Camp Ruby Lake

Howdy, Minnesota adventurers and nature enthusiasts! If you're looking for an immersive escape into the pristine beauty of Northern Minnesota, a place where towering pines meet crystal-clear waters and the call of the wild is your daily soundtrack, then Camp Ruby Lake in Marcell, Minnesota, offers a unique opportunity. Unlike typical public campgrounds or private RV parks, Camp Ruby Lake serves a specific, yet incredibly valuable, niche: providing an organized group camping experience within the breathtaking Chippewa National Forest. We understand that for many Minnesotans, spending time outdoors, whether for youth groups, family reunions, or educational retreats, is a cherished tradition.

The Chippewa National Forest is a jewel in Minnesota's crown, famous for its vast woodlands, abundant lakes, and diverse wildlife, including the largest bald eagle population in the lower 48 states. Camp Ruby Lake is strategically positioned to allow groups to fully immerse themselves in this natural wonder, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. This article is designed to provide you, our fellow Minnesotans, with a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes Camp Ruby Lake a truly special destination for organized groups. We'll explore its secluded yet accessible location, detail the facilities it offers, highlight the experiences it enables, and explain why it's such a fitting choice for those seeking a structured group outdoor adventure in the heart of our state's majestic wilderness. Get ready to discover a truly unique camping opportunity in Marcell.

Camp Ruby Lake is uniquely situated at 44319 Imperial Rd, Marcell, MN 56657, USA. This address places the camp deep within the scenic embrace of the Chippewa National Forest, a sprawling natural wonderland in Northern Minnesota. Marcell itself is a small, charming community often referred to as the "Edge of the Wilderness," serving as a gateway to countless outdoor adventures.

The accessibility of Camp Ruby Lake, while leading to a serene and somewhat secluded setting, is generally straightforward for those familiar with forest roads. Marcell is located along Minnesota State Highway 38, known as the "Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway," which connects to larger towns like Grand Rapids. From Marcell, Imperial Road provides access to the camp, guiding visitors into the heart of the forest. This location is paramount to the camp's appeal, as it offers direct immersion into the vast natural resources of the Chippewa National Forest. Groups staying at Camp Ruby Lake will find themselves surrounded by mature forests, with immediate access to Ruby Lake itself, known for its clear glacial waters and excellent fishing, including record-setting smallmouth bass. While enjoying the peaceful isolation, the proximity to Marcell means that essential services are still within a reasonable driving distance. The Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center in Marcell provides area information, a gift shop, and environmental education programs, adding a valuable resource for visiting groups. This strategic balance of natural seclusion and manageable accessibility makes Camp Ruby Lake an ideal choice for organized groups seeking a truly immersive wilderness experience without being completely cut off from necessary conveniences.

Services Offered:

• Organization Camp Rentals: Camp Ruby Lake is available for rent to organized groups such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H Clubs, and other similar entities. It is designed to accommodate "mixed" groups across its three separate units of dormitory cabins.
• Dormitory Cabins: The camp features dormitory-style cabins, providing more structured sleeping arrangements for groups compared to individual tent camping. While specific amenities within the cabins are not detailed, they are part of a "modern camp."
• Sanitary Facilities: The campground provides sanitary facilities, including what is typically expected at an organized camp such as restrooms and potentially showers, ensuring basic hygiene needs are met for groups.
• Picnic Areas: While primarily a camp, the broader Chippewa National Forest, where Ruby Lake is located, offers picnic grounds with tables and fireplaces, and some may include shelters and bathhouses, which organized groups might utilize.
• Recreational Access: The camp's location on Ruby Lake provides opportunities for water-based recreation, including swimming, canoeing, and fishing, with Ruby Lake being a Class "A" fishing lake.
• Wooded Setting: The camp is situated within the dense, pine-scented fragrance of the Chippewa National Forest, providing a natural and immersive environment for outdoor activities.
• Booking System: The camp operates on a reservation system, typically booked for the entire season by the end of April, indicating its popularity among organized groups.

