Established Camping
South Kawishiwi River
South Kawishiwi River, near Ely, Minnesota, is a charming campground tucked away in the Superior National Forest, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With spacious sites that offer a mix of electric hookups and rustic charm, it’s an ideal spot for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts.
The campground boasts clean facilities, including well-kept vault toilets and a friendly camp host who’s always ready to help. Visitors rave about the lovely beach area with a designated swimming spot and a boat launch that’s great for canoes and small boats. As one camper noted, “There’s also a lovely beach with designated swimming area and a boat launch for small boats, canoes and kayaks.”
For those who enjoy hiking, there’s a mile-long trail winding through the woods, offering a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the area. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great choice for families and small groups looking to unwind and connect with nature.
Ely is just a short drive away, providing easy access to local attractions, shops, and restaurants. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, South Kawishiwi River offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Description
National Forest
Superior National Forest
Overview
South Kawishiwi River Campground is located in Superior National Forest near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, about 10 miles from Ely, Minnesota. It offers fishing, boating and other recreational activities in a relaxing outdoor setting. The campground has sites with and without electric hookups, as well as one group day use area great for family picnics, birthday parties and other gatherings of up to 35 people.
Recreation
Canoeing is a main attraction. The Kawishiwi River provides access to Birch Lake to the south and the Boundary Waters to the north. When traveling in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wildnerness, a permit is required. Canoe rentals are available by contacting the host.Closer to shore, visitors can enjoy an afternoon of swimming at the campground's grassy beach, hiking the 1-mile Kawishiwi River Forest Trail or trying their luck at fishing for northern pike, perch and walleye. A boat ramp is located on-site.View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.
Natural Features
The scenic Kawishiwi River boasts clear, cold and calm waters lined with boreal forest and wetland ecosystems. Wildlife abounds in Superior National Forest, from moose and bear to bald eagles and loons. The campground lies in a mixed aspen, birch and conifer forest. 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. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Additional sites of interest
Location
South Kawishiwi River is located in Minnesota
Directions
From Ely, Minnesota, travel about 10.3 miles south on State Highway 1 toward Lake Superior. Turn left onto the campground road.
Address
KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT
1393 HIGHWAY 169
Ely, MN 55731
Coordinates
47.8155556 N
91.7313889 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonFair
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations