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Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Overview
Sawbill Lake Campground has immediate access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a beautiful, peaceful and wild natural feature of Minnesota's Superior National Forest. The campground acts as a convenient base camp for exploring the nearby wilderness.Superior National Forest, located in northeastern Minnesota's Arrowhead Region, is comprised of 3 million acres. The forest spans 150 miles along the United States-Canada border. Visitors can find recreation opportunities year-round, including travel in the famed Boundary Waters.
Recreation
This facility draws canoe enthusiasts who seek a quiet and convenient area from which to access the surrounding wilderness. Day and overnight use of the Boundary Waters requires a permit.The campground concessionaire, Sawbill Canoe Outfitters, provides a one-stop shop for canoeists of all levels within walking distance of the campground. Canoe rentals, permits and guided canoe trips are available.
Campers who wish to spend time relaxing at the campground can fish for northern pike and bass; hike, bike, picnic and attend educational programs.
View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.
Facilities
Sawbill Lake is comprised of two loops with a total of 51 campsites, 27 of which can be reserved (others are first-come, first-served). Campsites can easily accommodate large motorhomes and RVs. Some of the sites offer a partial lake view through the forest.The campground is equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings with grills, as well as vault toilets, a dump station, drinking water and trash and recycling bins.
Natural Features
Sawbill Lake is nestled in a thick pine forest that gives campsites excellent privacy. Birds and wildlife are abundant, from moose and bear to bald eagles and loons. Wildflowers add bright colors to the landscape in warmer months.The campground sits on a hill above Sawbill Lake. The 765-acre lake is within the Boundary Waters.
Nearby Attractions
Sawbill Canoe Outfitters maintains a store with showers, laundry, fishing licenses, bait and tackle, ice, grocery and convenience items, canoe and camping gear, rentals and a pay telephone.Over 1 million acres in size, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness 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
Camp site features
Across 50 camp sites:
- Picnic table: 48 of 50 sites
- Pets allowed: all 50 sites
- ADA accessible: 5 of 50 sites
- Longest rig: 45 ft
- Largest party: 9 people
Directions
The campground is located north of Tofte, Minnesota. Travel to Tofte via
Highway 61 along Lake Superior's north shore. In Tofte, turn north (away from
Lake Superior) on Sawbill Trail (CCHS 2). Follow Sawbill Trail 24 miles until
it ends at the entrance to the campground.
Stay Limit
Check in from 12 PM, check out by 12 PM.
Reviews
Ratings (220)
5 stars
183
4 stars
28
3 stars
3
2 stars
4
1 stars
2
Bryan S
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:038
Reviewed 2 days ago
Claire and her crew run a great campground and store!
Molly B
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:013
Reviewed 8 days ago
Campground is in excellent condition, pit toilets were clean and well-stocked, nearby outfitter’s store has everything we could possibly need (or want!). Swam, paddled, and fished to our hearts’ content.
Rebecca I
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:047
Reviewed 9 days ago
First time at Sawbill. The area is beautiful!! Such mature trees and awesome campsites. Quiet and peaceful. Thank you NFS for providing such wonderful campgrounds.
MARK M
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:008
Reviewed 11 days ago
Great campsite.
Janet B
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:011
Reviewed 17 days ago
Excellent, private campsites
Angelique F
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:015
Reviewed 22 days ago
It is always glorious to be surrounded by nature, Sawbill provides that. Plenty of places to walk/hike as well as the endless water to canoe on. Outfitters are always helpful, the place is clean, and people are respectful of other campers. We have been coming up twice a year for a while now, it’s my favorite place.
Robert H
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:030
Reviewed 23 days ago
We reserved the site for one night use before setting out on a 6-day trek into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The campground is right on the lake, though out site was not lakeside. The sites are well spaced, so you don't feel crowded. The facilities, latrines, etc., are primitive, but appear to be well maintained. Our experience was just what we needed to start our wilderness adventure.
Blake R
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:044
Reviewed a month ago
Campsite was very clean and maintained. Bathrooms were cleaned everyday. People observed the noise restrictions. It was a wonderful place for a family vacation and we will be returning every year!
Jayson K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:033
Reviewed a month ago
Sawbill is a great place to camp. We enjoy the entry to the BWCA and the Sawbill Outfitter.
Glen S
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed a month ago
Campsite was great, weather was not great but we had good drainage so no worries. We checked out many of the surrounding areas including Brule Lake. It is a drive over, but the scenery is beautiful.
Steve K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:021
Reviewed a month ago
I love Sawbill Outfitters. They can completely outfit my group or just rent me a canoe, The team there is always knowledgeable about water levels, particullar campsite, fishing technique and anything else I've felt like asking.
I have outfitted all around the BWCA and Sawbill is one of the best.
Charles B
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:031
Reviewed a month ago
A nice campground on the edge of the BWCA. Sawbill Outfitters has their buisness right next to the campground and you can purchase / rent what you need for a trip into the BWCA.
BRANDON K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed a month ago
Sawbill Outfitters are always so professional, knowledgeable and have some of the kindest people working for them. No matter how many questions we ask, they always answer with a smile. They also seem genuinely interested on where we are going and how our trip was when we get back. The camping spots are also always very neat and clean. You an tell their staff takes pride in their work. We have used them for the last 3 trips and will continue to in the future.
Cynthia F
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:008
Reviewed 2 months ago
The staff handling store and canoes were great.
The store was the best stocked park camp store I’ve ever seen - incredible selection and quality!
Meghan H
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:002
Reviewed 2 months ago
This was our first time camping at Sawbill and we Loved it! It was the perfect first experience of the Boundary Waters for our two kids. We are hoping to come back again for sure! Everything went great. Can't say enough good things about the staff and the sites - Thank you so much!
