring.
Geological RegionSet within the vast Superior National Forest, Section 29 Lake exemplifies the region's glacial heritage. This pristine water body, carved by ancient ice sheets thousands of years ago, sits cradled in the Canadian Shield's ancient granite. The surrounding boreal ecosystem represents one of North America's last great wildernesses, where the geological story of the continent unfolds in layers of rock, forest, and crystal-clear waters.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are outlined or described.
Sites SizeThe campground has four campsites. Reviewers note that three of the sites are large enough to accommodate travel trailers. For example, a 28-foot trailer fit into site #3, while a 26-foot trailer fit into site #2.
Sites PrivacySites are noted to be spaced out, offering a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Two of the four campsites are situated directly on the lake.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 1 or 2 for lakeside views and tranquility.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Not explicitly stated
- likely flexible given the walk-up nature.
Check-out
- Not explicitly stated
- likely flexible given the walk-up nature.
Stay Limit
Maximum of nine people per site and one vehicle with one towed vehicle.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of nine people per site.
Groups
No group-specific sites or details about capacity are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutFour sites are dispersed near the lake; sites 1 and 2 are lakeside.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 10 to October 1.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable, reservations are not required.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll four sites are walk-up only and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not required.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities centered around its natural setting. Fishing and non-motorized boating are particularly popular activities at the campground, and wildlife viewing is frequently mentioned by campers.
Fishing
Fishing is a key activity at the lake, with species such as northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch available. Some recent reports suggest winterkill may have impacted fish populations as of 2024.Boating
The campground provides a boat ramp, facilitating non-motorized boating activities. Campers are advised to exercise caution when boating near areas impacted by the Pagami Creek Fire, as standing burnt trees present safety hazards.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant draw, with species such as moose, bears, wolves, and Canadian lynx spotted by visitors.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is mentioned but no other winter activities are explicitly detailed.Water Sports
Non-motorized boating is supported and facilitated by the lake's boat ramp.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within provided fire rings only.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (moose, bears, wolves), deadfalls in the fire-affected area, and impacts to recovering soil.
Active alertsExercise caution when exploring the northeast shore due to remnants of the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire. Standing burnt trees may pose safety risks.
Weather at Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground
-13
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Tofte Ranger District at 7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615 (Phone: (218) 663-8060). For medical emergencies, clinics or hospitals can be found in larger towns like Ely or Two Harbors.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May to late September, corresponding to the open season.
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage pick-up at the site. Campers are required to pack out all waste they bring in. Trash receptacles are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly located on Section 29 Lake shore. Additional small lakes are near the campground.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention limited fishing opportunities due to winterkill. Access roads may be challenging in adverse weather.
HostNo formal campground hosts are available.
Campground Map
Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground, Section 29 Township, Superior National Forest, MN
Driving directionsFrom Isabella on MN 1: Turn right onto FR 172 (Wanless Rd). Drive 1 mile. Turn left onto FR 369 (Trappers Lake Rd.) Drive 6 miles. Stay on FR 369 by veering right at the fork with FR 373. Continue 4 miles further on FR 369. Turn left on FR 366. Drive 1.5 miles. There is a fork partway down FR 366, stay to the right on the better traveled main road. The campground is on the left up a short access road.
Access is via a series of forest roads including FR172, FR369, and FR366. While these roads are accessible, caution is recommended especially during wet or winter conditions.Nearby places
Isabella (approximately 10 miles), Finland (~25 miles), Tofte (~35 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found at general stores or gas stations in nearby towns such as Isabella or Finland, offering basic camping necessities.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
3 reviews
Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Section 29 Lake Rustic Campground as a remote, peaceful, and wildlife-rich destination. The campground’s minimal facilities and quiet atmosphere are consistently appreciated. However, some recent visitors noted concerns about fish availability in the lake.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the tranquil setting, spacious campsites, and abundant wildlife. "Remote small campground northwest of Finland Minnesota...lots of wildlife. Moose, bear, wolves, Canadian lynx are...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some complaints were noted about the lake's fish population, with a recent review mentioning, "The lake appeared to not have any fish in it...articles from 2023 claimed winterkill (turnover)."
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend visiting outside peak bug seasons for the most enjoyable experience. "Before the bugs start and after they're gone, you won't find too many USFS campgrounds that have the same quiet...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The best experiences seem to occur during the early and late camping seasons (before and after bug season). Fishing conditions may vary based on winterkill events.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Remote small campground northwest of Finland Minnesota. 4 campsites, an outhouse. No facilities. Access to the small lake, lots of wildlife." – Pamela Gordon-Evens
"Before the bugs start and after...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 and #3 are highlighted as being suitable for large travel trailers (26' and 28'). Site #1 is also described as accommodating RVs.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility concerns.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome, but users are advised to keep them leashed and ensure their safety while boating or camping.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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