Whiteface Reservoir

4.67

275 reviews

LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT WHITEFACE RESERVOIR CAMPGROUND 318 FORESTRY ROAD

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Minnesota#1 Swimming Camping Minnesota#3 Tent Camping Minnesota#3 +13 more

Quick Facts

1,486 ft

Price

$22 - $32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open from May 2 to S...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,486 ft

Price

$22 - $32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open from May 2 to S...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Whiteface Reservoir

$22.00 - $32.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees range based on amenities, such as $22-$26 for non-electric sites, $32 for electric sites, and $135 for group sites with electric....

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$32.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$135.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(218)229-8800.

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What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 275 reviews

117 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousstaffsites

"Whiteface Reservoir Campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. Many visitors highlight the spacious and private campsites as a key feature. However, some issues include the lack of a dump station and non-burnable firewood."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT WHITEFACE RESERVOIR CAMPGROUND 318 FORESTRY ROAD

Whiteface Reservoir

LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT WHITEFACE RESERVOIR CAMPGROUND 318 FORESTRY ROAD

Driving directionsFrom Eveleth, Minnesota, take Highway 53 south for 7.8 miles, turn east on County Road 16 and travel 18.5 miles. Turn south on County Road 618 and travel 2.5 miles to Whiteface Reservoir.

Access includes paved roads leading to the campground, making it relatively accessible from major highways. However, road conditions for larger trailers or RVs may involve tight turns as noted in user reviews.

Nearby places

Aurora (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes), Eveleth (approximately 27 miles, 45 minutes), Duluth (approximately 60 miles, 1 hour and 30 minutes).

Nearby supplies

A convenience store is available on-site offering firewood, bait, bug spray, snacks, and other small items

additional supplies are available in Aurora, about 20 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Whiteface Reservoir

From the gentle warmth of May through the golden days of September, Whiteface Reservoir transforms into a camper's paradise. Summer brings comfortable temperatures ideal for swimming, hiking, and evening campfires under star-filled skies. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forests burst into a spectacular display of colors. While winter's frigid embrace makes the area a wonderland for the hardy few, most visitors find the mild summer weather perfect for creating lasting memories in Minnesota's great outdoors.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in MN

Open May–Sept; peak season with swimming, boating, fishing and family amenities; highly praised in reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Shoulder season visits quieter with fall color potential; some first-come sites in September.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Opens May 2; spring use is limited to late spring with bugs noted in early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 2–Sept 6 operating season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 2 - September 6. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 2 to September 6 during peak operating seasons. First-come, first-served sites are available during September shoulder seasons.
Current Alerts: Fishing pier currently undergoing repairs; availability updates unknown.

About Whiteface Reservoir

Nestled within the pristine wilderness of Superior National Forest, Whiteface Reservoir Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Here, spacious campsites tucked beneath a canopy of mixed forest offer the privacy you crave, while the shimmering waters of the reservoir invite you to cast a line or take a refreshing dip at one of the sandy swim beaches. Whether you're exploring scenic hiking trails, launching your boat for a day on the water, or simply relaxing at your picnic table as the sun filters through the leaves, you'll find the perfect escape. The friendly campground hosts ensure every stay feels like a homecoming, ready with local tips and a warm welcome that makes first-time visitors feel like old friends.

The campground accommodates a mix of camping styles. Options include RV sites, tent sites, and a few hike-in sites. Sites with electricity offer added convenience.

Historical SignificanceWhiteface Reservoir Campground sits at the heart of Superior National Forest's storied landscape, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have come to experience Minnesota's untamed beauty. This ecological treasure trove serves as a gateway to adventure, positioned perfectly near the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The forest's diverse ecosystems have long provided sanctuary for wildlife and solace for those seeking connection with nature, continuing a tradition of conservation and recreation that defines the North Woods experience.

Weather and SeasonsFrom the gentle warmth of May through the golden days of September, Whiteface Reservoir transforms into a camper's paradise. Summer brings comfortable temperatures ideal for swimming, hiking, and evening campfires under star-filled skies. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forests burst into a spectacular display of colors. While winter's frigid embrace makes the area a wonderland for the hardy few, most visitors find the mild summer weather perfect for creating lasting memories in Minnesota's great outdoors.

ElevationThe campground rests comfortably in Minnesota's Arrowhead region, where the gentle terrain creates an accessible outdoor playground for adventurers of all abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the melodic calls of songbirds echoing through a cathedral of aspen, birch, and maple trees. The magnificent Whiteface Reservoir stretches across 4,980 acres of crystal-clear water, its surface reflecting the ever-changing moods of the Minnesota sky. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting everything from majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to curious deer picking their way through the underbrush. Each season paints the landscape with its own palette – from spring's fresh greens to autumn's fiery oranges and reds – creating a natural masterpiece that changes with every visit.

