Kimball Lake Campground

For those of us who call Minnesota home, the call of the North Woods is practically an instinct. We seek out the tranquility of our vast forests and the pristine beauty of our countless lakes. In the stunning landscape near Grand Marais, along the famed Gunflint Trail, lies Kimball Lake Campground – a gem for those who truly appreciate a quiet, rustic, and profoundly peaceful outdoor experience. This article is written for our fellow Minnesotans, providing a clear, engaging, and informative guide to this unique campground, highlighting its special charm and why it stands out as an ideal destination for your next escape into nature.

Kimball Lake Campground embodies the essence of classic Minnesota camping. It’s not about flashy amenities or bustling crowds; it’s about connecting with the environment, enjoying the sounds of nature, and finding solace by a clear lake. Reviews consistently praise its serene atmosphere and meticulous upkeep, even during peak times. For many Minnesotans, who often cherish experiences that feel authentic and untouched, Kimball Lake offers exactly that – a return to simpler, more meaningful camping. It’s a place where the focus is on the beauty of the surroundings and the joy of shared moments around a campfire, rather than distractions.

Our state is blessed with an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, and the Superior National Forest, where Kimball Lake Campground resides, is one of its most treasured assets. This particular campground provides a wonderful base for exploring the diverse landscapes of Cook County, from its hiking trails to its fishing waters. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend by the water, an adventurous hike with your furry companion, or a peaceful kayaking trip, Kimball Lake offers a welcoming environment. This overview will delve into its precise location, the essential services it provides, its standout features, and ultimately, why it’s a perfect fit for locals looking to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of northern Minnesota.

Kimball Lake Campground is nestled within the Superior National Forest, with its general address listed as FR 140, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA. This location places it along a scenic and remote stretch of the Gunflint Trail area, offering a true North Woods experience while still being accessible from the charming town of Grand Marais.

To reach Kimball Lake Campground from Highway 61, the iconic North Shore Scenic Drive, you'll need to turn north onto the Gunflint Trail (Cook County Road 12). After approximately 11 miles on the Gunflint Trail, you will turn east onto Trout Lake Road (FR 140). The campground is located about 2 miles down Trout Lake Road. While the address indicates Grand Marais, it's important to note that the campground is a drive into the wilderness, not directly within the town itself, which contributes to its quiet and secluded atmosphere.

The accessibility for vehicles at Kimball Lake Campground is good, as it's designed to accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. However, it's crucial to understand that it is a "no electric" campground, meaning there are no electrical hookups at the campsites. This makes it ideal for self-contained RVs or those who prefer a more rustic, off-grid camping experience. While RVs are welcome, users should be mindful of vehicle length, as it's not designed for the largest rigs, and some internal roads or sites might have limited maneuverability. The approach roads are generally well-maintained gravel roads typical of forest service access, suitable for most vehicles.

Being located off the Gunflint Trail means that while the immediate surroundings are natural and serene, you are still within a reasonable driving distance of essential services in Grand Marais, such as grocery stores, gas stations, outfitters for outdoor gear, and local restaurants. This balance of remote tranquility and practical accessibility makes Kimball Lake Campground a convenient choice for Minnesotans looking to escape to nature without feeling completely cut off from necessary supplies. The drive itself along the Gunflint Trail is an experience, offering stunning scenery and a gradual transition into the deep wilderness.

Kimball Lake Campground, managed by the Superior National Forest, provides essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and classic rustic camping experience. These offerings emphasize the natural setting while ensuring basic needs are met:

• First-Come, First-Served Campsites: Kimball Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are typically not accepted. It offers a limited number of sites (around 10), which can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs (though without electric hookups). This policy allows for spontaneous trips but requires early arrival during peak seasons.
• Individual Campsite Amenities: Each designated campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. These basic provisions allow campers to enjoy meals outdoors and have safe, contained campfires (when no fire bans are in effect).
• Vault Toilets (Concrete Porta-Potties): The campground provides vault toilets, which are often described as "concrete porta pottys." Reviews highlight that these facilities are kept "clean and stocked with tp," even during busy holiday weekends, which is a significant positive for a rustic campground.
• Drinking Water: A communal drinking water source (often a solar-powered faucet or hand pump) is available within the campground. While convenient, campers should be prepared to collect water and transport it to their individual sites. It's important to note that this is for drinking water only, not for washing dishes or other items.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available within the campground for proper waste disposal. This service helps maintain the cleanliness of the campground and protects the natural environment from litter.
• Overflow Parking: For busy periods or for extra vehicles, overflow parking may be available, offering additional space beyond the individual campsites.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is provided at Kimball Lake, allowing easy access for canoes, kayaks, and small boats (note: Kimball Lake is a non-motorized lake). This is ideal for those planning to paddle or fish on the lake.

Kimball Lake Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Minnesota camping experience:

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: A consistent highlight from customer reviews is the campground's "nice quiet" and "peaceful camping experience." It's ideal for those looking to escape noise and crowds, providing a serene environment perfect for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.
• Exceptional Cleanliness: Visitors frequently praise the campground as "one of the cleanest campgrounds I've been to." This extends to the upkeep of the vault toilets, which are noted for being "clean and stocked with tp" even during busy holiday weekends. This dedication to cleanliness significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Beautiful Kimball Lake: The campground is set on the shores of the "beautiful" Kimball Lake. This small, state-managed lake is a major attraction, offering clear waters and picturesque views, perfect for both recreation and relaxation.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Kimball Lake is well-known as a trout lake, specifically stocked with rainbow trout. This makes it an "excellent for people who want to camp and fish." Multiple places along the lake's trail are suitable for shore fishing, and anglers should remember that a Minnesota fishing license with a trout stamp is required.
• Scenic 2-Mile Lake Trail: A "fun 2-mile trail that goes around the lake" is a significant feature. While described as "rocky and uneven but manageable" and "not huge or well maintained," its consistent foot traffic makes it "easy to spot out and fun for you and your pups!" This trail provides a great opportunity for hiking, enjoying nature, and finding secluded fishing spots.
• Wildlife Abundance: The lake and surrounding area are home to "all kinds of wild life," offering opportunities for observation and photography, from birds to various forest creatures.
• Opportunity for Kayaking/Canoeing: With the lake's calm nature (being non-motorized) and the presence of a boat launch, it's an ideal spot for kayaking and canoeing, offering a peaceful way to explore the water. Many visitors specifically mention planning to return for paddling.
• Rustic, Non-Electric Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, the absence of electric hookups ensures a truly rustic feel, encouraging campers to rely on natural light and fire for warmth, and fostering a deeper connection with the wilderness.
• Proximity to Mink Lake: Nearby Mink Lake features a barrier-free fishing pier and a swimming beach, offering additional recreational options within close proximity for those staying at Kimball Lake Campground.

For direct inquiries and information regarding Kimball Lake Campground, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Superior National Forest, you can use the contact details provided below. Please note that while a specific phone number is associated with the campground, it generally connects to the local Ranger District office, which manages the area.

Campground Name: Kimball Lake Campground

Address:
FR 140
Grand Marais, MN 55604
USA

Phone:
(218) 387-1750

This phone number typically connects to the Gunflint Ranger District office, which oversees this portion of the Superior National Forest. When calling, you can inquire about current conditions, fire restrictions, accessibility, or any other specific questions you might have about Kimball Lake Campground. Since sites are first-come, first-served, they cannot be reserved by phone. However, calling can provide valuable up-to-date information before your trip.

It is always recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Superior National Forest or the Gunflint Ranger District for the most current information, including any alerts, closures, or changes in operating procedures for Kimball Lake Campground. While direct in-person contact at the campground might be limited to a self-pay station or occasional ranger patrols, the Ranger District office serves as the primary administrative contact point for all inquiries. For the most accurate directions and road conditions, especially after heavy rain or snow, consulting the Forest Service's website or calling the Ranger District beforehand is highly advisable.

For Minnesotans, Kimball Lake Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping experience, perfectly aligning with our state's appreciation for quiet natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Its unique characteristics make it an ideal choice for locals seeking a genuine, undisturbed escape into the North Woods.

Firstly, the campground's renowned "quiet and peaceful atmosphere" is a major draw for those who live in Minnesota. We often seek solace from the hustle and bustle, and Kimball Lake delivers exactly that. Unlike more crowded or amenity-heavy parks, it promises a serene environment where the sounds of nature prevail, allowing for true relaxation and a deeper connection with the environment. This aligns with the desire of many Minnesotans to find authentic, unadulterated outdoor experiences, away from constant distractions.

Secondly, the exceptional cleanliness, even of the rustic vault toilets, as consistently highlighted in reviews, speaks volumes about the care put into maintaining this public land. For locals who value responsible stewardship and a pleasant, hygienic camping environment, Kimball Lake sets a high standard. This attention to detail enhances the overall experience, allowing campers to focus on enjoying nature rather than worrying about basic facilities.

Furthermore, the recreational opportunities at Kimball Lake are perfectly tailored to Minnesota's outdoor culture. The beautiful lake itself, stocked with rainbow trout, is a dream for anglers, and the easily accessible shore fishing spots make it inclusive for all skill levels. The presence of a "fun 2-mile trail that goes around the lake" provides an excellent avenue for hiking with family and "pups," a popular pastime in our state. For paddlers, the non-motorized lake offers ideal conditions for serene kayaking and canoeing. These activities reflect the core of Minnesota's outdoor spirit, providing familiar and cherished ways to interact with our natural surroundings.

In conclusion, Kimball Lake Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a quintessential Minnesota camping destination. Its combination of a quiet, pristine setting, well-maintained rustic facilities, and abundant recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and paddling, makes it perfectly suited for locals. It offers an affordable and authentic way to reconnect with our state's cherished wilderness, promising a peaceful retreat where the beauty of the North Woods can be truly experienced and appreciated.

Kimball Lake Campground

FR 140, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA