Fall Lake Campground

- Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731

Introduction / Overview

For local Minnesotans seeking the quintessential Northwoods experience without having to fully 'go primitive,' Fall Lake Campground, nestled on the scenic shores of Fall Lake outside of Ely, is an exceptional destination. This facility, managed by the Superior National Forest, expertly balances the rustic charm of a deep woods setting with the comfort and convenience modern families appreciate. Unlike the remote, permit-only campsites of the adjacent Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), Fall Lake Campground offers drive-up access, spacious, private sites, and essential amenities that make for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.

Known affectionately as the 'front door' to the BWCAW, Fall Lake Campground is strategically situated, making it a favorite spot for anglers, paddlers, and families alike. Visitors consistently praise the campground for its quiet, large, and heavily-wooded sites, which provide a rare sense of seclusion from neighboring campers—a significant highlight in the often-crowded summer season. It serves as an ideal basecamp: a place to enjoy a comfortable night's rest, take a hot shower, and properly prepare before launching a multi-day wilderness trip, or to return to after a rewarding day of exploring the surrounding area.

The experience here is pure Minnesota: waking up to the call of the loons, enjoying world-class fishing, and spending evenings around a crackling campfire beneath a canopy of majestic pine and aspen. Whether you are seeking a multi-week RV stay or a simple tent weekend, Fall Lake Campground offers a high-quality, memorable outdoor vacation that honors the wild spirit of the region.

Location and Accessibility

Fall Lake Campground is uniquely positioned in the Superior National Forest, just a short drive—approximately six miles—east of the historic and vibrant city of Ely, Minnesota. The official address is listed as Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731. Accessing the campground is straightforward, typically involving a short drive north and east from Ely on Highway 169 (which becomes County Road 18) before turning onto County Road 182 and the final Fall Lake Road approach.

The campground's primary appeal lies in its direct access to Fall Lake itself. Fall Lake is a significant body of water that acts as a major gateway for the BWCAW, specifically Entry Point #24. For those planning a wilderness canoe trip, this means minimal travel time between your comfortable campsite and the actual entry point launch. Moreover, the southern portion of Fall Lake, which borders the campground, allows for the use of motorboats (up to 25 horsepower for BWCAW trips), providing flexibility for fishing and day trips that may not be available deeper inside the wilderness area. Its location makes it perfectly suited for local users looking for convenient proximity to all the resources, outfitters, and cultural attractions Ely has to offer, while still being immersed in the Northwoods environment.

Services Offered

Fall Lake Campground is celebrated by local users for offering services that significantly enhance the comfort of a traditional camping experience, setting it apart from more primitive forest sites. Based on customer feedback, the following key services are consistently highlighted:

• Modern Bathhouse Facilities: The site features new, well-maintained flush toilets and shower facilities. These amenities are noted for their cleanliness and quality, often described by customers as “so nice and clean.” Access is secured via a key code, which you receive upon check-in, ensuring they are well-maintained for registered campers.
• Electric Hookups: Many of the campground's 60+ sites offer 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, accommodating a wide range of RVs, trailers, and tents requiring power. This service is a major draw for RV users and families needing power for medical devices or charging electronics.
• Canoe and Equipment Rentals: A major convenience for both seasoned paddlers and first-timers is the ability to rent canoes directly from the on-site office. This streamlines the process of getting on the water and into the wilderness.
• On-Site Camp Office/Store: The camp office often acts as a small store, providing essentials like firewood, ice, and possibly snacks or treats, saving campers an unnecessary trip back into town.
• Dedicated Camp Hosts: Multiple reviews praise the campground hosts for being "soooooo amazing," indicating a high level of on-site service, helpfulness, and campground management.
• Trash Collection and Potable Water: Designated areas for trash disposal and readily available potable water stations ensure a sanitary and comfortable stay.

Features / Highlights

Beyond the standard services, Fall Lake Campground features a number of natural and developed highlights that contribute to its standing as a premier destination for Minnesota campers:

• Spacious, Private Sites: The layout of the campground prioritizes camper privacy, with sites that are large and heavily wooded. Customer feedback confirms that sites are "large and well spaced out," where you can "hardly see our neighbors’ site from our own."
• Direct BWCAW Access: As the site for BWCA Entry Point #24, the campground is the perfect launchpad for wilderness adventures into the stunning canoe routes leading to Newton, Basswood, and Mud Lakes.
• Family-Friendly Recreation Area: The campground features a dedicated, small swimming beach on Fall Lake and a well-maintained playground, making it an excellent choice for families with young children.
• Hiking Opportunities: A popular 1.5-mile hiking trail is accessible from the campground, offering families a chance to explore the Northwoods on foot without committing to a full wilderness trek.
• Excellent Fishing and Boating: Fall Lake is known for its multi-species fishing, including Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass. The ability to use a motor (up to 25hp) on the lake's southern portion provides a recreational edge over the rest of the protected wilderness area.

Contact Information

For reservations, local inquiries, or to speak with the on-site management, please use the following contact information. Remember that reservations for sites are typically managed through the National Recreation Reservation Service (Recreation.gov) but the local office is best for day-of information.

• Address: Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA
• On-Site Campground Office Phone (Seasonal): (218) 365-2963
• Kawishiwi Ranger District (Superior National Forest): (218) 365-7600 (for administrative/permit questions)
• Online Reservations: Search for "Fall Lake Campground, MN" on Recreation.gov

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Fall Lake Campground is an invaluable asset to the Minnesota outdoor community. For locals, it represents the ideal balance between raw wilderness adventure and domestic comfort. We understand the draw of the deep BWCA, but also the logistical challenges it presents. Fall Lake solves this dilemma by being the most convenient and comfortable staging area for that trip, offering secure parking, clean lodging, and essential rental services (like canoes) right at the boundary.

For families or those with RVs, this campground offers a level of quality—with modern, clean bathhouses, electrical hookups, and spacious, private sites—that rivals the best in the state, all while placing you directly in the magical Northwoods environment we cherish. It is a place where you can confidently introduce children to camping, secure in the knowledge that clean facilities and helpful hosts are nearby. Fall Lake Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is your reliable, comfortable, and beautifully-wooded home base for experiencing the wild heart of Minnesota.

Fall Lake Campground

Fall Lk Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA