Superior National Forest Kawishiwi River Dispersed Sites
The Kawishiwi River corridor holds scattered dispersed sites accessible via Forest Road 354, offering genuine wilderness camping in the heart of canoe country. Sites are primitive but well-established, with fire rings and level tent spots among towering white pines. The river here runs clear and cold, holding walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Most sites accommodate one vehicle and a small trailer.
Access requires 6 miles of good gravel road, passable by any vehicle in dry conditions but can get muddy during spring thaw or heavy rains. Sites fill the Forest Service’s 14-day limit but rarely see crowds outside peak fall colors in late September.
Wilderness river camping in canoe country
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Ely, Minnesota |
| Miles from pavement | 6.2 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 6 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | May-September |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
