Big Lake
Big Lake offers an area for fishing, boating and camping. There is a boat ramp and 3 back country campsites on this lake. A 4th campsite located on the west side of the lake is within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, so campers at this site will need to follow Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness regulations.
Nearby lake: Agassa Lake.
General Information
Dispersed Camping
There is 3 back country campsites on this lake outside of the BWCAW.
Please use facilities provided such as fire rings, tent pads, and latrines and pack out garbage.
Open 24 hours/day
None required. Follow Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness regulations when paddling or camping on the west side of the lake.
No fees are required for this site
Boating
When boating with your dog, follow all Minnesota State boating laws.
- Use care when getting your dog in and out of the boat to ensure their safety.
- Consider both you and your dog wearing a life jacket.
- Provide shade for your pet.
- Remember to bring their food and water as it may be unsafe for them to drink lake water.
Camping
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside a tent.
- Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
- Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
- Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
- Keep your dog in your tent at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Address: 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
Phone: (218) 365-7600
Hours: May 1-September 30, 2026, Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. No Eastern National Forests Interpretative Association retail sales products. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 47.52062935
Longitude: -91.84820106
Directions
Big Lake is located 21 miles northwest of Ely on County road 116 (Echo Trail).
- From Ely take Highway 169 east 1 mile to County road 88.
- Turn left, go 2 miles to County Road 116 (Echo Trail).
- Follow County Road 116 for 18 miles.
- Turn left on Forest Road 1872.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Portable toilet(s)Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Fishing - Lake & PondFishing - Lake & Pond Info
Permit:
See current Minnesota Department of Natural Resources rules and regulations.
Recreation Groups
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a unique area located in the northern third of the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota.