Iron Lake

USDA Forest Service campground, 7 sites

Overview

Iron Lake Campground is located in a dense forest along the banks of Iron Lake in far northern Minnesota. The campground is unique due to its remoteness and small size. Fishing and canoeing are its biggest draws, as the lake provides access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.



The Ham Lake Fire passed through the campground in 2007. Visitors may be surprised at how the burned area has grown back up. 

Recreation

Iron Lake provides many boating opportunities. The campground offers plenty of canoeing and fishing opportunities. Walleye and northern pike fishing are usually good. Canoes, kayaks and small boats must be carried down to access the lake.

When portaging or paddling out of this lake and into another, visitors should find out if they will be entering the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Entry requires a permit (self-issued for day use) and visitors must follow wilderness regulations including group size.

**View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.

View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.

Facilities

This campground is small and simple. Sites are organized into one loop near the water. There are no electric hookups. Campsite #1 is a first-come, first-served site. Effective January 24, 2025, Campsite #6 has been added to the list of reservable campsites. It is now currently available for reservation during the same reservation season as the other reservable sites.



Vault toilets, drinking water, and a garbage canister are provided. Conveniences are available at area lodges and resorts. A campground host from the concessionaire visits here every other day, and the facility is routinely patrolled by the County Sheriff and the concessionaire.

Natural Features

Iron Lake is in a burn area, and visitors can see post-fire ecology including uncommon black-backed woodpeckers. Moose, bear, loons and other wildlife live in the area. Blueberries grow abundantly in the area and can be picked in mid to late summer.

Nearby Attractions

The BWCAW is by far the most popular nearby attraction. Over 1 million acres in size, the Boundary Waters extend nearly 150 miles along the United States-Canada border and contains over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails and over 2,000 designated campsites.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Additional sites of interest

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (218) 387-1750.