BWCA Campsite #2186

For those of us living in Minnesota, the desire to connect with our state's incredible natural beauty is a common thread. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is undoubtedly a crown jewel, offering unparalleled wilderness experiences. However, not every trip into the BWCA needs to be a multi-day, challenging paddle and portage expedition. For many, a gateway experience that combines some wilderness feel with more creature comforts is ideal. This is where BWCA Campsite #2186, located within the welcoming Fall Lake Campground, truly shines.

Fall Lake Campground, where BWCA Campsite #2186 is situated, provides a unique blend of accessibility and proximity to the vast wilderness. It's a place where you can wake up to the sounds of the Northwoods, perhaps even spot a bald eagle, and yet still have access to amenities that make camping enjoyable for families, RVers, and those new to the outdoors. Unlike the remote, paddle-in BWCA campsites, Campsite #2186 at Fall Lake Campground offers a more conventional camping experience while still serving as a direct access point to the eastern part of the Boundary Waters.

This campground has a long-standing reputation as a popular spot, particularly for anglers eager to hit Fall Lake during walleye season, or for families looking for a classic Minnesota camping vacation. It’s a versatile destination that caters to a wide range of outdoor interests, from leisurely swims to serious canoe trips into the deeper wilderness. For Minnesotans seeking a convenient yet authentic Northwoods experience, Fall Lake Campground, and specifically its BWCA-adjacent sites like #2186, are prime contenders.

This article will provide a detailed overview of BWCA Campsite #2186 within Fall Lake Campground, exploring its location, the services it offers, its distinct features, and why it's such a suitable choice for local users looking to make the most of Minnesota's outdoor opportunities.

BWCA Campsite #2186 is located within Fall Lake Campground, which itself is situated in Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA. This address places it approximately 6 miles east of Ely, Minnesota, a renowned gateway town to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Accessibility to Fall Lake Campground is straightforward by vehicle. From Ely, you would typically take Highway 160 (which becomes County Road 18) for about 4.5 miles, then turn left onto County Road 182 and continue for approximately 1.5 miles. This relatively easy drive makes it a convenient destination for many Minnesota residents, allowing for quicker getaways without the extensive travel often associated with more remote wilderness areas.

What makes this location particularly unique is its direct connection to the BWCAW. While Fall Lake itself has areas open to unrestricted motorboating, a portion of the lake to the north of the campground lies within the Boundary Waters. This means that from Fall Lake Campground, you can launch a canoe or kayak and, with the appropriate permit, paddle directly into the non-motorized zones of the BWCA. This dual accessibility – easy drive-in access for camping and paddle-in access to the wilderness – is a major draw.

Furthermore, Fall Lake Campground is designed with accessibility in mind. Many of its sites, including those for RVs and tents, are noted as being accessible, and all sites feature accessible picnic tables. The shower buildings are also accessible. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the beauty and activities offered at this popular Minnesota destination. The blend of easy access and wilderness proximity positions Fall Lake Campground as an ideal basecamp for both relaxed family trips and more adventurous BWCA excursions.

Fall Lake Campground, home to BWCA Campsite #2186, offers a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. These services go beyond what you'd find at a typical primitive BWCA campsite, catering to a broader audience.

Services Offered:

• Diverse Campsite Types: The campground features 64 campsites, many of which come with electrical hookups (30 amp and 50 amp options), making them suitable for RVs of various sizes. There are also designated tent sites and pull-through sites for convenience.
• Flush Toilets and Showers: A significant amenity for campers is the availability of well-maintained flush toilets and showers. These facilities are generally accessible, providing a level of comfort not found in the backcountry.
• Potable Water: Electric-powered faucets provide potable water throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to safe drinking water.
• Swimming Beach and Playground: For families, the campground offers a swimming beach, perfect for cooling off on a warm Minnesota day, and a playground for children, providing entertainment right within the camping area.
• Picnic Areas: Dedicated picnic areas are available for day use, and each campsite comes with an accessible picnic table.
• Canoe Landing: Given its location on Fall Lake and its proximity to the BWCA, the campground has a convenient canoe landing, facilitating easy launching for paddlers.
• General Store with Rentals: A concessionaire operates a store within the campground, offering basic supplies, canoe rentals, and firewood, making it easy to acquire necessities without leaving the site.
• Group Sites: For larger gatherings, Fall Lake Campground offers two group sites with electrical hookups, cook shelters, and docks, ideal for family reunions or larger camping groups.
• Concessionaire Services: A concessionaire is typically on-site during operating hours (May-October), providing assistance and management services. Their phone number is generally available for direct inquiries.

These services collectively enhance the camping experience at Fall Lake Campground, allowing visitors to enjoy the Northwoods with convenient amenities, making it a highly appealing option for many Minnesotans.

