Clint Converse State Forest Campground

For Minnesotans who truly cherish the unadulterated beauty of our state's vast forests and clear lakes, a trip to a rustic campground offers an unparalleled sense of escape. If your ideal outdoor adventure involves towering pines, excellent fishing, and a back-to-basics approach to camping, then Clint Converse State Forest Campground in Outing, MN, deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Nestled within the beautiful Land O'Lakes State Forest, this campground provides a genuine wilderness experience, perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground is named after Clinton Converse, a long-serving forest ranger who was instrumental in establishing this very site on Washburn Lake. This history adds a layer of appreciation for its enduring natural character. As a state forest campground, it offers a more primitive setting compared to many state parks or private campgrounds, emphasizing the raw appeal of the Minnesota outdoors. One reviewer aptly noted, "Rustic campground with only satellite toilets and a hand pump for water, no electric hook ups." This transparency highlights its appeal to campers who prefer simplicity and self-reliance over extensive amenities.

What truly sets this campground apart for local users is its raw natural beauty and the abundance of recreational opportunities it provides, even with minimal facilities. Imagine casting a line and "Caught pike, bluegill and largemouth bass from the bank despite being shallow," as one satisfied angler recounted. The presence of "massive red and white pines" paints a picture of the majestic forest environment that surrounds you. While it's true that "no dumpster" and "bags of trash can be found in pit toilets and woods behind campsites" are points of concern that highlight the importance of practicing Leave No Trace principles, the core experience remains one of peaceful communion with nature. For Minnesotans seeking quiet solitude during the week, beautiful scenery, and rewarding fishing, Clint Converse State Forest Campground offers a robust and authentic outdoor escape.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground is located at 5861 Lake Washburn Rd NE, Outing, MN 56662, USA. This places it deep within the Land O'Lakes State Forest, in the north-central part of Minnesota. The town of Outing itself is a small community known for its access to numerous lakes and dense forests, embodying the quintessential Minnesota "Up North" experience.

For Minnesotans, reaching this campground involves a journey into the heart of the state's lake and forest country.

Typical driving times from major Minnesota population centers are:

• From Minneapolis/St. Paul: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a manageable drive for a weekend or longer stay.

• From Brainerd/Baxter: Roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, as Outing is north of this regional hub.

• From Duluth: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

The campground is situated along Lake Washburn Rd NE, indicating direct access to the campground via a county road. While reviews mention that "Can hear cars on the road but hardly any traffic at night during the week," this indicates reasonable road access while still providing a sense of being immersed in the forest. As a state forest campground, expect roads leading to the sites to be gravel, and conditions may vary. The location on Lake Washburn also means direct lake access for water activities. It's also important to note that the campground allows Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) access, with OHVs permitted to access the campground using existing routes, which can be a draw for riders looking for a base camp.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground provides a rustic camping experience, focusing on basic amenities to allow campers to connect with nature without extensive modern conveniences.

• Campsites: The campground offers 31 standard, non-electric campsites. These sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, although without electrical hookups. Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring.

• Toilets: Vault toilets (also referred to as "satellite toilets" or "pit toilets" in reviews) are available.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available via a hand pump. Campers should be prepared to pump their own water.

• Boat Launch: There is a boat launch providing direct access to Washburn Lake, making it convenient for those bringing watercraft.

• Fishing Dock/Access: A dock is available on the lower part of the park for fishing. Reviewers confirm successful fishing from the bank.

• Day-Use Area: A day-use/picnic area is also located near the campground for visitors not staying overnight.

• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no advance reservations are typically taken for individual sites.

• Garbage: While reviews mention a lack of dumpsters, implying a "pack it in, pack it out" policy is crucial, official DNR information for state forest campgrounds generally states "garbage containers" are provided. It's critical to confirm current waste disposal policies before your visit and be prepared to pack out all trash.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground, despite its rustic nature, offers several appealing features and highlights that draw in Minnesotans:

• Towering Pine Forests: The campground is nestled among "massive red and white pines," providing a beautiful and classic Northwoods Minnesota ambiance. The mature trees offer ample shade and a sense of deep immersion in nature.

• Excellent Fishing on Washburn Lake: A significant draw is the productive fishing opportunities on Washburn Lake. Reviewers confirm catching "pike, bluegill and largemouth bass from the bank," indicating that successful angling is possible directly from the campground's access points or dock.

• Quiet Weekday Experience: For those seeking true tranquility, the campground is "quiet during the week," offering a peaceful escape from crowds.

• Level Campsites: Many sites are described as "nice flat spots" or having "some great level campsites," which is a significant advantage for setting up tents or leveling RVs.

• OHV Access: The campground allows Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) access using existing routes. This is a key feature for OHV enthusiasts looking for a base camp to explore the surrounding state forest trails.

• Boat and Lake Access: With a boat launch and a dock on Washburn Lake, campers have direct access for boating, paddling, and enjoying the water.

• Historic Significance: The campground's history as a former CCC camp and its naming after Ranger Clinton Converse adds a unique historical dimension to the site.

• Back-to-Basics Camping: For purists who enjoy "roughing it" slightly, the lack of electric hookups and reliance on hand-pumped water and vault toilets provides an authentic, traditional camping experience.

As a state forest campground managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Clint Converse State Forest Campground does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Instead, its appeal lies in its consistent, affordable pricing and its first-come, first-served availability.

• Affordable Nightly Fee: Individual campsites generally cost around $17 per night. This makes it a very budget-friendly option for a rustic camping experience in Minnesota.

• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required or available for individual sites. This offers flexibility for spontaneous trips, though it also means it's wise to arrive early during peak season or on weekends to secure a spot.

• No Hidden Fees (Beyond Standard): The fee covers the site and basic amenities. There are generally no additional charges for basic use once you've paid your nightly fee.

It's always recommended to check the official Minnesota DNR website or contact the park office directly for the most current fee information and any operational updates.

For general inquiries about Clint Converse State Forest Campground, its facilities, or conditions, you can use the following contact information. Please remember that individual campsites are first-come, first-served, and direct reservations are not typically taken at the campground level.

• Address: 5861 Lake Washburn Rd NE, Outing, MN 56662, USA

• Phone: (218) 546-5926

• Mobile Phone: +1 218-546-5926

For broader information about state forest campgrounds, rules, or general DNR inquiries, the Minnesota DNR website (www.dnr.state.mn.us) is an excellent resource. You can often find detailed maps and specific regulations for state forests and campgrounds there.

Clint Converse State Forest Campground is an exceptional fit for Minnesotans who value an authentic, no-frills outdoor experience in the heart of our beautiful Northwoods. It speaks to the adventurous spirit that many locals share, offering a genuine escape from the daily grind without requiring a significant journey out of state.

Its rustic nature, with vault toilets and hand-pumped water, appeals to those who are comfortable with, and even prefer, a more traditional camping style. This minimalist approach allows for a deeper connection with the natural environment, focusing on the simple pleasures of a campfire under "massive red and white pines" and the sounds of the forest. The affordability, at around $17 a night, makes it an accessible option for frequent escapes, demonstrating that a memorable outdoor adventure doesn't have to break the bank.

The primary draws for locals are undoubtedly the excellent fishing opportunities on Washburn Lake, where you can "Catch pike, bluegill and largemouth bass from the bank," and the peaceful atmosphere, especially "quiet during the week." For OHV enthusiasts, the integrated access makes it a prime base camp for exploring trails. While some reviews mention the lack of a dumpster and road noise, these elements reinforce the expectation of a true forest camping experience – one where you pack out what you pack in, and embrace the sounds of the natural world, even if it includes distant traffic. For Minnesotans who genuinely seek to immerse themselves in our state's wild beauty, prioritize quietude and fishing, and appreciate a rustic, well-located campground, Clint Converse State Forest Campground offers a perfect, unassuming slice of paradise.