Nels Lake

Dragon Lake, Ely, MN

Discover the essence of wilderness camping at these two secluded dispersed sites, where the absence of modern amenities invites you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature's raw beauty. These primitive camping spots offer adventurous souls the opportunity to experience the forest as early explorers once did—self-sufficient and surrounded by nothing but the sounds of the wilderness.

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

Nestled within a tapestry of dense northern forests, Birch Lake Campground invites you to experience the tranquility of Minnesota's wilderness. Each campsite is thoughtfully positioned among towering trees, offering privacy and shade while maintaining easy access to the pristine waters of Birch Lake. Whether you're seeking solitude at an individual site, planning a gathering at one of our group camping areas, or looking for the comfort of a rustic cabin, you'll find modern amenities including vault toilets and fresh drinking water from hand pumps throughout the grounds.

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Escape to the pristine wilderness of August Lake, where 228 acres of crystal-clear water stretch across six miles of undeveloped shoreline. This hidden gem offers two distinct backcountry camping experiences: drive right up to your lakeside retreat at the first site, or paddle across serene waters to reach the second, water-access-only sanctuary where true solitude awaits.

Bear Island Lake, Superior National Forest

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.

9301 Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN 55731

Escape to the secluded beauty of Bear Head Lake State Park, where pristine Northwoods wilderness meets extensive shoreline and towering mixed forests. This designated tent-only group campground welcomes larger parties seeking an authentic camping experience without RVs or campers, offering your group a private base camp for exploring one of Minnesota's most scenic lakeside retreats. Reservations are required to secure your spot in this peaceful corner of the North Country.

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

Escape to the pristine wilderness of South Kawishiwi River Campground, where the gentle flow of the river sets the rhythm for your Superior National Forest adventure. This hidden gem offers thoughtfully spaced individual campsites and a welcoming group shelter, creating the perfect basecamp for anglers casting lines into productive waters, paddlers gliding through mirror-like reflections, and hikers exploring forest trails. Visitors consistently praise the immaculate facilities, the privacy that lets you truly disconnect, and the warm hospitality of the campground hosts who help make every stay memorable.

Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park

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Summer mine entrance: 1302 McKinley Park Road; Winter mine entrance: 1379 Stuntz Bay Road; Lake Vermilion Unit Entrance: U.S. Highway 169. Mailing address: P.O. Box 335, 1379 Stuntz Bay Road, Soudan, MN 55782

Discover year-round adventure at Lake Vermilion–Soudan Underground Mine State Park, where eight cozy camper cabins serve as your basecamp for exploring pristine lake waters, miles of wilderness trails, and fascinating geological wonders. While the historic Soudan Underground Mine tours are closed until 2026, there's no shortage of natural beauty to experience. Remember to grab your vehicle permit and daily campfire permit before gathering around the evening flames.

Summer mine entrance: 1302 McKinley Park Road; Winter mine entrance: 1379 Stuntz Bay Road; Lake Vermilion Unit Entrance: U.S. Highway 169; Mailing address: P.O. Box 335, 1379 Stuntz Bay Road, Soudan, MN 55782

Discover where Minnesota's mining heritage meets pristine wilderness at Lake Vermilion–Soudan Underground Mine State Park. This unique destination combines miles of stunning Lake Vermilion shoreline with fascinating historic mine features, offering camper cabins (including eight available year-round) and developed campground areas. A vehicle permit is required to explore most areas of the park.

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Escape the modern world at this pristine backcountry retreat, where adventure begins with your journey in. Whether you paddle across crystal-clear waters or trek through ancient forest paths, you'll discover a secluded sanctuary equipped with essential comforts—sturdy fire grates for evening gatherings under starlit skies and well-maintained facilities that respect the wilderness setting.

320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723

Escape into the pristine wilderness of Lake Vermilion, where six secluded backcountry campsites await adventurous souls seeking solitude beneath towering pines. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this sprawling aquatic paradise stretches across 40,000 acres of crystal-clear waters, dotted with an astounding 365 islands—one for each day of the year. Here, the rhythmic lapping of waves against ancient granite shores becomes your evening soundtrack, while the call of loons echoes across the water at dawn.

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

Tucked within the vast wilderness of Superior National Forest, Fall Lake Campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This beloved outdoor haven draws anglers chasing trophy catches, adventurous hikers exploring pristine trails, and families seeking authentic northwoods experiences. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with raw nature here—lakefront campsites offer breathtaking water views while spotless bathrooms and hot showers ensure you can refresh after a day of wilderness exploration.

