How much does camping cost at Fall Lake?

Camping fees at Fall Lake are $30 - $130/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

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

Fall Lake accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

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

Yes! Fall Lake has 14 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 Fall Lake?

Fall Lake is open May 01 to September 25. 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 Fall Lake?

Yes, Fall Lake has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Fall Lake?

Cell phone service at Fall Lake is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Fall Lake have?

Fall Lake has 62 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Fall Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at Fall 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 Fall Lake?

Fall Lake offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Fall Lake

Q: Can I have a campfire at Fall Lake?

Fire policies at Fall Lake: Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.74

597 reviews

KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT, 1393 HIGHWAY 169, ELY, MN, 55731, USA

Top 8% in MNFall

AReport Card

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Tent Camping Minnesota#1 Swimming Camping Minnesota#1 Hiking Camping Minnesota#1 +13 more

Quick Facts

1,348 ft

Price

$30 - $130/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

62 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,348 ft

Price

$30 - $130/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

62 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT Official Website

Get Directions

Fall Lake

$30.00 - $130.00 / night

Campsite Fees

30AMP FEE SITE: $38.00; Electric 30 AMP site : $38.00; Electric 50 AMP site : $40.00; GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC-GS1: $130.00; GROUP STANDARD...

Group Site Fee$120.00

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT: 218-365-7600, CONCESSIONAIRE (SUMMER): 218-365-2963

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT, 1393 HIGHWAY 169, ELY, MN, 55731, USA

Fall Lake

KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT, 1393 HIGHWAY 169, ELY, MN, 55731, USA

Nearby places

Ely, MN - Approximately 8 miles, Duluth, MN - Approximately 100 miles

Weather at Fall Lake

Current alerts(6)

All reservable sites, except 26, 33 and 41 (tent-only) have electric hookups; sites 5, 10, 15, 16, 18 and 62 have 20, 30 and 50 amp service available
Click here to learn more about Superior National Forest Superior National Forest
Please Note: One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee. Extra vehicle will be charged a per night fee and collected at the campground.
Refunds : Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee.

Best Time to Camp at Fall Lake

Best season: fall. Visit in fall for the spectacular northern woods color and crisp, clear weather that makes paddling, hiking, and wildlife viewing outstanding; daytime highs typically range from the upper 40s to mid-60s°F in September. Fall brings the bugs down, water clarity up, and excellent fishing and loon-watching conditions, while crowds thin significantly compared with mid-summer. Expect quieter campsites and easier trail access—perfect for photographers and anglers seeking solitude without sacrificing on Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 8% in MN

Called 'best season: fall' — spectacular northern woods color and crisp paddling/hiking weather.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations from early May to late September. Closed outside of this period.

About Fall Lake

Fall Lake sits in Superior National Forest near Ely, Minnesota, operated by the Kawishiwi Ranger District as a mid-sized campground with tent, RV, and primitive options. The foothills setting offers electric hookups, showers, and a camp store alongside access to fishing, boating, and hiking in the northern woods. Reviewers praise spacious, private sites and helpful hosts, though peak-season crowds and mosquitoes can be drawbacks.

Fall Lake Campground offers a variety of camping options to accommodate different preferences, including RV, tent, and group camping. Some sites are lakeside, providing direct access to the water.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Visit in fall for the spectacular northern woods color and crisp, clear weather that makes paddling, hiking, and wildlife viewing outstanding; daytime highs typically range from the upper 40s to mid-60s°F in September. Fall brings the bugs down, water clarity up, and excellent fishing and loon-watching conditions, while crowds thin significantly compared with mid-summer. Expect quieter campsites and easier trail access—perfect for photographers and anglers seeking solitude without sacrificing on Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1348 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines, aspen, and fir surround the campground, with lakeside sites offering direct water access via short paths. Loons call across the water at dawn. White-tailed deer move through the forest regularly. The lake itself provides clear views and swimming access, though water clarity improves significantly as summer ends. Sites are separated by mature trees, creating natural privacy screens between neighbors.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available, but the campground offers a mix of RV, tent, and group camping sites.

Programs & ActivitiesThe visitor center on-site displays replica artifacts from archaeological digs in the campground area, making it an educational destination for history enthusiasts.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights allowed.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Most sites accommodate up to two vehicles or one RV/trailer.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate larger parties. Specific details about maximum capacity are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground includes several accessible features such as accessible sites, parking, trails, boat ramps, and restrooms. Shower and restroom facilities often require a code for entry, adding an extra layer of security.

Site SizeThe campsites are spacious, allowing room for large RVs, multiple tents, and additional vehicles. Specific users noted space for 8-10 person tents.

