About CLUBHOUSE LAKE
Overview Clubhouse Lake Campground is located on its peaceful namesake in the beautiful Chippewa National Forest. Visitors enjoy the area for its fishing and canoeing opportunities in a scenic natural setting. Clubhouse Lake has limited cell phone service, giving it a remote feeling and offering a tranquil retreat from a connected world. The campground lies off 31 miles north of Grand Rapids, MN and just over 8 miles east of Marcell, MN off of MN State Highway 38 - the nation's first National Scenic Byway, known as "The Edge of the Wilderness." Recreation Clubhouse Lake has excellent water quality and is about 90 feet deep, providing great fishing opportunities for northern pike, bass and panfish. Swimming, canoeing and kayaking are very popular activities on the lake. The Rice River Canoe Route starts its journey to the Big Fork River from waters that flow into Clubhouse Lake.A sandy swimming beach, an accessible fishing pier, and a day use area with horshoe pits are located within the campground at the water's edge. Facilities The campground offers 28 reservable sites and 19 first-come, first-served, single-unit campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Two vault toilets and two hand pumps for drinking water are provided. The campground is patrolled regularly by Forest Service personnel and Itasca County law enforcement officers. Natural Features A beautiful stand of 200-year-old red and white pine trees cover the campground on the western shore of Clubhouse Lake. Nearby Attractions The Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center is located a half-mile north of Marcell. It is a must-see for anyone camping in the area. The brand new facility offers many excellent displays, a gift shop, and several weekly naturalist programs.
How to Get There
From the south, travel on Minnesota State Highway 38 from Grand Rapids to Marcell. Turn right on County Road 45, just north of Marcell, and continue five miles east. Then travel three miles north on Forest Road 2181 to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to CLUBHOUSE LAKE
Heading to CLUBHOUSE LAKE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for CLUBHOUSE LAKE?
No central reservation system listed for CLUBHOUSE LAKE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232149) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to CLUBHOUSE LAKE?
From the south, travel on Minnesota State Highway 38 from Grand Rapids to Marcell. Turn right on County Road 45, just north of Marcell, and continue five miles east. Then travel three miles north on Forest Road 2181 to the campground.
How do I contact CLUBHOUSE LAKE?
You can reach the park at phone: 218-246-2123.
References & Official Resources
