The best camping near Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, MN

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The best camping in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, MN

Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats

1. Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats

100%
(10)
33mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 24 sites
Nestled into the heart of the Superior National Forest, Timber Bay stretches out like a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Here, the days are filled with fishing, camping, paddling, and even a little motor-powered fun. Wander off-road trails, tie up in quiet coves, or chase new adventures just around the bend. You’re only minutes from Ely’s lively outfitters and just a short trip from the Boundary Waters—making it the perfect spot for family traditions, first-time explorers, and seasoned adventurers alike.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$325
 / night
Timber Trail Lodge and Resort

2. Timber Trail Lodge and Resort

20mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 45 sites · RVs, Lodging
Timber Trail Lodge stands out as a premier four-season family resort in Ely, Minnesota, thanks to its unique combination of modern accommodations and direct access to the stunning Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA). This makes it an ideal destination for families looking to blend relaxation with outdoor adventures, including fishing and canoeing. Nestled just seven miles from the charming town of Ely, Timber Trail Lodge is situated on the picturesque south shore of Farm Lake. This lake is part of a network of four interconnected lakes, providing guests with both motorized boating and serene canoeing opportunities. Surrounded by over one million acres of pristine wilderness, the lodge offers an unparalleled escape into nature. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from exploring scenic hiking trails to discovering hidden swimming holes. The nearby town of Ely features delightful restaurants and shops, ensuring that visitors have access to local cuisine and unique souvenirs. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Timber Trail Lodge is the perfect base for your Minnesota resort vacation.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$100
 / night
Silver Rapids Lodge

3. Silver Rapids Lodge

84%
(16)
20mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 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
Lake View Lodge

4. Lake View Lodge

100%
(1)
28mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 9 sites
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
The Lodge of Whispering Pines

5. The Lodge of Whispering Pines

100%
(1)
30mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 11 sites
Lodge of Whispering Pines There’s no summer memory better than those spent at the Lake. We still have beautiful Lakefront Cabins available at Lodge of Whispering Pines this summer, just waiting for you and your family to create unforgettable memories. Before you witness spectacular sunsets and views of Big Lake from your Lakefront cabin, you’ll be treated to a secluded drive through the Superior National Forest along the Echo Trail - Along granite cliff roadways that hug the edge of wilderness landscapes to you - you'll experience an awakening to your natural surroundings and an enlightening of your spirit. The noise, the crowds are left behind, and traffic seems nonexistent. Your vacation has already begun. Just twenty miles north of Ely a secluded private drive leads you further into the Superior National Forest to Lodge of Whispering Pines on Big Lake. Poised among tall pine, picturesque birch, spruce, balsam, and aspen, you realize you are encircled by the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and are now guests of the deer, moose, black bear, timber wolves, loons, and all the other wild creatures that inhabit northern Minnesota's truly natural park. This beautiful piece of earth hides a great deal of history in it's cabins, campsites, trails and what not. If you really want to find out about all the unbelievable stories, sit back in your Adirondack chair and listen to the whispers of the Pine trees. You will be surprised how much they can tell you! ​Our entire family (which includes moose, deer, timber wolves, bald eagles, black bears and other wild creatures) welcomes you to our paddler's and angler's paradise. ​This will be one of your most-memorable vacations: swim at our natural sand beach; participate in naturalist activities and children’s programs. Enjoy free use of the Adirondack chairs along the lake front, kayaks, canoes, even a traditional wood-fired Sauna. Leave the noise and the crowds behind. Big Lake, Clean Lake, Fun Lake, No Really--it's called Big Lake Our property is surrounded by the BWCAW (Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness). Enjoy activities like hiking, Biking & Stand up paddle boarding, Fishing and wildlife viewing. The photography during Fall is amazing!​Big Lake is 2000 acre and has numerous large islands and secluded bays - the shoreline has been virtually undeveloped. ​It is one of the top walleye fishing lakes in the state. Besides that Big Lake is filled with Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, and Jumbo Perch. If you are planning on visiting another lake while staying with us, we have good news for you. We are near Hegman Lake where centuries-old pictographs can be viewed and photographed. Check it out yourself and make new fantastic memories. Our Resort Privacy and comfort complement the natural beauty of the cabins. Whether you choose to be tucked away in the trees or nearer the natural sand swimming beach and playground, with the exception of towels, everything is included -- modern kitchen appliances, barbecue grills, picnic tables, and more. Each cabin is unique in amenities. Some feature decks in private wooded areas, screen porches, private docks, log construction, or fireplaces. Cabins range from one to three bedrooms (sleeping 3-10 people). All have full kitchens and baths, Charcoal Grills, Picnic tables, outdoor fire rings. and Minnesota's truly natural park. ​Moose, deer and other wild animals inhabit the trails and forests where earlier innkeepers corralled a stable of horses for their guests' riding pleasure. Unique to Big Lake, and its relationship to the wilderness, motorized boats and canoes are both allowed and available for our guests to use.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$39
 / night
Camp Bear Sign

