Cliff Wold's Campground

- 339 Fernberg Rd, Ely, MN 55731

Introduction / Overview

For any Minnesotan whose heart belongs to the call of the Northwoods, Cliff Wold's Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a legendary starting line for true wilderness adventures. Located near the classic gateway community of Ely, Minnesota, this establishment has been a trusted partner to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) trippers and outdoor enthusiasts since 1961. It is a genuine local institution, known for providing not only spacious, wooded campsites but also comprehensive outfitting services that turn complex expedition planning into a seamless, enjoyable process.

Cliff Wold's expertly bridges the gap between civilization and the raw wilderness. Whether you are a local resident looking to spend a quiet weekend car camping or an experienced paddler gearing up for a two-week BWCAW trek, the facility serves as a vital 'Basecamp'—a hub of clean accommodations, professional service, and local knowledge. This unique dual identity, functioning as both a comfortable campground and a world-class outfitter, makes it an indispensable resource for our state's wilderness explorers. As many have noted, the service quality is paramount, transforming a logistically challenging wilderness trip into a highly memorable and well-supported experience. It is the assurance of quality gear, detailed route planning, and the promise of a refreshing post-trip shower that cements Cliff Wold's reputation among Minnesota's outdoor community.

Location and Accessibility

Cliff Wold's Campground holds an enviable and highly convenient location right on the famed Fernberg Road, one of the primary arteries for accessing the eastern entry points of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The facility is situated just a short drive—approximately four miles—from the heart of Ely, Minnesota, positioning it perfectly for local users.

The physical address is 339 Fernberg Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA. This location on the Fernberg Road means local residents can easily pick up their gear, drop off their vehicle, and secure their campsite or bunkroom before heading into the wilderness, or immediately upon exiting it. The proximity to Ely is a significant advantage, allowing quick access to the town's shops, restaurants, and other recreational amenities like the International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center, which are often part of a complete Northwoods vacation.

Accessibility is generally excellent. The drive time from major Minnesota population centers like Duluth is under two hours, and from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul, it is an achievable and scenic drive of under four hours. The location on a main wilderness access road simplifies logistics for all visitors, making it a stress-free launch point into the northern lakes.

Services Offered

Cliff Wold's offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored specifically for the needs of campers and wilderness trippers, ranging from basic lodging to full-scale outfitting.

• Campground Accommodations: Spacious, wooded campsites suitable for tent camping.
• Indoor Lodging: Private bunkrooms available for groups, providing a comfortable, pre- or post-trip alternative to camping.
• Modern Bath Facilities: Full shower and sauna facilities, including modern flush toilets, a crucial amenity for trippers fresh off the wilderness trail.
• Bathroom Variety: Both modern bathroom facilities and privy (vault) toilets are available across the property.
• Outfitting Packages: Complete and partial outfitting services, covering lightweight canoes (including Kevlar), high-quality gear rental (tents, stoves, packs), and custom-packed food menus.
• Trip Planning and Guidance: Expert-level route planning assistance, including tailored suggestions and hand-marked maps for the best campsites and fishing spots.
• Vehicle and Shuttle Services: Secure basecamp parking and transportation shuttles to and from various BWCAW and Quetico entry points.
• Retail Store: On-site store providing BWCA maps, gear, essential supplies, and the convenience of purchasing Minnesota fishing licenses.

Features / Highlights

The combination of a well-maintained campground and professional outfitting expertise sets Cliff Wold's apart as a premier Northwoods destination.

• One-Stop Wilderness Preparation: Functioning as a full-service outfitter, groups can arrive with minimal preparation and leave fully equipped and briefed, thanks to the quality, tailored suggestions and detailed equipment overviews provided by the staff.
• Quality Accommodations: The facility is noted for being clean and well-maintained, offering comfortable overnight stays whether in a secluded campsite or a private bunkroom.
• Crucial Post-Trip Amenities: The availability of hot showers and sauna facilities is frequently highlighted by customers as a refreshing and much-needed service after several days in the wilderness.
• Expert Local Knowledge: The staff’s decades of experience (serving trippers since 1961) translate into invaluable, hand-marked maps and advice that significantly enhance a group's success and enjoyment in the BWCAW.
• Focus on Sustainability: The operation demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship through eco-friendly purchasing, local food options, and water conservation practices.
• Accessibility for All Groups: The outfitter is experienced in managing large group canoe trips and offers special discounts for non-profit organizations, making the wilderness accessible to youth and community groups.

Contact Information

To plan your next trip or reserve a spot at the campground or a bunkroom, the team at Cliff Wold's is readily available.

Address: 339 Fernberg Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Phone: (218) 365-3267 or Toll-Free: 1-800-777-8546

It is highly recommended that Minnesota residents planning a BWCAW trip contact the outfitter in advance to discuss their route, reserve permits, and secure their equipment and accommodations, especially during the peak summer season.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Cliff Wold's Campground is uniquely positioned as the ideal launchpad and sanctuary for Minnesotans venturing into their home state's iconic wilderness. For local users, the convenience is unmatched—it’s close enough to Ely for necessary supplies yet immediately adjacent to the wilderness entry points off the Fernberg Road. This facility eliminates the common barriers to wilderness travel. You don't need to own thousands of dollars of lightweight gear; you can simply arrive, receive professional advice that is 'quality, tailored,' and be equipped with everything from a Kevlar canoe to a meticulously planned map. The customer testimonial confirms its value: it provides the essential 'Basecamp and parking location' and, critically, the 'showers after our trip, which was refreshing and needed.' For the Minnesota resident, this represents a streamlined path to a deep-wilderness experience, backed by local expertise and over sixty years of dedicated service. It is a place where every step of a trip, from the initial gear check to the final hot shower, is executed with first-class care, ensuring a successful and memorable journey into the treasured Boundary Waters. Cliff Wold's is truly the local professional that makes the legendary wilderness accessible and enjoyable for everyone in Minnesota.

Cliff Wold's Campground

339 Fernberg Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA