Winnie Dam Campground
4.4582 reviews34385 US HWY 2, GRAND RAPIDS, MN, 55744-9663, USA
Winnie Dam Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Facility rates are $24 per night during peak season (May 1 - October 15). These rates are consistent across standard electric sites. Additional fees such as taxes and reservation service fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of northern Minnesota's pristine lake country, Winnie Dam Campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle lapping of Winnibigoshish Lake meets the whispering pines of Chippewa National Forest. This peaceful retreat features 22 thoughtfully designed sites, each equipped with electric hookups to enhance your outdoor experience. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with nature here, where hot showers await after days of adventure, and families gather at the picnic shelter while children explore the playground. With convenient amenities including flush and pit toilets, fresh drinking water, a dump station, and direct lake access via the boat ramp, this small but well-appointed campground provides the perfect balance of wilderness immersion and camping comfort.
The campground offers a variety of camping experiences, including RV and tent camping. Sites are spacious and include electric hookups, making it suitable for both small and large setups.
Historical SignificanceHere, where ancient waters begin their legendary journey as the mighty Mississippi River, generations of anglers have cast their lines into waters rich with both fish and history. This sacred landscape holds deep cultural significance, where the stories of the Ojibwe people intertwine with the ecological treasures of the northwoods. Today's visitors continue the time-honored traditions of fishing these bountiful waters and exploring by boat, connecting with a heritage that spans centuries.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently in this northern paradise, bringing comfortable temperatures perfect for lazy afternoons by the lake and evening campfires under star-filled skies. While occasional rain showers nourish the verdant forest and create that distinctive fresh pine scent, they rarely dampen the camping spirit. Be prepared to share your summer evenings with Minnesota's unofficial state bird—the mosquito—whose presence during warmer months reminds visitors to pack their favorite repellent alongside their fishing gear.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of mixed hardwoods and majestic red pines creates a natural sanctuary where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, painting shifting patterns on the forest floor below. During berry season, the understory transforms into nature's candy store, where wild blackberries, raspberries, and prized blueberries reward those who venture off their sites. This living landscape serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—from the regal bald eagles soaring overhead to the amusing antics of resident chipmunks, with occasional appearances by lumbering porcupines and the elusive black bear, reminding campers they're guests in a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionSituated in the enchanting lake country of northern Minnesota's Chippewa National Forest, this geological wonderland showcases the ancient handiwork of glaciers that sculpted countless lakes and left behind a diverse tapestry of mixed hardwood forests punctuated by towering red pines. This unique landscape represents the southern edge of the great boreal forest, where northern and temperate species mingle to create one of Minnesota's most biodiverse and visually stunning regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible pit toilets, accessible sites, and accessible flush toilets are available. A paved path leads to certain facilities, ensuring ease of mobility.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and spacious, with ample room for yard games, campers, trucks, and boats.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer good privacy, with spacing that ensures a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. 'Sites are nicely spaced so you have privacy,' one camper remarked.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and quiet, choose sites away from the road. Sites closer to the dam offer better accessibility for fishing and picnicking.
Best CampsitesSites away from the road are recommended for quieter experiences. Site 17 is mentioned as having road noise but overall good spacing.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in allowed after 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The number of guests allowed per site is not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes 22 sites with electric hookups, arranged in a loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1st to October 15th for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability in the authoritative content.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the date of scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Winnie Dam Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. While it is a prime destination for anglers, some campers noted limited hiking opportunities and no designated swimming areas.
Hiking
Hiking options near the campground are limited. One camper remarked, 'If you are looking for hiking, this campground is not for you!'Fishing
The area is known for excellent fishing, particularly for walleye, perch, and musky. One user mentioned, 'This is one of Minnesota's premier fisheries.' However, another review noted that the catch was sparse during their visit.Biking
Biking trails meander around the lake and its shoreline, offering scenic rides through the natural forested areas.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at the 67,000-acre Lake Winnie. The campground provides boat ramps for easy access to the water. Kayaking on the Mississippi River is also highly praised.Wildlife viewing
The forested surroundings are home to diverse wildlife, including nesting bald eagles, black bears, porcupines, and chipmunks. Seasonal berry picking is another highlight.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling is an available winter activity, with trails accessible from the campground.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available, with easy access to the Mississippi River and Lake Winnie.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must use locally purchased firewood to prevent tree pests.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are abundant during summer months. Wildlife such as bears may inhabit the area, requiring caution and proper food storage.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest hospital and emergency services are likely located in Grand Rapids, MN, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 15
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site. Some reviews mention early morning garbage collection, which may be a minor inconvenience.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Winnibigoshish Lake and near the Mississippi River, offering boating and fishing opportunities. The dam and playground area are a short walk from campsites.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention issues with privacy due to site proximity, mosquitoes, and lack of swimming areas. Others highlight the reservation process as cumbersome.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.
Campground Map
34385 US HWY 2, GRAND RAPIDS, MN, 55744-9663, USA
Driving directionsFrom Deer River, Minnesota, take Highway 2 west for one mile. Turn right on Highway 46 and go 12 miles. Turn left on Itasca County 9 and continue 2 miles, then turn left at signs and follow to the campground.
The campground is accessible by paved roads, and there are no seasonal closures or challenging terrain mentioned. The directions are straightforward and include clear landmarks.Nearby places
Deer River (15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Deer River, 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
82 reviews
Winnie Dam Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Winnie Dam Campground are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Common themes include spacious campsites, cleanliness, and a peaceful atmosphere. However, some users expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of swimming areas, poor cell service, and the occasional mosquito issue.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, large and private campsites, friendly hosts, and convenient amenities like the fish cleaning station and electric hookups. One user...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor cell service, no water hookups at individual sites, and limited hiking and swimming opportunities. Mosquitoes were also frequently mentioned as a nuisance during the...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a mosquito fogger during summer. Some suggest choosing sites away from the road for added privacy and less noise. Visitors also recommend stopping by the nearby 'Gosh Dam...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is described as peaceful and clean during all seasons, but mosquitoes are a significant issue in the summer. Fall brings beautiful foliage and quieter times, making it an ideal season...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Showers were clean with plenty of hot water.' - 'The campsites were huge! It was so quiet and clean.' - 'The fish cleaning house had electricity and was very clean.' - 'Our favorite campground....
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 17: Close to the road but otherwise quiet. Site 22: Large with good proximity to facilities. Site 11: Spacious but mosquitoes were an issue. Site 8: Easy to back into with a 25' trailer.
Based on 82 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible paths and restrooms make the campground suitable for people with mobility challenges.
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and there is decent walking space for pets around the campground.
Based on 82 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025