Divide Lake Campground & Backcountry Sites
The Divide Lake Campground provides a northwoods camping experience in a small (only 3 sites) secluded campground located near many recreational opportunities. A walk-down canoe launch provides access to Divide Lake and its stocked trout population while Divide Lake Trail provides a 2 mile hike with benches and scenic overlooks.
Other nearby lakes, a boat ramp, and a fishing pier give the camper even more chances to enjoy the outdoors. Of particular interest is the fact that FR 172 in this area is on the Laurentian Divide with waters on the Divide Lake side flowing to Lake Superior and those on the Tanner Lake side flowing north to Hudson’s Bay.
Nearby Dumbell Lake has a boat ramp, picnic area, and a barrier free fishing pier.
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
3
RV Camping
Sites are pull-in and not specifically designed for RVs. Most can accommodate a moderately sized vehicle, some may not be suitable for an RV.
Dispersed Camping
Access to the single backcountry site on Divide Lake is from the carry down boat access in the campground.
Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
When visiting, please remember
- Maximum of nine people per site, including backcountry site.
- At the campground, there is space for one vehicle and one towed vehicle (such as a boat trailer).
- 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.
Overnight Use:
Single Site: $18/night.
Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to Single Campsites ONLY.
*The discount applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder, not to any additional fee or campsite(s) occupied by members of the pass holder's party.*
https://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes
Please be prepared to pay with CASH or CHECK.
*Sites may be reservable and reservation fees apply.*
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: 7355 West Hwy 61 Tofte, MN 55615
Phone: (218) 663-8060
Hours: April 28 – September 30, Wednesday - Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, providing full services, open federal holidays when they land on a Wednesday through Sunday. Closed for all other federal holidays. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 47.60995677
Longitude: -91.25635807
Directions
Divide Lake Campground is located east of Isabella on Forest Road 172.
- From MN 61 at Illgen City, turn north on MN 1. Drive approximately 23 miles to Isabella.
- At Isabella, MN 1 takes a sharp left. Instead of following MN 1, turn right onto Forest Road 172.
- Follow FR 172 for 4 1/4 miles to Divide Lake. The campground is on the right.
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
There is a barrier free accessible fishing pier at nearby Dumbell Lake
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Outhouse (vault style) at campground, wilderness latrine at backcountry site
Water
Potable water is available at this site.
Solar powered faucet at campground, no potable water at backcountry site - lakewater must be treated
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
The Divide Lake Trail starts at Divide Lake Campground and circles Divide Lake with several good fishing spots and overlooks along the way.
Fishing - Lake & Pond Info
Divide Lake is stocked with rainbow trout. Trout fishing requires a trout stamp in addition to a valid Minnesota fishing license.
Recreation Groups
Many lakes in the Tofte Ranger District have boat ramps and docks suitable for launching a trailered boat. These lakes are open for use by motorized
The Laurentian Fall Color Tour takes travelers down both larger state and county highways as well as smaller Forest Service roads.