Entry Point 24

- Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans looking to experience the majesty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) without fully committing to a primitive, off-the-grid entry, the combined facilities of Entry Point 24 and the adjacent Fall Lake Campground offer the ultimate solution. This location, situated conveniently near Ely, is celebrated by local users as a highly functional and comfortable staging area. It is a dual-purpose destination: a full-service campground managed by the US Forest Service, and a primary access point (Entry Point 24) into the vast, paddle-only wilderness.

The core appeal of this location is its unique blend of "front country" convenience and "back country" opportunity. The campground itself is often described as a beautiful, well-maintained facility nestled among the majestic pine and aspen of the Superior National Forest. It provides essential amenities that serve as a perfect decompression zone both before launching into the BWCAW and immediately upon return. Whether you are a dedicated angler seeking Fall Lake's renowned fishing, a family enjoying the Northwoods in an RV, or a seasoned paddler beginning a multi-day trek into Basswood Lake, Entry Point 24 and Fall Lake Campground provide a clean, secure, and professional environment for your wilderness adventure.

The facility is noted for its accessibility, catering to a wide range of camping styles, from tent campers to large RVs, with many sites offering electrical hookups. This combination of amenities and its direct link to one of the most popular canoe routes makes it a standout choice in the Ely area.

Location and Accessibility

Entry Point 24 and Fall Lake Campground are strategically located just a few miles east of the historic outfitting town of Ely, Minnesota. The site's physical address, Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA, directs visitors along State Highway 169 (which becomes County Road 18) before turning onto Fall Lake Road. This short drive from Ely ensures that last-minute supplies, outfitter services, and local attractions like the International Wolf Center are all within easy reach.

Accessibility is a major strength of this location. The campground and entry point feature paved and well-maintained gravel roads that are suitable for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trucks towing canoe trailers. The Entry Point 24 launch area is particularly well-designed, featuring an "easy unload area" right by a convenient dock, which significantly streamlines the process of transferring canoes and gear from vehicle to water—a crucial factor for any BWCA trip.

Furthermore, the spacious parking area includes "extra long spots to accommodate canoe trailers," which is a highly valued feature for organized local groups and outfitter operations. The proximity of the campground to the actual entry point means minimal hassle for those staying overnight before their permit start date, making for an efficient and stress-free start to a wilderness trip.

Services Offered

The Fall Lake Campground and Entry Point 24 area provide a comprehensive array of services that significantly enhance the overall Northwoods experience, distinguishing it from more primitive Forest Service sites. These features prioritize both convenience and comfort for the visitor.

• Full Service Restrooms: The campground boasts clean, modern restrooms featuring flush toilets.
• Hot Showers: Access to very clean restrooms with hot showers is a key service, highly praised by campers, especially those returning from a multi-day BWCAW trip who can purchase shower time upon exit.
• Electrical Hookups: A significant number of the 64 campsites offer electrical hookups (30 and 50 amp) to accommodate RVs and trailers, a rarity in this remote region.
• On-Site Campground Store: A concessionaire-operated facility often offers essentials like firewood, ice, and basic supplies.
• Canoe/Kayak Rentals: Rentals are available on-site, providing a convenient option for visitors who do not own their own watercraft.
• Dump Station: Available for RV and trailer waste disposal, adding to the self-sufficiency of the site.
• Potable Water: Easily accessible electric-powered faucets provide a dependable source of safe drinking water throughout the campground.

Features / Highlights

Entry Point 24 is one of the most highly regarded access points into the BWCAW for several reasons, focusing on ease of use and the quality of the surrounding facilities.

• Direct BWCAW Access: Fall Lake is Entry Point 24, providing direct water access to routes leading into major wilderness lakes like Newton, Basswood, and Mud Lakes with relatively short initial portages, a major draw for paddlers.
• Motorized Watercraft Allowed: Part of Fall Lake allows for the use of motorized boats (up to a 25 h.p. limit for overnight motor permits), offering a unique flexibility that is not common across all BWCAW entry points.
• Superior Boat Launch & Dock: Features a convenient dock and boat landing, making the process of launching and retrieving watercraft, especially those carrying heavy wilderness gear, exceptionally smooth.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The campground includes a playground, a swimming beach on Fall Lake, and a dedicated picnic area, making it ideal for families seeking a recreational environment.
• Onsite Latrine: The entry point features an "onsite latrine for one last shred of human existence," providing an essential convenience right at the water's edge before groups embark into the wilderness.
• Hiking Trail: A 1.5-mile hiking trail is available right from the campground, offering a pleasant, easy excursion for non-paddlers or a warm-up before a longer trek.

Contact Information

The Fall Lake Campground and Entry Point 24 are managed by the US Forest Service under the Superior National Forest and operated by a concessionaire during the main season.

Address: Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA (Physical location is 14197 Fall Lake Rd)

Phone: (For campground inquiries and operations during the summer season)

For general Forest Service information and BWCAW permits, local users are encouraged to contact the responsible ranger district.

Kawishiwi Ranger District Phone: (218) 365-7600 (A key resource for permits and regulations)

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Minnesotans, Fall Lake Campground and Entry Point 24 are perfectly suited to the local lifestyle, serving multiple recreational needs with exceptional quality. It provides a convenient and flexible approach to accessing the region's signature wilderness. Locals benefit from the fact that this is one of the "deluxe" entry points—it removes many logistical hurdles that can complicate a BWCAW trip.

The ability to park a large canoe trailer, easily unload at the dock, and then secure a comfortable electric campsite with hot showers for the "de-lousing" post-trip is invaluable. This location is a haven for the mixed-interest group: one family member can head into the BWCAW for a week-long paddle while the rest of the family enjoys the full amenities, beach, and local attractions in Ely, all from a scenic, well-run basecamp. It is the practical choice for anglers who want motor access on Fall Lake and for the seasoned paddler who appreciates the highly efficient launch area and the proximity to the major routes leading to Basswood Lake. Fall Lake represents the finest intersection of modern camping convenience and unparalleled wilderness accessibility in the Northwoods.

Entry Point 24

Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA