Big Lake Campsite #2

For Minnesotans drawn to the serene beauty and untamed spirit of the Northwoods, camping offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in nature. While the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) often comes to mind for deep wilderness experiences, other gems exist on its periphery, offering a more accessible, yet still rustic, connection to the great outdoors. Big Lake Campsite #2, located near Ely, MN, embodies this balance, providing a true taste of northern Minnesota's wilderness for those seeking quiet recreation without the strictures of a BWCA permit. It's a place where the sounds of loons might greet your morning, and the vast expanse of Big Lake invites exploration, making it a favored spot for locals looking to unplug and unwind.

Big Lake Campsite #2 is situated in the Superior National Forest, offering a distinct experience from the more primitive BWCA campsites. Unlike the "permit-required, paddle-in" nature of many BWCA sites, Big Lake Campsite #2 is generally a drive-in, first-come, first-served rustic campground. This accessibility makes it a convenient option for impromptu trips or for those bringing small trailers. While it foregoes some of the modern amenities found in highly developed campgrounds, it fully embraces the rustic charm that many Minnesotans cherish in their outdoor adventures. It provides a straightforward yet deeply rewarding camping experience, focusing on the natural environment and outdoor activities that define the Ely area.

Big Lake Campsite #2 is nestled on the eastern shore of Big Lake, with its address listed as Ely, MN 55731, USA. This location places it firmly within the Superior National Forest, a vast and wild region of northeastern Minnesota. While not officially within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) itself, Big Lake does have a small section of its southwestern shoreline that borders the BWCA, offering a glimpse into that more restricted wilderness.

Accessibility to Big Lake Campsite #2 is generally by vehicle, distinguishing it from many of the paddle-in BWCA sites. The campsite is typically reached via well-maintained forest roads from the town of Ely, which serves as a major gateway to the region. Ely itself is a well-known hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering supplies, outfitters, and local services. From Ely, travelers would navigate along local roads to reach the specific access point for Big Lake and its campground. The drive is scenic, offering a gradual transition from town amenities to the peaceful seclusion of the forest.

For those planning to visit, it’s important to note that while Big Lake is a large body of water, it is not part of the paddle-only zones of the BWCA. This means motorboats are permitted on Big Lake, offering broader recreational opportunities for some, while still maintaining a generally peaceful atmosphere, especially within the rustic campground. The presence of a small concrete boat ramp within the campground makes it easy for visitors to launch small boats, canoes, and kayaks directly from the site, enhancing its appeal for water-based activities. The campground's relative proximity to Ely, combined with its direct road access, makes Big Lake Campsite #2 a convenient and appealing choice for Minnesotans seeking a straightforward yet immersive Northwoods camping experience.

Big Lake Campsite #2, as a rustic campground within the Superior National Forest, offers fundamental services designed to provide a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience. It's important for visitors to understand that "rustic" implies a more basic level of amenities compared to fully developed state parks or private campgrounds.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers 15 designated sites suitable for tents and small trailers. These sites are typically spaced to provide a degree of privacy, with natural tree cover serving as natural dividers. As a first-come, first-served campground, reservations are generally not available, making early arrival advisable during peak seasons.

• Vault Toilets: For restroom facilities, the campground provides vault toilets. These are non-flush, basic facilities that are regularly maintained by the Forest Service to ensure cleanliness and hygiene, upholding environmental standards in a wilderness-adjacent setting.

• Potable Water (Hand-Pump Well): Drinking water is available from a hand-pump well. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own containers for collecting water and should be prepared for this type of water source, which is common in rustic campgrounds.

• Fire Grates/Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire grate or fire ring. These are essential for safely containing campfires for cooking and warmth, in accordance with Forest Service regulations to prevent wildfires and minimize impact on the environment.

• Picnic Tables: Every site includes a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and other campsite activities.

• Direct Water Access/Boat Launch: The campground boasts direct water access to Big Lake. There is a small concrete ramp suitable for launching canoes, kayaks, and small boats, making it easy for campers to get out on the water. Additionally, there is often carry-in access within the campground for paddlers.

• Overnight Fees and Registration: Camping at Big Lake Campsite #2 typically requires an overnight fee (often around $20 per night for most sites). Registration procedures and fee information are usually posted at an information kiosk upon entry, operating on an honor system.

Big Lake Campsite #2, while rustic, offers a compelling array of features and highlights that make it a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience near Ely, MN. Its proximity to both wilderness and recreational opportunities defines its unique appeal.

