Superior National Forest Campsite #2122

For Minnesotans seeking a classic Northwoods camping experience that balances rustic charm with accessibility, Superior National Forest Campsite #2122, located on Fenske Lake near Ely, offers an ideal retreat. This site is part of the larger Fenske Lake Campground, providing a peaceful escape surrounded by majestic pine trees and easy access to water. It’s a popular base camp for exploring the vast Superior National Forest and even serves as a convenient starting point for backcountry canoeing adventures into the nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), making it a prime spot for locals eager to immerse themselves in Minnesota's iconic wilderness.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2122 is a specific site within the Fenske Lake Campground, a small, remote, and non-electric campground managed by the Superior National Forest. Fenske Lake Campground is known for its serene atmosphere, with towering pine trees providing a picturesque setting and shade. Unlike the completely primitive BWCA backcountry sites, Fenske Lake Campground offers a slightly more developed experience with designated campsites, but still maintains a rustic feel. It's designed for tent campers and can accommodate small RVs or trailers, though electricity and hookups are not available.

The campground and its individual sites, including #2122, serve as an excellent launchpad for various outdoor activities. Its location on Fenske Lake provides direct water access for paddling, fishing, and swimming. Furthermore, its proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness means that visitors can easily access entry points for more extensive wilderness trips. For Minnesotans, it represents a perfect blend of a peaceful lakeside camping experience with the opportunity for deeper wilderness exploration, offering basic amenities to ensure comfort while maintaining a connection to the wild.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2122 is located on Fenske Lake, approximately 10 miles outside of Ely, MN 55731, USA. The provided Plus Code WXWW+W5, Ely, MN 55731, USA further specifies its general geographical area within the Superior National Forest.

Access to Fenske Lake Campground, where Campsite #2122 is situated, is typically by vehicle. From Ely, a major gateway community to the Boundary Waters, visitors would generally take North Kawishiwi Road (County Road 18) east, then turn north onto Forest Road 464 (Fenske Lake Road). This road leads directly to the campground entrance. The roads are generally well-maintained, allowing for easy access with standard vehicles, including those towing small RVs or trailers.

Once within the Fenske Lake Campground, individual sites like #2122 are typically accessible by vehicle, allowing campers to park directly at or very close to their site. While the campground offers a more accessible experience than remote backcountry sites, it still provides a feeling of being immersed in the Northwoods. Its relative proximity to Ely means essential supplies are within a reasonable driving distance, making it convenient for those who prefer not to be completely off-grid but still desire a natural setting.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2122, as part of Fenske Lake Campground, provides fundamental services designed for a comfortable yet rustic camping experience. It’s important for campers to be aware that this is a non-electric campground, emphasizing a natural outdoor setting.

• Designated Campsite: Each site, including #2122, offers a cleared and relatively level area suitable for pitching tents. Some sites may also accommodate small recreational vehicles or trailers.
• Picnic Table: A sturdy picnic table is provided at each campsite for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Ring with Grate: A metal fire ring with a cooking grate is available for campfires and outdoor cooking. Visitors should be aware of and adhere to any current fire restrictions. Firewood from outside the area is generally not permitted to prevent the spread of invasive pests.
• Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets (outhouses) are available within the campground for sanitation purposes.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is typically available via hand pumps or solar-powered faucets within the campground, although availability can be seasonal. Campers are encouraged to confirm water availability before their trip or bring their own.
• No Electricity or Hookups: This is a non-electric campground. There are no electrical hookups, water hookups, or sewer hookups at the individual campsites. Campers should plan accordingly for lighting, charging devices, and food refrigeration.
• No Showers: There are no shower facilities available at the campground.
• No Trash Service: While some developed campgrounds in the Superior National Forest may offer trash and recycling services, many rustic campgrounds, including Fenske Lake, require campers to pack out all their garbage, adhering to "Leave No Trace" principles.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: While not explicitly stated for every individual site, proper food storage is always recommended in bear country. Campers should store food in vehicles, bear-resistant containers, or hung from trees to deter wildlife.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2122, as part of Fenske Lake Campground, boasts several features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for Minnesota outdoor enthusiasts.

• Lakeside Setting: Situated on the shores of Fenske Lake, the campsite offers direct access to water for fishing, swimming, and paddling. Fenske Lake is known for its clear waters and opportunities for various fish species.
• Majestic Pine Trees: The campground is characterized by large, mature pine trees, providing a classic Northwoods aesthetic, shade, and a sense of immersion in the forest environment.
• Proximity to Ely: Located just 10 miles from Ely, the campground offers a convenient balance between wilderness seclusion and access to a gateway community with supplies, outfitters, and emergency services.
• Base Camp for Exploration: Fenske Lake Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Superior National Forest, with numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and other recreational opportunities nearby.
• Gateway to BWCAW: Its close proximity to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness entry points (such as Fall Lake or Moose Lake) makes it an ideal spot for those planning day trips or multi-day canoe expeditions into the BWCAW, allowing them to ease into a wilderness experience.
• Fishing Opportunities: Fenske Lake is a popular spot for fishing, offering anglers the chance to catch species common to Minnesota's northern lakes.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: As a non-electric and relatively remote campground, Fenske Lake generally offers a quieter camping experience compared to more developed or bustling campgrounds.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities for observing local wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and other forest animals.
• Scenic Drives: The drive to Fenske Lake, through the Superior National Forest, offers picturesque views and a taste of the vast northern wilderness before even reaching the campground.

For Superior National Forest Campsite #2122, which is part of Fenske Lake Campground, direct contact is typically through the Superior National Forest or the specific Ranger District that manages the area near Ely.

Address: WXWW+W5, Ely, MN 55731, USA (This Plus Code indicates the approximate location of Fenske Lake Campground.)

For reservations (some sites at Fenske Lake Campground may be reservable through Recreation.gov) and general inquiries, the following contact information for the U.S. Forest Service is relevant:

U.S. Forest Service - Superior National Forest Headquarters: 218-626-4300

Kawishiwi Ranger District (manages the Ely area, including Fenske Lake Campground): 218-365-7600. This office is located at 1393 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731.

Reservations: While some sites at Fenske Lake Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, others may be reservable through

www.recreation.gov

Local outfitters in Ely can also provide valuable information regarding local conditions, gear rentals, and activities in the area.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2122 on Fenske Lake is an ideal choice for Minnesotans seeking a classic, accessible Northwoods camping experience without venturing too deep into extreme wilderness. For locals, this campsite offers the perfect balance: enough amenities for comfort (like vault toilets and potable water) while still providing the rustic charm of a national forest campground. It caters to those who love the outdoors but prefer a designated site over a completely primitive backcountry experience.

Its location near Ely, a renowned gateway to the Boundary Waters, is a major advantage for Minnesotans. It means convenient access to supplies, local insights from outfitters, and the option to easily embark on day trips or shorter overnight paddling adventures into the BWCAW if desired, without the full commitment of a multi-day wilderness permit. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for families, less experienced campers, or those looking for a relaxing weekend getaway close to home.

The natural beauty of Fenske Lake itself—with its clear waters, majestic pines, and opportunities for fishing and swimming—resonates deeply with Minnesota's identity as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes." For locals, it's a chance to fully embrace the state's outdoor heritage, create cherished memories around a campfire, and enjoy the tranquility of the Superior National Forest. Superior National Forest Campsite #2122 offers Minnesotans an authentic and highly enjoyable way to connect with their state's remarkable natural landscapes.

Superior National Forest Campsite #2122

WXWW+W5, Ely, MN 55731, USA