BWCA Campsite #2186, situated within the broader Fall Lake Campground, benefits from a combination of general campground features and specific location advantages that make it a standout destination for Minnesota locals.

Features / Highlights:

• Direct BWCAW Access: One of the most significant highlights is its direct access into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. While the campground itself is not "in" the BWCA, a portion of Fall Lake is, allowing paddlers to transition seamlessly from a developed campground into the wilderness with the appropriate permit.
• Proximity to Ely, MN: Located just 6 miles from Ely, campers have easy access to a vibrant town that serves as the "gateway to the Boundary Waters." Ely offers outfitters for gear and guidance, restaurants, shops, and attractions like the International Wolf Center and North American Bear Center, enriching the overall trip.
• Beautiful Northwoods Setting: The campground is nestled among majestic pine, aspen, and fir trees, providing a classic Minnesota Northwoods ambiance. These trees offer privacy between most campsites, creating a more secluded feel despite the campground's size.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Fall Lake is renowned for its fishing, particularly for walleye, but also for northern pike, smallmouth bass, crappie, perch, and bluegill. This makes Campsite #2186 an ideal basecamp for anglers looking to explore the lake's abundant waters.
• Hiking Trails: Beyond paddling, the area offers hiking opportunities, including a 1.5-mile hiking trail from the campground to a viewing platform, allowing campers to explore the surrounding forest on foot.
• Abundant Wildlife and Birding: The diverse ecosystem around Fall Lake means abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, various bird species, and potentially even moose. Birding is a popular activity, especially during migratory seasons.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a swimming beach, playground, and accessible facilities, Fall Lake Campground is exceptionally family-friendly, providing activities and amenities that cater to all ages.
• Archaeological Displays: The visitor center at Fall Lake (if available for viewing) might offer unique displays of replica artifacts found during archaeological digs within the campground and surrounding areas, adding a historical and educational dimension to your visit.
• Mix of Reservable and First-Come, First-Served Sites: While many sites are reservable via Recreation.gov, some may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.

These features collectively create a well-rounded outdoor experience at BWCA Campsite #2186 within Fall Lake Campground, making it an attractive and practical choice for any Minnesota local seeking a memorable adventure in the Northwoods.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Fall Lake Campground, where BWCA Campsite #2186 is located, you can use the following contact information.

Address: Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA

Phone: 218-365-2963 (This number is typically for the concessionaire operating Fall Lake Campground during its open season, May – October).

For booking reservations, particularly for specific sites or during peak season, it is highly recommended to use the official online reservation system:

Online Reservations: You can reserve campsites at Fall Lake Campground through Recreation.gov. Search for "Fall Lake Campground Superior National Forest" on their website.

For general information about the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, permit requirements (if you plan to paddle into the BWCA from Fall Lake), or broader Superior National Forest inquiries, you can contact the managing authority:

U.S. Forest Service - Kawishiwi Ranger District (Ely, MN): 218-365-7600

Calling ahead, especially for specific site availability or to confirm operating hours and any current alerts or warnings (like fire restrictions), is always a good practice. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for your trip planning.

BWCA Campsite #2186, nestled within the popular Fall Lake Campground, offers an exceptional and highly suitable outdoor experience for Minnesota locals. Its blend of convenience, comprehensive amenities, and direct access to the iconic Boundary Waters makes it an ideal choice for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts across the state.

For Minnesotans, this campground provides the perfect balance. You can enjoy the comforts of flush toilets, showers, and electrical hookups (for RVs) after a day of exploring, a luxury not available in the deep wilderness. Yet, the true wilderness of the BWCA is just a paddle away. This makes it an excellent "basecamp" for those who want to experience the quiet beauty of the Boundary Waters on day trips, without committing to the full backcountry camping experience. Families with young children, new paddlers, or those simply looking for a more relaxed outdoor escape will find this particularly appealing.

The easy drive from various parts of Minnesota to Ely and then directly to Fall Lake Campground significantly reduces travel fatigue, allowing more time to be spent enjoying the destination. Its location near Ely also means that local services, outfitters, and unique town attractions are readily available, enhancing the overall vacation. Whether you're an avid angler drawn by Fall Lake's renowned fishing, a family seeking a safe and fun lakeside retreat, or an aspiring BWCA adventurer testing the waters, Campsite #2186 at Fall Lake Campground serves as an excellent gateway.

Ultimately, Fall Lake Campground and its accessible sites like #2186 cater to the diverse needs of Minnesota's outdoor community. It provides a welcoming and well-equipped environment that allows locals to connect with the majestic Northwoods, create lasting memories, and appreciate the natural heritage that makes our state so special, all within a comfortable reach.

BWCA Campsite #2186

Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA