Bear Island Lake
00 reviewBear Island Lake, Superior National Forest
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
4 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
4 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Bear Island Lake
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are mentioned for reserving campsites, suggesting they may be free or require other arrangements.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider(218) 365-7600SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Fees & Passes at Bear Island Lake
Free
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Not specified.
Cancellation: No information is provided about cancellation policies.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Bear Island Lake
Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations that make Bear Island Lake a year-round adventure destination. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a frozen wonderland perfect for those who embrace the crisp, invigorating cold. As spring awakens the forest, visitors may encounter refreshing rain showers mixed with the last whispers of winter. Summer brings warm, inviting days with comfortable humidity levels – ideal for beach activities and water adventures, though occasional rain showers keep the forest lush and green. Autumn paints the landscape in brilliant colors while crisp air and variable conditions create perfect camping weather for those prepared for nature's surprises.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Peak season dates are not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, but specific seasonal restrictions are not mentioned.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts are mentioned.
About Bear Island Lake
Escape to the pristine wilderness of Bear Island Lake, where four secluded backcountry campsites await adventurous souls seeking an authentic outdoor experience. This hidden gem features a beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming and relaxation, while the surrounding shoreline offers a blend of untouched nature and resort amenities. Each campsite comes equipped with essential comforts including fire rings for evening gatherings, designated tent pads for a good night's rest, and convenient latrines. As a true backcountry destination, visitors embrace Leave No Trace principles by packing out all garbage, preserving this natural paradise for future generations.
Bear Island Lake is designed for backcountry and dispersed camping. There are no developed facilities or cabins, emphasizing a primitive experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this area remains unwritten in our sources, the untouched wilderness speaks to centuries of natural preservation and the enduring spirit of the North Woods.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations that make Bear Island Lake a year-round adventure destination. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a frozen wonderland perfect for those who embrace the crisp, invigorating cold. As spring awakens the forest, visitors may encounter refreshing rain showers mixed with the last whispers of winter. Summer brings warm, inviting days with comfortable humidity levels – ideal for beach activities and water adventures, though occasional rain showers keep the forest lush and green. Autumn paints the landscape in brilliant colors while crisp air and variable conditions create perfect camping weather for those prepared for nature's surprises.
ElevationNestled within the rolling terrain of Minnesota's North Woods, Bear Island Lake rests at an elevation that captures the essence of the boreal forest landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where pristine waters meet ancient forests at Bear Island Lake. The crown jewel is the inviting sand beach – a rare find in the backcountry – where crystal-clear waters lap against golden shores. The diverse shoreline transitions from sandy stretches to rocky outcrops and dense forest edges, creating endless opportunities for exploration. This aquatic wonderland is part of a stunning lake chain that includes the tranquil waters of Johnson Lake, the secluded beauty of One Pine Lake, and the mysteriously named Whisper Lake, each offering its own unique character and paddling adventures.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of Superior National Forest, where Bear Island Lake represents the quintessential backcountry experience of this vast wilderness preserve. This geological wonderland showcases the ancient Canadian Shield's influence through its interconnected waterways and rugged terrain. The rare sand beach formation tells a story of glacial deposits from thousands of years past, while the surrounding landscape exemplifies the boreal forest ecosystem. The nearby lake chain – including Johnson Lake, One Pine Lake, and Whisper Lake – demonstrates the intricate water systems carved by glaciers, creating a paddler's paradise amidst towering pines and pristine wilderness that defines this remarkable corner of Minnesota.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned, which may indicate limited accommodations for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are backcountry-style, which usually implies smaller sizes suitable for tents.
Sites PrivacySites are likely to be secluded given the backcountry setting, but the exact level of privacy is not detailed.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific recommendations are provided for choosing campsites.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
N/A
Check-out
N/A
Stay Limit
Not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
There is no information about group sites, suggesting they may not be available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are dispersed with no formal layout, featuring fire rings, tent pads, and latrines.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, but specific seasonal restrictions are not mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsReservations do not appear to be required as the campground operates on a dispersed camping model.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is dispersed and operates on a first-come-first-serve basis. There are 4 backcountry campsites available.
Cancellation PolicyNo information is provided about cancellation policies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Island Lake offers activities focused on the natural environment, including motorized and non-motorized boating, as well as lake fishing. Hunting is also listed as a recreational opportunity.
Fishing
Fishing is available in Bear Island Lake, which is described as a lake and pond fishing destination.Boating
Bear Island Lake supports both motorized and non-motorized boating. There is a carry-down access point on the east side of the lake and a boat ramp on the southwest side.Winter Activities
No information is provided about winter activities.Water Sports
The lake supports boating activities, and there is potential for non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing, although these are not explicitly mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies are noted, but fire rings are provided.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours are specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include lack of potable water and restrooms, and the need for bear-resistant containers for food storage.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather at Bear Island Lake
-15
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Kawishiwi Ranger District, 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731, Phone: (218) 365-7600 (Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed weekends and federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not specified.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all garbage. There is no mention of centralized trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Bear Island Lake and near Johnson Lake, One Pine Lake, and Whisper Lake.
Common complaintsPotential complaints could involve the lack of potable water and restrooms, as well as the dispersed nature of camping.
HostNo campground host is mentioned.
Campground Map
Bear Island Lake, Superior National Forest
Driving directionsBear Island Lake is located 10 miles southwest of Ely on Highway 21. Turn West on Escape Road.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to Highway 21. The turn onto Escape Road may involve minor navigation challenges, but no seasonal closures or challenging terrain are explicitly noted.Nearby places
Ely, MN (10 miles southwest).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely found in Ely, MN, approximately 10 miles away. Specific stores or facilities are not mentioned.
Reviews from booking and map sources
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Bear Island Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Review Summaries
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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