August Lake
00 review1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
August Lake
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
There is no mention of camping fees in the source materials.
About this campground
Escape to the pristine wilderness of August Lake, where 228 acres of crystal-clear water stretch across six miles of undeveloped shoreline. This hidden gem offers two distinct backcountry camping experiences: drive right up to your lakeside retreat at the first site, or paddle across serene waters to reach the second, water-access-only sanctuary where true solitude awaits.
August Lake provides a backcountry camping experience with two campsites designed for minimal-impact use.
Historical SignificanceAugust Lake remains one of the Superior National Forest's best-kept secrets, preserving the untouched wilderness that has captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations. This pristine water body continues to offer the same unspoiled natural experience that early explorers and indigenous peoples once cherished.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Minnesota's changing seasons at August Lake. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland with crisp, freezing temperatures perfect for ice fishing and snowshoeing. As summer arrives, the lake comes alive under warm sunshine, with late June bringing perfect camping weather—comfortable 72°F afternoons cooling to refreshing 51°F nights under star-filled skies. These dry, mild conditions create ideal opportunities for swimming, fishing, and evening campfires.
ElevationNestled within the gently rolling terrain of northern Minnesota's lake country, August Lake sits at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access while maintaining its secluded character amidst the surrounding forest landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Superior National Forest, where August Lake serves as your gateway to authentic wilderness adventure. The lake's pristine waters teem with prized walleye and northern pike, offering anglers dawn-to-dusk excitement. Towering pines and hardwoods create a natural amphitheater around the lake, their reflections painting the water's surface while loons call across the morning mist. This tranquil sanctuary provides the perfect backdrop for wildlife watching, photography, and reconnecting with nature's rhythms.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota, August Lake exemplifies the region's glacially-carved landscape. This secluded water body, surrounded by dense boreal forest, showcases the area's characteristic blend of ancient bedrock, pristine waters, and thriving wilderness ecosystems that define Minnesota's legendary North Woods.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features is provided, and the remote nature of the site may make it challenging for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are designed for backcountry use, and specific size descriptions are not provided. There are designated tent pads available.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are secluded, with one accessible by vehicle and the other water-accessed only, ensuring a private camping experience.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended Campsites"The vehicle-accessible site is more convenient, but those seeking solitude might prefer the water-access-only site."
Best CampsitesOne campsite accessible by vehicle and another accessible by water. "The water-access-only campsite provides a more secluded experience."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Nine people per site limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Nine people per site.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned, and the maximum capacity for each site is limited to nine people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two dispersed sites: one accessible by vehicle and one accessible by water.
Open and Closed SeasonOffice is open from April 28 to September 30. Information for camping season is not provided.
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
August Lake offers a range of activities tailored to the natural, rugged environment. Key activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Fishing
The lake is ideal for fishing, with species such as walleye and northern pike noted. Other species include bluegill, burbot, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed, rock bass, yellow perch, white sucker, blacknose shiner, bluntnose minnow, golden shiner, Iowa darter, Johnny darter, minnows, sculpin, and tadpole madtom. As per the authoritative content, this lake has 'good walleye and northern pike fishing.'Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are allowed on the 228-acre lake. Campers are advised to follow state boating laws and ensure safety measures for themselves and any pets accompanying them.Wildlife viewing
The secluded lake setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation, though no specific species or areas for viewing are detailed.Winter Activities
No information is provided about winter-specific activities, but the backcountry nature of the site may make it less accessible during harsh winter conditions.Water Sports
The lake supports activities like fishing and both motorized and non-motorized boating. Other water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not explicitly mentioned but could be inferred from the non-motorized boating allowance.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in provided fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife interactions, lack of potable water, and challenging backcountry terrain.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Kawishiwi Ranger District, 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731, Phone: (218) 365-7600
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all garbage as no trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on August Lake, a 228-acre body of water with a maximum depth of 19 feet.
Common complaintsNull
HostNull
Campground Map
1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
Driving directionsAugust Lake is located south of Ely, about four miles off Hwy. 1 on FR 377 and FR 388.
The access road is gravel.Nearby places
Ely (approximately 4 miles)
Nearby supplies
Ely, MN (groceries, camping supplies, fuel)
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
August Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are included in the provided data.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The campground's secluded and natural setting, along with good fishing opportunities, are clear highlights based on the authoritative content.
Common Concerns
Lack of facilities such as restrooms, showers, potable water, and trash services may be a challenge for some campers.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to pack out all garbage, bring their own potable water, and prepare for a backcountry experience. Boaters should follow Minnesota State boating laws and ensure safety for dogs if...
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Seasonal Insights
No seasonal trends are detailed in the source material.
Camper Quotes
No direct quotes from users are available in the data.
Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews are included in the provided data.
Accessibility Features
No reviews concerning accessibility are included in the provided data.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, but specific reviews regarding pet experiences are not included. However, guidelines for pets highlight the importance of keeping dogs leashed and providing ample water and shade.
Last updated August 10, 2025