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campground

Bartlett Lake Campground

12100 Boy Scout Point Rd, Northome, MN 56661, USA

Introduce

🛶 Welcome to Bartlett Lake Campground: Northern Minnesota's Hidden Gem

For Minnesotans seeking a genuine, tranquil escape into the great outdoors, look no further than Bartlett Lake Campground in Northome. Tucked away on the northeastern edge of the quiet city of Northome, this local, city-owned campground offers a refreshing change of pace from the larger, more commercialized destinations. It is a fantastic spot for both seasoned campers and those new to the Minnesota camping scene, providing essential amenities paired with a peaceful, authentic lakeside experience. The focus here is on relaxation, fishing, and enjoying the serene beauty of Bartlett Lake, making it a true 'Up North' destination for residents across the state.

This destination is a favorite among local users for its quiet atmosphere and convenient access to water recreation. As a city campground, it is well-maintained and offers the key features necessary for a comfortable stay, whether you're bringing a tent or an RV. If you appreciate a low-key, friendly environment where the focus is on nature and lakeside enjoyment, Bartlett Lake Campground is waiting for you to discover its charm.

📍 Location and Accessibility for Minnesota Residents

Bartlett Lake Campground is conveniently situated in Northern Minnesota, making it an accessible destination for residents throughout the region looking for a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation. It is located on the northeastern edge of the City of Northome, a small, welcoming community known for its proximity to numerous forests and lakes.

The official address is 12100 Boy Scout Point Rd, Northome, MN 56661, USA.

The location on Boy Scout Point Road places the campground right alongside Bartlett Lake, ensuring that visitors enjoy scenic waterfront views and immediate access to water-based activities. The campground is just a short, convenient distance from the main thoroughfares in the Northome area. Furthermore, the campground's proximity to the heart of the small city means campers can easily access local businesses for groceries, supplies, or dining options, offering a perfect blend of peaceful seclusion and local convenience.

Its easy drive-in access makes it ideal for RVs and trailers, as well as those driving traditional vehicles. Crucially for RV users, local public services, including a dedicated dump station and water fill, are easily accessible within the city limits. This location in Koochiching County allows Minnesota travelers to explore the surrounding Chippewa National Forest and other regional natural attractions, solidifying its place as a prime Northern Minnesota hub for outdoor adventure.

🛠️ Services Offered at Bartlett Lake Campground

As a city-owned and operated facility, Bartlett Lake Campground provides a focused range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience without excessive frills. These practical amenities are exactly what local campers need for a convenient lakeside stay.

  • Electric Campsites: A selection of designated sites are equipped with electric hookups, making them suitable for RVs, trailers, and campers who require power for their stay.
  • Primitive Campsites: Additional sites are available for traditional tent camping, offering a more rustic experience closer to nature.
  • Water Access: A central water hydrant is available on the campground grounds for general use.
  • RV Water Fill Station: A convenient city water camper fill station is available nearby in Northome for all visitors, providing potable, drinkable water.
  • Dump Station: A dedicated RV dump station is available for camper use at Triangle Park in Northome for a nominal fee, ensuring a clean and hassle-free departure.
  • Self Check-In/Payment: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with an easy self check-in system. Campers use envelopes and a drop box to pay the nightly fee upon arrival.
  • Picnic Shelter: A large shelter with electricity is available, perfect for group gatherings, family meals, or taking cover from inclement weather.

The reviews often highlight the availability of electric sites and the convenience of the nearby dump station and clean, city-supplied water fill, underscoring the campground's commitment to basic but essential visitor needs.

⭐ Features and Highlights of the Campground

Bartlett Lake Campground offers several key features that make it a favorite destination for Minnesota families and fishing enthusiasts alike. Its natural setting and the facilities built to enjoy it are its main draws.

  • Lakeside Setting on Bartlett Lake: The campground is beautifully situated directly on Bartlett Lake, providing stunning scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Several campsites are positioned right near the water's edge, offering premium views and easy access.
  • Public Boat Launch: An on-site boat launch allows campers to easily put their personal watercraft, such as fishing boats, kayaks, and canoes, directly into Bartlett Lake.
  • Accessible Fishing Pier: The campground features a new-ish DNR fishing pier, providing an excellent, accessible spot for anglers to cast a line and try their luck for local fish species.
  • Quiet and Peaceful Environment: Visitors consistently describe the campground as a clean, quiet, and "tucked away" place, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy genuine solitude.
  • Proximity to Walking Trails: The location offers proximity to local walking and biking trails, which connect the campground to the nearby high school and into the City of Northome, providing options for exercise and exploration beyond the waterfront.
  • City Management: Being a city-owned campground (formerly known as Boy Scout Point Campground), it is maintained by the City of Northome Parks & Recreation Department, ensuring attention to cleanliness and local governance.

These features cater specifically to the Minnesota user who values a relaxed camping experience with easy access to the state’s beloved pastimes: fishing, boating, and enjoying a quiet campfire by the water.

📞 Contact Information

For the most current rates, availability, or general inquiries about the Bartlett Lake Campground, Minnesota residents should contact the City of Northome, as they own and operate the facility.

  • Address: 12100 Boy Scout Point Rd, Northome, MN 56661, USA
  • Contact (City Hall): For all general inquiries, including current fees and facility status, please call Northome City Hall.
  • City Hall Phone: 218-897-5762

Since the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with self check-in, the contact number for City Hall is primarily for information during their business hours (typically Monday–Thursday, 8 am–4 pm).

🌲 What is Worth Choosing Bartlett Lake Campground

For Minnesota campers, Bartlett Lake Campground represents a valuable, authentic Northern Minnesota experience. What truly makes this campground a worthwhile choice is its unique combination of **tranquil isolation and essential convenience**. Unlike many state parks or large commercial resorts, Bartlett Lake Campground offers a simple, quiet environment that is deeply valued by those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The reviews speak volumes, often referring to it as a "little gem" and a "clean quiet place." It is the ideal destination for:

  • Fishing & Boating Enthusiasts: With its boat launch and a dedicated fishing pier right on Bartlett Lake, water recreation is effortlessly accessible. The lake is known for being great for fishing and paddling.
  • Budget-Conscious Campers: Offering affordable daily rates for electric and primitive sites, it provides excellent value for a lakeside electric hookup site in the region.
  • RVers Seeking Simplicity: The availability of electric sites, coupled with the nearby, easy-to-access city water fill and dump station, makes it perfectly suited for self-contained RV camping without the need for large resort amenities.
  • Those Seeking Quiet: Its remote location in Northome, combined with its small size, guarantees a much quieter, more laid-back experience than busier destinations near major highways or tourist hubs. It’s perfect for unplugging and enjoying the sounds of nature.

In a state famous for its lakes, Bartlett Lake Campground provides the quintessential, low-key Northern Minnesota getaway, making it a highly recommended choice for residents across the region who prioritize peace, practical amenities, and genuine lakeside relaxation. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the natural landscape and the community spirit of Northome.

Gallery

Highlights

Picnics

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

Picnic tables

Public restroom

Restroom

Running water

Tent sites

Children

Good for kids

Parking

On-site parking

Big Craig Sep 16
★★★★☆4

Nice city campground with electric sites. Some lakeside sites were wet after recent rains. Dump station and water fill available.

Chasity Leach Sep 15
★★★★★5

City water camper fill station with drinkable water Clean quiet place tucked away near a lake with a boat landing.

terry schultz Jun 05
★★★★★5

Comfortable campsites for family get together had power available, will come back.

Bud Doughman Oct 14
★★★★★5

Very good friendly place to get water from

Maryanne Leach Dec 24
★★★★★5