How much does camping cost at Fenske Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Fenske Lake Campground range from $22-$65/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Fenske Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Fenske Lake Campground 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 Fenske Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Fenske Lake Campground 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 Fenske Lake Campground?

Fenske Lake Campground is open May 08 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 Fenske Lake Campground?

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

How many campsites does Fenske Lake Campground have?

Fenske Lake Campground has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Fenske Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Fenske Lake Campground. 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 Fenske Lake Campground?

Fenske Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Fenske Lake Campground?

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

Fenske Lake Campground

4.63

136 reviews

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

Top 5% in MNSummer

Scenic ViewsGreat for GroupsSummer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Minnesota#2 Swimming Camping Minnesota Tent Camping Minnesota +13 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,496 ft

Price

$22 - $65/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Superior National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,496 ft

Price

$22 - $65/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Superior National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Fenske Lake Campground

$22.00 - $65.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $65.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $22.00; WALK TO: $22.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

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

Fenske Lake Campground

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

Nearby places

Ely (10 miles, approximately 17 minutes).

Weather at Fenske Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Fenske Lake Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, driest weather and full access to paddling, swimming and hiking — expect daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–25°C) with cool nights in the 40s–50s°F (5–12°C). Water is at a comfortable temperature for swimming and canoeing, fishing for walleye, northern pike and bass is at its peak, and loons and other wildlife are highly active. Weekdays remain quiet and the campground’s roomy sites feel remote, though weekends can be busier as visitors launch into the BWCA; Peak months: July, August, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 5% in MN

Best season: swimming, paddling, fishing peak; summer reviews highly positive.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 08 to September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is operational from May 5 to September 30. Individual reservable sites start on June 24.

About Fenske Lake Campground

Fenske Lake Campground sits in Superior National Forest near Ely, Minnesota, offering direct lake access in the foothills gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Managed by Superior National Forest, this small campground serves tent campers, RV users, and groups seeking a base for paddling, fishing, and hiking. Reviewers praise clean facilities and attentive hosts, though some note noise from nearby resorts and limited privacy after recent tree removal.

Fenske Lake Campground caters to a variety of camping needs including tent camping, group camping, and primitive camping. It features standard nonelectric sites and walk-in sites, along with a group site perched on a rock ledge overlooking the lake.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, driest weather and full access to paddling, swimming and hiking — expect daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–25°C) with cool nights in the 40s–50s°F (5–12°C). Water is at a comfortable temperature for swimming and canoeing, fishing for walleye, northern pike and bass is at its peak, and loons and other wildlife are highly active. Weekdays remain quiet and the campground’s roomy sites feel remote, though weekends can be busier as visitors launch into the BWCA; Peak months: July, August, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1496 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryDense stands of pine and hardwood surround the lake, which was carved by glacial forces during the ice age. The forest reaches 1,496 feet elevation and shelters loons, deer, black bears, and moose. Some sites overlook the water. Recent tree removal projects have opened up sight lines in places, reducing privacy but improving lake views. The campground sits within the ancient forests of Minnesota's Arrowhead Region, where old-growth stands still survive.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodge accommodations are mentioned, although the campground offers tent camping and a few group sites.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Capacity rules vary by site type, accommodating up to 10 tents and 25 individuals for group sites.

Groups

The group site can accommodate 10 to 25 people and is situated on a separate parking spur. It offers spectacular lake views from a rock ledge.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as an accessible fishing pier.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with partial to full shade, and some overlooking the lake. Tent sites are standard sized, and group sites can accommodate 10 to 25 people.

PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Some reviews note limited privacy due to tree removal projects, while others praise secluded sites.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesGroup sites offer elevated views of the lake. Sites on the outer loop provide better privacy and scenic access.

Best CampsitesSite 7 sits on a boulder with direct views over the lake. Reviews consistently call it out as the standout option. Some sites offer more seclusion than others. The group sites handle larger parties but sacrifice privacy.

Need help booking Fenske Lake Campground?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Fenske Lake Campground offers a mix of basic and scenic amenities that cater to various camping needs. The campground provides essential amenities such as campfire rings, grills, drinking water, tent pads, and vault toilets. A boat ramp enables access to the lake for anglers and paddlers, while a grassy beach serves as a pleasant swimming area. There is a picnic shelter available for groups and families, offering protection during inclement weather. Recycling facilities and trash collection are provided on-site. The campground is tent-friendly, and most sites are not suitable for large RVs.

Potable water

Fire rings

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Fenske Lake Campground offers opportunities for diverse recreational activities. Campers can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating, while the location serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Wildlife viewing and nature exploration are also available on-site. The campground is ideal for canoeing and kayaking due to its canoe circle route.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; only vault toilets are mentioned.

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.

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.

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 Fenske Lake Campground

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From Booking Sources

4.6

136 reviews

Top-Rated

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

Most user reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the scenic beauty, clean facilities, and exceptional campground hosts. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, and fishing. Negative reviews mention occasional noise from nearby cabins and limited privacy due to tree removal projects.

Review Summaries

Based on 136 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 136 reviews.

Site #7Loved
Site #7: "One of the best in Minnesota.
Site #15Mentioned
Site #15: "Very nice campground and close to Ely MN!" - Tyler Day. 3.

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms and campsites, friendly and attentive hosts, scenic lake views, well-maintained facilities, and accessibility to hiking trails and the BWCA.

Based on 136 reviews

Common Concerns

Limited privacy due to tree removal projects, occasional noise from nearby cabins, no flush toilets, and restrictions on pets at the beach.

Based on 136 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Secure firewood locally to adhere to invasive species restrictions, bring a canoe or kayak for lake access, and be prepared for rustic facilities.

Based on 136 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summertime reviews frequently praise the swimming beach and wildlife sightings. Fall reviews highlight quiet and serene surroundings with fewer occupied sites. Winter reviews are absent, suggesting...

Based on 136 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Top notch dry camping as well as boon docking with your RV... Campsites and outhouses are clean. Nice sandy beach and dock." - Evan Buskirk 2. "Fenske Lake Campground was a little slice of...

Based on 136 reviews

Accessibility Features

Positive reviews highlight the accessible fishing pier and clean facilities.

Based on 136 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Mixed reviews regarding pet policies; dogs are not allowed at the beach, which has disappointed some campers.

Based on 136 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a clean, host-managed base camp for Boundary Waters day trips with lake swimming and paddling access.

Skip if

You need total seclusion or want to avoid potential resort noise from neighboring properties.

Nearby Campgrounds

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Nels Lake sits in Superior National Forest near Ely, offering three primitive backcountry campsites accessible by paddle or trail. The lake spans 182 acres with depths reaching 30 feet, carved by ancient glaciers and surrounded by dense boreal forest. Sites are dispersed along the shoreline, each equipped with a fire ring and vault toilet.