PrivacyPrivacy is a standout feature of Fall Lake. Sites are separated by trees, providing seclusion. Some lakeside sites have direct paths to the water, enhancing the secluded experience.

Total Campsites62 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near the boat ramp may experience early morning noise; choose sites away from this area for quieter stays.

Best CampsitesSite 60 gets recommended for lakefront views and breezes off the water. Sites 26, 33, and 41 are tent-only with strong privacy. Site 18 has reliable Verizon coverage with three bars, though cell service weakens closer to the lake. Reviewers suggest reserving early for any lakeside spot, especially during peak season.

Need help booking Fall Lake?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

All reservable sites, except 26, 33 and 41 (tent-only) have electric hookups; sites 5, 10, 15, 16, 18 and 62 have 20, 30 and 50 amp service available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Fall Lake

Fall Lake Campground provides numerous activities to suit all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, boat, swim, or explore local attractions, this campground has it all. The direct access to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a highlight for canoe enthusiasts.

Fishing4.0/5

Swimming4.0/5Top 25% in Minnesota

Campground beach provides easy, safe family swimming and direct lakeside access.

Boating4.0/5

Motorized boating allowed; canoe/kayak rentals and access to BWCA edge noted.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Beach activities4.0/5

Beach popular with families for swimming and sunbathing; serves as lake access point.

Water Sports4.0/5

Right on the edge of BWCA; canoe/kayak rentals and direct lake launch access.

Hiking3.0/5

One 1.5-mile onsite trail plus access to nearby Kawishiwi Falls and Stub Lake trails.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Loons, fall color, clear lake views and forest scenes make it photogenic.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyDon't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available near restroom stations. Some users reported occasional issues with trash collection, such as dumpsters not being emptied for several days.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception varies across the campground. Some areas, like Site 18, have strong Verizon service with three bars, while coverage diminishes closer to the lake.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

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

Rate Fall Lake

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From Booking Sources

4.7

597 reviews

Top-Rated

Fall Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Fall Lake Campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and excellent staff. Many users highlighted its quiet and well-maintained atmosphere.

Review Summaries

Based on 597 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 597 reviews.

Site 60Loved
Site 60 is highly favored for its beautiful lake views and breeze.
Site 26Loved
Site 26 is also recommended for its seclusion and cleanliness.
Site 46Issues noted
Site 46 received criticism for being cramped and better suited for tent camping.

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, spacious and private sites, friendly and helpful campground hosts, and excellent access to recreational opportunities like fishing, canoeing, and hiking.

Based on 597 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users reported issues with mosquitoes during the summer months, while others noted the lack of an on-site dump station as an inconvenience. One user mentioned noisy neighbors disturbing the...

Based on 597 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve early to secure a site, especially for lakeside spots. Bring mosquito repellent during summer months. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer bugs and more availability.

Based on 597 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season, with many activities centered around the lake. Mosquitoes can be a significant issue during this time. Fall offers a quieter, bug-free experience with beautiful foliage.

Based on 597 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "By far the cleanest and best kept campground I've been to in a long time!" - Anne Lewis 2. "The bathrooms were the cleanest and most well-kept that I have ever seen at a campsite." - Kaleb...

Based on 597 reviews

Accessibility Features

Campers praised the accessible facilities, including showers and restrooms. The code-required entry to these facilities added an extra layer of security.

Based on 597 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and several users enjoyed walking their dogs along the campground roads and trails. Some users noted that having sites with trees in between helped reduce visual contact between...

Based on 597 reviews

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Fall Lake

$30.00 - $130.00 / night

Campsite Fees

30AMP FEE SITE: $38.00; Electric 30 AMP site : $38.00; Electric 50 AMP site : $40.00; GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC-GS1: $130.00; GROUP STANDARD...

Group Site Fee$120.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT: 218-365-7600, CONCESSIONAIRE (SUMMER): 218-365-2963

Go if

You want full-service camping near Boundary Waters country with fishing, boating, and fall foliage viewing.

Skip if

You need a dump station or want to avoid peak-season crowds and mosquito swarms.

Nearby Campgrounds

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(22)

Ojibway And Triangle Lakes

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Ojibway and Triangle Lakes offer four primitive island campsites accessible only by boat, tucked into Superior National Forest near Ely. Each lake has a boat launch and two secluded island sites, providing a water-access camping experience without the permit requirements of the neighboring Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The remote setup and 1,496-foot elevation create classic North Woods solitude.

Fall Lake

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Fall Lake

Campground Map

Weather at Fall Lake

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Fall Lake

Planning Tips

About Fall Lake

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Fall Lake?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Fall Lake

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Fall Lake

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Fall Lake

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Fall Lake?

Amenities available

Things to do at Fall Lake

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns