Birch Lake Campground
4.6458 reviewsKAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT, 1393 HIGHWAY 169, ELY, MN 55731
Birch Lake Campground
$19.00 - $89.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $19 for standard non-electric sites to $89 for cabin rentals. Group sites are available for $60 per night. Additional fees such as $10 cancellation fee and $20 no-show fee apply.
About this campground
Nestled within a tapestry of dense northern forests, Birch Lake Campground invites you to experience the tranquility of Minnesota's wilderness. Each campsite is thoughtfully positioned among towering trees, offering privacy and shade while maintaining easy access to the pristine waters of Birch Lake. Whether you're seeking solitude at an individual site, planning a gathering at one of our group camping areas, or looking for the comfort of a rustic cabin, you'll find modern amenities including vault toilets and fresh drinking water from hand pumps throughout the grounds.
Birch Lake Campground offers various camping options, including standard nonelectric campsites, group sites, and cabin lodging.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Birch Lake places you at the gateway to the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, where over one million acres of protected wilderness stretch across the landscape. This sacred region has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with the Ojibwe people maintaining deep spiritual and cultural connections to these waters and forests. The area's rich heritage lives on in the ancient portage routes, pictographs on cliff faces, and the enduring tradition of wilderness travel that continues to draw adventurers from around the world.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, the campground comes alive under comfortable temperatures that make for perfect hiking and paddling conditions. Morning mists often rise from the lake, giving way to warm afternoons ideal for swimming and exploring. While summer rains occasionally sweep through, refreshing the forest and filling the air with the scent of pine and earth, most days offer clear skies and gentle breezes. The region's humidity creates lush, green landscapes throughout the season. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a brilliant display of colors before winter blankets the area in pristine snow.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation within Minnesota's northern lake country, where the terrain gently rolls between forest ridges and pristine waterways.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living gallery where paper birch trees stand like white sentinels among trembling aspens, their leaves creating a gentle symphony with each breeze. The expansive Birch Lake stretches across 7,628 acres, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the ever-changing sky and surrounding forest. Early risers might spot white-tailed deer grazing at the water's edge, while the haunting call of loons echoes across the lake at dusk. The forest floor bursts with wildflowers in spring and summer, while eagles soar overhead and black bears forage for berries in the understory.
Geological RegionBirch Lake Campground sits within the majestic Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota's renowned Arrowhead Region, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty. This is the heart of the North Woods, where dense stands of aspen and birch create a mosaic with spruce and pine forests. The region serves as a critical wildlife corridor, supporting everything from timber wolves to moose, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the Midwest. With the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness as your neighbor, you're camping in one of America's most pristine and protected ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group site is equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom and running water powered by solar panels. "Kathleen K noted, 'The site has its own handicap-accessible bathroom. This is the cleanest outhouse I have ever been in!'"
Sites SizeSites vary in size. Group site accommodates up to 45 people; camper cabins sleep up to six persons.
Sites PrivacySites offer good privacy due to dense tree coverage. "Douglas M said, 'Our site was amazing... it was private and had a trail right down to the lake.'"
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and lake access, choose sites in the North Loop. For group camping, opt for the group site.
Best CampsitesSite #14 is highly praised for privacy and lake access. Group sites offer spacious setups with dedicated facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time: NOON
Check-out
Check-out time: NOON
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 6 guests for cabins
- group site accommodates up to 45 guests.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 45 people with eight back-in parking spurs and an open play area. It features running water powered by solar panels and a handicap-accessible bathroom.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into two loops. North Loop includes group sites; South Loop features cabins and tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from May 1 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available for walk-up reservations, but availability is limited and fill patterns may vary based on season.
Cancellation PolicyCustomers may cancel reservations ahead of check-in; fees include a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee if canceled late.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Birch Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, berry picking, and wildlife viewing. "Susan B recommended, 'Bring your kayaks and explore the islands.'"
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in Superior National Forest and nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. "The recreation guide and maps include hiking trails and canoe routes."Fishing
Fishing is popular on Birch Lake, known for northern pike, perch, crappie, and walleye. "Rory O mentioned, 'The boat landing is in very rough shape,' but overall, anglers seemed satisfied with the fishing experience."Swimming
Swimming is available but limited. "Eva M noted, 'The swim area is tiny and the same space as the boat launch.'"Biking
Biking is accessible in the area, including on the Masabi Trail. "David A biked the local trails and mentioned enjoying the experience."Boating
Boating and canoeing are popular activities on Birch Lake. Canoe rentals are available on-site. "Estefania F appreciated the availability of canoes for rent, stating, 'That made it easy for my group.'"Wildlife viewing
Birds and wildlife are abundant in the surrounding aspen and birch forest. "Maria S described Birch Lake as beautiful and fun to explore by canoe."Winter Activities
Winter activities were not discussed in the provided data.Water Sports
Activities like kayaking and canoeing are popular. "Estefania F said, 'We had an amazing time renting canoes and exploring.'"Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitos, gnats, and rocky lake access affecting boating and swimming.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.9 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
Nearest emergency services are in Ely, approximately 13 miles away, including medical facilities, police, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling are available on-site. Reviews did not indicate specific locations or schedules.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is adjacent to Birch Lake, with boat ramps and canoe access.
Common complaintsComplaints include dirty bathrooms during certain stays, noise from early risers, and challenging lake access due to rocky terrain.
HostHosts Thor and Cindy are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence. They maintain clean bathrooms and sell firewood.
Campground Map
KAWISHIWI RANGER DISTRICT, 1393 HIGHWAY 169, ELY, MN 55731
Driving directionsFrom Ely, Minnesota, travel about 8 miles south on State Highway 1 toward Lake Superior, until Forest Road 429 (Little Lake Road). Turn right on Forest Road 429 and continue 4 miles to the campground entrance road. Turn left onto the campground road and continue 1 mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved State Highway 1 and unpaved Forest Road 429, which includes 4 miles of washboard gravel road requiring careful navigation. Seasonal conditions may affect road quality.Nearby places
Ely (13 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Ely, which is about 13 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
58 reviews
Birch Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Birch Lake Campground are predominantly positive, with campers praising the cleanliness of facilities, helpfulness of hosts, and scenic beauty of the area. "Ron H stated, 'We'd definitely rank Birch Lake Campground as the best-kept campground we have ever stayed.'"
Review Summaries
Based on 58 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, spacious and private sites, proximity to Birch Lake, and well-maintained amenities. "Janae J mentioned generous space between campsites with lots of tree...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues with boat launch conditions, noisy campers, limited swimming areas, and occasional difficulty accessing reservations or modifying them. "Gary C noted, 'Reserved a site over 2 months in advance...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and screen shelters for mosquitos, pack drinking water due to pump taste, and explore canoeing opportunities. "Douglas M recommended, 'remember your bug spray!'"
Based on 58 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular seasons, though bugs can be an issue. Fall offers quieter camping with minimal noise and beautiful foliage. "Luke S said, 'Beautiful place to camp and see the fall...
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Camper Quotes
"Mary H stated, 'The site was spacious and clean and plenty of restrooms.'" "Steven T mentioned, 'Vault toilet was clean, and there was running water from solar pump well.'" "Janae J noted, 'If...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for specific campsites highlight varying levels of privacy and proximity to the lake. "Douglas M praised site 021 for its private trail down to the lake."
Based on 58 reviewsAccessibility Features
The group site is described as having a handicap-accessible bathroom. "Kathleen K noted, 'The site has its own handicap-accessible bathroom.'"
Based on 58 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, though there are no specific reviews addressing pet-related experiences.
Based on 58 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025