Devilfish Lake Campground

For Minnesota locals yearning to truly escape the everyday hustle and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Northwoods, Devilfish Lake Campground offers an exceptional opportunity. Tucked away in the Grand Portage State Forest near Hovland, this primitive campground is a hidden gem known for its peaceful, secluded campsites and breathtaking natural beauty. It's the perfect destination for those seeking quiet contemplation, incredible stargazing opportunities, and genuine outdoor adventures.

As one reviewer aptly put it, "The small secluded campsites are what made this amazing." This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of Devilfish Lake Campground – an intimate setting where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the pristine environment that Minnesota's Arrowhead region is famous for. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat where the sounds of nature prevail, this is your spot.

Devilfish Lake Campground is located at Access Camp, 951 Esther Lake Rd, Hovland, MN 55606, USA. While the address provides a clear geographical marker, it's important for Minnesota residents to understand the nature of the journey to this secluded spot. Situated within the Grand Portage State Forest, the campground is accessed via a dirt road, which, as one visitor noted, can be "fun" and offers "nice scenery." This indicates a more rustic approach, adding to the sense of getting away from it all.

Hovland is a small community on Minnesota's North Shore, northeast of Grand Marais. To reach Devilfish Lake Campground, you'll typically take the scenic Highway 61 along Lake Superior, then head inland on specific forest roads. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, transitioning from paved roads to gravel, winding through dense forests that set the stage for your wilderness experience. The secluded nature of the campground means you won't find it bustling with crowds, ensuring a more intimate connection with the natural surroundings. Its location in Cook County, near the Canadian border, places it deep within the heart of Minnesota's rugged, beautiful wilderness.

Devilfish Lake Campground is classified as a "primitive" campground, meaning it provides essential amenities designed to meet the basic needs of campers while maintaining the wild character of the state forest. This approach ensures a low-impact camping experience that keeps the focus on nature itself.

• Cleared Campsite Areas: Each of the small number of campsites (typically five) features a cleared area suitable for setting up tents or parking a smaller RV.

• Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and gathering with your group.

• Fire Rings: Metal fire rings are provided at each site, allowing for safe and contained campfires. These are perfect for cooking, warmth, and enjoying the quintessential camping ambiance under the stars. Always remember to check for any fire restrictions or bans before lighting a fire.

• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets (also known as pit toilets or ADA toilets, indicating accessibility) are available at the campground, offering basic sanitation facilities. These are maintained to provide a necessary convenience in a rustic setting.

• Dock and Lake Access: The campground features a dock and direct access to Devilfish Lake, making it easy for campers to launch boats, go for a swim, or cast a line directly from the shore. This immediate lake access is a significant convenience for water-based activities.

It is important for Minnesota campers to note that, as a primitive campground, potable water may not be readily available at the campsites. Visitors should plan to bring their own drinking water or be prepared to filter and treat water from the lake. There are typically no showers or electricity, reinforcing the "unplugged" nature of the experience.

Devilfish Lake Campground shines with several distinctive features that make it a compelling choice for Minnesota's outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who value serenity and natural wonders.

• Secluded and Small Campsites: A consistent highlight from reviews is the "small secluded campsites." With only five sites, the campground offers a high degree of privacy and quiet, allowing campers to truly unwind without feeling crowded. This intimacy with nature is a major draw.

• Stunning Dark Skies for Stargazing: As one ecstatic reviewer noted, "Being able to see and photograph the Milkyway was a real special experience." Located far from urban light pollution, Devilfish Lake Campground provides incredibly dark night skies, making it an ideal spot for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone who wants to witness the full glory of the Milky Way.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The presence of a "large lake for fishing" that is "right on the money!" is a significant draw. While one reviewer mentioned catching "only a few small bass; nothing was kept but it was still fun to fish," the lake's reputation for walleye fishing (as mentioned by the DNR) suggests ample opportunities for anglers. The dock also makes fishing accessible.

• Beautiful Lake and Scenery: Visitors consistently describe Devilfish Lake as "Very beautiful" and the overall scenery, even on the drive in, as "nice." The clear waters and surrounding boreal forest create a picturesque backdrop for all your camping activities.

• Hiking and Exploration: The Grand Portage State Forest offers numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring. While specific trails directly from the campground aren't always highlighted, the forest environment encourages exploration of the surrounding woods, cliffs, and perhaps even nearby waterfalls. Judge C.R. Magney State Park, which manages this campground, is also nearby, offering famous trails like the Devil's Kettle.

• Proximity to Lake Superior's North Shore: Although secluded, the campground is relatively close to the iconic North Shore of Lake Superior. This provides opportunities for day trips to explore state parks, charming towns like Grand Marais, and the dramatic coastline if you wish to venture beyond the immediate campground area.

Devilfish Lake Campground is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as part of the Grand Portage State Forest, often overseen by staff from nearby state parks like Judge C.R. Magney State Park or Cascade River State Park.

Address: Access Camp, 951 Esther Lake Rd, Hovland, MN 55606, USA

Phone: (218) 387-3039 (This phone number is typically for general inquiries for the managing DNR office in the area, not a direct line to a campground host who may not always be on-site.)

Mobile Phone: +1 218-387-3039

For the most up-to-date information on reservations (this campground is often first-come, first-served), current conditions, fire bans, or any specific questions about Devilfish Lake Campground, Minnesota residents are encouraged to contact the managing DNR office. The website for Minnesota State Forests and Parks (DNR.state.mn.us) is also an excellent resource for details on primitive campgrounds and state forest regulations.

For Minnesota locals, Devilfish Lake Campground offers an authentic and accessible Northwoods escape that perfectly embodies the spirit of our state's outdoor heritage. Its greatest strength lies in its commitment to providing a truly secluded and peaceful experience. As the reviews confirm, the small, remote campsites allow for an unparalleled sense of privacy, where the worries of urban life simply melt away.

This is the place to reconnect with nature, to hear the rustle of the leaves and the gentle lapping of lake water, rather than traffic noise. The opportunity to witness and photograph the Milky Way against a truly dark sky is a rare and magical experience, a reminder of the vastness and beauty above us. For anglers, the "large lake for fishing" provides ample opportunity to cast a line and enjoy the simple pleasure of the catch.

Devilfish Lake Campground isn't about luxury; it's about authenticity. It’s ideal for those who appreciate primitive camping, who are comfortable with essential amenities, and who crave genuine immersion in nature. If you're a Minnesota resident looking for a peaceful retreat, a prime spot for stargazing, or a quiet lake for fishing, pack your gear and make the scenic drive to Devilfish Lake Campground. It promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you refreshed and deeply connected to the wild beauty of your home state.

Devilfish Lake Campground

Access Camp, 951 Esther Lake Rd, Hovland, MN 55606, USA