Nels Lake
00 review1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Nels Lake
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Dispersed camping sites at Nels Lake have no associated fees. Sites are first-come, first-served.
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 Nels Lake
Free
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit is unknown based on provided data.
Cancellation: Dispersed camping sites at Nels Lake are first-come, first-served; reservations are not applicable.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Kawishiwi Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Nels Lake
Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the North Woods at Nels Lake. While winter brings a crystalline wonderland of snow and ice, testing the mettle of cold-weather enthusiasts, summer unveils the lake's gentler side with comfortable temperatures between 60°F and 77°F. Spring and fall paint the landscape with rain showers and crisp air, creating perfect conditions for those seeking solitude and the raw beauty of changing seasons.
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
- Operating Season: Sites are open year-round.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts are provided based on the data.
About Nels Lake
Escape to the tranquil waters of Nels Lake, where three secluded backcountry campsites await those willing to journey by paddle or trail. This hidden gem rewards adventurers with pristine wilderness camping, complete with essential amenities including fire grates, latrines, and select sites featuring picnic tables. As part of a cherished canoe route, the lake beckons anglers and paddlers alike to discover its peaceful shores and abundant fishing opportunities.
Nels Lake offers a dispersed, backcountry camping experience. These sites are accessible only by foot or boat and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceNestled at the edge of the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Nels Lake carries forward centuries of paddling tradition. This waterway has long served as a passage for those seeking communion with nature, from indigenous peoples to modern-day adventurers. The lake remains a testament to the enduring allure of canoe country, where the rhythm of paddle strokes connects visitors to a timeless wilderness heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the North Woods at Nels Lake. While winter brings a crystalline wonderland of snow and ice, testing the mettle of cold-weather enthusiasts, summer unveils the lake's gentler side with comfortable temperatures between 60°F and 77°F. Spring and fall paint the landscape with rain showers and crisp air, creating perfect conditions for those seeking solitude and the raw beauty of changing seasons.
ElevationThe lake rests within the gentle undulations of the northern forest landscape, offering a classic boreal wilderness experience at its natural elevation.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the pristine boreal forest that embraces Nels Lake's shores, where towering pines and paper birches create a living cathedral of green. This peaceful sanctuary, neighbor to the vast Boundary Waters wilderness, offers intimate encounters with the region's diverse wildlife. From the haunting call of loons at dawn to the rustling of forest creatures at dusk, the lake provides a front-row seat to nature's daily theater.
Geological RegionSpanning 182 acres of crystal-clear water reaching depths of 30 feet, Nels Lake exemplifies the geological wonders of the Boundary Waters region. Carved by ancient glaciers and cradled by dense boreal forest, this aquatic jewel forms a vital link in the area's interconnected canoe routes. The lake's substantial size and depth create diverse aquatic habitats, making it a prized destination for both paddlers navigating the wilderness waterways and anglers seeking the perfect catch.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Sites SizeThe site description does not specify sizes, but it is noted as a 'near-wilderness single party site.'
Sites PrivacyThe sites are dispersed, suggesting a greater degree of privacy compared to clustered campgrounds.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHang food packs and ensure campfires are extinguished before leaving. Privacy and shade may vary by site.
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is unknown based on provided data.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Nine people per site limit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed sites spread along the shoreline with no specific layout or loops.
Open and Closed SeasonSites are open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites at Nels Lake are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyDispersed camping sites at Nels Lake are first-come, first-served; reservations are not applicable.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors at Nels Lake can enjoy a variety of activities, particularly focused on water-based recreation and fishing. The area is part of a canoe route, offering unique opportunities for boating and paddling to adjacent water bodies. Hunting and ice fishing are also mentioned as potential activities.
Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Nels Lake, with a variety of species available, including bluegill, largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. 'You won’t need a permit to visit but you will need one to fish,' according to the official description.Boating
Boating is a key activity at Nels Lake. Both non-motorized and motorized boating is allowed, with access via a boat ramp at the southwest end of the lake.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is noted as a winter activity available at Nels Lake.Water Sports
Canoeing is highlighted as part of the water route connecting to South Hegman Lake and elsewhere.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to designated fire grates.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters and the need for bear-resistant food storage. Campers should treat or boil water for drinking.
Active alertsNo active alerts are provided based on the data.
Weather at Nels Lake
-9
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Ely, MN, including hospitals and police stations. The Kawishiwi Ranger District office is an additional resource.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all garbage, as no trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresDispersed campsites are located along the shoreline of Nels Lake.
Common complaintsLack of restrooms and potable water are notable concerns.
HostNo campground host is mentioned.
Campground Map
1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
Driving directionsFollow Highway 169 to Kawishiwi Ranger District, located at 1393 Highway 169 in Ely, MN. The campground is accessible from the Southwest end of Nels Lake via a boat ramp.
The campground is accessible via a boat ramp located on the Southwest end of Nels Lake. Roads leading to Ely, MN are paved, but access to the lake itself may require navigating backcountry roads.Nearby places
Ely, MN is approximately 5.2 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained from Ely, MN, which offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
0 reviews
Nels Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The peaceful, near-wilderness setting and opportunities for canoeing and fishing are major highlights from official sources.
Common Concerns
The lack of potable water and restrooms may be a downside for some visitors.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water or water treatment supplies, as potable water is not available. Campers are also reminded to 'pack out all garbage' and to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Seasonal Insights
Weather data suggests that summer months may be the most favorable for camping, with moderate temperatures and lower precipitation. Winter activities like ice fishing are possible, but frigid...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Two sites are available, each offering a fire grate, latrine, and possibly a picnic table.
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility features are mentioned, so this site may not be fully accessible for all visitors.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet when not inside a tent. Pet food should be stored in bear-resistant containers, and owners are advised to ensure their pets have...
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Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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