The Boundary Waters area near Ely, Minnesota sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation and receives about 30 inches of precipitation annually. The region features numerous lakes connected by portages that have been used for centuries. During summer camping season, temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 80°F during the day, with black flies appearing in late May and early June before mosquito season peaks in July.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At South Kawishiwi River Campground, you can fish directly behind your campsite. "Sites are great sizes and a good distance from each other. Great for families. Very picturesque, provides perfect 'up north' experience with fishing, canoeing, hiking, all amongst the tall pines!" according to Gina G.
Mine exploration: The Lake Vermillion - Soudan Mine State Park offers underground tours. "Soudan mine tours were awesome. Within reasonable driving distance to Ely which has the wolf center, shopping, etc," notes Tara M. The mine tour takes you 2,341 feet below ground via a cage elevator where temperatures remain a constant 51°F year-round.
Paddling multiple lakes: From Fenske Lake Campground, access connecting waterways. "We brought a canoe and portaged from the lake we were on to a few others!" writes Anne G. Fenske Lake connects to several smaller lakes via portages ranging from 24 to 180 rods (396-2,970 feet).
Wildlife centers: Visit educational facilities near Bear Head Lake State Park. "Don't miss the International Wolf Center, the North American Bear Center and the Dorothy Molter Museum. All are really interesting and definitely worth the price of admission," shares Nancy W. The Bear Center houses live bears visible from multiple viewing areas with educational programs scheduled three times daily.
What campers like
Private, woodsy sites: Bear Head Lake State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots. "Non electric sites were pretty private with trees and bushes between sites. We had a family get together and had plenty to do. The lake and beach were beautiful," says Lisa H.
Waterfront access: Campers appreciate the direct lake access at some campgrounds. "The sites on the lake are fantastic; we had a great site and loved listening to the loons and owls each night, with spectacular starry skies overhead," shares Jen E. about Superior National Forest Fall Lake Campground.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and showers stand out to visitors. "The bathrooms are immaculately clean as well. Plenty of options for hiking or getting on the lake and it is close to more attractions in Ely!" according to Kacey K. Fall Lake Campground's bathrooms require a keypad entry code to ensure only campers can access them.
Island camping: Unique overnight options exist for adventurous campers. "A friend of ours told us about the island campground here at Fall Lake! You canoe out to your island to camp on and if it doesn't get better then that I don't know," writes Anne G. These island sites require canoe transportation and offer complete solitude with 360-degree water views.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Late summer storms can affect camping areas. "A storm came through week before and knocked down trees so they had firewood chopped everywhere free of charge!!!" reports Jordan L. about Fenske Lake. Northern Minnesota storms can develop quickly, with severe weather most common between June and August.
Reservation timing: Secure sites early for lakeside spots. "It's best to make a reservation especially if you want to try to get a lakeside site, but there are a few first come first serve sites available, which usually are easier to get during the week, they fill up by Friday," advises Gina G.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely by campground and carrier. "Cell service is variable…sometimes fast but occasionally very slow," notes Shannon P. about South Kawishiwi River. Lake Vermilion-Soudan State Park maintains WiFi service for campers, while more remote sites may have no signal at all.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have water concerns. "The well water available had a bit of an off smell and came out a little more yellow/brown than I prefer so I did not use it," reports DJ about Birch Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Not all campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "No playground or beach. Our kids mainly played at the campsite or rode their bikes around the loop by the sites in the 400s," shares Makayla B. about Lake Vermilion-Soudan State Park.
Swimming options: Silver Rapids Lodge provides designated swimming areas. "Small swimming area and play place for kids. Pet friendly, clean, and nice hosts," notes Carrie C. The campground maintains a roped-off swimming section with a gradually sloping sandy bottom.
Fishing access: Multiple fishing opportunities exist for beginners. "We caught lots of sunnies and bass plus a northern and small walleye," writes Lisa H. about Bear Head Lake. Several piers and docks around Ely offer accessible fishing for children, with panfish being most abundant and easiest to catch.
Weather contingencies: Sudden weather changes require backup plans. "The campground was very nice and clean! Our campsite was spacious and hidden from the road... There was a little beach and playground for kids," says Kara H., noting Fall Lake's amenities that provide options during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal with limited onsite options. "There is a water fill-up station by the camp office and a dump station in town at the Chamber of Commerce," notes Nancy W. The Ely Visitor Center offers dump station services for $5.00 per use.
Site surface considerations: Gravel sites can present challenges. "Sites leaning towards more of an rv type of site with the gravel and lots of large rocks in the ground but an amazing location," explains Stephanie K. about Bear Head Lake State Park. Request site photos when making reservations to check for level parking and tent pad conditions.
Pet accommodations: Many campgrounds welcome dogs. "Like staying at an outdoor hotel! There was a large mowed open area perfect for playing with the dogs between hikes," shares Aleasha B. about Cliff Wold's Campground. Most pet friendly camping near Ely, Minnesota requires leashes no longer than 6 feet, with owners responsible for waste cleanup.
