Echo Lake Campground & Backcountry Sites
Echo Lake is located on the west end of the Echo Trail, a remote country road that traverses through the heart of the Western Superior National Forest. This quiet campground, where the sounds of birds and the wind are often heard, is a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of the area's resort scene. A variety of campsites, activities and amenities offer a comfortable stay for RV, trailer and tent campers. Superior National Forest, located in northeastern Minnesota's arrowhead region, is comprised of three million acres. The forest spans 150 miles along the United States-Canada border. Visitors can find recreation opportunities year-round, including travel in the famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
The campground provides 22 sites, with 13 reservable sites (1 group site and 12 standard sites) and 9 first come-first served. The sites are non- electric and amenities include vault toilets, solar powered water, tables, garbage service, campfire rings.
A group campsite is available for groups of up to 21 people. Three free First Come First Serve dispersed campsites that can be accessed only by boat are located around the lake as well.
Heavy vegetation may limit the lake view from some sites; however, there are numerous trails leading to the water. Young trees and lush ground plants provide privacy between sites.
A boat ramp and sandy beach are provided for access to water activities and swimming.
This campground is on the south shore of the 1,222-acre Echo Lake and is surrounded by a mix of aspen, balsam, spruce, maple and pine trees, which provide ample shade.
Echo Lake is a popular fishing spot for walleye, northern pike, panfish, black crappie, white sucker and yellow perch also living in the lake. The surrounding national forest offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking in secluded woodlands and canoeing in pristine lakes and rivers. View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.
Photo Gallery of the Echo Lake Campground Area
Reservations
Some sites are reservable through Reservation.gov's Echo Lake Campground page.
General Information
Campground Camping
- Please use facilities provided such as fire rings, tent pads, and latrines.
- Dispose of waste in containers provided.
- Water faucets are for drinking water only, do not use as wash areas.
- Noise limits enforced, respect your fellow campers.
No. of Sites
24 campsites
RV Camping
Sites are pull-in and not specifically designed for RVs. Most can accommodate a moderately sized vehicle.
Group Camping
No. of Sites
1 group site
Maximum of 24 people and 6 vehicles.
Dispersed Camping
There are 3 dispersed sites located on Echo Lake. Sites are accessible by boat only. Use the boat ramp in the campground.
Please use facilities provided such as fire rings and latrines.
May 9 - September 2
Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
When visiting, please remember
- Maximum of 9 people per site.
- There is space for 2 vehicles (a towed camper counts as 1 vehicle).
- Additional vehicles on the site require additional half fee and must park on the spur.
- No vehicles may park on the grass or where they impede traffic.
- ATVs not allowed.
Overnight Use:
Single Site: $18 per night
Group Site: $30 per night
- Single Site: $18/night
- Group Site: $30/night
Dogs are allowed at campsites and developed recreation areas; however, they should not be allowed to run loose in recreation areas where they will disturb other forest visitors. Be mindful of the impact a barking dog can have on other forest visitors.
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or tent.
- Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
- Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
- Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
- Do not leave your dog in the vehicle on a hot day.
- Keep your dog in your tent or vehicle at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Address: 320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723
Phone: (218) 666-0020
Hours: April 28 – September 30, Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed weekends, providing full services. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 48.1694732
Longitude: -92.49112541
Directions
Echo Lake Campground is on the Echo Trail, 22 miles northeast of Orr, MN.
- From Orr, take St. Louis County 23 to Buyck (16 miles).
- At Buyck, County 23 turns into County 24.
- Continue on County 24 for 4 miles to the Echo Trail (County Road 116).
- Turn right, 0.8 miles to campground entrance road on left.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Outhouse (Vault style)
Water
Potable water is available at this site.
Solar Powered Well
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.