6. Camp Bear Sign

35mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 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
Private Lutsen Forest Camp

7. Private Lutsen Forest Camp

100%
(6)
38mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site · Tent, RV
Property is 5 acres on private shared road. Use of well and wood-burning sauna, and deck and furniture of our tiny home included. Outhouse on site. Centrally located on the North Shore and surrounded by Superior National Forest - - 20 minutes from both Grand Marais and Tofte. Near snowmobile trails, Superior Hiking Trail, Lutsen town, Fika Coffee shop, grocery store, two maple syrup properties, mountain bike and fat bike trails, hiking and xc ski trails. Minutes from Caribou and Ward Lakes. Check out the new world class Jackpot MTB single-track trails!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$105
 / night
Bally Creek Cabins - off grid!

8. Bally Creek Cabins - off grid!

88%
(4)
44mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 7 sites
Year ‘round cabins in the Superior National Forest in Grand Marais, MN where you can hike or ski out the door on groomed wilderness trails. Off the grid, wood-heated rustic cabins…lantern lit for a romantic ambiance. Only 6 miles from downtown and Lake Superior harbor, restaurants and shops. Pets welcome for a fee! Guests provide sleeping bags and pillows or linens (call for bed sizes). Take the Road less Travelled! Seven cabins (all smoke free) with occupancy from 2 to 10 guests available. A group cookhouse is also available to rent for groups renting multiple cabins. Canoe and sea kayak rentals in summer, skis and snowshoes in winter! Amenities include wood-fired sauna shared by all cabins. Each cabin has its own outdoor fire-pit and picnic table. A variety of outhouses are throughout the camp. Direct access to Superior Hiking Trail and North Shore Mountains Ski Trail. Cabins are spaced for privacy! We also have canoes and sea kayaks available at our outfitting base in town for rental. A 4 night stay includes free use of an aluminum canoe for a day.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$185
 / night
Rustic Sawtooth Retreat

9. Rustic Sawtooth Retreat

100%
(4)
48mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
🏕 Off-Grid North Shore Escape Unplug and reconnect with nature at this private, off-grid retreat just minutes from Grand Marais. Situated on six acres of stunning woodland just northwest of Grand Marais, the Rustic Sawtooth Retreat provides two charming cabins, private trails, and a prime location. This elevated camping experience offers seclusion while maintaining convenient access to Grand Marais, the Superior Hiking Trail, and all the attractions of the north shore. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil, back-to-basics retreat, where one can slow down, appreciate nature, and uphold environmental stewardship. ________________________________________ 🛌 Two Rustic Cabins – Always Rented Together: • Sleeping Cabin (12x12): Includes a double bed, wood-burning stove, and a small sleeping loft. The loft sleeps one adult or two children — bring your own sleeping pads or camping mats, as there is no bed or mattress provided in the loft. • Gathering + Cooking Cabin (12x20): Features a double futon, wood-burning stove, dining table, and a kitchenette with a propane stove and basin sink for gray water. • Amenities: o New private outhouse just steps from both cabins o Firepit o Private wooded trails o Quiet, off-grid setting (no running water, no electricity) ________________________________________ 🧭 Nearby Adventures: You’re minutes from some of Minnesota’s most breathtaking outdoor attractions: • Superior Hiking Trail – 2 mile drive toTrailhead • Pincushion Mountain – 4 miles • Devil Track Lake Public Access – 8 miles • George Washington Pines – 5 miles • Gunflint Hills Golf Course – 2 miles • Downtown Grand Marais – 6 miles ________________________________________ 🧺 What to Bring: • Your own linens/sleeping bags and towels • Sleeping pad(s) for the loft, if using • All food, extra water, and camp essentials • Cooler • Flashlights (we have one lantern in each cabin but they may need USB charge or bring batteries - 6AA and 3D) • Firewood for the outdoor fire pit (all firewood on site is for the cabin wood stoves only) • Trash bags - all trash must be packed out Provided: 4 place settings, coffee/tea press, one pot, one skillet ________________________________________ 🌿 This is a Leave No Trace Property
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$153
 / night
Basecamp du Nord

