Williams Narrows
3.829 reviews1235 DIVISION ST.
Williams Narrows
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
The nightly fee is $16.00 per campsite, applicable for both reservations and first-come-first-served stays.
About this campground
Tucked away along the pristine shores of Cut Foot Sioux Lake, Williams Narrows Campground offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude in Minnesota's northwoods. This hidden gem within the Chippewa National Forest draws anglers eager to cast their lines into productive waters, while boaters explore quiet coves and narrows that give the campground its name. Far from the crowds, visitors find themselves immersed in the rhythms of the forest, where the call of loons echoes across the water at dawn and the gentle lapping of waves provides nature's soundtrack.
Williams Narrows Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, primarily focusing on single-family campsites with basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds deep meaning beyond its natural beauty. The Chippewa National Forest represents a unique partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, whose ancestors have called these woods home for countless generations. This co-management approach honors treaty rights while preserving both the ecological integrity and cultural heritage of the region. Visitors camping here are guests on land that continues to sustain traditional practices and spiritual connections that stretch back through the centuries.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Williams Narrows in dramatically different colors. Summer brings warm, comfortable days perfect for swimming and exploring, though wise campers come prepared with bug spray to ward off the mosquitoes that thrive in the lush wetlands. Fall transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, while crisp air makes for ideal hiking conditions. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for those hardy enough to brave the bone-chilling temperatures that can plunge well below freezing.
ElevationSet within the gently rolling landscape of northern Minnesota's vast forest region, Williams Narrows rests at a modest elevation typical of the state's northern lake country. The terrain here is shaped by ancient glaciers that carved out countless lakes and left behind the rich, forested hills that characterize this enchanting corner of the northwoods.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of birch, oak, and towering pines surrounds Williams Narrows, creating a natural amphitheater where wildlife takes center stage. Morning mists rise from Cut Foot Sioux Lake, revealing the silhouettes of fishing osprey and the majestic flight of bald eagles patrolling their territory. The haunting calls of loons pierce the evening air, while the forest floor comes alive with the rustling of small creatures and the occasional glimpse of white-tailed deer. Each sunset paints the lake in shades of copper and gold, reflecting off waters that have remained largely unchanged for millennia.
Geological RegionWilliams Narrows sits at the heart of the Chippewa National Forest, where the convergence of different forest types creates a remarkably diverse ecosystem. The campground's location along Cut Foot Sioux Lake places it within a landscape sculpted by glacial forces, where stands of paper birch mingle with sturdy oaks and fragrant pines. This transitional forest zone, where northern conifers meet deciduous hardwoods, creates unique habitat niches that support an exceptional variety of plant and animal life throughout the year.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific mention of ADA or accessibility features was found in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites were described as spacious, with one user noting, "big campsites," and another mentioning a site "big with a view of the lake."
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a good level of privacy. One reviewer described the campsite as having "lots of privacy," and another emphasized the "very nice privacy of campsites."
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 15 is ideal for RVs and boats. Site 14 offers stunning sunsets and a quieter atmosphere. Site 12 is noted for its water access.
Best CampsitesSites 14 and 15 are praised for scenic lake views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not mentioned, but standard practices indicate noon or 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is not mentioned, but standard practices indicate 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Reservations must adhere to the campground's stay limit policies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Fee includes one camping unit per site. Double occupancy is not permitted.
Groups
No group camping sites were explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops with several single-unit campsites. The layout provides privacy and lake access in select areas.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground opens May 9, 2025, and closes September 1, 2025, for reservations; September 2-15 operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, through their app, or by contacting the center at 218-246-2123.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come-first-served basis from September 2-15, 2025, after the reservation season ends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made at least 4 days ahead of arrival and follow Scan and Pay payment rules. Cancellations incur fees: $10 for late cancellations and forfeit of the first night's fees if canceled less than 24 hours before arrival.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Williams Narrows Campground offers a broad range of recreational activities. The lake allows for fishing, boating, and swimming, with a dedicated boat ramp and swimming beach available on-site. The area also features several hiking trails, including the Simpson Creek Trail and Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Area Trail, which are accessible by boat. Additional activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, birding, and water sports. Wildlife viewing is particularly notable, with frequent sightings of loons, ospreys, and bald eagles. The nearby Lake Winnibigoshish also provides excellent opportunities for fishing and water skiing.
Hiking
Miles of trails are accessible from the campground, including the Simpson Creek Trail and Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Area Trail. These trails offer options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Williams Narrows. Cut Foot Sioux Lake and neighboring Lake Winnibigoshish are known for excellent trophy muskie, walleye, and perch fishing opportunities, making it a destination for anglers.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is located between the campground's two loops, providing a convenient option for campers looking to enjoy the water.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on the trails in the area, which also cater to hikers and horseback riders.Boating
Boating is a key activity at the campground, with a boat ramp conveniently located between the two loops. Visitors can also boat across the narrows to access additional trails.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including loons, ospreys, and bald eagles. Birding is a popular activity due to the variety of species that frequent the lake and forest.Beach activities
The campground includes a swimming beach, which is ideal for families and recreational swimmers.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Water activities like paddling, canoeing, and kayaking are popular, leveraging the lake's extensive water access.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires cannot be left unattended and must be fully extinguished before leaving the site. Gathering dead and downed wood is permitted.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM - 6 AM, during which generators cannot be operated.
Hazards
General hazardsNorthern Minnesota is home to black bears. Campers must secure food and coolers to prevent bear activity.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories are provided.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency services are located in Grand Rapids, MN, approximately 35 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - September 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, though specific details on recycling were not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Cut Foot Sioux Lake, with easy access to Lake Winnibigoshish nearby.
Common complaintsComplaints include inconvenience due to unavailable firewood and dissatisfaction with site maintenance, ranging from restroom cleanliness to the upkeep of facilities.
HostThe campground host is on-site from May 1 through Labor Day, providing firewood and assistance.
Campground Map
1235 DIVISION ST.
Driving directionsFrom Deer River, take Highway 46 north 15 miles. Turn west on Bowen/Williams Narrows Road (County Road 148) and travel two miles to the campground.
The route is paved and well-maintained; no seasonal closures are mentioned. The campground is accessible year-round but may have additional challenges during winter.Nearby places
Deer River: 17 miles (approximately 20-minute drive)
Grand Rapids: 35 miles (approximately 45-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Deer River, MN, approximately 17 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
3.8
9 reviews
Williams Narrows has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Williams Narrows Campground are generally positive, highlighting its natural beauty, spacious sites, and peaceful atmosphere. However, some concerns were raised about maintenance and the absence of certain amenities like firewood.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the spacious campsites, scenic lake views, and clean facilities. A reviewer stated, "Beautiful area, pines, birches, lake, very nice privacy of campsites." Another wrote, "Campground...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints were related to maintenance issues, such as lack of attention to site upkeep and the absence of firewood for purchase. One review noted, "The main issue is the lack of...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own firewood, as it may not always be available on-site, and using the boat launch for lake access. Headsets to deter mosquitoes were also suggested during summer...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews emphasize the campground's serenity and beauty during summer months, although bugs can be an issue. Windy conditions in early summer help keep bugs away.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The sunsets were beautiful from that vantage point. It's a small, quiet campground." (Joyce L.) 2. "Beautiful area, pines, birches, lake, very nice privacy of campsites." (Karen U.) 3....
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 offers a beautiful vantage point for sunsets. Site 15 is described as spacious and ideal for accommodating larger setups, offering scenic views and proximity to the lake. Site 8 was noted for...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews explicitly focused on accessibility features.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, and no major issues were highlighted by pet owners in the reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025