Birch Lake Campground

Birch Lake Campground Introduce

For Minnesota locals who cherish the serene beauty of the Northwoods and seek a genuine escape into nature, Birch Lake Campground, nestled within the vast Superior National Forest near Ely, offers an idyllic retreat. This "hidden gem" provides a tranquil setting on the shores of Birch Lake, a 21-mile-long expanse of water perfect for fishing, boating, and quiet contemplation. Whether you're looking to launch a canoe directly from your site, cast a line for walleye, or simply unwind amidst towering trees, Birch Lake Campground delivers a quintessential Minnesota outdoor experience. It strikes a balance between secluded wilderness feel and necessary amenities, making it a beloved spot for those truly wanting to disconnect and create lasting family memories.

Visitors consistently highlight the campground's peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. One reviewer described it as a "hidden campground & lake" that they might not have found "unless my husband and I went for a drive or if you were a local." The sentiment of it being a "hidden gem, a nice lake, and clean" resonates with many. Despite being a popular spot, especially during peak seasons, it's often not "super busy," allowing for a more relaxed experience. Campers appreciate the "water & electricity" at many sites and the generous "space between campsites with lots of tree coverage for privacy." While acknowledging the common Northern Minnesota challenge of "extremely buggy with mosquitos and gnats" in mid/late spring (a reminder to always pack bug nets and spray!), the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The "man who cleans does a very good job with the bathrooms," indicating a commitment to cleanliness. And for those seeking that perfect ending to a day outdoors, the "Awesome sunsets!!" are a consistent delight, making Birch Lake Campground a place where "Good memories were made."

Birch Lake Campground is conveniently situated on Little Lake Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA. This location places it approximately 13 miles from the wilderness gateway town of Ely, Minnesota. For Minnesota locals, particularly those in the central and northern parts of the state, the drive offers a scenic journey into the heart of the Superior National Forest. While some approach roads might be gravel and require a bit of mindful driving, the destination is well worth it. The campground's position provides excellent accessibility to Birch Lake itself, a large and popular lake known for its fishing and boating opportunities. Furthermore, its proximity to Ely means campers have easy access to essential supplies, renowned wilderness outfitters, charming local shops, and educational attractions like the International Wolf Center and the Dorothy Molter Museum (a must-visit for a cold root beer!). This balance of being immersed in nature while still having convenient access to town amenities makes Birch Lake Campground an ideal choice for both short getaways and extended stays in Minnesota's iconic Northwoods.

Birch Lake Campground, managed by the USDA Forest Service, provides a solid range of services designed to enhance the traditional camping experience within a beautiful natural setting. While not a full-service resort, it offers key amenities that cater to comfort and convenience:

Campsites with Electricity and Water: Many of the 30+ drive-in campsites offer both electric (30/20/15 amp) and water hookups, making them suitable for RVs, trailers, and pop-up campers. Sites are generally spaced apart and designed for privacy.
Non-Electric Sites: For those preferring a more rustic experience, non-electric campsites are also available.
Camper Cabins: The campground features two rustic, two-room camper cabins (Popple Cabin and Tamarack Cabin) equipped with bunk beds, a futon, table, and chairs. These offer a comfortable "indoor/outdoor" experience with a front porch, and propane heat/gas lighting (no running water or electricity inside).
Clean Vault Toilets: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilet facilities, often described as "the cleanest I've ever seen at a campground."
Drinking Water: Potable water is available via solar-powered or hand-pump wells within the campground.
Boat Launch: A dedicated boat launch/landing is available for easy access to Birch Lake, accommodating both motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying a campfire.
Firewood for Sale: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the attentive camp host, ensuring campers have a convenient supply.
Group Site: A spacious group campsite (accommodating up to 45 people) is available in the North Loop, with its own outhouse and solar-powered well, ideal for larger gatherings.
Attentive Camp Host: The presence of a helpful and attentive camp host is frequently highlighted in reviews, contributing to a pleasant and well-managed experience.

Birch Lake Campground truly shines through its natural features and recreational highlights, offering a diverse array of activities that immerse campers in the beauty of Northern Minnesota.

Direct Lake Access and Boating: Being situated on the expansive Birch Lake (7,628 acres) means direct access for all types of boating. There are no horsepower restrictions, so campers can enjoy power boating, while canoes and kayaks can be launched right from shore at many sites, offering excellent paddling opportunities.
Exceptional Fishing: Birch Lake is renowned for its fishing. Anglers can target northern pike, perch, crappie, and walleye from the boat, fishing pier, or even from shore at many sites. Reviewers attest to successful catches and the joy of fishing from their campsite.
Secluded and Spacious Sites: The campground is celebrated for its "generous space between campsites with lots of tree coverage for privacy." The wooded sites, set within aspen and birch forest, provide a peaceful and private camping experience.
Swimming Section: A designated "swimming section" or beach area provides a safe and easily accessible spot for cooling off and enjoying the lake, especially appreciated during warmer months.
Proximity to BWCAW: While not a direct entry point, the campground's location near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness provides easy access to exploring its fringes and experiencing its unique wilderness character.
Hiking and Nature Exploration: Trails directly accessible from the campsite allow for invigorating hikes, wildlife viewing (including the hoot of an owl or drum of a grouse!), and berry picking in season.
Stunning Sunsets: The lake orientation offers "Awesome sunsets!!", providing breathtaking evening views over the water, a perfect backdrop for a relaxing night by the campfire.
Wildlife Abundance: Being in Superior National Forest means abundant wildlife. While this includes bugs (especially in spring/early summer, so come prepared with head nets and spray!), it also offers opportunities to see diverse Minnesota fauna in their natural habitat.
Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome, ensuring the entire family can enjoy the outdoor adventure together (with leash and waste rules in place).

To plan your refreshing retreat at Birch Lake Campground or to get the most current information regarding reservations and policies, please use the following contact details.

Address: Little Lake Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Phone: (218) 365-7600 (Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest)

Mobile Phone: +1 218-365-7600

Reservations for Birch Lake Campground are primarily made through Recreation.gov, the official booking portal for USDA Forest Service campgrounds. It is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for prime summer dates and waterfront sites, as they tend to fill up quickly. Always check the Superior National Forest website or call the Kawishiwi Ranger District for the latest updates on conditions, fire restrictions, and any specific guidelines for your stay.

Birch Lake Campground is an ideal destination for Minnesota locals, offering a fantastic blend of serene wilderness camping and convenient access to the charming town of Ely. Its location within the Superior National Forest on the shores of Birch Lake provides an authentic Northwoods experience, perfect for those who seek to immerse themselves in nature. The availability of electric and water hookups at many sites caters to a wide range of campers, from RV enthusiasts to tent campers, while the highly praised clean vault toilets and attentive camp host ensure a comfortable and well-managed stay. What makes it particularly suitable for locals is the sheer breadth of activities right at your fingertips: exceptional fishing, various boating opportunities on a lake with no horsepower limits, a refreshing swimming beach, and direct access to scenic hiking trails. For families, the generous spacing between sites offers privacy, and the beautiful sunsets provide unforgettable moments. Furthermore, its proximity to Ely allows for easy day trips to cultural attractions and quick resupply runs. Despite the common Minnesota "bugginess" in certain seasons, coming prepared allows you to fully enjoy this "hidden gem." Birch Lake Campground provides a peaceful, picturesque, and activity-rich environment, making it a perfect choice for Minnesota residents to create lasting memories and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Birch Lake Campground Photos

Birch Lake Campground Location

Minnesota Lake County Ely Little Lake Road

Little Lake Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Birch Lake Campground Reviews

