Established Camping
Fenske Lake Campground
Fenske Lake Campground, near Ely, Minnesota, is a cozy spot that’s perfect for those looking to escape into nature. With its picturesque setting in the Superior National Forest, it’s a great base for canoe trips and exploring the nearby Boundary Waters.
The campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, with some located right by the lake, providing stunning views and easy access for fishing or swimming. Visitors have mentioned that the sites are generally private and well-spaced, making it a peaceful retreat. One camper noted, “It was absolutely gorgeous,” highlighting the beauty of the area.
Amenities include pit toilets and drinking water, but keep in mind there are no showers or electric hookups. Campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere, with many enjoying the chance to unwind by the campfire. As one reviewer put it, “Nice and quiet and very peaceful!”
For those eager to explore, Fenske Lake is just a short drive from Ely, where you can find hiking trails and other outdoor activities. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Fenske Lake Campground offers a charming and serene experience in the heart of Minnesota’s wilderness.
Description
National Forest
Superior National Forest
Overview
Fenske Lake Campground offers visitors an escape to a small, remote campground with large, majestic pine trees and easy access to water. It is a popular base camp for exploring, fishing, hiking, sightseeing and backcountry canoeing in Superior National Forest and the nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The campground lies approximately 10 miles outside of Ely, Minnesota.
Recreation
Because of its proximity to access points into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and its status as a Superior National Forest canoe circle route, Fenske Lake is very popular for canoeing and kayaking. Families and children enjoy exploring the short, 1-mile nature trail in the campground, as well as swimming at the grassy beach or waiting for a catch on the accessible fishing pier. Anglers can make use of the boat ramp and try their luck for bass, northern pike, crappie and sunfish.View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.
Natural Features
The facility overlooks 130-acre Fenske Lake, a small and scenic body of water surrounded by dense hardwood and pine forests in the northwoods of Minnesota. Birds and wildlife are abundant in the area. Superior National Forest, located in northeastern Minnesota's Arrowhead Region, is comprised of 3-million acres. The forest spans 150 miles along the United States-Canada border.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous outdoor recreation opportunities lie within Superior National Forest's 77 lake accesses, 13 fishing piers, 10 swimming beaches and 22 picnic areas. The forest is also home to three scenic byways. Campers can also explore the nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Over 1-million acres in size, the Boundary Waters extends nearly 150 miles along the United States-Canada border and contains over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails and over 2,000 designated campsites. Additional sites of interest
Location
Fenske Lake Campground is located in Minnesota
Directions
From Ely, Minnesota, travel east on State Highway 169 North (toward Winton) for about 1 mile. Turn left onto County Road 88 and travel about 2 miles. Turn right onto Echo Trail and continue about 7 miles to the campground entrance on the right.
Address
KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT
1393 HIGHWAY 169
Ely, MN 55731
Coordinates
47.9952778 N
91.9138889 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations