Gunflint Lake

Star0
1 review
2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,542 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

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Gunflint Lake
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site.
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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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 1 reviews

15 Google reviews

Most mentioned

lake

"User reviews highlight the scenic and remote qualities of the campground, emphasizing its suitability for stargazing and northern lights viewing. However, the lack of amenities and isolated nature may deter some visitors."

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Campground Map

2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604

Gunflint Lake

2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604

Driving directionsFrom Grand Marais, travel north on Gunflint Trail for 43.7 miles. Turn right onto S. Gunflint Lake Road and travel 0.4 miles. Turn left, travel 49 feet, then veer right and travel 210 feet to the parking area.
Road access involves a combination of the Gunflint Trail and secondary roads, which are likely well-maintained. No specific mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain were noted.
Nearby places
Grand Marais, MN - 43.7 miles (approx. 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies can also be found in Grand Marais, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, located approximately 43.7 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Gunflint Lake

Experience the dramatic beauty of four distinct seasons in the northwoods. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and paddling, with temperatures reaching the comfortable 70s and 80s. Fall transforms the forest into a brilliant tapestry of gold and crimson, while crisp air and fewer crowds create ideal hiking conditions. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, opening up opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing under star-filled skies. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers, migrating birds, and the exciting energy of renewal.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm 70s–80s, popular boat launch and paddling/fishing make summer strong season.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall colors and clear nights enhance scenic beauty and aurora viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Four distinct seasons noted but no specific spring details provided.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round with limited sites; winter appeal mainly for ice fishing.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open Year-round with Specific Camping Sites Occupying the Summer months and later

About Gunflint Lake

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota's wilderness, this campground offers an authentic northwoods experience where pristine waters meet ancient forests. Here, mornings begin with the haunting call of loons echoing across the water, and evenings end with spectacular sunsets painting the sky above towering pines. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or adventure on the water, this gateway to the Boundary Waters provides the perfect basecamp for exploring one of America's last true wilderness areas.
Gunflint Lake offers dispersed, backcountry-style camping with six primitive single-party sites.
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Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
"Nine people per site limit, group sites are available at some sites."

Amenities available

Fire rings
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Gunflint Lake provides opportunities for fishing, hunting, and various water activities, including both motorized and non-motorized boating. The lake is also a launch point for accessing other areas within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
FishingFishing is a key activity, with the lake hosting species such as lake trout, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and walleye. There is abundant fishing potential both in the lake and in the Pine River, which is accessible from the lake.
BoatingThe lake allows for both motorized and non-motorized boating. A concrete boat launch at the south end of the lake serves as the primary access point. The launch can get busy during summer, as it is used to access nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness entry points.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Gunflint Lake

Reviews

0.0
1 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Gunflint Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic and remote qualities of the campground, emphasizing its suitability for stargazing and northern lights viewing. However, the lack of amenities and isolated nature may deter some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors praise the pristine and remote nature of the lake, the opportunities for stargazing, and the abundance of outdoor activities like fishing and boating.
Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention the area getting very dark and lonely at night, which could be unsettling for some. Additionally, the absence of potable water and other modern amenities is noted as a drawback.
Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing sufficient lighting, food, and water, as it gets very dark and there are no nearby facilities. Clear skies and good solar activity are essential for viewing the northern...
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Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are reportedly busier due to the popularity of the boat launch. Clear, cloudless nights are recommended for northern lights viewing. Winter may be attractive for ice fishing enthusiasts.
Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

'We tried to catch northern lights but no luck. Lake access point is a good place for that. You can look straight at horizon. But be prepared with light, food and drinks. It will get really dark and...
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Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific reviews about individual campsites are available, but all six are described as having a fire grate and latrine, with some offering picnic tables.
Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Advice for pet owners includes keeping dogs on leashes, storing food in bear-proof containers, and ensuring pets have adequate water and shade.
Based on 1 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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