Lake Vermilion
4.4511 reviews320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723
Lake Vermilion
$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
Fee structure details are not specified.
About this campground
Escape into the pristine wilderness of Lake Vermilion, where six secluded backcountry campsites await adventurous souls seeking solitude beneath towering pines. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this sprawling aquatic paradise stretches across 40,000 acres of crystal-clear waters, dotted with an astounding 365 islands—one for each day of the year. Here, the rhythmic lapping of waves against ancient granite shores becomes your evening soundtrack, while the call of loons echoes across the water at dawn.
The campground offers dispersed backcountry camping with six designated campsites. These sites are maintained by the U.S. Forest Service and are designed for minimal-impact camping.
Historical SignificanceFor generations, Lake Vermilion has stood as a legendary fishing destination, drawing anglers from across the continent in pursuit of trophy walleye and the elusive muskie—the 'fish of 10,000 casts.' This storied waterway has witnessed countless tales of the one that got away and triumphant catches that become family lore. Today's visitors continue this time-honored tradition, though modern conservation efforts and thoughtful management practices help preserve the delicate balance between recreational fishing and protecting these prized species for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsLake Vermilion transforms with each passing season, offering campers a different adventure throughout the year. Late spring emerges as a sweet spot for outdoor enthusiasts, when wildflowers carpet the forest floor and temperatures hover in that perfect camping zone. Summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and lazy afternoons on the water, with long twilight hours stretching well into the evening. While autumn paints the shoreline in brilliant golds and crimsons, winter wraps the landscape in a crystalline blanket of snow and ice, creating a stark but beautiful wilderness that challenges even seasoned adventurers.
ElevationNestled within Minnesota's northern wilderness, Lake Vermilion sits at a comfortable elevation that provides the perfect balance of accessibility and authentic backcountry experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine paddling through a labyrinth of 365 islands, each one a miniature wilderness waiting to be explored. Lake Vermilion's rugged shoreline—the longest of any Minnesota lake—weaves through ancient forests where black bears forage for berries and timber wolves move like shadows through the underbrush. Eagles soar overhead while beavers engineer their aquatic neighborhoods along quiet bays. The interplay of water and forest creates an ever-changing canvas: morning mists that veil distant islands, afternoon sun sparkling off pristine waters, and evening alpenglow painting the sky in shades of rose and amber.
Geological RegionSet like a sapphire within Superior National Forest, Lake Vermilion represents the crown jewel of Minnesota's Northwoods. This remarkable body of water claims the title for the most shoreline of any lake in the state—a meandering edge that creates countless hidden coves, rocky points, and sandy beaches. The lake's 40,000 acres and 365 islands form a aquatic maze that has captivated paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers for centuries. World-class walleye and muskie fishing has put this geological wonder on the map, making it a bucket-list destination for serious anglers and casual visitors alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not specify any accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe size of individual sites is not specified, but they are described as backcountry dispersed sites.
Sites PrivacySites are backcountry and dispersed, suggesting a high level of privacy.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and vistas, select campsites on islands or less-frequented areas.
Best CampsitesThe six backcountry campsites are dispersed and feature fire rings, tent pads, and latrines.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No official check-in time provided.
Check-out
No official check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
Group size is limited to 9 people or fewer.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups of 9 or fewer are permitted.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned in the authoritative content.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe six campsites are dispersed across Lake Vermilion.
Open and Closed SeasonPermits are required year-round for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are facilitated through U.S. Forest Service permits.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up or first-come-first-served availability details are defined.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Vermilion offers a variety of water-based activities, as well as fishing and picnicking. The lake, known for its expansive size and numerous islands, is popular for both motorized and non-motorized boating.
Fishing
Lake Vermilion is known for walleye and muskie fishing, although reviews suggest that fishing quality has declined over the years. One reviewer mentioned, 'The walleye fishing is poor, best chance is off the dock in the evening. The muskie fishing is even worse.'Swimming
While specific swimming areas are not mentioned, user reviews describe the water as 'clean' and 'refreshing,' suggesting swimming is possible.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are available. The lake's size and numerous islands make it ideal for exploring by boat.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or reviews.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, are likely available given the lake's size and description of recreational opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be completely extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, overfished waters, and seasonal frigid conditions.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 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
LaCroix Ranger District is the nearest emergency service center located at 320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723. It operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm from April 28 – September 30.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly defined.
Trash and recyclingGarbage must be packed out by campers. Trash and recycling facilities are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campsites are located within Lake Vermilion, making them ideally suited for water activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently cite poor walleye and muskie fishing due to overfishing and stocking practices.
HostCampsites are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. No individual host details provided.
Campground Map
320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723
Driving directionsThe campground is accessible via Highway 53 to Cook, MN. Overnight parking is available at Moccasin Point and Black Duck Bay, which are MN DNR parking lots.
Road access quality is not specified beyond the availability of MN DNR parking lots for overnight parking. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain were not mentioned.Nearby supplies
Overnight parking is available adjacent to Moccasin Point and Black Duck Bay for access to supplies, but exact supply locations were not specified.
Camper Reviews
4.5
11 reviews
Lake Vermilion is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful nature of Lake Vermilion, with mixed feedback on fishing quality. Some users cherish the location for its 'wonderful sunsets' and 'relaxing lake life,' while others criticize the overfishing and decline in walleye and muskie populations.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the lake's natural beauty, clean water, and opportunities for relaxation. One review states, 'Such a peaceful lake, with so many resorts and campgrounds...to enjoy the nature around the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Fishing quality is a recurring complaint, with one user stating, 'The lake covers a lot of area but is overfished.' Another noted that muskie fishing is 'even worse' than walleye fishing.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to prepare for minimal facilities and to pack out all garbage. Boiling or filtering water is necessary as potable water is not available on-site. One user suggests exploring...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer is a popular time for visits, as many users refer to annual summer vacations. However, the lake also offers year-round appeal, with one user mentioning visits during 'all...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The sunsets out the big windows of our cabin are a masterpiece every night.' 2. 'Very quiet and peaceful campground. We will be back for sure.' 3. 'Located in northern Minnesota on the Canadian...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are not mentioned in the user feedback.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is not addressed in the user reviews.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campsites, but reviews specifically mentioning pet-related experiences are not available.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025