Deer Lake
4.3822 reviews1235 DIVISION ST., DEER RIVER, MN, USA, 56636
Deer Lake
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$16.00 per night fee applicable throughout the season; additional fees may apply for reservation changes or cancellations.
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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$16.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider218-246-2123
About this campground
Nestled between the tranquil waters of Cut Foot Sioux Lake, Deer Lake Campground unfolds across two distinct loops - the intimate North Deer Loop with 17 secluded sites and the sprawling South Deer Loop featuring 31 waterfront gems. Connected to the pristine waters via the meandering Biauswah Creek, this outdoor paradise beckons anglers to cast their lines at dawn, families to splash in crystal-clear swimming holes, and adventurers to launch their boats into endless summer days. Miles of hiking trails wind through ancient forests, offering glimpses of the wilderness that has captivated visitors for generations.
Deer Lake Campground caters to a range of camping preferences with primitive sites that accommodate both tent campers and RVs. There are no electric hookups, emphasizing the campground's focus on a more rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceThis sacred landscape tells a story thousands of years in the making. The Chippewa National Forest stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, who together steward these ancestral lands. Every trail, every shoreline, and every whispering pine holds cultural significance, preserving traditional resources and ancient wisdom while welcoming visitors to experience the profound connection between people and place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Minnesota's north woods, where summer brings warm days perfect for lakeside lounging and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. As spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and migrating birds, temperatures dance between crisp mornings and mild afternoons. Early fall paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons, though visitors should pack layers for the cooler evenings. Those venturing beyond peak season may encounter nature's dramatic side with refreshing rain showers or even early snowflakes that dust the pine boughs.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the haunting call of loons echoing across Cut Foot Sioux Lake, where morning mist rises from waters sheltered by towering red and white pines that have stood sentinel for centuries. The campground rests in a cathedral of hardwoods - oak, maple, and birch - that create a living canopy overhead. Keep your eyes skyward to spot magnificent bald eagles soaring on thermals and osprey diving for their daily catch, while the forest floor rustles with the secret movements of deer, foxes, and woodland creatures that call this pristine ecosystem home.
Geological RegionDiscover your basecamp on the northwest shore of Cut Foot Sioux Lake, deep within the embrace of the Chippewa National Forest. This remarkable landscape showcases Minnesota's iconic northwoods ecosystem, where ancient glacial lakes meet diverse forest communities. Hardwood groves intermingle with majestic pine stands, creating a tapestry of habitats that support an incredible diversity of wildlife. The forest's unique position in the headwaters region has shaped a geological wonderland of interconnected waterways, rolling hills, and fertile wetlands that define the character of this wilderness retreat.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not specify dedicated accessibility features. Some user reviews indicate the presence of stairs in areas like North Deer Loop, but alternative sloped paths exist in certain spots for easier access.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as a mix of sizes, ranging from moderately large to spacious. Some reviews highlight the suitability for larger setups, such as 40-foot rigs with vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer varying levels of privacy, with many surrounded by trees. Multiple reviews note a sense of seclusion due to dense vegetation, although some users felt the sites were overly wooded.
Total Campsites48 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose North Loop sites for hardwood forest ambiance; opt for South Loop for mature pines and sunny areas.
Best CampsitesPopular campsites include North Loop 4 and South Loop 23, noted for privacy, lake access, and cleanliness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Available from 12:00 PM local time.
Check-out
Check-out by 11:00 AM local time.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping unit maximum occupancy not specified.
Groups
No dedicated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNorth Deer Loop: 17 sites in hardwood forest; South Deer Loop: 31 sites among mature pines.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 09, 2025, and closes September 29, 2025. Between May 09 and September 01, reservations are required; sites become first-come, first-served from September 02 onwards.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available at Recreation.gov and through the app or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFrom September 02 to September 29, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before scheduled arrival incur a $10 fee, with additional penalties for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Deer Lake Campground provides a variety of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular on Cut Foot Sioux Lake. The 26-mile Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Trail is a highlight for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. Wildlife viewing is another attraction, with opportunities to spot eagles, loons, and osprey. During appropriate seasons, campers can engage in berry or mushroom picking.
Hiking
The campground is intersected by the 26-mile Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Trail, which connects with the Simpson Creek Trail. Activities include hiking, birding, and exploring the surrounding forest. Trail conditions cater to various skill levels.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, panfish, and muskie. Lake Winnibigoshish, accessible by boat, is renowned as one of Minnesota's premier fisheries.Swimming
The campground offers two swimming beaches, a large sandy beach at North Deer Loop and a smaller beach at South Deer Loop. These swimming spots are well-suited for families.Biking
Mountain biking is available along the 26-mile Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Trail. The terrain is suitable for casual to moderately skilled cyclists.Boating
Boating opportunities include access to Cut Foot Sioux Lake via a centrally located boat ramp. Boats can be moored offshore, and water skiing is also popular.Wildlife viewing
Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts can observe loons, osprey, and bald eagles. The surrounding forest is home to diverse waterfowl and other wildlife.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming at the North and South Deer Loop beaches. These sandy areas provide ample space for relaxation.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available. Water skiing is also popular on Lake Winnibigoshish.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained within fire rings and attended at all times.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears present; campers must store food safely in vehicles or campers.
Active alertsFood storage order in effect; bundled firewood no longer sold onsite.
Weather forecast
31
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 12.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital, Deer River Healthcare Center, is approximately 20 miles away in Deer River, MN.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 09, 2025 - September 01, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but there is no specific mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Cut Foot Sioux Lake; near Lake Winnibigoshish.
Common complaintsComplaints about campsite cleanliness and hosts not enforcing quiet hours; firewood availability noted as missing.
HostMixed feedback: Some campers praised hosts, while others criticized their lack of enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
1235 DIVISION ST., DEER RIVER, MN, USA, 56636
Driving directionsTake Highway 46 northwest from Deer River, MN. Turn on Eagle Nest Road (Old CR 33) and travel 4 miles west. You will pass East Seelye and West Seelye Campgrounds. Deer Lake Campground is on the left. North Deer is first, and South Deer is another half-mile down the road.
Access via paved Highway 46 and unpaved Eagle Nest Road; suitable for all vehicles including large rigs.Nearby places
Deer River, MN: Approximately 20 miles and 30 minutes by road.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Deer River, MN, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
22 reviews
Deer Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Deer Lake Campground highlight its serene setting and variety of outdoor activities. Common praises include clean facilities, beautiful natural surroundings, and good fishing opportunities. However, some users point out issues such as lack of on-site firewood sales and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the clean vault toilets, well-maintained campsites, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent fishing conditions. Several reviewers appreciate the sense of...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include poor enforcement of quiet hours by the campground hosts, lack of firewood for sale on-site, and maintenance needs for certain facilities like steps leading to the lake. Some users...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood and water, as firewood is not sold on-site and water access may be limited. For easier access to beaches or trails, users suggest selecting sites near gradual...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the most popular season, with numerous reviews praising warm weather, swimming opportunities, and active wildlife. Heavy vegetation is noted in some reviews as both a pro...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The vault toilets were very clean." "Loons called on the lake at night, unforgettable." "Nice, large sites! Quiet and beautiful setting." "The boat landings were sketchy at best." "The campground...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Campsite 015N, North Loop: Poorly enforced quiet hours; hosts were described as unprofessional. (Rating: 1) - Campsite 009, North Loop: Faulty steps to the lake requiring repairs. (Rating: 3) -...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Access to the lake may be challenging in some areas due to steep or poorly maintained steps. A more gradual path is available near some North Loop sites.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some users caution against bringing pets to the beach, as they are not allowed in beach areas.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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