Clearwater Lake

The Clearwater Lake boat ramp near Grand Marais provides public access to this popular fishing and recreation destination in Cook County. The launch is conveniently located for paddlers and boaters looking to explore the lake and access backcountry camping opportunities. Clearwater Lake supports a healthy fishery with walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and panfish, making it attractive for anglers as well as recreational paddlers.

The lake offers access to six backcountry campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site includes a fire grate, latrine, and picnic table. If you're planning an overnight trip, nearby reservable campgrounds at Flour Lake and East Bearskin Lake (within 10 miles) provide alternative accommodations. Remember to follow Leave No Trace practices: hang food packs, fully extinguish fires, treat or boil drinking water, and wash dishes and yourself away from the water.

This is an excellent launching point for day trips or backcountry paddling expeditions in the Superior National Forest area. Check current wind and weather conditions before heading out, and be aware that multiple public boat launches exist on the lake, so you'll likely encounter other boaters and anglers.

This is one of our Backcountry sites which is a near- wilderness single party site and is accessible only by foot or boat. These sites are first come, first served. There are 6 sites on this lake, each have a fire grate, a latrine and may have a picnic table. A few reminders: Hang food packs, put your fire out each time you leave your campsite, treat or boil all water, wash yourself and dishes...

This is one of our Backcountry sites which is a near- wilderness single party site and is accessible only by foot or boat. These sites are first come, first served. There are 6 sites on this lake, each have a fire grate, a latrine and may have a picnic table. A few reminders: Hang food packs, put your fire out each time you leave your campsite, treat or boil all water, wash yourself and dishes at least 150ft from any body of water, pack out all garbage and Leave No Trace. Use a Forest Map to locate campsites and accesses. (You can purchase a map on line at http://www.nationalforeststore.com/ or at any of the District offices or by mail.) This lake may be a part of or has portage or waterway access into the BWCAW. When portaging or paddling out of this lake and into another you’ll want to check to see if you’ll be entering into the BWCAW. Permits are always required while traveling in the BWCAW. If traveling for the day by paddle or foot you can use a self issued permit found at any Ranger District office or at the kiosk at the official entry point. Motor powered watercraft is permitted only on designated lakes. When traveling over night or using a motor please look at the BWCAW portion of this web site or take a look at the reservation site at www.recreation.gov for more information. Remember to Leave No Trace.

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