Geological RegionDiscover the rugged beauty of northeastern Minnesota's iconic Arrowhead region, where Whiteface Reservoir Campground awaits in the vast expanse of Superior National Forest. This corner of Minnesota, kissing the Canadian border, showcases nature's artistry through its distinctive mixed forests dominated by graceful aspen, paper birch, and vibrant maple trees. The centerpiece of this wilderness retreat, the sprawling 4,980-acre Whiteface Reservoir, carved its place in this ancient landscape, creating a water wonderland that defines the camping experience here.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at noon.

Check-out

Check-out is at noon.

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guests per site limited to one RV and tow vehicle or one tent and one vehicle, with space for one additional vehicle at $8 per night.

Groups

The group site allows up to 45 people and features electricity. This option is ideal for large gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground layout includes multiple loops with sites offering varying levels of privacy, proximity to water, and accessibility.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through its mobile app, or by phone.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available during off-peak shoulder seasons, from September 1 to September 28.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee if done in advance. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours before check-in) incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's fee.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites may be reserved by anyone, not exclusively for visitors with disabilities. The terrain is moderately accessible, but campers have recommended verifying site suitability for larger trailers.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some large enough for multiple tents, campers, and screen tents.

PrivacyMost campsites are private and secluded with natural barriers like trees. "Each site is basically private and you are not on top of your neighbors.

Total Campsites77 campsites

Recommended SitesFirst-come, first-served sites along the water are stunning. Review site dimensions and access before reserving for larger trailers. Bring bug repellents and consider alternative sources for firewood.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Whiteface Reservoir Campground offers a variety of recreational activities. Highlights include boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors particularly appreciate the children's playground and the scenic trails.

HikingThe campground features 2.5 miles of hiking trails. Reviews note beautiful views of the reservoir, especially at sunrise and sunset. Nearby wilderness areas provide additional hiking opportunities.

FishingFishing at the Whiteface Reservoir includes walleye, panfish, and northern fish. A fish-cleaning house is available by the boat launch. However, a broken fishing pier has been a significant drawback.

SwimmingThe campground includes a sandy swimming beach. One visitor described it as "very nice," with another noting the barricaded swimming area, which enhances safety.

BoatingA boat launch is available, providing easy access to Whiteface Reservoir. Campers have lauded the reservoir's clean waters and opportunities for kayaking or canoeing.

Wildlife viewingBird and wildlife species are abundant in the mixed forest surrounding the campground. Loons are frequently heard, and one visitor noted turtles laying eggs near the beach.

Beach activitiesThe campground features a sandy beach suitable for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is noted as clean and family-friendly, with picnic areas nearby.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquito populations can be extreme during summer. Humidity and rain chances may vary depending on the season. No dump stations available on-site; campers should plan accordingly.

Active AlertsFishing pier currently undergoing repairs; availability updates unknown.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed except during drought conditions. Firewood must be sourced locally.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM onward.

Emergency ServicesThe closest emergency services are in Aurora, MN, approximately 20 miles away, including local police and medical facilities.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details on location or frequency of service are not provided.

Water FeaturesCampground located on Whiteface Reservoir with boat launch access, swim beaches, and fishing opportunities.

Camp HostHosts are highly praised for their friendliness and dedication. Hosts like Dale and TJ frequently go above and beyond to assist campers with firewood delivery and camping advice.

Weather at Whiteface Reservoir

Reviews

4.7

275 reviews

Top-Rated

Whiteface Reservoir is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Whiteface Reservoir Campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. Many visitors highlight the spacious and private campsites as a key feature. However, some issues include the lack of a dump station and non-burnable firewood.

Review Summaries

Based on 275 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors consistently praise the clean facilities, spacious and private campsites, accommodating staff, and the beautiful natural surroundings. Quotes include: "The cleanest vault toilets I have ever...

Based on 275 reviews

Common Concerns

Some visitors criticized the lack of a dump station and shower facilities, the poor condition of the fishing pier, and occasionally unburnable firewood.

Based on 275 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Bring your own firewood if possible. 2. Consider first-come, first-served sites for their stunning locations. 3. Check site accessibility for larger trailers. 4. Verizon users should be aware of...

Based on 275 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest in summer, with families enjoying the beach and water activities. Bugs such as mosquitoes and horseflies can be an issue, so bug spray is recommended. Shoulder seasons are...

Based on 275 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This campground is beautiful. We hit the jackpot staying in a first-come, first-served site along the water."; "The lake access is excellent, and the bathrooms are spotless."; "The camp hosts are...

Based on 275 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 5 on Loop 1 was described as "absolutely beautiful" and private. Site 6 offers water access and is close to the beach. Visitors to site 27 noted privacy and great views. Site 35 was highlighted...

Based on 275 reviews

Accessibility Features

Users praise the attentiveness of camp hosts but recommend checking site layouts for larger RVs. Accessibility features include accessible campsites open to all visitors.

Based on 275 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and campers have noted their ease in accommodating dogs. A review mentioned, "Brought the two dogs as well, and they had a great time."

Based on 275 reviews

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