Dumbell Lake Backcountry Campsites
3.827 reviewsDumbell Lake Backcountry Campsites
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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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Recreation.gov
ProviderAbout this campground
<p>Escape to the pristine wilderness of Dumbell Lake, where two secluded backcountry campsites await adventurous souls seeking an authentic outdoor experience. These thoughtfully designed sites mirror the beloved camping traditions of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, complete with sturdy fire grates for evening campfires and eco-friendly wilderness latrines. As you settle into your lakeside retreat, you'll discover why generations of outdoor enthusiasts have cherished this special place. Each campsite invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's rhythms. Remember, this treasured landscape thrives because visitors embrace Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in, minimize your impact, and preserve this wilderness sanctuary for future adventurers to discover and enjoy.</p>
Dumbell Lake Backcountry Campsites are designed for primitive camping enthusiasts seeking minimal amenities and a wilderness experience. The sites are non-reservable and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMinimal accessibility features are present. The rugged terrain and lack of developed facilities make it challenging for people with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSpecific descriptions of site sizes are unavailable, but the emphasis is on backcountry-style small tent sites.
Sites PrivacySites are likely to be surrounded by natural foliage, providing moderate privacy due to the wilderness setting.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Best CampsitesCampsite #1 is highlighted in user reviews as the best site due to proximity to water: 'Try to snag campsite #1 right by the water.'
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned for Dumbell Lake Backcountry Campsites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Dumbell Lake Backcountry Campsites offer a serene environment ideal for fishing, hiking, and canoeing, closely associated with its proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Wildlife viewing may also be available due to the remote nature of the area.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, but specific trails are not described. The surrounding wilderness likely offers exploratory hiking options.Fishing
Fishing is among the popular activities in the surrounding waters of Dumbell Lake, providing opportunities for trout fishing. 'Hogback Lake' was noted as another excellent area for fishing nearby.Boating
Canoeing and boating are possible on Dumbell Lake. The proximity to Boundary Waters suggests opportunities for paddle sports.Wildlife viewing
The wilderness setting of Dumbell Lake provides chances for observing birds and other wildlife. Specific species are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
47
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.4 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
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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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available onsite. Visitors are expected to adhere to 'Leave No Trace' principles and pack out all waste.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention mosquitos being unbearable at night and early morning in summer, especially on trails. A user stated: 'The bathrooms had a serious fly problem, and the park service didn't seem to clean them or replace fly paper.'
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
3.8
7 reviews
Dumbell Lake Backcountry Campsites has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews suggest the Dumbell Lake area offers a beautiful camping experience with good fishing opportunities. However, reviews also mention challenges such as proximity of campsites reducing privacy, bugs during summer, and lack of maintenance for shared facilities like trash bins and latrines.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic lake views and tranquility of the backcountry setting. Specific mentions include campsite #1 being particularly favored due to its location near the water.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include excessive bugs during summer, limited privacy between campsites, and neglected maintenance of shared facilities like trash bins and restrooms.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend packing warm clothing due to chilly nights even in July, carrying mosquito repellants for summer stays, and considering other nearby lakes like Hogback Lake for fishing if campsites...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight heavy mosquito presence and overgrown trails, while fall visits are expected to be more comfortable due to cooler weather and fewer bugs. Night temperatures can be chilly,...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Try to snag campsite #1 right by the water." - Brittni Dye
"The campsites are beautiful. Mosquitoes are unbearable at night and in the morning." - Mckenzie Tollefson
"Lake is nice, but bathrooms had...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #1 is repeatedly mentioned as the best site due to its proximity to water. Other sites are considered less private, with some users describing shared facilities as poorly maintained.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no explicit reviews from individuals with disabilities, but the ruggedness of the terrain likely makes accessibility challenging.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit mentions of pet policies or experiences are present in the user reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025