Upper Bass Lake Campsite

For Minnesotans seeking a tranquil and accessible escape into the heart of the Northwoods, Upper Bass Lake Campsite near Ely offers a compelling destination. Nestled within the vast Superior National Forest, this campsite provides a classic Minnesota camping experience, balancing primitive amenities with remarkable ease of access to the beautiful waters of Bass Lake. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of the forest and a serene lakeside setting without requiring a deep wilderness trek.

Upper Bass Lake Campsite, often considered alongside its lower counterpart, stands out for its user-friendly features. As one local visitor noted, it's "Equally as good as lower site but easier water access." This improved lake access is a significant benefit for campers looking to enjoy swimming, fishing, or simply dipping their toes in the clear, refreshing waters. The presence of a latrine, as also highlighted in reviews, adds a basic but essential convenience for primitive camping, ensuring a more comfortable stay for all visitors. This combination of easy access, essential amenities, and a peaceful environment makes Upper Bass Lake Campsite a favored choice for families and casual campers.

The campsite is part of a larger recreational area that emphasizes immersion in nature. Bass Lake itself is a spring-fed lake known for excellent fishing opportunities, including bass, pike, and panfish, and its sandy bottom makes it inviting for swimming directly from many campsites. The surrounding mature pine forest provides ample shade and a sense of privacy, creating an idyllic backdrop for campfires, stargazing, and simply unwinding. Unlike some of the more remote, paddle-in BWCA campsites, Upper Bass Lake Campsite offers the charm of wilderness without the intensive planning and gear requirements, making it a perfect getaway for a spontaneous weekend trip or a longer, relaxing stay in Minnesota's beloved Northwoods.

Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a family camping adventure, or simply a quiet retreat to reconnect with nature, Upper Bass Lake Campsite provides a welcoming and picturesque setting. Its proximity to Ely, a hub for wilderness exploration, also means easy access to supplies and additional recreational opportunities in the surrounding area.

Location and Accessibility

Upper Bass Lake Campsite is conveniently located off County Highway 116 (also known as the Echo Trail), near Ely, MN 55731, USA. This makes it a highly accessible drive-up campsite, a notable advantage for those bringing more gear or seeking a less arduous journey into the wilderness. The Echo Trail itself is a scenic route, offering glimpses of Minnesota's rugged beauty as you approach the campground.

To reach Upper Bass Lake Campsite from Ely, visitors typically follow Highway 169 East through town. Just a quarter mile past the Forest Service office, turn left onto County Road 88, then turn right (north) onto County Road 116 (the Echo Trail). The Bass Lake parking lot and access to the campsites are typically well-marked along County Road 116. This relatively straightforward road access means that campers can bring their vehicles directly to or very near the campsite, making setup and gear transport significantly easier compared to remote, boat-in or hike-in sites.

The ease of water access at Upper Bass Lake Campsite, highlighted by reviews, is another key aspect of its accessibility. This allows for simple launching of canoes, kayaks, or even just wading into the lake for swimming. While the sites maintain a rustic feel, the convenience of vehicular access combined with easy lake entry makes Upper Bass Lake Campsite a practical and appealing choice for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from families with young children to those who prefer a less strenuous approach to their camping adventure.

Services Offered

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers individual campsites suitable for tents, providing cleared and relatively level areas for setup. The mention of "overflow for tents" suggests flexibility for accommodating additional campers or larger groups within designated areas.
• Latrine: A key amenity, as confirmed by reviews, is the presence of a latrine (typically a vault toilet). While primitive, this provides a much-appreciated convenience for human waste management, enhancing comfort and sanitation.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is generally equipped with a designated fire ring for campfires, cooking, and warmth. Campers are encouraged to use dead and downed wood and always adhere to current fire restrictions.
• Picnic Tables: Most sites within Superior National Forest campgrounds are equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for preparing and enjoying outdoor meals.
• Water Access: As noted in reviews, the campsite offers "easier water access" to Bass Lake, which is crucial for activities like swimming, fishing, and collecting water (which must be treated before consumption).
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Campsites at Upper Bass Lake are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are usually required, allowing for spontaneous trips.

Features / Highlights

• Excellent Water Access: A primary highlight, offering easy entry into Bass Lake for swimming, fishing, and paddling, making water-based activities highly convenient.
• Peaceful Lakeside Setting: Nestled on the shores of Bass Lake, the campsite provides serene views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's sounds.
• Primitive Amenities with Comfort: The presence of a latrine and designated tent pads offers essential comforts while maintaining a rustic, authentic camping experience.
• Accessible by Vehicle: Unlike many remote wilderness sites, Upper Bass Lake Campsite is accessible via County Highway 116, making it convenient for car campers and families.
• Mature Pine Forest: Surrounded by a beautiful, mature pine forest, offering shade, privacy, and the classic Northwoods ambiance.
• Good Fishing Opportunities: Bass Lake is known for good fishing, providing opportunities to catch bass, pike, and panfish.
• Proximity to Ely: Located just a short drive from Ely, providing easy access to town amenities, outfitters, and additional attractions.
• Suitable for Families: The combination of accessibility, essential amenities, and a safe lake environment makes it very suitable for family camping adventures.

Contact Information

Address: Co Hwy 116, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Upper Bass Lake Campsite is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Superior National Forest. While there isn't a direct phone number for the campsite itself, general inquiries and information can be obtained from the local Ranger District.

For current conditions, regulations, or other information, please contact:

Superior National Forest - Kawishiwi Ranger District (Ely Area):

Phone: (218) 365-7600

It is always advisable to check with the Forest Service for any fire restrictions, seasonal closures, or other alerts before planning your trip.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans, Upper Bass Lake Campsite offers an ideal blend of accessibility and authentic Northwoods charm, making it exceptionally suitable for a wide range of local adventurers. It represents a quintessential "up North" experience without the rigorous demands of deep backcountry travel. The ease of access via County Highway 116 is a major draw, allowing families with children, new campers, or those seeking a more relaxed outdoor getaway to effortlessly reach their destination with all their gear. This car-accessible primitive camping experience bridges the gap between fully developed campgrounds and remote wilderness sites, offering the best of both worlds.

The key features, such as the well-noted easy water access to Bass Lake and the presence of a latrine, significantly enhance the comfort and convenience of the primitive setting. These amenities mean that campers can focus more on enjoying the natural beauty – from swimming in the clear, spring-fed lake to fishing for pike and bass – rather than wrestling with extreme wilderness challenges. The tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by towering pines and the calming sounds of nature, provides the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. For Minnesotans who value quality time outdoors, whether it's a quiet weekend fishing trip, a family vacation filled with swimming and campfires, or simply a peaceful retreat, Upper Bass Lake Campsite delivers an accessible, rewarding, and deeply satisfying taste of their state's magnificent natural heritage. It's a place where lasting memories are made, easily and beautifully, in the heart of the beloved Northwoods.

Upper Bass Lake Campsite

Co Hwy 116, Ely, MN 55731, USA