Big Lake
00 reviewBig Lake, Superior National Forest, Minnesota
Big 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
No fees are required for camping at Big Lake.
About this campground
Nestled deep within Minnesota's pristine wilderness, Big Lake beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear waters and secluded camping opportunities. Three tranquil backcountry campsites dot the shoreline, offering intimate encounters with nature for those seeking solitude far from the crowds. For the ultimate wilderness experience, a fourth campsite awaits within the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), where paddlers can immerse themselves in one of America's most cherished wild places—just remember to follow BWCAW regulations for this special site.
Big Lake features three dispersed backcountry campsites outside the BWCAW and one inside, which requires compliance with BWCAW guidelines.
Historical SignificanceBig Lake's western shores touch the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a million-acre sanctuary that has captivated generations of paddlers and wilderness enthusiasts. This protected landscape represents one of North America's most significant wilderness preservation achievements, where ancient travel routes once used by Indigenous peoples and voyageurs now offer modern adventurers a glimpse into a timeless world. Here, the call of loons echoes across waters that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of Minnesota's northwoods as the seasons transform Big Lake throughout the year. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for paddling and swimming, while autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant reds and golds. Winter transforms this water wonderland into a frozen paradise, with temperatures plunging well below zero and snow blanketing the landscape in pristine white. Spring arrives with a flourish of wildflowers and migrating birds, though savvy campers pack layers for those surprise cold snaps and refreshing rain showers that keep the forest lush and green.
ElevationSet within the gently rolling landscape of northern Minnesota's lake country, Big Lake rests among the ancient hills and valleys carved by glaciers millennia ago. This classic northwoods terrain creates the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, where the subtle changes in elevation reveal hidden coves, scenic overlooks, and secret portage trails that have connected these waterways for generations.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering pines and paper birches create a living cathedral above Big Lake's mirror-like waters. This pristine freshwater gem sparkles beneath dense forest canopies, offering paddlers and anglers endless opportunities to explore hidden bays and rocky shorelines. The rugged beauty of Superior National Forest surrounds you here, where morning mists dance across the water and the haunting calls of wildlife remind you that this is their home, and you are merely a guest.
Geological RegionBig Lake lies at the heart of Superior National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a masterpiece of forests, lakes, and exposed bedrock. This remarkable landscape tells the story of glaciers that once covered the region, leaving behind a intricate network of waterways and the rugged, rocky terrain that defines northern Minnesota. Here, the Canadian Shield's ancient granite provides the foundation for one of America's great wilderness treasures, creating the perfect playground for those who seek adventure in truly wild places.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the descriptions.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as dispersed backcountry campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of campsites is not discussed in the source materials.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe three backcountry sites outside the BWCAW are recommended for easier access and fewer restrictions compared to the site within the BWCAW.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe sites are dispersed around Big Lake, with one site located within the BWCAW and three others outside the BWCAW.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Operational hours are 24 hours a day.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. No reservations are required.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating (motorized and non-motorized), and other water-based activities. Hunting and shooting are also mentioned.
Fishing
Fishing in Big Lake is permitted, and campers should adhere to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources rules and regulations.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are allowed at Big Lake. Campers are also reminded to follow Minnesota State boating laws.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports are not explicitly mentioned beyond fishing and boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campers are encouraged to use fire rings at campsites and follow Minnesota state fire regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards may include wildlife encounters (e.g., bears), variable weather conditions, and remote access. Campers are advised to store food securely and exercise caution.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 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
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Kawishiwi Ranger District Office: 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731. Phone: (218) 365-7600. Hours: April 28 – September 30, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Closed on weekends and federal holidays.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are instructed to pack out their garbage, indicating no on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe three backcountry campsites are directly adjacent to Big Lake. Water activities such as boating and fishing are popular.
Campground Map
Big Lake, Superior National Forest, Minnesota
Driving directionsBig Lake is located 21 miles northwest of Ely on County Road 116 (Echo Trail). From Ely take Highway 169 east 1 mile to County Road 88. Turn left, go 2 miles to County Road 116 (Echo Trail). Follow County Road 116 for 18 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 1872.
The campground is accessible via County Road 116 (Echo Trail) and Forest Road 1872. Roads are likely to be unpaved in this remote forested area, but no specific navigation challenges were noted.Nearby places
Ely (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The closest town with supplies is Ely, located 21 miles away, which likely offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Big Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews were provided to evaluate the overall sentiment and direct camper experiences.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Lack of fees and the availability of boating and fishing make this campground appealing.
Common Concerns
No complaints are documented due to lack of user reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations mainly center around adhering to BWCAW regulations and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
Seasonal Insights
No seasonal review trends are available.
Camper Quotes
No user quotes are included in the materials.
Site-Specific Reviews
There is no information detailing the best or worst campsites by number.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-specific reviews are absent.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pet-related guidelines are detailed, emphasizing leash requirements, waste disposal, and preventing pets from drinking lake water.
Last updated August 10, 2025