Hidden campground & lake in Oklahoma! I wouldn't have found this place unless my husband and I went for a drive or if you were a local. Hidden gem, a nice lake, and clean. Not super big which is kinda nice.Wasn't super busy when we went for 4 days recently. 83/84 spotsPros- water & electricity, spots are within reason of being spaced apart and level (although the one my parents parked in was not the greatest) we made do! The swimming section was close and easily accessible. Has plenty of picnic tables. The man who cleans does a very good job with the bathrooms.Cons- not enough bathrooms or ventilation inside especially during the summer, expect all bugs, especially scorpions. Not all spaces have water when it clearly states it does online.Overall fun camping week with my family. Good memories were made. The dogs loved it! Awesome sunsets!!
Sep 15, 2024 · Dayna Guinn
This was a lovely and well kept campground. Our site was in the South Loop (#29) with lake access about 15 feet away - perfect for canoeing and day trips on the water. There was generous space between campsites with lots of tree coverage for privacy. Just like every other campground in northern MN in mid/late Spring, it was extremely buggy with mosquitos and gnats. Bug head nets, bug spray, and screen shelters recommended! The site host was attentive and had firewood for sale for $8/bundle. We enjoyed a day trip to downtown Ely, which was about a 30 min drive. If headed into town, I definitely recommend checking out the Bass Lake Trailhead waterfall, Dorothy Molter Museum (with a cold root beer), and the International Wolf Center.
Jun 02, 2023 · Janae Alyse
Far off of the pavement, a wonderful secluded little camp area. No power or running water but there is a well with a hand pump and the water from it was good. Really recharged my inner self while here. Worth the 12 hour drive to get here. Fishing wasnt good but met a guy who pulled a 3 1/2 lb pike. Nights are super quiet. Facilities are kept clean and neat.
May 07, 2024 · Bradley Boots
Very clean campground and the hosts are very nice! Sites are spaced out so you’re not right next to your neighborhood which we appreciated. Most sites also have a personal trail to the lake. They also have a boat dock to the beautiful lake, we went paddle boarding there and had a great time. The campground itself was a bit out of the way down a gravel road which was a nice getaway from busy life. Definitely would visit again.
Jul 03, 2021 · Karen Knoke
August, 2023: We stayed for a few days at Kawishiwi River Campground, yet we were still looking for a nice campsite for the upcoming week, including the Labour Day long weekend. We were told to drive to the Birch Lake Campground and check out the 3 existing first-come-first-serve campsite. We did and took a quick peek at all 3 available campsites and unanimously decided to grab a site. After registering and talking to Tony, the excellent host, we headed back to start packing.The campsite was one of the better sites we had stayed on. It was very spacious, private and meters from Birch Lake, on which shores we often sat, enjoying the relaxing view and sunsets. Because the campsite was very large and had two picnic tables, we set up a big tarp over one of them as a rain shelter. Our tent was located over 10 meters from the center of the campsite, close to the lake. Several times we spoke to the campground host, Tony, who used to serve in the US Army and who was also very helpful in us getting the campsite.While we did not see any bigger animals (black bears or raccoons), there were plenty of Blue Jays, chipmunks, squirrels and a resident garter snake. Amazingly, mosquitoes hardly bothered us—I never used mosquito spray! We had one rainy and cloudy day, as well as a quick storm rolled over the area once, yet it was hot and humid. There were some edible mushrooms (Chanterelle), which I picked, dried and either ate raw or added to soups—the latter was not a good idea, however.Although we did not see any bears—even though there were warnings posted about bear sightings not long before our arrival—on several occasions we spotted a big garter snake on our campsite—of course, my friend did not appreciate its company too much. Once she saw it on the path leading to our tent—amazingly, it just started to consume a frog—which it let go of once she interrupted his eating ritual! Another time we observed the snake on our campsite—and there was a smallish bird almost following it! The bird was certainly too small to hunt & eat the snake (if anything, it could be vice-versa) and I wonder if anyone can provide more info on this phenomenon.
Jul 15, 2023 · Jack K