McDougal Lake Campground

The numbers that decide it

Site-level detail from Recreation.gov, checked 2026-08-05. Where a field says “not published”, the agency has not published it — it does not mean zero. See it on Recreation.gov

McDougal Lake Campground

McDougal Lake Campground provides easy access to a wide variety of recreational activities including hiking, boating, fishing, picnicking and swimming within the central part of Superior National Forest. The McDougal Lake Trail at the campground is currently closed due to the Greenwood Fire and is being rehabilitated. Opening date is unknown. Natural Features: The McDougal Lake area, including the campground, was involved in the Greenwood Fire in 2021. The recovering forest is interesting as you pass through areas of different burn intensity and see which plants survived, which died, and which are even thriving in a post-fire environment. As some trees may be unstable due to damaged root systems, we recommend staying on roads and established trails in the area as trees may fall in other areas. The 323-acre McDougal Lake was surrounded by a thick forest of birch, maple and pine which was burned to varying degrees in the 2021 Greenwood Fire. Many of the large pine within the campground survived the fire, which opened up the ground for forest regeneration. Although some other areas with the fire’s footprint may have burned more heavily, the ecology at the campground itself benefited from the fire. The area is peaceful, rustic and begs for relaxation. One unique feature of the lake is the wild rice growing within it. Birds and wildlife frequent its shores. Recreation: The campground offers a one-mile trail (cuirrently closed) that loops along the shore and through the forest, providing a great pastime for families. Kids will also love the sandy swimming beach within the facility. A boat ramp and shoreline access provide anglers the opportunity for a leisurely afternoon of fishing for walleye and northern pike. Downloadable information and maps.

Before you go

Scenic drives that pass close

• Superior National Forest Scenic Byway18 mi
• North Shore Scenic Drive25 mi