Nels Lake

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans yearning for a true escape into the wild heart of their state, Nels Lake offers an unparalleled wilderness camping experience. Nestled near the iconic town of Ely, Nels Lake is not your typical developed campground; it’s a destination for those who cherish seclusion, the raw beauty of nature, and the tranquility of a more primitive setting. This gem provides an authentic "Boundary Waters-lite" feel, situated within the vast Superior National Forest, and often with access points that lead to the renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Visitors come here specifically for the peace, the quiet, and the immersive natural environment, often punctuated by the haunting calls of loons across the water. It’s a place where the focus shifts from amenities to experiences – from the thrill of catching pike to the simple joy of a campfire under a blanket of stars. Nels Lake embodies the spirit of Minnesota’s Northwoods, inviting campers to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with themselves and the untouched wilderness around them.

Location and Accessibility

Nels Lake is gracefully tucked away in the wilderness just outside Ely, MN, with the general address being Ely, MN 55731, USA. Its location is significant, as it lies off the famous Echo Trail, a scenic byway that winds through the Superior National Forest and leads to many entry points for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. While the specific campsites on Nels Lake are considered "backcountry sites," meaning they are not directly accessible by car, they are typically reached by a combination of hike-in or paddle-in methods. This adds to their secluded charm and preserves the natural integrity of the area. For Minnesotans, navigating to the trailheads or boat launches that provide access to Nels Lake is part of the adventure. The area is well-marked with forest maps and signage from the Superior National Forest. It's crucial for visitors to understand that vehicle access is limited, and the final leg of the journey to a Nels Lake campsite will involve physical exertion and potentially carrying gear. This ensures that those who seek out Nels Lake are truly looking for an undisturbed wilderness experience, making it a perfect retreat for locals who value solitude and the challenge of a more primitive camping style, away from the crowds of more developed campgrounds.

Services Offered

Given its nature as a backcountry or primitive campground within the Superior National Forest, Nels Lake campsites offer minimal services, emphasizing self-sufficiency and a "Leave No Trace" ethic. The available services are designed to provide essential support for wilderness camping without impacting the natural environment excessively.

• Primitive Campsites: Designated, single-party campsites are available for tent camping, designed to blend into the natural surroundings.
• Fire Grates: Each site typically includes a U.S. Forest Service fire grate, allowing for safe campfires (always check for fire bans and restrictions before lighting any fire).
• Latrines: Basic vault or pit latrines are usually provided at each campsite for sanitation purposes. These are primitive and maintained by the Forest Service.
• Picnic Tables: While not guaranteed at all backcountry sites, some Nels Lake campsites may have a rustic picnic table, though it's best to be prepared without one.
• Water Access: Direct access to Nels Lake for filtering or treating water is available. Campers must bring their own water purification methods, as no potable water pumps are provided.
• Food Storage: Due to wildlife, campers are strongly advised to hang food packs or use bear-resistant containers, though specific facilities for this may not be provided at every site.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Seclusion: The primary highlight of Nels Lake is its profound sense of solitude. Access by foot or watercraft means fewer visitors and a truly peaceful wilderness experience, often with no other campers in sight.
• Abundant Wildlife: Being deep within the Superior National Forest, Nels Lake offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing. Loons are a common and beloved presence, their calls echoing across the water, and sightings of eagles, deer, and other forest creatures are frequent.
• Pike Fishing: As noted by a visitor review, Nels Lake is known for its pike population, offering excellent fishing opportunities for those who enjoy angling in a pristine, uncrowded environment.
• Paddling Paradise: The calm waters of Nels Lake are ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Exploring its shoreline and coves offers a unique perspective of the surrounding wilderness.
• Proximity to BWCAW: While Nels Lake campsites are just outside the official BWCAW boundary, they often offer paddle or portage access into the Wilderness area, allowing for day trips into this iconic protected region (though BWCAW permits are required for entry).
• Starry Nights: Far from any light pollution, the night sky over Nels Lake is incredibly clear, offering spectacular opportunities for stargazing and viewing the Milky Way.
• Primitive Camping: For those who prefer a rustic, self-reliant camping style, Nels Lake provides the perfect setting, encouraging a deep connection with nature without the distractions of modern amenities.
• Natural Soundscape: The dominant sounds are those of nature – the wind in the pines, the calls of birds, and the gentle lapping of the lake, providing a truly restorative auditory experience.

Contact Information

As Nels Lake campsites are part of the Superior National Forest's backcountry system, direct contact information like a dedicated campground office phone number or mailing address isn't typically available for the individual campsites themselves. Instead, inquiries, regulations, and information about the area are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Nels Lake, including access, conditions, and any necessary permits (especially if portaging into the BWCAW), it is best to contact the Forest Service office nearest to Ely. The Kawishiwi Ranger District office is generally the primary contact for this region.

Address: Ely, MN 55731, USA (This is the general vicinity for Nels Lake's access points)

Phone: (218) 365-7600 (This is the general contact number for the Superior National Forest, which can direct you to the appropriate Ranger District for Nels Lake information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 218-365-7600

It is highly recommended to call ahead or visit the official Superior National Forest website before planning your trip to Nels Lake. This will ensure you have the latest information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, wildlife advisories, and any permit requirements for backcountry camping or BWCAW entry. While reservations are generally not available for these first-come, first-served backcountry sites, understanding the regulations is paramount for a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans, Nels Lake embodies the very essence of their state's wild heart, offering an unparalleled opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the Northwoods. This isn't a campsite for those seeking RV hookups or elaborate facilities; it's for the local adventurer who understands and appreciates the raw, unadulterated beauty of wilderness camping. The allure of Nels Lake lies in its profound seclusion, a rare commodity that its hike-in or paddle-in access proudly preserves. Locals will find this campsite ideal for its direct connection to nature – from hearing the iconic calls of loons that punctuate the quietude to the thrill of catching pike in a serene, uncrowded lake. It serves as an excellent base for day trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for those with the appropriate permits, further enhancing its appeal for seasoned Minnesota paddlers and explorers. Nels Lake offers a chance to recharge amidst towering pines, to witness breathtaking starry nights far from urban glow, and to embrace a self-reliant camping style that fosters a deep appreciation for the environment. It’s a place where childhood memories are made around a campfire, where the spirit of exploration is ignited, and where the natural splendor of Minnesota is experienced in its most authentic form. For Minnesotans craving genuine wilderness and tranquil beauty, Nels Lake is not just a destination; it's a cherished retreat into the wild backyard they call home.

Nels Lake

Ely, MN 55731, USA