Pine Lake
01 review2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Pine 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 mentioned for camping, as this is a dispersed camping site.
About this campground
Escape to Pine Lake, where a single, secluded campsite awaits on the southeastern shore of this pristine wilderness gem. This backcountry sanctuary demands your commitment—accessible only by paddle or trail, it rewards adventurous souls with an authentic near-wilderness experience far from the crowds and comforts of modern camping.
Pine Lake is a dispersed camping area with a near-wilderness experience. Campsites are accessible only by boat or foot and are first-come, first-served.
Weather and SeasonsPine Lake transforms with the seasons, each offering its own dramatic character. Winter wraps the landscape in a crystalline blanket of snow and ice, with temperatures plunging well below freezing. As spring awakens the forest, expect a temperamental mix of late snowfalls and early rains while nature transitions. Summer brings the sweet spot—balmy days in the 70s perfect for swimming and exploring, with cool nights in the 50s ideal for campfire conversations, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally rumble across the lake. Fall paints the boreal forest in brilliant golds before winter's return, with crisp air and possible early snow flurries.
ElevationNestled within the classic boreal forest ecosystem, Pine Lake sits at an elevation typical of this northern wilderness region, where ancient granite bedrock meets dense stands of pine, spruce, and birch that stretch to the water's edge.
Natural Features and SceneryThis 98-acre liquid jewel sparkles amid the endless green of the boreal forest, its three miles of undeveloped shoreline creating intimate coves and rocky points perfect for exploration. Plunging to depths of 34 feet, the lake's clear waters hold secrets beneath its mirror-like surface. As part of the renowned Twin Lakes Canoe Route, Pine Lake serves as a tranquil waypoint for paddlers seeking solitude, where morning mists rise from the water and loons call across the stillness.
Geological RegionSet within the vast Superior National Forest, Pine Lake exemplifies this legendary landscape where ancient geological forces carved a maze of pristine lakes through rugged boreal terrain. Here, weathered granite outcroppings tell stories millions of years old, while dense forests of pine, spruce, and birch create a living tapestry that has captivated wilderness enthusiasts for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are not mentioned for Pine Lake. Campground access is by boat or foot, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious but with varying levels of vegetation and privacy between them.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate varying levels of privacy, with some sites lacking vegetation between them, providing less seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring potable water or a filtration system as no drinking water is available. Prepare for remote and rugged conditions, and utilize the fire grate and latrine provided.
Best CampsitesThe single campsite on the southeast side of Pine Lake is the only option available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Nine people per site limit as per regulations.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Nine people per site limit.
Groups
Group sites are mentioned as being available at some locations, but details are not provided for Pine Lake.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe single campsite is located on the southeast side of Pine Lake, accessible by foot or boat.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but accessibility may be affected by seasonal conditions.
Reservation PlatformsFirst-come, first-served; no reservations accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served as this is a dispersed camping area.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are available, and therefore no cancellation policy applies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Lake offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and both motorized and non-motorized boating. The lake is part of the Twin Lakes Canoe Route, offering unique opportunities for paddling and portaging.
Hiking
Hiking is available, with access to trails leading to and from Pine Lake. Portages to nearby lakes are also part of the experience.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity, with a variety of fish species available, including bluegill, brook trout, lake trout, and smallmouth bass.Swimming
Swimming is possible, though the lake bottom near the beach is described as weedy and shallow. Campers may need to swim far from shore to reach deeper water.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are supported. The lake is part of a canoe route, and multiple portages are available to nearby lakes.Winter Activities
Fishing on the lake is supported during the winter, possibly for ice fishing.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are accessible as part of the Twin Lakes Canoe Route.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to designated fire grates.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include interactions with wildlife, such as bears, and the challenges of navigating remote terrain. Campers are advised to hang food packs and store items securely.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.4 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
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
Gunflint Ranger District Office at 2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604, phone: (218) 387-1750. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm (closed weekends and federal holidays).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not provided. Campers must pack out all garbage.
Proximity to water featuresThe campsite is directly adjacent to Pine Lake, offering water access for boating and fishing.
Common complaintsSome user reviews note limited vegetation and privacy between sites and issues with weedy, shallow lake areas for swimming. Other concerns include the lack of potable water and restrooms.
Campground Map
2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Driving directionsFrom MN 61, take the Gunflint Trail north for 3 miles. Turn left on County 8 and travel along the north edge of Devil Track Lake to County 27. Follow 27 an additional 4 miles to FR 1365. The canoe access is 1.5 miles up this minimal maintenance road.
Road access involves traveling on the Gunflint Trail and County Road 27, with the final stretch requiring a 1.5-mile drive on a minimal maintenance road. Seasonal conditions may affect road conditions.Nearby places
Grand Marais (approximately 3 miles from MN 61 to the Gunflint Trail turn-off)
Nearby supplies
Supplies for camping, groceries, and fuel are likely available in Grand Marais.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Pine Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the spaciousness of campsites and the well-maintained common areas. Some criticism is directed at the lack of privacy between sites and the condition of the swimming area.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Vault toilets are clean, common areas are mowed, and the on-site hosts are friendly and visible. First-come, first-served availability ensures flexibility for campers.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lake bottom near the beach is overgrown with vegetation, making swimming less appealing. Some sites lack vegetation, reducing privacy.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Consider bringing water and all necessary camping supplies, as amenities are minimal. Campers should also prepare to set up in areas with varying levels of shade and vegetation.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months bring more activity to the lake, but campsites generally do not reach full capacity. Stormy and cold weekends can result in lower occupancy.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Vault toilets were clean, common areas were mowed and well maintained - aside from the swimming area." "Hosts say the campground rarely fills to capacity. Everything here is first-come,...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned, but users highlight that some sites are sunnier with less privacy while others are deeply shaded.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but campers must follow strict leash and waste disposal rules. Dogs are permitted on hiking trails but must be leashed at all times.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025