Features / Highlights:

• Exclusive Organized Group Use: A primary highlight of Camp Ruby Lake is its specific design and availability for organized groups. This focus allows for tailored experiences and facilities that cater to the needs of larger structured gatherings like scout troops or educational programs, ensuring privacy and dedicated space.
• Immersive Chippewa National Forest Location: Nestled deep within the Chippewa National Forest, the camp offers an authentic wilderness experience. Surrounded by pines and hardwood forests, it provides a perfect setting for nature observation, outdoor education, and escaping urban environments.
• Access to Ruby Lake: The camp's direct frontage on Ruby Lake, a clear glacial lake with excellent water clarity and depth, is a significant draw. It offers prime opportunities for swimming, canoeing, and fishing, particularly for record-setting smallmouth bass.
• Dormitory-Style Cabins: The availability of dormitory cabins across three separate units provides a level of comfort and structured accommodation often preferred by organized groups, making logistics simpler than individual tent camping for large numbers.
• Peaceful and Pristine Natural Surroundings: The "water-locked" nature of Ruby Lake ensures that the natural surroundings remain pristine and protected, offering an exceptionally quiet and undisturbed environment ideal for reflection, group activities, and wildlife viewing.
• Historical Context: The mention of Forest Service Organization Camps at Ruby Lake highlights its long-standing history as a place for recreational gatherings, some built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1934 and 1935, adding a layer of heritage.
• Proximity to Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center: Located near the Marcell Ranger Station (now the Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center), groups have access to additional environmental education resources, interpretive displays, and naturalist programs, enriching the camping experience.
• Abundant Recreational Opportunities Nearby: Beyond the immediate camp, the Chippewa National Forest offers extensive opportunities for hiking, hunting, fishing, and a variety of water sports on numerous lakes, ensuring groups have a wide array of activities to choose from.

Contact Information:

Address: 44319 Imperial Rd, Marcell, MN 56657, USA

For campground inquiries, please call the Deer River Ranger District Phone: 218-246-2123 (This is often the contact for Chippewa National Forest organizational camps).

For locals in the Minnesota region, especially those involved with organized groups like youth organizations, school trips, or family reunions, Camp Ruby Lake in Marcell stands out as an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination. Its appeal for Minnesotans is deeply tied to its unique offering as a dedicated group camp within the heart of the beloved Chippewa National Forest, a natural treasure within our state. The primary reason for its suitability for locals is its exclusive focus on organized groups. This specialized approach means that the facilities, from dormitory cabins to communal areas, are designed to accommodate the needs of larger parties, providing a structured yet immersive outdoor experience that individual campsites might not offer. This is invaluable for leaders planning educational programs, team-building retreats, or memorable family gatherings.

Furthermore, the camp’s location within the Chippewa National Forest is a significant draw for any Minnesotan. Our state prides itself on its "land of 10,000 lakes" and vast forests, and Camp Ruby Lake offers direct access to this iconic natural heritage. Groups can enjoy pristine Ruby Lake for swimming, canoeing, and fishing, creating indelible memories against a backdrop of untouched wilderness. The opportunity to unplug and immerse oneself in such a beautiful, protected environment is a luxury that aligns perfectly with the Minnesotan ethos of embracing the outdoors. The presence of the Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center nearby also adds an educational dimension, allowing groups to learn more about the local ecosystem and history.

Ultimately, Camp Ruby Lake provides a rare and valuable opportunity for organized groups from across Minnesota to experience the wild beauty of our state in a structured and supportive environment. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a living classroom, a bonding retreat, and a gateway to creating lasting memories in one of Minnesota’s most treasured natural landscapes. For any local group leader or organizer seeking an authentic, well-equipped, and deeply integrated wilderness experience, Camp Ruby Lake is not just an option—it's a premier destination that truly celebrates the spirit of Minnesota's great outdoors.

Camp Ruby Lake

44319 Imperial Rd, Marcell, MN 56657, USA