Superior National Forest Campsite #2120

For Minnesotans drawn to the allure of rugged landscapes and the call of the wild, Superior National Forest Campsite #2120 offers a foundational experience within one of the state's most iconic natural treasures. Located near Ely, this campsite provides a direct connection to the expansive beauty and recreational opportunities that define the Superior National Forest, an area renowned for its dense forests, pristine lakes, and proximity to the world-famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). It's a place where the simplicity of camping meets the grandeur of northern Minnesota's wilderness.

The Superior National Forest, established in 1909, spans nearly three million acres and is the largest national forest east of the Mississippi River. It's a land shaped by glaciers, boasting thousands of clean lakes and a unique boreal forest ecosystem. This vast landscape provides an unparalleled backdrop for outdoor adventures, from silent sports like canoeing and backpacking to the simple joy of a campfire under a star-filled sky. Campsite #2120, like many others within this forest, is designed to offer a more rustic experience, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in the natural environment.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2120 is situated near Ely, MN, with the provided address being X26C+33, Ely, MN 55731, USA. For those familiar with geographical coordinates, its precise location is approximately (47.9575897, -91.9815470). Ely is often considered the "Gateway to the Boundary Waters," making this campsite a strategic base for exploring the region.

Reaching Campsite #2120 typically involves navigating a network of forest roads within the Superior National Forest. From Ely, you would likely follow directions provided by the Forest Service or a reliable mapping application to the specific forest road and turn-off for the campsite. It is important to note that many forest roads can be unpaved, narrow, and sometimes challenging, especially after inclement weather. While some campgrounds within the Superior National Forest are more developed, rustic campsites like #2120 often require careful driving and awareness of changing road conditions. It is always recommended to check current road conditions with the local Ranger District before heading out.

Accessibility to Campsite #2120 is generally considered "car camping" in the rustic sense. This means you can drive to or very near the site, as opposed to requiring a long hike or paddle-in. However, specific information regarding the exact distance from the nearest main road or whether a high-clearance vehicle is recommended would be best confirmed with the Superior National Forest directly. Given its location within a vast national forest, cell phone service can be unreliable, so it's always wise to download maps or carry physical ones for navigation.

Campsites within the Superior National Forest, particularly those designated as "rustic" or individual undeveloped sites, typically offer a minimalist set of services to preserve the wilderness character. Campsite #2120 would generally align with these offerings:

• Designated Campsite: A defined area for setting up tents or parking a smaller RV/camper, often featuring a cleared space, a fire ring, and sometimes a picnic table.
• Fire Ring: A designated area for building campfires. Campers are usually permitted to collect dead and downed wood for fires, but bringing approved firewood from home or purchasing it locally is recommended to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Primitive Toilets: Most rustic sites offer a vault toilet (outhouse) for human waste disposal. It is crucial to use these facilities if available or to practice proper human waste disposal techniques (burying waste at least 150 feet from water sources and trails) if no facilities are present.
• No Potable Water: Unlike developed campgrounds, rustic sites often do not have a direct source of potable water. Campers must either pack in all their drinking water or be prepared to filter or treat water from natural sources like nearby lakes or rivers before consumption.
• No Garbage Service: Rustic campsites operate under a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy. This means all trash, including food scraps, must be carried out of the campsite by the camper.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Many rustic campsites in the Superior National Forest, particularly individual ones like #2120, operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are typically not available. Arriving early, especially during peak seasons or weekends, is 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 #2120 offers a raw, undeveloped camping experience, appealing to those who prefer less infrastructure and more natural surroundings compared to highly developed campgrounds.
• Proximity to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW): Its location near Ely places it in close proximity to numerous entry points for the BWCAW, making it an excellent base camp for day trips or longer expeditions into this iconic wilderness area.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The Superior National Forest is replete with thousands of lakes and rivers. Campsite #2120's location likely provides access to lakes known for various fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and different types of trout.
• Vast Hiking and Exploration: The surrounding Superior National Forest offers an extensive network of trails, including old logging roads and designated hiking paths. These provide opportunities for day hikes, wildlife viewing, and exploring diverse forest ecosystems.
• Wildlife Viewing: The deep forest environment is home to abundant wildlife, including moose, black bears, wolves, white-tailed deer, and a wide variety of bird species. Campers have a good chance of encountering wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies over the Superior National Forest are often incredibly clear, offering spectacular opportunities for stargazing and appreciating the Milky Way.
• Solitude and Quiet: Due to its rustic nature and location within a vast forest, Campsite #2120 often provides more solitude and a quieter camping experience compared to more populated campgrounds.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2120 is managed by the Superior National Forest. For direct inquiries regarding this specific campsite or general park conditions and regulations, it's best to contact the Forest Service office closest to Ely, which is the Kawishiwi Ranger District.

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

For specific information related to the Ely area and surrounding campsites like #2120, contact the Kawishiwi Ranger District:

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

Phone: (218) 365-7600 (Kawishiwi Ranger District)

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

It is always recommended to call ahead to confirm current conditions, fire restrictions, road accessibility, and any specific details about Campsite #2120.

For Minnesotans, Superior National Forest Campsite #2120 offers an invaluable and quintessential Northwoods experience right in their own state. It embodies the spirit of raw, accessible wilderness that many locals cherish and seek out for recreation and rejuvenation.

This campsite is particularly suitable for locals because it provides a genuine, rustic camping opportunity without the need for extensive travel or specialized permits required for the deeper BWCAW. It allows Minnesotans to experience the beloved "cabin country" feel of the North Shore and border lakes region, but with the added privacy and natural immersion of a national forest setting. Its proximity to Ely means essential supplies and outfitter services are within a reasonable drive, offering a balance between remote adventure and necessary conveniences.

For those who grew up exploring Minnesota's outdoors, or for newcomers eager to embrace its natural heritage, Campsite #2120 serves as an ideal entry point to backpacking, dispersed camping principles, and extended wilderness trips. The fishing, hiking, and canoeing opportunities are abundant, catering to a wide range of outdoor pursuits. It's a place where families can introduce children to simpler, unplugged camping, where seasoned adventurers can find new trails to conquer, and where anyone can find solace in the quiet grandeur of the boreal forest. By choosing a rustic site like #2120, locals contribute to the minimal impact philosophy that helps preserve these precious resources for future generations. It’s a chance to truly connect with the land that makes Minnesota unique.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2120

X26C+33, Ely, MN 55731, USA