Gunflint Lake
01 review2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Gunflint Lake
$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
No fees are required for this site.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Minnesota's wilderness, this campground offers an authentic northwoods experience where pristine waters meet ancient forests. Here, mornings begin with the haunting call of loons echoing across the water, and evenings end with spectacular sunsets painting the sky above towering pines. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or adventure on the water, this gateway to the Boundary Waters provides the perfect basecamp for exploring one of America's last true wilderness areas.
Gunflint Lake offers dispersed, backcountry-style camping with six primitive single-party sites.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds centuries of stories, from the ancient pathways of the Ojibwe people who first navigated these waterways to the voyageurs who paddled these same routes during the fur trade era. The surrounding wilderness has remained largely unchanged, preserving a landscape that connects visitors to both natural and human history. Local traditions of fishing, canoeing, and wilderness exploration continue to thrive, making this area a living testament to the enduring relationship between people and the northwoods.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of four distinct seasons in the northwoods. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and paddling, with temperatures reaching the comfortable 70s and 80s. Fall transforms the forest into a brilliant tapestry of gold and crimson, while crisp air and fewer crowds create ideal hiking conditions. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, opening up opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing under star-filled skies. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers, migrating birds, and the exciting energy of renewal.
ElevationPerched along the gentle shores of the lake, the campground sits at an elevation that provides stunning vistas across the water to distant ridgelines. The varied terrain offers both lakeside sites perfect for launching watercraft and elevated spots that catch cooling breezes and provide panoramic views. This unique positioning creates diverse microclimates throughout the campground, from sun-drenched openings to cool, shaded hollows beneath the forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering white pines and paper birches create a natural cathedral above your campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The crystal-clear waters of the lake stretch to the horizon, dotted with rocky islands and framed by an unbroken wilderness shoreline. Wildlife abounds here – from majestic moose browsing in shallow bays to bald eagles soaring overhead. On calm mornings, the lake becomes a perfect mirror, reflecting the surrounding forest and sky in breathtaking detail.
Geological RegionThe campground is located within the Superior National Forest and adjacent to Gunflint Lake, a 4,009-acre lake straddling the US-Canada border. This region features dense forest and a mix of geological and ecological elements typical of the northern boreal biome.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features or accommodations for individuals with disabilities are described.
Sites SizeNo details on campsite sizes are provided.
Sites PrivacyThe backcountry nature of the sites suggests a level of natural seclusion, but specific privacy details are not available.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
"Nine people per site limit, group sites are available at some sites."
Guests Allowed Per Site
Nine people per site.
Groups
Group sites are not specifically mentioned, but each site accommodates up to nine people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Year-round with Specific Camping Sites Occupying the Summer months and later
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gunflint Lake provides opportunities for fishing, hunting, and various water activities, including both motorized and non-motorized boating. The lake is also a launch point for accessing other areas within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Fishing
Fishing is a key activity, with the lake hosting species such as lake trout, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and walleye. There is abundant fishing potential both in the lake and in the Pine River, which is accessible from the lake.Boating
The lake allows for both motorized and non-motorized boating. A concrete boat launch at the south end of the lake serves as the primary access point. The launch can get busy during summer, as it is used to access nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness entry points.Winter Activities
Limited data on winter activities; ice fishing is a possibility given the lake’s depth and species availability.Water Sports
Motorized and non-motorized boating opportunities are available, but no further specifics on additional water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.6 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
Emergency services are located in Grand Marais, which includes medical, police, and ranger station services. The Gunflint Ranger District office can also assist during its operational hours from April 28 to September 30.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash facilities are available. Campers are required to pack out all garbage and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Campground Map
2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Driving directionsFrom Grand Marais, travel north on Gunflint Trail for 43.7 miles. Turn right onto S. Gunflint Lake Road and travel 0.4 miles. Turn left, travel 49 feet, then veer right and travel 210 feet to the parking area.
Road access involves a combination of the Gunflint Trail and secondary roads, which are likely well-maintained. No specific mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain were noted.Nearby places
Grand Marais, MN - 43.7 miles (approx. 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies can also be found in Grand Marais, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, located approximately 43.7 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Gunflint Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic and remote qualities of the campground, emphasizing its suitability for stargazing and northern lights viewing. However, the lack of amenities and isolated nature may deter some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the pristine and remote nature of the lake, the opportunities for stargazing, and the abundance of outdoor activities like fishing and boating.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users mention the area getting very dark and lonely at night, which could be unsettling for some. Additionally, the absence of potable water and other modern amenities is noted as a drawback.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient lighting, food, and water, as it gets very dark and there are no nearby facilities. Clear skies and good solar activity are essential for viewing the northern...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are reportedly busier due to the popularity of the boat launch. Clear, cloudless nights are recommended for northern lights viewing. Winter may be attractive for ice fishing enthusiasts.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
'We tried to catch northern lights but no luck. Lake access point is a good place for that. You can look straight at horizon. But be prepared with light, food and drinks. It will get really dark and...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews about individual campsites are available, but all six are described as having a fire grate and latrine, with some offering picnic tables.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Advice for pet owners includes keeping dogs on leashes, storing food in bear-proof containers, and ensuring pets have adequate water and shade.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025