The Ely region sits at an elevation of approximately 1,430 feet in northeastern Minnesota's Superior National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below -30°F, while summer days reach the mid-70s with cool nights in the 50s. The area contains over 1,000 lakes connected by streams and portages, creating one of North America's premier wilderness paddling regions.
What to do
Paddling and portaging: Access the Boundary Waters Canoe Area from Trail's End Campground near Grand Marais. "There's a dedicated parking spot about 30' up small incline from campsite. Campsite was very spacious; we had a large 6-person tent and could easily have fit another 1-2 small tents," notes one Trail's End visitor.
Trout fishing: Divide Lake Campground offers exceptional trout fishing opportunities. "This is a very quiet, rarely used campsite. We canoed over to it which makes it feel more remote than it actually is. Had a lot of luck fishing for trout as well!" shares a Divide Lake camper.
Hiking trails: The Echo Lake Campground provides access to nearby trails. "Located outside of Orr close to 20 miles, there are no people or towns to make noise or light. The stars are incredibly bright at night. Plenty of hiking trails and great for fishing walleye," notes a visitor at Echo Lake.
What campers like
Private sites: Sullivan Lake Campground offers secluded camping spots. "It's a peaceful, beautiful campground. The campsites are large and spaced out well. The outhouses are clean with minimal smell. The lake is very quiet and beautiful," reports a Sullivan Lake visitor.
Stargazing opportunities: Sand Lake Rustic Campground provides dark skies for night viewing. "All the perks of rustic camping (or lack of lol!) with a beautiful lake right in view of the entire camp. Pretty nice beach and it's closer to highway 16 than most the other rustic camps we've come across," shares a visitor.
Lake access: Eighteen Lake Campground features water activities. "Great Area! Lake is clear and looks like very good fishing. Does not have a boat launch. There are three campsites that are decently big and you could fit two-three cars. Has a nice 2 1/2 mile hike around the lake," notes an Eighteen Lake camper.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most rustic campgrounds near Ely have minimal amenities. "Two small sites here right next to each other with a fire ring for each. Canoe launch with a small beach. Nice breeze off the lake. New clean pit toilet. No onsite trash," reports a camper at Sand Lake.
Weather considerations: Summer conditions can change quickly. "Camped over Labor Day weekend September 2020. Dog-friendly. No cell service. Plenty of shade, beautiful views, easy access to canoeing, fishing, and hiking," notes a visitor at Trail's End Campground.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have no reception. "The views are wonderful. Campsite 22. September 2-5, 2020. You can hear waterfalls and see a lot of wildlife. No cell service. The view of the stars is unobstructed at night," shares a Trail's End camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for beach access: Eighteen Lake offers family-friendly swimming. "Clean. Nice walking trail around the lake. Vault restroom clean," notes a visitor, making it suitable for families with children.
Consider proximity to outhouses: When glamping in Ely, Minnesota with children, site selection matters. "This particular campsite has zero privacy. A very tall cliff with no guard. No child friendly. You can see every part of your site from the parking culdasac," warns a Trail's End visitor about site #22.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially in June and July. "Mosquitos were bad run back to the twin cities!" warns an Eighteen Lake camper, highlighting the need for proper preparation when luxury camping near Ely.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds near Ely limit RV size. "Nice campground with great views. Bathrooms are nice and clean. Within walking distance from Main Street," notes a Sherwood Forest visitor.
Access challenges: Road conditions can impact larger rigs. "The boat access was not as easy...its not a traditional boat ramp so it is better for Canoe or Kayak. If it is rainy it would be a problem for the tow vehicle. Very basic campground but perfect for a rustic getaway," shares a Sullivan Lake camper.
Hookup availability: Electric service is limited to specific campgrounds. "Friendly campground! Nice restaurant on site. Seems to cater to the side by side...ATV crowd. But sites are tight for larger rigs. Gravel road in is rough so go slow," notes a visitor at Wildhurst Lodge and Campground, one of the few glamping options near Ely with electric service.
