Leech Lake Campground

- 01217 Federal Dam Dr NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans whose perfect getaway centers on world-class fishing and a deep connection to the Northwoods, the Leech Lake Campground is an essential destination. Located in Federal Dam, Minnesota, and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) as part of the Mississippi River Headwaters Project, this is far more than a simple campsite—it's a full-service recreation area nestled in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest. Leech Lake, the state's third-largest lake, is renowned for its trophy-sized walleye, muskie, and northern pike, and this campground is explicitly designed to be the ultimate base camp for accessing this famed fishery.

The Leech Lake Campground is best known for its exceptionally large and well-maintained sites, which can comfortably accommodate any size of RV or camping unit, including large rigs. Campers consistently praise the ample space between sites, which are situated under a heavy cover of mature, mixed-pine trees, offering substantial shade and a wonderful sense of privacy. The atmosphere is generally quiet and serene, particularly in the evenings when the only sounds may be the iconic call of the loons on the water, although visitors should note that daytime hours may include the sounds of maintenance, such as leaf blowers and mowers, to keep the facility in excellent condition, particularly during the shoulder seasons.

Operating with a strong focus on water recreation, the facility offers superb access to Portage Bay on Leech Lake and the Leech River. With over 70 sites, including options with full utility hookups, this ACOE campground represents a perfect blend of modern convenience and pristine wilderness immersion, making it a favorite spot for local campers who have been returning for years.

Location and Accessibility

Leech Lake Campground is conveniently situated at 01217 Federal Dam Dr NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641, USA. This unique location places the campground directly at the outlet of Leech Lake, right where the Leech Lake River begins its flow, providing immediate access to both the vast lake and the river system.

This location in Federal Dam is deeply immersed in the Northwoods experience, sitting squarely within the boundaries of the Chippewa National Forest. While it offers a secluded feel that is prized by nature lovers, it remains accessible. It is approximately 35 minutes northeast of the more developed town of Walker, MN, and around 200 miles northwest of the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, making it a manageable drive for a Minnesota weekend or extended stay.

The campground's direct proximity to the Federal Dam structure provides not only a historical point of interest but also convenient shore-fishing opportunities (observing the 300-foot no-fishing zone above or below the dam). For campers arriving with boats, the multi-ramp access points and the on-site mooring canal simplify the process of getting out on the water and securing your craft overnight. The roads leading to and within the campground are reported to be easy to navigate, even for large RVs.

Services Offered

As a professionally managed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility, Leech Lake Campground provides an impressive array of services designed to maximize comfort and convenience for all campers, especially those focused on extended stays and water activities:

• Full Utility Hookups: The campground offers 73 wooded sites with electric hookups, including some premium sites with full hookups (electric, water, and sewer). All electric sites offer 50-amp service.
• Modern Comfort Station: Clean, modern facilities are a hallmark, including flush toilets, spacious hot showers, and a very popular free laundry room. These amenities significantly enhance the experience of longer camping trips.
• Boat Access and Mooring: There are multiple boat ramps available, offering easy access to both Leech Lake and the Leech River. A dedicated, well-maintained mooring canal and designated dock slips allow for secure, overnight docking of boats.
• Indoor Fish Cleaning Station: An essential service for local anglers is the fully equipped, indoor fish cleaning shack. This station often includes a grinder for waste disposal and a clean area for cleaning tools and filleting the day's catch.
• Sanitation and Waste: An easily accessible sanitary dump station is available for RVs, along with designated recycling areas to encourage waste reduction.
• Recreation Equipment: The campground features a variety of shared recreational amenities, including a playground for children, and courts/pits for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and horseshoes.

Features / Highlights

The reputation of Leech Lake Campground among Minnesota locals is built on its outstanding features, which cater perfectly to the Northwoods lifestyle:

• Angler’s Paradise: Located on Leech Lake, the campground provides access to one of the state's most productive fishing lakes. Campers consistently come here to target trophy walleye, muskie, and northern pike, and the on-site facilities are geared toward making this pursuit simple and successful.
• Large, Wooded Campsites: Unlike some crowded commercial parks, the sites here are exceptionally large, well-spaced, and situated beneath a beautiful canopy of mature trees, providing seclusion, shade, and a genuine forest feel.
• Unique Mooring Canal: The presence of a dedicated mooring canal is a significant advantage for boaters, offering a protected place to dock overnight, away from the main lake’s currents and waves.
• Accessibility to Trails: The area is surrounded by miles of scenic paths, including proximity to the Soo Line, Heartland, and North Country National Scenic Trails, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling (seasonally).
• Community and Atmosphere: The campground is noted for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Many guests are repeat visitors, contributing to a strong sense of community that makes it feel like a "favorite place to camp."

Contact Information

Leech Lake Campground is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE). For reservations and the most current operating information, contact the site office:

Campground Name: Leech Lake Campground (Leech Lake Recreation Area - ACOE)

Address: 01217 Federal Dam Dr NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641, USA

Phone: (218) 654-3145

Mobile Phone: +1 218-654-3145

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For local Minnesotans, Leech Lake Campground offers an unparalleled combination of factors that make it an ideal choice for a lake country vacation. It’s an authentic, government-run facility, which means reliable standards of cleanliness and maintenance are guaranteed. The camp's core identity—centered on fishing and boating—perfectly aligns with a deep-seated Minnesota tradition. Most campers arrive with their boats, a testament to the quality of the access and mooring facilities. The spacious, shaded, and clean campsites provide a genuine escape into the Northwoods without sacrificing the comfort of hot showers and on-site laundry.

Leech Lake Campground delivers the quintessence of the Minnesota lake experience: the quiet of the forest, the opportunity to reel in a trophy fish, and a friendly atmosphere that encourages return visits year after year. It’s not just a place to park an RV; it’s a time-honored tradition for those who know and love the North Star State’s waters.

Leech Lake Campground

01217 Federal Dam Dr NE, Federal Dam, MN 56641, USA