The best forest camping near Ely

·

Looking to escape to the forest near Ely, Minnesota? Hipcamp has over 105 camping options to choose from, each nestled in the beautiful forest terrain. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $13, there's something for every budget. Check out top campsites like Balsam Ridge Retreat (506 reviews), Camp Floodwood (130 reviews), and Woods and Meadows Farm (88 reviews) to see why they're so highly rated. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and toilets, and take part in activities such as boating, biking, and off-roading (OHV). Get ready to experience the great outdoors in style!

97% (261) 65 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ely

Cook's Country Connection

1. Cook's Country Connection

100%
(171)
39mi from Ely · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land was homesteaded by my great grandparents in 1900 as part of the Homestead Act of 1862. After losing my store to fire in 2013, I took the leap, and decided to open the farm to the public. I have a menagerie of animals, many rescued or adopted, that love all the attention. My friends' kids love camping in the pasture with the animals and when I saw an ad for Hipcamp, I thought maybe others would want the experience, too!Learn more about this land:Yoga with goats meets camping with alpacas! We offer camping in the small animal pasture of our family petting farm.  (We also offer campsites away from the critters if your not too sure about sharing your space with livestock!). The options are limitless!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night
Silver Rapids Lodge

2. Silver Rapids Lodge

84%
(16)
4.4mi from Ely · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located just 4 miles outside of Ely (on the edge of the Boundary Waters), Silver Rapids Lodge is located on a vast private peninsula with water on three sides, allowing for some of the best fishing around! We have electric/water sites, and full hookup sites available. Tent and van camping is fine by us. Bring your boat...bring your canoe! Heading in the boundary waters? We've got parking packages, too.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Cabin O' Pines

3. Cabin O' Pines

100%
(15)
50mi from Ely · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Northern Minnesota Family Fishing Resort Enjoy all the best of Northern Minnesota at Cabin O Pines. Wake up every morning to hear the sounds of local wildlife, and sit down every night to warm up by the campfire. While staying at Cabin O’ Pines, enjoy fun beach activities, or rent one of our Cabin O’ Pines marine rentals and get out on the lake. Whatever the occasion, you are sure to have a memorable Northern Minnesota experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$77
 / night
Superior National Forest

4. Superior National Forest

87%
(41)
569 sites · Winton, Minnesota
With all this prime natural beauty, there is one thing the Superior National Forest should not have: an inferiority complex. The area boasts Minnesota’s finest, including canoeing, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and being a respite of many an angler. Visitors can choose from camping at classic RV and car camping sites or venturing in the far secluded wilderness. Set up your tent, start a fire, and come witness what these Northern skies are all about.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bear Head Lake State Park

5. Bear Head Lake State Park

95%
(10)
74 sites · Soudan, Minnesota
With 23 miles of lake shore and Boundary Waters access points nearby, Bear Head Lake State Park is a canoer’s paradise. And with the 2010 title of “America’s Favorite Park” under its belt, you’re guaranteed a good time here. Park trails hook up to Taconite State Trails, so you really can ramble all day. Bald eagles abound, so bring those binoculars, and like any park this close to Canada, we advise picking up a bear box. Cell service is limited, so make sure your phone is charged (or you have a nifty backup charger)—the pristine lakes and sprawling aspen, birch, and fir trees here make for some photo opportunities you won’t want to keep to yourself.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Bear Sign

6. Camp Bear Sign

9.8mi from Ely · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dry camp with a large tent site. The site is just off the highway and very close to the Camp Lake Road/Mesabi Bike Trail intersection. The lake across the road offers deeded access to this property. You’re welcome to enjoy the lake — there’s a boat launch about a tenth of a mile up the road.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night
Luna Light Trails

7. Luna Light Trails

100%
(21)
45mi from Ely · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We have five miles of groomed trails that lead through state land to the Mud Hen Creek! Bring your kayak and pole! By the creek we have a few beaver lodges and so much wildlife to admire! As you trek along Silver Ridge Canyon, don't be surprised by the sudden flight of grouse along this trail! Visit Scout Hill for a sunny afternoon picnic; the cedar trees will lead you there. If you hear knocking, you will see Mr. Woodpecker enjoying his lunch on a nearby birch tree! Our campsites are nestled underneath a canopy of mixed wood forest. We have birch, poplar, maple, and a variety of pine. Nearby you will find our newly finished outhouse, complete with a portable shower and natural light. You will have access to parking near or next to your site with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy! Our property features a beautiful variety of trees and plenty of trails throughout our land with wildlife you might see or hear. It might be the hoot of an owl or the drum of a grouse! You will also hear the "buck wheat" and the "chee-chee" of our guineas calling for each other. Our beautiful forest is our main feature. Since 95% of our land is wooded, we enjoy the great beauty and majesty of the trees. giant is hidden on the northeastern side of our property. His beautiful branches tower over our trails and we have cleared a spot there to rest. Our property extends, via trail, to state land and the Mud Hen Creek. The views are breathtaking! Please come and bring your family and friends! Our campsites' proximity would create a great weekend getaway for a retreat event or a family reunion, as well as a quiet romantic weekend! Here at home we raise chickens, ducks, and guinea fowl. We also have a Catahola Leopard dog named Hickory. She enjoys roaming our Luna Light Trails on the off season. When I was a child, I lived on a church camp property in Uruguay, South America. This plot of land had a grove of the most beautiful, tall, eucalyptus trees in the neighborhood. These trees were the home to Monk Parakeets. These small green parrots are the only members of the parrot family to build stick nests and to nest colonially. Needless to say, they were very loud, but one of my favorite childhood memories! This little plot on the Minnesota map has been our home for the last three and a half years. We have enjoyed our woods and so will you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Adventure Awaits

8. Adventure Awaits

100%
(8)
48mi from Ely · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
After 20
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
Blue Pony Acres

9. Blue Pony Acres

99%
(263)
47mi from Ely · 3 sites · Tents
Welcome to Blue Pony Acres. Thirty eight years ago we bought the remaining acreage and buildings from a northern Minnesota dairy farm. We have always enjoyed sharing our beautiful piece of the planet with friends. We want to share the beauty we experience every day with you. Leave your cubicle and the city life for a short respite in the north woods and enjoy one of our campsites. Bring your kids, your dog, camera, canoe, kayaks, and bikes. Pitch a tent or swing a hammock in the pines. Enjoy your private campfire while you hear the stars sing, watch the northern lights dance and count the shooting stars. On a clear night you might see satellites pass overhead. Lay your sleeping bag on the ground, snuggle in with hot chocolate and smores and watch the night light show in comfort. After a long day of hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing or photography cook over your private campfire. The firewood is free! Exercise and walk your leashed dog in the state land adjacent to your campsite. A private composting toilet is available at each campsite (we do not have vault toilets), We are 3.5 hours north of Minneapolis, MN., and one hour north of Duluth, MN. The Saint Louis River carry in landing is only 3.2 miles from your site. A 5 mile drive gets you to the Mesabi Trial, over 160 miles of paved hiking and biking trail stretching from the Mississippi River on the west almost to the boundary waters and Ely, MN on the east. Local lakes within a few minute drive have public landings for boat launch and canoe carry in for your boating and fishing enjoyment. The famous Sax-Zim Bog is within a half hour drive and a great place for wildlife photography, and they have an interpretive center and very nice volunteers to help you identify wildlife. We’re about 5 miles south of the United Sates Hockey Hall of Fame; a great day trip for you and your sports minded children. A few miles further and you’re outside the doors of the Natural Harvest Food Co-op; a great shop for organic foods. Get local fresh food for your evening meal. Sneak into Lisa’s raspberry patch for “desert” or pick some hopps from the back fence in September and take them with you for your next home beer batch. I’m told they’re “Cascade Hopps”. They have a grapefruit taste. Mmm good! We invite you to join us. Bring your camping gear, including camp cook stove (sometimes we’re under a fire ban). Ask your dog to bring it’s leash, yes we have a leash law. Warm clothes and light clothing as the weather changes. Rain gear. Your favorite bug repellent. Good hiking boots. Don’t forget bikes, canoes, kayaks, cameras, fishing gear, and maybe some band aids. Come to unplug and unwind and enjoy the clean air and sweet smell of the north woods. Come on up North! Come on up North!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
Kabetogama State Forest

10. Kabetogama State Forest

100%
(3)
100 sites · Orr, Minnesota
Discover Kabetogama State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Finland State Forest

11. Finland State Forest

95%
(11)
82 sites · Finland, Minnesota
Discover the natural allure of Finland State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cloquet Valley State Forest

12. Cloquet Valley State Forest

26 sites · Rice Lake, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Cloquet Valley State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

13. George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

100%
(2)
21 sites · Finland, Minnesota
Discover the rugged beauty of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Lake View Lodge

14. Lake View Lodge

100%
(1)
3.6mi from Ely · 9 sites · Lodging
Perched beside the tranquil shores of Shagawa Lake in Ely, Minnesota, Lake View Lodge invites you to turn your vacation dreams into reality. Whether you crave serenity or seek an exciting fishing escapade, let us bring your vision to life. With over 18 years of expertise in the hospitality industry, we are dedicated to making your stay an unforgettable experience.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night
Private Cabin On Pelican Lake

15. Private Cabin On Pelican Lake

47mi from Ely · 1 site · Lodging
Spacious, well-stocked, and fun private cabin on west facing lot with amazing views of Pelican Lake in Orr, MN. Sleeps six with one queen bed and two sets of bunk beds. Enjoy sunsets by the firepit, fishing off the dock, access the lake for free via two stand up paddleboards or canoe. The property used to be part of a summer camp and was built as the camp director’s cabin
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$285
 / night
Tettegouche State Park

16. Tettegouche State Park

100%
(17)
45 sites · Silver Bay, Minnesota
You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Looking to escape to the forest near Ely, Minnesota? Hipcamp has over 105 camping options to choose from, each nestled in the beautiful forest terrain. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $13, there's something for every budget. Check out top campsites like Balsam Ridge Retreat (506 reviews), Camp Floodwood (130 reviews), and Woods and Meadows Farm (88 reviews) to see why they're so highly rated. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and toilets, and take part in activities such as boating, biking, and off-roading (OHV). Get ready to experience the great outdoors in style!

97% (261) 65 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ely

Cook's Country Connection

1. Cook's Country Connection

100%
(171)
39mi from Ely · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land was homesteaded by my great grandparents in 1900 as part of the Homestead Act of 1862. After losing my store to fire in 2013, I took the leap, and decided to open the farm to the public. I have a menagerie of animals, many rescued or adopted, that love all the attention. My friends' kids love camping in the pasture with the animals and when I saw an ad for Hipcamp, I thought maybe others would want the experience, too!Learn more about this land:Yoga with goats meets camping with alpacas! We offer camping in the small animal pasture of our family petting farm.  (We also offer campsites away from the critters if your not too sure about sharing your space with livestock!). The options are limitless!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night
Silver Rapids Lodge

2. Silver Rapids Lodge

84%
(16)
4.4mi from Ely · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located just 4 miles outside of Ely (on the edge of the Boundary Waters), Silver Rapids Lodge is located on a vast private peninsula with water on three sides, allowing for some of the best fishing around! We have electric/water sites, and full hookup sites available. Tent and van camping is fine by us. Bring your boat...bring your canoe! Heading in the boundary waters? We've got parking packages, too.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Cabin O' Pines

3. Cabin O' Pines

100%
(15)
50mi from Ely · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Northern Minnesota Family Fishing Resort Enjoy all the best of Northern Minnesota at Cabin O Pines. Wake up every morning to hear the sounds of local wildlife, and sit down every night to warm up by the campfire. While staying at Cabin O’ Pines, enjoy fun beach activities, or rent one of our Cabin O’ Pines marine rentals and get out on the lake. Whatever the occasion, you are sure to have a memorable Northern Minnesota experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$77
 / night
Superior National Forest

4. Superior National Forest

87%
(41)
569 sites · Winton, Minnesota
With all this prime natural beauty, there is one thing the Superior National Forest should not have: an inferiority complex. The area boasts Minnesota’s finest, including canoeing, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and being a respite of many an angler. Visitors can choose from camping at classic RV and car camping sites or venturing in the far secluded wilderness. Set up your tent, start a fire, and come witness what these Northern skies are all about.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bear Head Lake State Park

5. Bear Head Lake State Park

95%
(10)
74 sites · Soudan, Minnesota
With 23 miles of lake shore and Boundary Waters access points nearby, Bear Head Lake State Park is a canoer’s paradise. And with the 2010 title of “America’s Favorite Park” under its belt, you’re guaranteed a good time here. Park trails hook up to Taconite State Trails, so you really can ramble all day. Bald eagles abound, so bring those binoculars, and like any park this close to Canada, we advise picking up a bear box. Cell service is limited, so make sure your phone is charged (or you have a nifty backup charger)—the pristine lakes and sprawling aspen, birch, and fir trees here make for some photo opportunities you won’t want to keep to yourself.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Bear Sign

6. Camp Bear Sign

9.8mi from Ely · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dry camp with a large tent site. The site is just off the highway and very close to the Camp Lake Road/Mesabi Bike Trail intersection. The lake across the road offers deeded access to this property. You’re welcome to enjoy the lake — there’s a boat launch about a tenth of a mile up the road.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night
Luna Light Trails

7. Luna Light Trails

100%
(21)
45mi from Ely · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We have five miles of groomed trails that lead through state land to the Mud Hen Creek! Bring your kayak and pole! By the creek we have a few beaver lodges and so much wildlife to admire! As you trek along Silver Ridge Canyon, don't be surprised by the sudden flight of grouse along this trail! Visit Scout Hill for a sunny afternoon picnic; the cedar trees will lead you there. If you hear knocking, you will see Mr. Woodpecker enjoying his lunch on a nearby birch tree! Our campsites are nestled underneath a canopy of mixed wood forest. We have birch, poplar, maple, and a variety of pine. Nearby you will find our newly finished outhouse, complete with a portable shower and natural light. You will have access to parking near or next to your site with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy! Our property features a beautiful variety of trees and plenty of trails throughout our land with wildlife you might see or hear. It might be the hoot of an owl or the drum of a grouse! You will also hear the "buck wheat" and the "chee-chee" of our guineas calling for each other. Our beautiful forest is our main feature. Since 95% of our land is wooded, we enjoy the great beauty and majesty of the trees. giant is hidden on the northeastern side of our property. His beautiful branches tower over our trails and we have cleared a spot there to rest. Our property extends, via trail, to state land and the Mud Hen Creek. The views are breathtaking! Please come and bring your family and friends! Our campsites' proximity would create a great weekend getaway for a retreat event or a family reunion, as well as a quiet romantic weekend! Here at home we raise chickens, ducks, and guinea fowl. We also have a Catahola Leopard dog named Hickory. She enjoys roaming our Luna Light Trails on the off season. When I was a child, I lived on a church camp property in Uruguay, South America. This plot of land had a grove of the most beautiful, tall, eucalyptus trees in the neighborhood. These trees were the home to Monk Parakeets. These small green parrots are the only members of the parrot family to build stick nests and to nest colonially. Needless to say, they were very loud, but one of my favorite childhood memories! This little plot on the Minnesota map has been our home for the last three and a half years. We have enjoyed our woods and so will you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Adventure Awaits

8. Adventure Awaits

100%
(8)
48mi from Ely · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
After 20
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
Blue Pony Acres

