Superior National Forest Campsite #2118

For Minnesotans seeking a genuine escape into the raw beauty of the Northwoods, Superior National Forest Campsite #2118 offers a compelling invitation. Located within the sprawling and magnificent Superior National Forest, near the quintessential gateway town of Ely, this campsite provides a direct link to the vast natural wonders that define northern Minnesota. It’s a destination for those who appreciate the simplicity of undeveloped camping, preferring the sounds of nature over the buzz of crowds, and valuing direct access to thousands of acres of pristine forest and countless shimmering lakes.

The Superior National Forest, encompassing nearly three million acres, stands as the largest national forest east of the Mississippi River. Its landscape is a testament to glacial power, featuring a unique mosaic of boreal forests, granite outcrops, and over 2,000 lakes. This immense natural playground provides an unmatched setting for a wide array of outdoor activities, from serene paddling and world-class fishing to challenging hikes and profound wildlife encounters. Campsite #2118, like many others within this forest, is categorized as a rustic or dispersed camping option, offering a more primitive experience that allows campers to truly immerse themselves in the unadulterated environment. It's a place to unplug, unwind, and remember why Minnesota is often called "The Land of 10,000 Lakes."

Superior National Forest Campsite #2118 is located in the vicinity of Ely, MN, with its general address provided as X2CH+4M, Ely, MN 55731, USA. For those who rely on precise navigation, its approximate geographical coordinates are 47.9575897, -91.9815470. Ely itself is widely recognized as a primary access point for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), positioning this campsite ideally for those looking to explore the fringes of this iconic wilderness.

Accessing Campsite #2118 typically involves navigating a network of unpaved forest roads. From Ely, visitors will need to follow directions provided by the Superior National Forest Service or utilize reliable mapping tools to locate the specific forest road and turn-off for the site. It is important to be prepared for varied road conditions; many forest roads can be narrow, gravel-surfaced, and potentially challenging, especially after heavy rain or during early spring thaw. While Campsite #2118 is generally considered "car accessible" (meaning you can drive to or very close to the site), a vehicle with decent clearance, such as a truck or SUV, may be beneficial, particularly on less-maintained routes. As with all remote forest locations, cell phone service can be sporadic or entirely absent. Therefore, it is highly recommended to carry detailed paper maps of the area or download offline maps before venturing out. Always check with the local Kawishiwi Ranger District office for current road conditions and any alerts or closures before your trip.

Campsites within the Superior National Forest, particularly rustic or dispersed sites like #2118, are designed to offer a minimalist approach to camping, focusing on natural immersion rather than extensive amenities. The services typically available at such a site include:

• Designated Campsite Area: A cleared or relatively level space for setting up tents or parking a smaller RV/camper, often identifiable by the presence of a fire ring.
• Fire Ring: A stone or metal fire ring for containing campfires. Campers are permitted to collect dead and downed wood from the immediate vicinity for fires. However, bringing certified, local firewood is highly encouraged to prevent the spread of invasive species, or purchasing it from nearby authorized vendors.
• Primitive Toilets: Most rustic sites feature a vault toilet (outhouse) for human waste disposal. If a vault toilet is not available, campers are required to follow Leave No Trace principles for human waste, burying it at least 150 feet from water sources and trails.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to understand that rustic sites typically do not provide a direct source of potable (drinkable) water. Visitors must either pack in all their drinking water or bring a reliable water filter/purifier to treat water from nearby natural sources (lakes, streams) before consumption.
• No Garbage Service: The Superior National Forest enforces a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy for all trash and waste. Campers are responsible for carrying out everything they bring in, leaving no trace behind.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Many individual rustic campsites in the Superior National Forest operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically available. Arriving early, especially during peak summer weekends or holidays, is often advisable to secure a spot.
• Vehicle Access: Generally allows for vehicle access directly to or very near the campsite, making it suitable for tent camping next to your vehicle or for smaller camper vans/truck campers.

• Authentic Wilderness Feel: Campsite #2118 provides a truly raw, undeveloped camping experience, ideal for those who seek deep immersion in nature, far from the conveniences and crowds of more developed campgrounds.
• Gateway to the Boundary Waters: Its location near Ely makes it an excellent base camp for day trips or even the start of longer paddling or hiking expeditions into the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, offering a taste of its unique allure without requiring an overnight BWCAW permit for the campsite itself.
• Superb Fishing Opportunities: The vast network of lakes and streams within the Superior National Forest is renowned for its fishing. Campsite #2118's location likely provides access to waters teeming with walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and various trout species, making it a dream for anglers.
• Extensive Hiking and Exploration: The surrounding Superior National Forest boasts over 2,000 miles of trails, including former logging roads and designated pathways. These offer endless opportunities for day hikes, wildlife viewing, and exploring the diverse boreal forest ecosystem.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The deep forest environment is a haven for northern Minnesota's iconic wildlife. Campers at #2118 have a good chance of encountering moose, black bears, timber wolves, white-tailed deer, and a rich variety of bird species, including loons and eagles.
• Exceptional Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies over the Superior National Forest are often breathtakingly clear, providing spectacular opportunities for stargazing and appreciating the vastness of the cosmos.
• Solitude and Quiet: Due to its rustic nature and location within a massive national forest, Campsite #2118 typically offers a higher degree of solitude and a quieter camping experience compared to more frequented, developed campgrounds.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2118 falls under the jurisdiction of the Superior National Forest. For direct inquiries regarding this specific campsite or general park conditions and regulations, it's best to contact the local Ranger District office closest to Ely, which is the Kawishiwi Ranger District.

Main Forest Headquarters Address: Superior National Forest, 8901 Grand Ave Pl, Duluth, MN 55808

For specific information related to the Ely area and surrounding campsites like #2118, contact the Kawishiwi Ranger District:

Kawishiwi Ranger District Address: 1393 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731

Kawishiwi Ranger District Phone: (218) 365-7600

General Superior National Forest Phone: (218) 626-4300

It is always strongly recommended to call ahead to confirm current conditions, particularly regarding fire restrictions, road accessibility, and any specific details about Campsite #2118.

For Minnesotans, Superior National Forest Campsite #2118 embodies the essence of accessible, authentic wilderness. It offers a crucial opportunity to experience the iconic Northwoods, often revered by locals, without requiring the extensive planning or specialized permits of a full Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness trip. This campsite provides a stepping stone into backcountry principles, allowing residents to embrace self-reliance and the profound quietude that only truly wild spaces can offer.

Its suitability for locals lies in its balance of remoteness and relative accessibility. It's close enough to Ely for convenient resupply, yet far enough into the forest to feel genuinely secluded. This balance makes it ideal for families looking to introduce children to rustic camping, for seasoned adventurers seeking new areas to explore, or for anyone simply desiring a peaceful retreat from the demands of modern life. The abundant opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation cater to a wide range of outdoor interests that are deeply woven into Minnesota's recreational fabric. By choosing a rustic site like #2118, locals contribute to the preservation of these vital natural resources through their adherence to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy the untouched beauty of the Superior National Forest. It's more than just a campsite; it's an invitation to connect with the wild heart of Minnesota.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2118

X2CH+4M, Ely, MN 55731, USA