Dry Lake Campsite

- 1477 Co Hwy 116, Ely, MN 55731

For many Minnesota residents, a true camping trip means getting away from the crowds—trading RV hookups and bustling bathhouses for the quiet rustle of the Northwoods pines. The Dry Lake Campsite, situated near the legendary outdoor hub of Ely, offers exactly this kind of authentic, rustic experience. Located deep within the Superior National Forest, this small, designated campsite provides a scenic and secluded basecamp for exploring the area's rich network of trails and lakes.

The Dry Lake Campsite is not a large, developed campground; rather, it is a single, designated wilderness campsite that offers a more solitary experience than typical drive-up sites. It is found on the shores of Dry Lake, a body of water in the network of lakes connected to the historic Bass Lake area. This location is particularly popular because it provides the solitude of backcountry camping but with relatively easier, car-accessible proximity.

The site is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Superior National Forest, specifically under the Kawishiwi Ranger District. Visitors praise the atmosphere, noting it is a peaceful spot with a "nice view of Dry lake" and direct "access to water is right there." This makes it an excellent choice for a weekend of fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the fire.

However, potential visitors should be aware that because it is a rustic site tucked away off the main road, the approach can be confusing. As one review noted, attempting to use the provided address directly can be misleading ("Brings you to a private driveway. Not accurate. No idea where this campsite is."). This confusion highlights the need for local campers to rely on detailed Forest Service maps and local knowledge, rather than just GPS, to successfully navigate the final approach to this secluded spot. It requires a self-reliant attitude from the start.

The Dry Lake Campsite is located near Ely, Minnesota, in the heart of the Superior National Forest's most popular recreational areas.

General Location: 1477 Co Hwy 116, Ely, MN 55731, USA

The site's general location is on or just off County Road 116, famously known as the Echo Trail. The Echo Trail is a scenic, rugged byway that provides access to numerous lakes, hiking trails, and the various entry points into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).

Accessibility Details: The most reliable way to find this secluded spot is not solely through the general GPS address, but by combining it with local Forest Service guidance. The site is a designated, car-accessible spot, but the final turn-off may be discreet, often marked only by a small Forest Service sign or fire number, which can be easily missed.

The key for successful access is to locate the campsite's spur road or parking area directly off the Echo Trail (County Road 116). This area is close to other regional features such as the Bass Lake Trailhead. Campers should travel with a printed map of the Kawishiwi Ranger District to ensure they navigate the forest roads correctly, mitigating the potential confusion noted in customer reviews.

As a rustic, designated single campsite, the amenities at Dry Lake Campsite are minimal but essential for a comfortable wilderness stay. This model of camping appeals to those who prefer self-sufficiency over extensive campground services.

• Latrine: A designated, rustic vault or pit latrine is provided to ensure proper sanitation and adherence to environmental guidelines, confirmed by customer reviews.
• Fire Grate: A metal fire grate is typically available for contained campfires, allowing for safe cooking and a classic campfire experience (always check for local burn bans).
• Tent Pad/Clearing: A relatively flat, cleared area is designated for tent setup, offering a suitable spot away from fragile vegetation.
• Direct Lake Access: Access to Dry Lake is available "right there," perfect for non-motorized boat launching (kayak, canoe) and gathering water (which must be filtered/treated).
• Parking: Limited, dedicated parking for one or two vehicles is available at or near the campsite.
• Absence of Developed Amenities: There are no showers, flush toilets, electrical hookups, potable water spigots, or picnic tables (bring your own chairs and tables).

The unique draw of the Dry Lake Campsite lies in its combination of seclusion and its connection to the rich natural and historical landscape of the Ely area.

• True Seclusion with Car Access: This is arguably the top feature. The site offers the quiet, low-density experience of dispersed camping while providing the convenience of car access, making packing and unpacking significantly easier.
• Scenic Dry Lake View: The campsite is positioned to provide a beautiful, unobstructed "nice view of Dry lake," offering a classic Northwoods vista from your tent door.
• Gateway to the Bass Lake Trail: The campsite is in close proximity to the historic and ecologically significant Bass Lake Trail, which features beautiful overlooks, small waterfalls, and varied terrain, ideal for day hiking.
• Ideal for Non-Motorized Recreation: The easy water access makes this site perfect for small-craft enthusiasts (kayakers, canoers) looking to spend the day fishing or paddling on a quiet, beautiful lake.
• Affordable & Self-Reliant Camping: The rustic nature of the site means it often has a low or no overnight fee (check current Forest Service rates), appealing to budget-conscious campers who prize self-reliance.

For the most accurate information on directions, current operating status, fees, and to confirm the exact location of the Dry Lake Campsite, it is always recommended that local users contact the managing Forest Service district directly.

Managing Ranger District:

Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest

Address: 1393 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Phone: (218) 365-7600

Note: Since the campsite is remote, it is highly advisable to call the ranger district before arrival to ask for specific directions that complement your GPS, as the precise turn-off on the Echo Trail can be challenging to find.

The Dry Lake Campsite is ideally suited for Minnesota locals who have a deep appreciation for the state's rugged, unrefined wilderness. It provides an essential middle ground for campers: more solitude and natural beauty than a large, organized resort campground, but more convenience than a multi-day backcountry portage trip into the BWCAW.

For the experienced Minnesotan camper, the challenge of finding the discreet driveway off the Echo Trail is not a deterrent, but part of the adventure—a necessary step to unlock the "private" experience that makes a Northwoods trip worthwhile. Once established, the direct access to Dry Lake and the nearby hiking opportunities along the historic Bass Lake Trail offer quintessential Minnesota outdoor recreation. This site allows you to reconnect with the pristine landscape, offering a peaceful, low-impact retreat where the focus is solely on the scenic lake view, the campfire, and the quiet satisfaction of a successfully executed, self-sufficient camping trip.

Dry Lake Campsite

1477 Co Hwy 116, Ely, MN 55731, USA