Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kawishiwi Lake Rustic Campground, actually located in Minnesota (not Iowa), offers 5 first-come, first-served established campsites with fire rings and picnic tables.


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Summary

No reservations are needed, but a free permit is required for overnight camping. There’s a fee to enter the BWCAW if paddling or hiking beyond. Amenities include vault toilets and hand-pump water; no RV hookups or electric. Set on the edge of Kawishiwi Lake, the campground is a serene, forested launch point into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Expect peaceful, remote vibes with excellent paddling, fishing, and nearby hiking trails. Best time to visit is summer through early fall.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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