9. Blue Pony Acres

99%
(263)
47mi from Ely · 3 sites · Tents
Welcome to Blue Pony Acres. Thirty eight years ago we bought the remaining acreage and buildings from a northern Minnesota dairy farm. We have always enjoyed sharing our beautiful piece of the planet with friends. We want to share the beauty we experience every day with you. Leave your cubicle and the city life for a short respite in the north woods and enjoy one of our campsites. Bring your kids, your dog, camera, canoe, kayaks, and bikes. Pitch a tent or swing a hammock in the pines. Enjoy your private campfire while you hear the stars sing, watch the northern lights dance and count the shooting stars. On a clear night you might see satellites pass overhead. Lay your sleeping bag on the ground, snuggle in with hot chocolate and smores and watch the night light show in comfort. After a long day of hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing or photography cook over your private campfire. The firewood is free! Exercise and walk your leashed dog in the state land adjacent to your campsite. A private composting toilet is available at each campsite (we do not have vault toilets), We are 3.5 hours north of Minneapolis, MN., and one hour north of Duluth, MN. The Saint Louis River carry in landing is only 3.2 miles from your site. A 5 mile drive gets you to the Mesabi Trial, over 160 miles of paved hiking and biking trail stretching from the Mississippi River on the west almost to the boundary waters and Ely, MN on the east. Local lakes within a few minute drive have public landings for boat launch and canoe carry in for your boating and fishing enjoyment. The famous Sax-Zim Bog is within a half hour drive and a great place for wildlife photography, and they have an interpretive center and very nice volunteers to help you identify wildlife. We’re about 5 miles south of the United Sates Hockey Hall of Fame; a great day trip for you and your sports minded children. A few miles further and you’re outside the doors of the Natural Harvest Food Co-op; a great shop for organic foods. Get local fresh food for your evening meal. Sneak into Lisa’s raspberry patch for “desert” or pick some hopps from the back fence in September and take them with you for your next home beer batch. I’m told they’re “Cascade Hopps”. They have a grapefruit taste. Mmm good! We invite you to join us. Bring your camping gear, including camp cook stove (sometimes we’re under a fire ban). Ask your dog to bring it’s leash, yes we have a leash law. Warm clothes and light clothing as the weather changes. Rain gear. Your favorite bug repellent. Good hiking boots. Don’t forget bikes, canoes, kayaks, cameras, fishing gear, and maybe some band aids. Come to unplug and unwind and enjoy the clean air and sweet smell of the north woods. Come on up North! Come on up North!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
Kabetogama State Forest

10. Kabetogama State Forest

100%
(3)
100 sites · Orr, Minnesota
Discover Kabetogama State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Finland State Forest

11. Finland State Forest

95%
(11)
82 sites · Finland, Minnesota
Discover the natural allure of Finland State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cloquet Valley State Forest

12. Cloquet Valley State Forest

26 sites · Rice Lake, Minnesota
Discover the natural splendor of Cloquet Valley State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

13. George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

100%
(2)
21 sites · Finland, Minnesota
Discover the rugged beauty of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Lake View Lodge

14. Lake View Lodge

100%
(1)
3.6mi from Ely · 9 sites · Lodging
Perched beside the tranquil shores of Shagawa Lake in Ely, Minnesota, Lake View Lodge invites you to turn your vacation dreams into reality. Whether you crave serenity or seek an exciting fishing escapade, let us bring your vision to life. With over 18 years of expertise in the hospitality industry, we are dedicated to making your stay an unforgettable experience.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night
Private Cabin On Pelican Lake

15. Private Cabin On Pelican Lake

47mi from Ely · 1 site · Lodging
Spacious, well-stocked, and fun private cabin on west facing lot with amazing views of Pelican Lake in Orr, MN. Sleeps six with one queen bed and two sets of bunk beds. Enjoy sunsets by the firepit, fishing off the dock, access the lake for free via two stand up paddleboards or canoe. The property used to be part of a summer camp and was built as the camp director’s cabin
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$285
 / night
Tettegouche State Park

16. Tettegouche State Park

100%
(17)
45 sites · Silver Bay, Minnesota
You may not know it by name, but guaranteed if you like nature photography, you’ve seen Shovel Point. Its steep, bridge-like cliff on the shore of Lake Superior attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wanna experience the magic? Visit its home: Tettegouche State Park. With cliffs like these, Tettegouche was bound to attract dirtbaggers from all over. Like to climb rock? Come join ‘em! Visit the 60 foot High Falls of the Baptism River and feel the spirit of nature rejoice. Remote hiking through the Sawtooth Mountains offer views made for a life time and lakes made for skinny dipping. This parks nearly 10,000 acres house accommodations from cabins to backpacking and kayaking sites open year-round. Hurry there!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field