How much does camping cost at August Lake?

Camping fees at August Lake range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is August Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

August Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Null

Can I see photos of campsites at August Lake before I book?

Yes! August Lake has 2 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit August Lake?

August Lake is open Null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at August Lake?

August Lake does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at August Lake?

Fire policies at August Lake: Fires are allowed only in provided fire rings.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does August Lake have?

August Lake has 2 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at August Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at August Lake. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at August Lake?

August Lake offers: Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at August Lake?

Popular activities at August Lake include Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

August Lake

0 review

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Minnesota

Quick Facts

1,555 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Office is open from ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,555 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Office is open from ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

August Lake

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There is no mention of camping fees in the source materials.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

(218) 365-7600SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

August Lake

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Nearby places

Ely (approximately 4 miles)

Nearby supplies

Ely, MN (groceries, camping supplies, fuel)

Weather at August Lake

Best Time to Camp at August Lake

Summer delivers the warmest and most practical conditions. Daytime highs run 65–80°F, with nights cooling to 45–60°F. Late June is especially comfortable, with afternoons around 72°F and nights near 51°F. This is prime time for fishing, paddling, and loading gear at the drive-up site without mud or snow complications. Winter transforms the area into snow-covered terrain suitable for ice fishing and snowshoeing, though temperatures drop well below freezing and access becomes significantly harder.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer temps 65–80°F; summer is the most practical season for use.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Office is open from April 28 to September 30. Information for camping season is not provided.

About August Lake

August Lake sits deep in Superior National Forest near Ely, offering two primitive campsites on 228 acres of undeveloped water. One site has vehicle access; the other requires a paddle across the lake. Both are secluded, backcountry-style spots with fire rings and tent pads. No fees are listed, and services are minimal.

August Lake provides a backcountry camping experience with two campsites designed for minimal-impact use.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the warmest and most practical conditions. Daytime highs run 65–80°F, with nights cooling to 45–60°F. Late June is especially comfortable, with afternoons around 72°F and nights near 51°F. This is prime time for fishing, paddling, and loading gear at the drive-up site without mud or snow complications. Winter transforms the area into snow-covered terrain suitable for ice fishing and snowshoeing, though temperatures drop well below freezing and access becomes significantly harder.

ElevationNestled within the gently rolling terrain of northern Minnesota's lake country, August Lake sits at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access while maintaining its secluded character amidst the surrounding forest landscape.

Natural Features and SceneryThe lake stretches across six miles of shoreline, rimmed by boreal forest and exposed bedrock typical of Minnesota's glacially-carved North Woods. Dense stands of pine and hardwood come right to the water's edge. The water holds walleye and northern pike. At 1,555 feet elevation, the terrain is relatively flat, and the surrounding forest feels thick and quiet. Wildlife sightings are common, though specific species aren't detailed in the available data.

Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, August Lake exemplifies the region's glacially-carved landscape. This secluded water body, surrounded by dense boreal forest, showcases the area's characteristic blend of ancient bedrock, pristine waters, and thriving wilderness ecosystems that define Minnesota's legendary North Woods.

Scenic Views“August Lake provides serene views with its expansive shoreline and dense forest surroundings.”

Lodging & AccommodationsHotel-style lodging or accommodations are not available as this is a backcountry camping location.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs in the source material.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Nine people per site limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Nine people per site.

Groups

No group camping facilities are mentioned, and the maximum capacity for each site is limited to nine people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo dispersed sites total. One has vehicle access, the other water-access only. Both include designated tent pads and fire rings. Spacing and terrain between them aren't described, but the water-only site guarantees distance from road traffic.

Reservation PlatformsNull

Walk-in AvailabilityNull

Cancellation PolicyNull

AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features is provided, and the remote nature of the site may make it challenging for campers with disabilities.

Site SizeThe campsites are designed for backcountry use, and specific size descriptions are not provided. There are designated tent pads available.

PrivacyThe campsites are secluded, with one accessible by vehicle and the other water-accessed only, ensuring a private camping experience.

Total Campsites2 campsites

Recommended SitesThe vehicle-accessible site is more convenient, but those seeking solitude might prefer the water-access-only site.

Best CampsitesThe water-access site offers more isolation. You'll need to paddle your gear across, which filters out casual visitors. The drive-up site sees more use but gives you the convenience of unloading directly at camp. No specific site numbers or layout details are provided beyond these two options.

Amenities available

Restrooms are not available at this site. Potable water is not available at this site. Campers could filter or boil water from August Lake.

Fire rings

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

August Lake offers a range of activities tailored to the natural, rugged environment. Key activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Fishing

The lake is ideal for fishing, with species such as walleye and northern pike noted. Other species include bluegill, burbot, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed, rock bass, yellow perch, white sucker, blacknose shiner, bluntnose minnow, golden shiner, Iowa darter, Johnny darter, minnows, sculpin, and tadpole madtom. As per the authoritative content, this lake has 'good walleye and northern pike fishing.'

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife interactions, lack of potable water, and challenging backcountry terrain.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not provided at this campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in provided fire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Null

Emergency ServicesKawishiwi Ranger District, 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731, Phone: (218) 365-7600

Trash & RecyclingCampers are required to pack out all garbage as no trash or recycling facilities are provided.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located directly on August Lake, a 228-acre body of water with a maximum depth of 19 feet.

Cell CoverageInformation on cell phone service is not provided, indicating it may be unreliable or unavailable due to the remote nature of the campground.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

0 reviews

Limited Reviews

August Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

No user reviews are included in the provided data.

Review Summaries

What Campers Love

The campground's secluded and natural setting, along with good fishing opportunities, are clear highlights based on the authoritative content.

Common Concerns

Lack of facilities such as restrooms, showers, potable water, and trash services may be a challenge for some campers.

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews are included in the provided data.

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to pack out all garbage, bring their own potable water, and prepare for a backcountry experience. Boaters should follow Minnesota State boating laws and ensure safety for dogs if...

Seasonal Insights

No seasonal trends are detailed in the source material.

Camper Quotes

No direct quotes from users are available in the data.

Accessibility Features

No reviews concerning accessibility are included in the provided data.

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are permitted, but specific reviews regarding pet experiences are not included. However, guidelines for pets highlight the importance of keeping dogs leashed and providing ample water and shade.

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Anglers or paddlers who want a backcountry-style setup without a portage lottery. The drive-up site works for loading gear; the water-access site puts serious distance between you and anyone else. Bring all your water and pack everything out.

Skip if

No toilets, no potable water, and first-come-first-served with only two sites means a wasted drive is a real possibility. Car campers expecting even basic facilities will be disappointed.

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