Fall Lake Campground
Fall Lake Campground is located on the shores of Fall Lake and provides direct access into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photos of Fall Lake Campground
Reservations
Some sites are reservable through Recreation.gov's Fall Lake Campground page.
General Information
Camping
- Please use facilities provided such as fire rings, tent pads, and latrines.
- Dispose of waste in containers provided.
- Water faucets are for drinking water only, do not use as wash areas.
- Noise limits enforced, respect your fellow campers.
No. of Sites
64 campsites (most with electrical hookups)
RV Camping
Most sites are pull-in and not specifically designed for RVs. Most can accommodate a moderately sized vehicle. Sites 10, 16 and 18 are drive-through.
Group Camping
Group sites are located south of the campground on Fall Lake Road. Sites have cook shelters and docks.
No. of Sites
2 group sites
Hookups - Electric
Yes
May 1 - October 1
Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Part of Fall Lake north of the campground lies within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Permits are required in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
When visiting, please remember
- Maximum of 9 people per site.
- There is space for 1 vehicle and 1 towed vehicle (such as a boat trailer).
- Additional vehicles at the site require additional half fee and must park on the spur.
- No vehicles may park on the grass or where they impede traffic.
- ATVs not allowed.
Overnight Use:
Single Site Electric: $28 per night
Group Sites: $100 per night (up to 20 people); $120 per night (up to 30 people)
Single Site
- $28/night
- Electric: Additional $7 at 30 amp sites, additional $9 at 50 amp sites.
Group Site
- $100/night or $120/night
Dogs are allowed at campsites and developed recreation areas; however, they should not be allowed to run loose in recreation areas where they will disturb other forest visitors. Be mindful of the impact a barking dog can have on other forest visitors.
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or 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.
- Do not leave your dog in the vehicle on a hot day.
- Keep your dog in your tent or vehicle at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Address: 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
Phone: (218) 365-7600
Hours: October 1, 2025-April 30, 2026, Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. No BWCAW permit issuance and no Eastern National Forest Interpretative Association retail sales products. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 47.95243952
Longitude: -91.71633108
Directions
Fall Lake Campground is located about 6 miles east of Ely.
- Go east on Highway 160 for 4.5 miles (Highway 169 becomes County Road 18).
- Turn left on County Road 182 and continue for 1.5 miles.
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
- Many sites are accessible and all sites have accessible picnic tables.
- All shower buildings are accessible.
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Flush toilets, showers
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Electric powered faucets
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Other Amenities
Concessionaire, located in sites 11, 19, 31, and 64. Phone: 218-365-2963 (May – October)
Recreation Opportunities
Recreation Groups
The 4,800-mile North Country National Scenic Trail takes visitors across federal, state, county and private land. Upon completion the trail will extend from Crown Poi