Tom K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:026
Reviewed 2 months ago
Great campground and individual site. Love the camp store and all there is to do on land and water at Sawbill.
Misty H
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:027
Reviewed 2 months ago
We stayed overnight before heading into the Boundary Waters. The site was clean, easy to find, and quiet. No cell service, but at the main outfitter area there was WiFi so we were able to communicate with our loved ones before going in. I would definitely stay again.
Seth C
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed 2 months ago
Great campground and the staff at sawbill are friendly and helpful will definitely stay there again!
Cynthia N
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:044
Reviewed 2 months ago
We visited in early May the day after the campground opened and stayed for almost 2 weeks. It was an idyllic experience. There is an equal mix of reservable and first come first serve campsites and this early in the season we mostly had the campground to ourselves weekdays.
This is a peaceful northwoods campground about 45 minutes inland from the coast of Lake Superior on a mix of paved and gravel roads that attracts those seeking quiet and time in nature. Roads in the campground are pretty narrow and might be very difficult for large rigs. Water is available in the campground and pit toilets are kept reasonably clean. There is no cellular reception, electric or water available at campsites but cellular and wifi are available just outside the outfitters store adjacent to the campground. There is no playground for children.
William K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:012
Reviewed 2 months ago
Great camping!
Brian C
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:040
Reviewed 7 months ago
A beautiful place to camp and be on the water. You can make this trip as leisurely or challenging as you like. A great place to bring my teenage boys to paddle, fish, hike and camp.
Steven I
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:035
Reviewed 7 months ago
Courteous staff. Great selection of gear and supplies.
JOHN H
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:043
Reviewed 7 months ago
Great access to the BWCA for day trips!
Alton S
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:005
Reviewed 8 months ago
Love Sawbill campground. One of my favorite forest service campgrounds in the country. Big help to have the store right there in case you forget anything as well. Can’t beat the BWCA.
Aaron F
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:040
Reviewed 9 months ago
Love this campsite. Clean, private, and friendly.
Cory D
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed 10 months ago
This is a really well run location, very clean and perfectly maintained. The only real downside to Sawbill is that this location is close enough to the cities that folks who don’t understand campsite etiquette end up here sometimes. Quiet hours aren’t enforced at all which has been problematic for me several times in the past. Overall, though, this is a very good place to car camp.
Neal S
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:027
Reviewed 10 months ago
A great little spot to camp and access the Boundary Waters.
Lucas S
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed 10 months ago
Super friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Kim U
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:007
Reviewed 10 months ago
We love staying at the Sawbill Campground. It has very clean and well kept campsites. The outfitter store has everything you could possibly need to purchase or rent. My favorite part is the shower house. It is so nice to be able to get the dirt off you in a hot shower every night. We love canoeing and fishing in the boundary waters. We have been back year after year and will continue for many to come.
Kathryn P
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:041
Reviewed a year ago
We enjoyed a very nice private camp site with great tent pads and a picnic table. Great how close it is to Sawbill Outfitters and camp store!
Dianne W
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:042
Reviewed a year ago
Nice, quiet campground with big sites. Nice to have the outfitter store nearby. Took our 4 year old granddaughter canoeing for the first time. Rented a kid-size paddle for her. We’ll be back!
Natalie W
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:028
Reviewed a year ago
Campground was clean, rental process was very easy and the store was very well stocked. Seemed to be nearby lots of inexperienced/inconsiderate campers with RVs - very loud!
Wendy N
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:047
Reviewed a year ago
Gorgeous campsites, well-maintained facilities! My family love coming here every year. The outfitters are helpful. Wonderful place for camping!
Scott R
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed a year ago
We usually travel through the BWCA. First time in the campsite. Did a couple of day trips through Sawbill and adjacent lakes. Excellent!
Paula P
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:030
Reviewed a year ago
One of the best campgrounds in the country! We keep coming back here.
Alan S
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:031
Reviewed a year ago
Great location, clean, and private site.
John C
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:030
Reviewed a year ago
Nice facility, incredible location, canoes were in great shape, great campsite. Enjoyed it so much!
Randy D
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:040
Reviewed a year ago
I had a Great time in the BWCA. It was fun to check out some area's that I hadn't been to in a long time. My overnight stay was wet but that's all part of the experience. Looking forward to going back again next time.
David M
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:038
Reviewed a year ago
A clean, nice campground. Perfect for the night prior to entering the BWCA.
Jeff T
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:013
Reviewed a year ago
It was clean and well maintained.
Jamie K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:035
Reviewed a year ago
Sawbill campground is an excellent place to start a BWCA trip.
Kevin D
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:030
Reviewed a year ago
Great campground and facilities, with a wonderful staff to support your boundary water outfitter needs.
John K
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:033
Reviewed a year ago
Beautiful campground at the edge of the BWCA.
Cailin O
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:035
Reviewed a year ago
Sawbill outfitters has an amazing collaboration with the USFS to make this a special place.
Andrea G
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:018
Reviewed a year ago
Always love our time at Sawbill campground. Beautiful.
Angelique F
Loop:Sawbill Lake Campground - Superior National Forest
Site:013
Reviewed a year ago
Campground always well kept, outfitters always welcoming and pleasant, amenities are just the right mix between roughing it and basic needs. :)
Will continue to return, lots of peace and relaxation to be found.
Popularity
Quiet · 39%
Busiest in August, when about 39% of sites are booked. Based on 9 years of reservations.
Location
Tofte, MN 55615
Phone: 218-663-7150
Email: info@sawbill.com
