Crescent Lake (Mn)
4.5694 reviewsCRESCENT LAKE, 3236 THE GRADE (FOREST ROAD 170), Tofte, MN, 55615, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$20 - $40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
32 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20 - $40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
32 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCrescent Lake (Mn)
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground charges $20 per night for standard nonelectric and tent sites during peak season, $40 per night for group sites during peak season....
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$60.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider218-663-7150info@sawbill.com
What Campers Say
4.56
Top-Rated
Based on 94 reviews
21 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulcleanlakewell-maintained
"Crescent Lake Campground has received mixed reviews from visitors. Most appreciate its peaceful wilderness setting, clean facilities, and helpful camp host, while some express concerns about road accessibility, bugs, and site conditions."
Fees & Passes at Crescent Lake (Mn)
$20 - $40/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit at Crescent Lake is 14 consecutive nights.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee appl...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Sawbill Canoe Outfitters website.
Best Time to Camp at Crescent Lake (Mn)
Experience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of the North Woods, where each season paints Crescent Lake in stunning new colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and migrating birds, while fall ignites the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and exploring, though savvy visitors come prepared for nature's tiny residents – the infamous Minnesota mosquitoes that thrive in the humid summer air.
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: May 12, 2025 - September 30, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season begins May 12, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025, with a first-come-first-served season extending until October 20, 2025.
About Crescent Lake (Mn)
Escape to the pristine wilderness of Crescent Lake, where 32 rustic campsites await on a secluded peninsula deep within Superior National Forest. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, with many sites featuring stunning waterfront views or steps-away access to the crystal-clear lake. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling through mirror-like waters, or simply breathing in the pure northern air, Crescent Lake delivers an authentic Minnesota wilderness experience that reconnects you with nature's rhythm.
Crescent Lake Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences with 32 campsites. Options include standard non-electric sites, tent-only sites, and a group site.
Historical SignificanceYour adventure unfolds within the legendary Superior National Forest, stretching 150 miles along the Canadian border in a vast tapestry of lakes and ancient forests. This gateway to the world-renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness has beckoned paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers for generations. Here, you'll follow in the paddle strokes of voyageurs and indigenous peoples who navigated these interconnected waterways for centuries, making this land not just a destination, but a living piece of North American heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of the North Woods, where each season paints Crescent Lake in stunning new colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and migrating birds, while fall ignites the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and exploring, though savvy visitors come prepared for nature's tiny residents – the infamous Minnesota mosquitoes that thrive in the humid summer air.
ElevationNestled within the gently rolling terrain of Minnesota's North Woods, Crescent Lake rests in the heart of the boreal forest landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering white and red pines create cathedral-like canopies above your campsite, their ancient branches whispering stories of the North Woods. The diverse forest tapestry includes aromatic balsam fir, paper birch with their distinctive white bark, and quaking aspen that shimmer in the slightest breeze. This pristine habitat serves as nature's grand theater – watch for majestic moose browsing along the shoreline, black bears foraging for berries, and bald eagles soaring overhead. As evening falls, the haunting call of loons echoes across the water, creating the quintessential soundtrack to your wilderness retreat.
Geological RegionCrescent Lake sits jewel-like within northeastern Minnesota's vast boreal forest ecosystem, where ancient glaciers carved a landscape of remarkable beauty and ecological diversity. This rugged terrain of the Superior National Forest showcases nature's artistry through countless clean, clear lakes connected by streams and surrounded by dramatic rock outcroppings. The boreal forest here represents one of North America's last great wildernesses, where towering pines, spruce, and fir intermingle with deciduous birch and aspen, creating a complex ecosystem that supports an incredible array of wildlife and offers visitors a true escape into untamed nature.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features were not detailed, though the presence of well-maintained vault toilets and accessible water points suggest basic accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Some are narrow or sloped, such as site 026, which is noted for being uneven due to erosion. Others are spacious like site 023, which provides more privacy.
Sites PrivacyMany campsites are described as secluded due to dense woodland coverage, offering significant privacy. Lakeside sites are especially favored for their tranquility.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites near the lake are highly recommended for privacy and views. Site 026 is picturesque but has erosion issues.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit at Crescent Lake is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limit of up to two vehicles per campsite
- $10 fee for second vehicle.
