Clint Converse State Forest Campground

For Minnesotans yearning for a genuine escape into the wild, where the towering red and white pines reach for the sky and the sounds of nature prevail, Clint Converse State Forest Campground offers an ideal retreat. Located within the expansive Land O'Lakes State Forest, this rustic campground provides a back-to-basics camping experience that truly connects you with the serene beauty of Northern Minnesota. It's a place where simplicity is the key, allowing you to unplug and immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

While Clint Converse is known for its primitive amenities, it's precisely this rustic charm that draws many local campers. Here, you'll find flat, spacious spots nestled among impressive trees, providing a quiet haven often frequented by those seeking solitude during the week. Whether you're a seasoned angler, an avid ATV rider, a dedicated hiker, or simply someone looking to unwind by a campfire under a starlit sky, this campground serves as a perfect basecamp for your Northern Minnesota adventures.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground is situated at 5861 Lake Washburn Rd NE, Outing, MN 56662, USA. Its location in the Land O'Lakes State Forest near Lake Washburn makes it an attractive destination for water-based activities and forest exploration.

Accessing the campground is straightforward, typically involving a short drive off of State Highway 6. From the town of Outing, you can take State Highway 6 North for about two miles, then turn left (west) onto County Road 48 (Lake Washburn Road) for approximately two miles until you reach the campground. While it's located in a more natural, wooded area, the roads leading to it are generally well-maintained, accommodating various types of vehicles, including RVs and trailers.

While the campground is set within a state forest, offering a sense of seclusion, it's important to note that a county road or highway nearby does experience a decent amount of traffic during the day. However, many campers find that the traffic significantly lessens at night, especially during the week, preserving the peaceful evening atmosphere. This balance allows for convenient access while still providing a sense of being "away from it all."

Clint Converse State Forest Campground emphasizes a rustic camping experience, providing essential amenities without the frills of more developed parks. This focus on basic services aligns with the expectations of campers who prefer a more natural setting.

• Non-Electric Campsites: All 31 campsites are standard, non-electric sites, meaning no electrical hookups are available. Campers should be prepared for off-grid living, relying on their own power sources or enjoying the pure wilderness experience.
• Vault Toilets: Pit toilets (vault toilets) are provided for restroom facilities. While basic, they are an essential amenity in a rustic setting.
• Hand Pump for Water: Potable water is available from a hand pump. Campers should bring containers for carrying water to their sites.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, often featuring high walls suitable for containing campfires and a grill grate for cooking over an open flame.
• Picnic Tables: Every site includes a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals and activities.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available on Washburn Lake, allowing easy access for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and other water activities.
• Fishing Dock: There is a dock on the lower part of the park specifically for fishing, offering a convenient spot to cast a line into Washburn Lake.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are generally not accepted. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or weekends.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground offers unique features that make it a compelling choice for Minnesota outdoor enthusiasts:

• Massive Red and White Pines: The campground is surrounded by impressive, mature red and white pines, creating a beautiful and classic Northern Minnesota forest ambiance.
• Access to Washburn Lake: Directly adjacent to Lake Washburn, campers have opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the serene lake environment. The lake is known for pike, bluegill, and largemouth bass, even from the bank in shallow areas.
• OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) Access: The campground provides access to surrounding county land managed for OHV use. This is a significant draw for ATV and UTV riders, allowing direct access to extensive trail systems like the Moose River ATV Trail.
• Multi-Use Trails: The Land O'Lakes State Forest features miles of multi-use trails (including the Washburn Lake ski trails) accessible directly from the campground, ideal for:
  • Hiking: Explore the tranquil forest on designated trails.
  • Mountain Biking: Enjoy scenic rides through varied terrain.
  • Cross-Country Skiing: In winter, these trails transform into groomed cross-country ski routes.
• Quiet During the Week: Many visitors note that the campground is particularly quiet and peaceful during weekdays, offering a more secluded experience.
• Rustic Charm: For those who appreciate primitive camping, the lack of modern amenities is a highlight, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse forest environment provides opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Spacious and Level Campsites: The campsites are generally described as nice, flat, and spacious, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs comfortably (though without hookups).

For more information or specific inquiries about Clint Converse State Forest Campground, you can contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or relevant local offices:

Address: 5861 Lake Washburn Rd NE, Outing, MN 56662, USA

Phone: (218) 546-5926 (This number connects to a DNR office that oversees the campground.)

You may also find general information about Minnesota State Forest Campgrounds on the Minnesota DNR website. Since sites are first-come, first-served, direct contact might be for general inquiries rather than reservations.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground is perfectly suited for Minnesotans who genuinely seek an authentic and rustic outdoor experience. For locals, this campground offers an accessible escape that provides a much-needed break from the demands of modern life, allowing for a true reconnection with nature without traveling too far from home.

If you value simplicity, the quiet rustle of pine trees over the hum of generators, and the challenge of managing without full hookups, this campground will resonate with you. The vast opportunities for outdoor recreation right at your doorstep – from fishing in Lake Washburn to exploring extensive ATV, hiking, and biking trails – make it an ideal hub for adventure. The ability to launch a boat directly into the lake or cast a line from the fishing dock adds immense value for local anglers.

While some might find the lack of a dumpster or flush toilets to be a drawback, many Minnesota campers appreciate these very aspects as part of a more immersive wilderness experience. It encourages responsible camping practices, such as packing out all trash, which aligns with the values of preserving our beautiful state forests. The peaceful atmosphere, especially during weekdays, makes it a favored spot for those seeking genuine tranquility. Clint Converse State Forest Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's an invitation to experience Minnesota's stunning northwoods in its most natural and unadorned form, providing memories that only a true wilderness escape can offer.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground

5861 Lake Washburn Rd NE, Outing, MN 56662, USA