Fall Lake (South)

Fall Lake South provides direct boat access to Fall Lake in northeastern Minnesota, located near Ely in the Superior National Forest. This access point serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), making it an ideal launch for canoeists and kayakers exploring the BWCA. The Fall Lake Campground facility opens in early May and offers camping amenities for those planning extended paddling trips. For questions about access conditions or reservations, contact the Kawishiwi Ranger District at 218-365-7600.

The site is well-positioned for both day trips and backcountry expeditions, with Fall Lake serving as a popular starting point for BWCA entry. The lake attracts paddlers for scenic exploration and fishing opportunities. The location is approximately 100 miles north of Duluth—take Highway 53 north to Virginia, then Highway 169 northeast to Ely, followed by 6.5 miles on County Road 182. Nearby camping is also available at Fenske Lake Campground within 10 miles. Note that this is a remote area; paddlers should be prepared and check current conditions before heading out.

Overview
Fall Lake Campground is located on the shores of Fall Lake and provides direct access into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The campground opens in early May in time for walleye fishing season, making it a popular place for anglers. Others are drawn to Fall Lake for its birding, swimming, hiking and boating opportunities.

Superior National Forest, located in...

Overview
Fall Lake Campground is located on the shores of Fall Lake and provides direct access into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The campground opens in early May in time for walleye fishing season, making it a popular place for anglers. Others are drawn to Fall Lake for its birding, swimming, hiking and boating opportunities.

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. Recreation
Part of Fall Lake lies within the BWCAW, while the rest of the lake is open to unrestricted boating, permits are required to enter the BWCAW. View recreation guides and maps of hiking trails and canoe routes in the national forest.

Kids love the campground's swimming beach, playground and picnic area. A 1.5 mile hiking trail is also a favorite pastime for families. Anglers can try their luck for smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, crappie, perch and bluegill.

Some campers might be interested in the unique opportunity to view the visitor center's display of replica artifacts found during archaeological digs within the campground and surrounding areas.

There's no shortage of popular local events to attend, including the City of Ely's July 4th fireworks, the Blueberry Festival (the last full weekend in July) and the Harvest Moon Festival-mid September.Facilities
This lake has some sites that can be reserved and some that are first-come, first-served. Many sites at Fall Lake are made to accommodate RVs including pull-through sites. Trees provide privacy between most campsites. The facility is very accessible.

A store, canoe rentals, firewood and ice are available at the facility, and a campground host is on-site during the season.Natural Features
The campground is nestled among majestic pine and abundant aspen and fir trees, providing the ultimate northwoods setting. Average summer temperatures are a pleasant 60-75 degrees. Birds and wildlife are abundant.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (218) 365-2963.
Nearby Attractions
Guests may want to take a day trip to the Dorothy Molter Museum, International Wolf Center, North American Bear Center, Ely-Winton History Museum or Soudan Mine.

By far the most popular nearby attraction is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Over one million acres in size, the Boundary Waters contain over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails and over 2,000 designated campsites.

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