Chippewa National Forest Onegume Campground

- 44109 State Hwy 46, Deer River, MN 56636

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans looking to immerse themselves in the heart of the Northwoods while retaining a few essential comforts, the Chippewa National Forest Onegume Campground is often the top recommendation. Known locally as one of the most popular and well-equipped National Forest sites in the region, Onegume (pronounced “ah-ni-gah-mig(k),” a phonetic spelling of the Ojibwe word for “Portage”) offers a perfect blend of natural seclusion and necessary amenities. Located directly on the shore of Little Cut Foot Sioux Lake, this is a prime destination for serious anglers, RV enthusiasts, and families seeking a classic, woodsy camping experience with the advantage of electricity at many sites.

The history of the area is as rich as the fishing, with the campground situated on a historic continental divide and portage route used extensively by Indigenous people and fur traders. Today, its main draw is its location in the premier fishing area of the Chippewa National Forest, providing easy boat access to the expansive and legendary Lake Winnibigoshish (or 'Lake Winnie'), which is one of Minnesota's most significant fisheries for walleye, muskie, and perch. Unlike some more primitive forest campgrounds, Onegume offers the convenience of electric hookups in the majority of its sites and dedicated facilities like a fish cleaning station, making it an ideal base for extended fishing trips or comfortable RV stays.

Campers consistently praise the quiet, serene atmosphere and the privacy afforded by the scenic forest of birch and towering red pine trees that envelops the area. With sites that are generally quite spacious, Onegume is perfectly set up for larger family groups or those traveling with bigger rigs, though, as experienced campers note, the terrain of the individual sites can vary and should be researched during the reservation process to ensure an easy setup, especially for novice RVers with larger trailers. The campground is seasonally open, typically running from early May through mid-October, allowing Minnesota locals to enjoy the peak summer months and the beautiful colors of the early autumn season.

Location and Accessibility

The Chippewa National Forest Onegume Campground is centrally located in the forest's premier recreation area, approximately 18 miles northwest of Deer River, MN. The official mailing address is $44109 State Hwy 46, Deer River, MN 56636, USA$.

Accessibility is straightforward as the campground is situated right off Minnesota State Highway 46, famously known as the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway. This paved highway offers a pleasant and easy drive directly to the site entrance, which is an advantage over some of the more remote campgrounds accessed via gravel forest roads. The location along State Highway 46 ensures that you are only a short drive from the Cut Foot Sioux Visitor Center, which provides interpretive displays, educational programs, and local area information. Essential supplies and conveniences are also available at nearby resorts and a small convenience store within a couple of miles. While the campground is easily accessible by road, its setting between the highway and Little Cut Foot Sioux Lake, surrounded by dense forest, maintains a high level of seclusion and an authentic Northwoods feel. The lake access leads directly to the chain of lakes that includes Cut Foot Sioux and the famed Lake Winnibigoshish.

Services Offered

Onegume Campground provides a range of services designed to enhance the experience of both tent and RV campers, striking a balance between forest immersion and convenience.

• Campsite Variety: The popular campground offers 48 single-family campsites, with 11 situated directly on the lakefront for premium views and access.
• Electrical Hookups: A significant majority of sites feature 30-amp electric hookups, accommodating modern RVs and trailers up to approximately 38 feet in length.
• Water and Sanitation: Drinking water spigots are spaced throughout the campground, and three sets of accessible vault toilets are well-maintained for camper use. Note that there are no public showers on-site, and there is no dump station for wastewater at this specific location, requiring a short trip to a nearby facility like the one at Winnie Dam Campground.
• Fishing Amenities: An on-site accessible fishing dock/pier is available for shore fishing, complete with boat slips for temporary docking. Crucially, a dedicated fish cleaning building is provided, making it convenient for anglers returning from the lake.
• Site Furnishings: Each of the spacious, shaded sites is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a cooking grate.

Features / Highlights

The true highlights of Onegume Campground center on its unique natural features and outstanding recreational opportunities.

• Premier Fishing Destination: Directly connected to Little Cut Foot Sioux Lake, which provides access to the celebrated Cut Foot Sioux Lake and the massive Lake Winnibigoshish—renowned for trophy muskie, walleye, and excellent perch fishing.
• Trail System Access: Miles of forest trails are immediately accessible, including connections to the Simpson Creek Trail and the Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Trail, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and birding.
• High Site Privacy: The campground is set within a scenic forest of birch and red pine, which creates dense, wooded barriers between sites, offering more privacy and shade than many other forest campgrounds.
• Ease of Reservation: Unlike some first-come, first-served options, Onegume is generally reservable through the National Recreation Reservation System, allowing Minnesotans to secure a spot up to six months in advance, especially crucial for securing electric or lakefront sites.
• Wildlife and Birding: The lake is a habitat for abundant waterfowl and birds of prey, including loons, osprey, and bald eagles, providing excellent viewing opportunities right from the campsite.
• Historic Significance: Located on a historic Ojibwe portage route, the area has cultural significance, connecting the Mississippi River watershed to the northern waters flowing to Hudson Bay.

Contact Information

For general inquiries, current conditions, or information about the surrounding National Forest area, please contact the local U.S. Forest Service office:

Address: $44109 State Hwy 46, Deer River, MN 56636, USA$

Phone for Deer River Ranger District: $218-246-2123$

Reservations: Reservations for all National Forest campgrounds, including Onegume, are typically handled by Recreation.gov at 1-877-444-6777.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Onegume Campground is perfectly suited for Minnesota locals because it represents the pinnacle of accessible, yet authentic, Northwoods camping. It solves the common dilemma of balancing a deep wilderness experience with the practical needs of a modern family or a dedicated angler. For the RV owner, the availability of electric hookups at the majority of its 48 sites is a significant draw, allowing for a comfortable stay while being mere steps from one of the state's most revered fishing lakes.

Furthermore, the quiet, wooded setting and the impressive site size deliver the sought-after privacy that many state parks struggle to provide. While some sites, such as the widely discussed Site 20, may present a challenge for novice or large RV drivers due to the natural forest obstacles like trees and rocks, this is seen by many locals as part of the rustic charm and an indication of the site's preserved, natural character. A little extra effort to back into a spot is a small price to pay for the surrounding beauty, the lake views, and the immediate access to premier walleye fishing and extensive hiking trails. Onegume offers Minnesotans a reliable, well-equipped, and deeply rooted piece of the Chippewa National Forest—a true local treasure for creating lasting memories in the great outdoors.

Chippewa National Forest Onegume Campground

44109 State Hwy 46, Deer River, MN 56636, USA