Big Rice Lake

Area Status: Open

Big Rice Lake is a large, shallow lake- 1870 acres, maximum depth 5 feet. For 2000 years and continuing today, wild rice has been harvested from the lake. The area offers a drive-in rustic campground with 3 campsites, duck hunting, a boat launch for small boats and some fishing.

Downloadable map and information.

At a Glance

Closest Towns:	Virginia, MN
Water:	Boil or filter water.
Restroom:	Outhouse (Vault style) at boat
Operated By:	USDA Forest Service
Information Center:	Laurentian Ranger District Email \| Call \| Address \| Webpage

General Information

Directions:

Big Rice Lake is located 14 miles north of Virginia, MN.

From Virginia, take Highway 53 north for 8 miles to County Road 131.
Turn right on County Road 131 for 1 mile.
Turn left on County Road 68 for 0.3 mile.
Go straight on Pelton Road County 405 (County 405 becomes UT8116) for 2 miles.
Turn right on F.R. 256. This is a one-lane gravel road. Continue on for 6 miles.
Turn right on F.R. 247. One mile to Big Rice Lake.

General Notes:

Boat launch suitable only for small fishing boats or canoes.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Dispersed Camping

Near the boat launch there is a small rustic campground with 3 campsites. Sites are suitable for small RVs and tents. The campground has 1 vault outhouse.

Please use facilities provided such as fire rings, tent pads, and latrines and pack out garbage.