Groups
The group site costs $40 per night during peak season and can accommodate larger groups, though specific capacity numbers are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged on a peninsula with campsites spaced for privacy. Some sites are accessible only by boat, and others have tent pads separated from parking areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 12, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025, with a first-come-first-served season extending until October 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityA few sites are first-come, first-served, including one primitive backcountry camping site accessible by boat.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, with late cancellations incurring an additional penalty of the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Crescent Lake provides a broad array of outdoor activities. Fishing for walleye, northern pike, and muskie is a popular draw, and the lake allows motorized boating. Other available activities include hiking in nearby forests, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The surrounding Superior National Forest offers a variety of trails, but some reviews mention that certain trails are "overgrown and not maintained." Hikers can explore the secluded woodlands and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with walleye, northern pike, and muskie commonly caught. Visitors recommend bringing appropriate gear for fishing from the pier or boats.Biking
Biking is popular on the gravel roads around the campground. One visitor specifically recommended bringing a gravel bike for exploring.Boating
Motorized boats are permitted on Crescent Lake with no horsepower limits. Canoeing and kayaking are also common, and the boat ramp facilitates lake access.Wildlife viewing
The campground's boreal forest setting makes it ideal for wildlife viewing. Common sightings include moose, bears, bald eagles, and loons. One reviewer even noted spotting wolves and moose tracks.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, but the nearby Superior National Forest offers year-round recreation possibilities.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are common water sports on Crescent Lake, facilitated by the lake's calm waters.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire pits and must be extinguished completely. Bringing firewood from outside the area is prohibited due to invasive species concerns.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and black flies are a significant nuisance during the warmer months. Bears have been reported ripping open tents, and there are erosion issues on some campsites near the lake.
Weather at Crescent Lake (Mn)
4
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Tofte, approximately 23 miles away, including medical services and police.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 12, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Crescent Lake, many campsites offer waterfront access. A fishing pier is available within the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include heavy mosquito activity, erosion and slope issues at certain campsites, lack of cellular service, and inadequate road conditions.
HostThe campground host, Jack, is frequently praised by visitors for his helpfulness and friendliness. His dog, Reggie, is also a favorite among campers.
Campground Map
CRESCENT LAKE, 3236 THE GRADE (FOREST ROAD 170), Tofte, MN, 55615, USA
Driving directionsTravel Highway 61 along Lake Superior's north shore to Tofte, Minnesota. In Tofte, turn north (away from Lake Superior) on Sawbill Trail (CCHS 2). Follow the Sawbill Trail for 16 miles to The Grade (Forest Road 170). Turn right onto The Grade and proceed east for 7 miles. The campground is on your right and is marked by a large sign.
The roads to Crescent Lake are gravel, with reports of heavy washboarding and deep potholes. Forest Service roads may be challenging for RVs and trailers, with narrow roads and limited maneuvering room. Some users describe the road conditions as 'horrible' and recommend trimming brush and grading the road.Nearby places
Tofte (approximately 23 miles, about a 30-minute drive), Grand Marais (approximately 50 miles, about 1 hour and 15 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
Sawbill Canoe Outfitters, located 13 miles from Crescent Lake, offers showers, laundry, fishing licenses, bait, tackle, groceries, camping gear rental, ice, convenience items, and a pay telephone.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
94 reviews
Crescent Lake (Mn) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Crescent Lake Campground has received mixed reviews from visitors. Most appreciate its peaceful wilderness setting, clean facilities, and helpful camp host, while some express concerns about road accessibility, bugs, and site conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 94 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently praise the "peaceful and beautiful" setting, "clean and well-maintained" facilities, lake access for boating and fishing, and the helpful camp host, Jack. Many consider it a...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the "challenging road conditions" leading to the campground, poorly maintained trails, and issues with bugs, especially mosquitoes and black flies. Some RV campers report...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing mosquito and fly repellents, extra drinking water, and a rake to smooth out uneven ground. Many recommend lakeside sites for the best experience and advise visitors to be...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, but it's also when mosquitoes and black flies are most prevalent. Fall offers a quieter experience with fewer bugs but colder nights. Winter activities are not...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Crescent Lake is the best of both worlds. You have the BWCAW right across the road." - Michael K. "Bring the gravel bike, great riding." - Ray F. "The remoteness and the sounds of wildlife were...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 026 is noted for erosion and uneven terrain, while site 023 is valued for its privacy. Site 031 is described as peaceful, and walk-in sites are praised for their lakeside access and seclusion.
Based on 94 reviewsAccessibility Features
Visitors with disabilities have noted challenges with road conditions and narrow campsites, though the camp host has been praised for being helpful.
Based on 94 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many visitors bring dogs. Some enjoy letting their pets splash in the lake, but others suggest keeping them leashed due to wildlife encounters.
Based on 94 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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