Pfeiffer Lake
4.1317 reviewsLAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT, PFEIFEER LAKE CAMPGROUND, 318 FORESTRY ROAD
Pfeiffer Lake
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric sites during the peak season (May 9 - September 30) are $18.00 per night. Additional fee for second vehicle (non-towed) is $6.00...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
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$18.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderAbout this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Pfeiffer Lake Campground, where the gentle lapping of water against the shore and the call of loons create nature's perfect soundtrack. This hidden gem offers an authentic rustic camping experience that draws visitors seeking respite from the modern world. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling through mirror-like waters, or hiking beneath towering pines, this peaceful retreat invites you to slow down and reconnect with the wilderness. The campground's intimate size ensures a sense of solitude while providing easy access to swimming, fishing, kayaking, and forest trails that wind through the surrounding woodlands.
Pfeiffer Lake Campground provides traditional camping options catering to tent campers and RV users. The sites are designed for a rustic, natural experience and include both reservable and first-come, first-served options.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this northern sanctuary into a crystalline wonderland, where temperatures plunge into truly frigid territory and an average of 1.19 inches of weekly snowfall dusts the landscape in pristine white. The dry, crisp air carries the scent of pine and creates perfect conditions for those who embrace the stark beauty of Minnesota's coldest months. Bundle up and discover a different side of Pfeiffer Lake, where frozen shores and snow-laden branches create an enchanting winter camping experience.
ElevationElevation specifics are not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living tapestry of mixed hardwoods and towering pines, where young cedar and pine plantations promise future forests for generations to come. The crown jewel of this natural paradise is the 57-acre Pfeiffer Lake, whose irregular shoreline creates countless hidden coves and intimate bays perfect for exploration. Paddle silently through these secret waterways and you might witness the majestic sight of nesting loons or catch glimpses of the diverse wildlife that calls this pristine habitat home. The interplay of forest and water creates ever-changing vistas that captivate photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Superior National Forest in Minnesota's iconic Arrowhead region, Pfeiffer Lake Campground sits at the heart of one of America's most treasured wilderness areas. This northeastern corner of Minnesota showcases the dramatic meeting of ancient boreal forests and pristine waters, where mixed hardwoods blend seamlessly with pine forests to create a diverse ecosystem. The 57-acre lake, with its distinctive irregular shoreline carved by glacial forces, provides critical nesting habitat for loons and supports a rich tapestry of bird and wildlife species that thrive in this protected landscape.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features for people with disabilities is available.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as being spacious enough to accommodate both tents and campers, with ample lawn space for tent setups. RVs are also accommodated on certain sites.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer a fair level of privacy according to users, with some mentioning that they are more private than most campgrounds.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 012 faced complaints due to fallen trees and reservation errors, while Site 002 was praised for its relaxing environment.
Best CampsitesSites 002 and 005 received high ratings for their cleanliness, privacy, and scenic surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Campground will be closed December 1 through May 1, drinking water and garbage services unavailable during winter.
Groups
No specific group sites are mentioned or detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 16 sites, some designed for RVs and others for tents. Sites are described as fairly private and spacious.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 9 - September 30, with reservable sites available from June 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability8 first-come, first-served sites are available. Reservation sign errors have been reported in user reviews (e.g., site being occupied despite reservation).
Cancellation PolicyThis is a Scan and Pay campground. Reservations are non-refundable and non-modifiable. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's fees and a $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pfeiffer Lake Campground provides a variety of recreational activities suitable for families and nature enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing, with species such as panfish, bass, perch, and walleye being commonly caught. The fishing pier and boat ramp make fishing accessible to both shore anglers and boaters. The 3-mile hiking trail around the lake provides an opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty, while the grassy swimming beach is a favorite for families. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular on this small, serene lake.
Hiking
The campground features a 3-mile hiking trail around Pfeiffer Lake. The trail offers opportunities for exploring the lake’s irregular shoreline and observing the surrounding wildlife. No specific information on trail difficulty or elevation is provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Pfeiffer Lake. Anglers often catch panfish, bass, perch, and walleye from the fishing dock or by boat. Fishing conditions are enhanced by the presence of a boat ramp.Swimming
The swimming area is adjacent to a grassy beach, offering a family-friendly spot for relaxation and water activities.Boating
Boating is supported with a boat ramp available for launching canoes and kayaks. The lake is described as small and best suited for smaller boats.Wildlife viewing
The area is a nesting ground for loons and provides habitat for other birds and wildlife. Visitors have mentioned enjoying the sounds of loons in the evenings.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around a grassy swimming beach that provides space for sunbathing and family gatherings.Winter Activities
No information about winter-specific activities is available.Water Sports
The lake is suitable for non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing, although these activities are not as common due to the lake's small size.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted but must use locally sourced firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species. Campers are advised to burn wood on-site.
- Quiet hours are enforced at night, though one reviewer noted noisy neighbors during their stay.
Hazards
General hazardsTree hazards were encountered by reviewers—'28 foot by 12 inch round tree was on our tent pad site.'
Weather forecast
33
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services information is not explicitly listed. Presumably, Aurora, MN, being the nearest city, would host emergency facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available during the peak season, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. During the off-season, garbage services are not available.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Pfeiffer Lake, which offers a beach, fishing pier, and boat ramp.
Common complaintsReviewers reported issues with reservation errors and fallen tree hazards. Site reservation signage has led to complaints about occupied sites.
HostA campground host is mentioned in official sources, though one user review noted no host being present during their visit.
Campground Map
LAURENTIAN RANGER DISTRICT, PFEIFEER LAKE CAMPGROUND, 318 FORESTRY ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Virginia, Minnesota, take Highway 53 north for 21 miles to County Road 22. Turn onto County Road 22 and travel east for 10 miles. Turn south on Forest Road 256 and travel 1.2 miles to Pfeiffer Lake Campground.
The roads to the campground are accessible via paved highways and county roads. Forest Road 256 is presumably unpaved for the last stretch; however, no explicit mention of road conditions is present.Nearby places
Virginia, MN (approximately 21 miles, 25-30 minutes)
Aurora, MN (approximately 10 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest location for supplies is not explicitly stated
likely available in Aurora, MN, which is approximately 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
17 reviews
Pfeiffer Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the campground's peaceful and quiet atmosphere, suitability for families, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation. However, some users reported issues with site reservations and maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciated the clean and well-maintained facilities, the scenic lake setting, and the privacy of campsites. The sound of loons, the availability of a swimming beach, and the fishing...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include reservation mishaps, such as the absence of reserved-site tags, and maintenance issues like trees obstructing tent pads. Some users noted noisy neighbors during quiet hours and...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend using smaller boats for better navigation of the lake and suggest confirming reservations to avoid issues. It is also advised to bring extra trash bags during off-season stays as...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most reviewed season, with positive mentions of swimming, fishing, and tranquil surroundings. Off-season reviews are scarce, and the lack of amenities like drinking water and trash...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This place is peaceful. Sweet little lake with hiking trails all around." - Elan Mumme. "The vault toilets were nice and clean. The beach was nice." - Eric P. "Beautiful small lake with easy access...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 002 is highlighted for its spacious layout and proximity to the lake. Site 012 received negative reviews due to maintenance issues involving a fallen tree and improper reservation handling. Site...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no significant issues related to pet policies or pet-owner experiences were mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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