• Scenic Lakeside Setting: The campground is located directly on the shores of Big Lake, providing campers with beautiful water views and easy access to the lake. The natural beauty of the surrounding forest, with its diverse trees and wildlife, creates a peaceful and picturesque backdrop for camping.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Big Lake is known for its decent fishing, particularly for walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and perch. The Minnesota DNR regularly stocks the lake with walleye fingerlings, making it a popular spot for anglers. The direct boat launch from the campground enhances fishing accessibility.

• Paddling Paradise: For canoeists, kayakers, and stand-up paddleboarders, Big Lake offers extensive paddling opportunities. Its large size allows for varied routes and explorations, while the option for carry-in access within the campground makes launching easy. While motorboats are allowed, the lake still provides ample quiet areas for paddlers.

• Proximity to ORV Trails: A significant highlight for motorized recreational enthusiasts is the campground's direct access to the Baraga Plains ORV Trail. This 28-mile cycle/ATV trail is located just 1.5 miles west of the campground, and the operation of ORVs and snowmobiles between the campground and nearby trails is permitted. This makes it an ideal base camp for those who enjoy off-road adventures.

• Hunting Access: The campground provides access to state land that is open to hunting, making it a convenient base for hunters. It's particularly noted for excellent fall waterfowl hunting in the adjacent Baraga Plains State Waterfowl Management Area.

• Wildlife Viewing: The Superior National Forest is teeming with wildlife. Campers at Big Lake Campsite #2 have opportunities to spot various animals, including deer, moose, bears, and a wide array of bird species, including bald eagles and the iconic loon, whose calls are a signature sound of the Northwoods.

• Rustic and Secluded Atmosphere: Despite being a drive-in campground, the sites are generally well-spaced and separated by natural vegetation, offering a good degree of privacy. This rustic setting allows for a genuine connection with nature, fostering a sense of peaceful solitude away from crowded urban environments.

As a rustic campground managed by the Superior National Forest, Big Lake Campsite #2 does not have a dedicated on-site office or a direct phone number specific to the campsite itself. The address, Ely, MN 55731, USA, refers to the general area of its location. For information regarding the campground, current conditions, or Forest Service regulations, direct contact should be made with the managing Ranger District.

• Primary Contact (Superior National Forest - Kawishiwi Ranger District):

  Since Big Lake Campsite #2 is part of the Superior National Forest system in the Ely area, the Kawishiwi Ranger District is the most appropriate contact point for official information.

  Address: 1393 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731

  Phone: (218) 365-7600

  Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov

  (It is highly recommended to call during business hours or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information on the campground, any alerts, or specific regulations.)

• General Forest Service Information:

  For broader inquiries about the Superior National Forest and its other camping opportunities, you can also explore the USDA Forest Service website.

• Local Resources in Ely:

  Local outfitters and visitor centers in Ely can often provide supplementary information and advice on camping in the area, including directions and conditions for Big Lake Campsite #2. While they don't manage the campground directly, their local expertise can be invaluable.

For residents of Minnesota, Big Lake Campsite #2 near Ely offers an ideal blend of accessibility and authentic Northwoods adventure, making it a highly suitable and appealing destination for a local getaway. It strikes a perfect balance for those who crave the tranquility of a rustic setting without the extensive planning and remote access typically associated with the deeper Boundary Waters.

Its location provides a convenient drive from many parts of Minnesota, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer, spontaneous escapes. Unlike some of the more rigorous wilderness experiences, Big Lake Campsite #2 allows for a more relaxed approach, welcoming both tent campers and those with small trailers. This ease of access, combined with a first-come, first-served policy, offers flexibility that is highly valued by locals seeking a quick escape to nature.

The array of activities available directly from the campsite, including excellent fishing in Big Lake, ample paddling opportunities for canoes and kayaks, and direct access to extensive ORV trails, caters to a wide range of outdoor interests that are deeply ingrained in Minnesota's culture. Whether it's casting a line for walleye, gliding across the water in a kayak, or exploring the forest on an ATV, Big Lake Campsite #2 serves as a fantastic base. The presence of basic amenities like vault toilets and a hand-pump for water ensures a comfortable yet genuinely rustic experience, fostering self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment. For Minnesotans, Big Lake Campsite #2 isn't just a campground; it's a practical, enjoyable, and deeply satisfying gateway to the pristine beauty and recreational opportunities that define their beloved Northwoods.

Big Lake Campsite #2

Ely, MN 55731, USA