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Tucked away in the wilderness, Glacier Pond 2 beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This intimate dispersed camping destination features a single, thoughtfully positioned campsite just 20 rods from the road—close enough for easy access, yet far enough to feel truly immersed in nature. Your rustic retreat comes equipped with essential amenities including a fire ring for evening gatherings, a level tent pad for comfortable sleeping, and convenient latrine facilities. As a designated trout lake renowned for its healthy brook trout population, this hidden gem promises both solitude and exceptional fishing opportunities for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Discover the pristine wilderness of Ojibway and Triangle Lakes, where island camping meets untouched beauty in the heart of Superior National Forest. Ojibway Lake welcomes adventurers with its intimate picnic area and convenient boat launch, while offering exclusive access to two secluded island campsites that promise nights under starlit skies. Sister lake Triangle mirrors this remote camping experience with its own pair of water-accessible island sites. Whether you're casting a line for trophy fish, paddling through mirror-still waters, or simply soaking in the raw magnificence of the North Woods, these twin lakes deliver an authentic backcountry escape where the only sounds are lapping waves and calling loons.

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Hidden within Minnesota's wilderness, Tofte Lake offers an authentic backcountry escape with four secluded campsites that promise solitude and simplicity. This pristine destination draws passionate anglers from across the region, as the lake is carefully managed for exceptional rainbow trout and splake fishing. Here, you'll trade modern conveniences for the raw beauty of dispersed camping, where the rhythm of nature sets the pace and the catch of the day might just become your campfire dinner.

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

Tucked away in the wilderness, Fenske Lake Campground beckons those seeking solitude and spacious sites far from the crowds. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area, where paddlers launch into pristine waterways and hikers discover untouched trails. Each generously-sized campsite offers room to breathe and truly disconnect from the everyday world.

Agassa Lake, County Road 116 / Echo Trail, MN

Hidden deep within Superior National Forest, Agassa Lake offers adventurous souls a pristine 72-acre wilderness escape accessible only by those willing to undertake a rewarding 240-rod portage. This secluded gem rewards paddlers with excellent walleye and perch fishing, intimate backcountry campsites equipped with fire rings and tent pads, and the kind of profound solitude that's becoming increasingly rare. Whether you're planning a peaceful day trip or an overnight wilderness adventure, Agassa Lake delivers an authentic taste of Minnesota's untamed north country.

Big Lake, Superior National Forest, Minnesota

Nestled deep within Minnesota's pristine wilderness, Big Lake beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear waters and secluded camping opportunities. Three tranquil backcountry campsites dot the shoreline, offering intimate encounters with nature for those seeking solitude far from the crowds. For the ultimate wilderness experience, a fourth campsite awaits within the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), where paddlers can immerse themselves in one of America's most cherished wild places—just remember to follow BWCAW regulations for this special site.

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Tucked away in the heart of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Picket Lake offers a true escape into pristine solitude. This remote dispersed camping gem features a single, secluded site nestled on the eastern shore, where the only sounds you'll hear are loons calling across the water and paddles dipping into the still surface. Reaching this wilderness sanctuary requires dedication—whether you're hiking in with your pack or portaging your canoe through ancient forest trails. Here, modern amenities fade away, replaced by the raw beauty of untouched nature and the satisfaction of truly getting away from it all.

Superior National Forest

Escape to the untamed wilderness at T-Lake Backcountry Campsite, where the modern world fades away and nature takes center stage. Nestled deep within the Superior National Forest, this remote sanctuary rewards adventurous souls who arrive by foot or boat with an authentic backcountry experience. Your wilderness home comes equipped with essential amenities—a latrine, fire grate, and possibly a picnic table—striking the perfect balance between rugged camping and basic comfort. Here, solitude isn't just a feature; it's a promise, as you'll find yourself immersed in the pristine beauty of Minnesota's northwoods with only the sounds of nature as your soundtrack.

LACROIX RANGER DISTRICT, JEANETTE LAKE CAMPGROUND, 320 N. HIGHWAY 53, COOK, MN 55723, USA

Nestled on a peaceful peninsula within Superior National Forest, Jeanette Lake Campground beckons nature lovers seeking an intimate escape. This charming single-loop campground combines the best of both worlds—easy access to crystal-clear waters perfect for paddling and fishing, alongside tranquil spots ideal for hammock naps and stargazing. With its roots stretching back to the Civilian Conservation Corps era, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into Minnesota's conservation heritage while providing modern campers with an authentic northwoods experience.

Big Lake, Superior National Forest, Minnesota

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

Bear Island Lake, Superior National Forest

Superior National Forest

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731

320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723

LACROIX RANGER DISTRICT, JEANETTE LAKE CAMPGROUND, 320 N. HIGHWAY 53, COOK, MN 55723, USA

Agassa Lake, County Road 116 / Echo Trail, MN

Summer mine entrance: 1302 McKinley Park Road; Winter mine entrance: 1379 Stuntz Bay Road; Lake Vermilion Unit Entrance: U.S. Highway 169; Mailing address: P.O. Box 335, 1379 Stuntz Bay Road, Soudan, MN 55782

Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park

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

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

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

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

9301 Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN 55731

Summer mine entrance: 1302 McKinley Park Road; Winter mine entrance: 1379 Stuntz Bay Road; Lake Vermilion Unit Entrance: U.S. Highway 169. Mailing address: P.O. Box 335, 1379 Stuntz Bay Road, Soudan, MN 55782