10. Basecamp du Nord

100%
(1)
50mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Enjoy the peace of the woods just 5 minutes from downtown Grand Marais! Basecamp du Nord is situated in the woods of the Pincushion Trail system, offering over 25 kilometers of cross country skiing opportunities in the winter and hiking opportunities in the warmer seasons. These trails connect to the Superior Hiking Trail so the adventure possibilities are practically endless. This space does not have running water. A clean and well-lit outhouse is located onsite. Showers are available at the local YMCA for $13 or at the municipal campground in Grand Marais. We like to compare our experience to camping but with a solid roof over your head and a comfy bed.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$108
 / night
Canoe Country Outfitters

11. Canoe Country Outfitters

25mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Canoe Country Outfitters stands out as a premier canoe outfitter in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) and Quetico Park, offering unforgettable canoe, camping, and fishing adventures for over 70 years. This unique wilderness region, also known as the Border Waters, spans more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes and forests, providing an unparalleled escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With no roads, resorts, or private cabins to disrupt the natural beauty, this area is exclusively accessible by canoe, ensuring a serene and immersive outdoor experience. The BWCA and Quetico Park are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and exceptional fishing opportunities. Visitors can explore countless lakes, each offering its own unique charm, as well as hidden swimming holes perfect for a refreshing dip. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a plethora of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and photography, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Canoe Country Outfitters is dedicated to providing everything you need for a successful trip, from high-quality canoe rentals to expert guidance on the best routes and fishing spots. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a first-time adventurer, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you create lasting memories in this remarkable wilderness.
Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground

12. Gunflint Pines Resort and Campground

28mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Experience the unparalleled beauty of our campground, where the Northwoods transforms with each season, offering a unique outdoor adventure year-round. As spring arrives, witness the awakening of nature during the breathtaking thaw, a perfect time to explore the vibrant landscape. Summer invites you to cast your line and fish for your dinner in pristine waters, while the long, sunny days provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. As autumn unfolds, immerse yourself in the stunning fall colors while hiking or hunting in the surrounding wilderness, creating unforgettable memories. When winter blankets the area in snow, our extensive network of trails beckons you to ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile through the serene landscape. With a variety of outdoor activities available throughout the year, our campground is the ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Come and discover the magic of the Northwoods!
Timber Wolf Lodge RV Park

13. Timber Wolf Lodge RV Park

32mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Discover the unique charm of Timber Wolf Lodge, a Good Sam’s Accredited RV and Camping Park nestled along the serene shores of Bear Island Lake. Our campground offers 25 RV sites, each providing stunning lakeside or lakeview options, ensuring a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor getaway. Every site is equipped with convenient on-site water and electric hook-ups, and our waste station is readily available for your use. At Timber Wolf Lodge, we cater primarily to long-term and seasonal guests, with 22 of our 25 sites reserved for those looking to immerse themselves in nature from May 1st to September 30th. For those seeking shorter stays, we have 3 sites available for your convenience. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate our complimentary dock space, along with a lakefront fueling station offering premium fuel. Families and guests can enjoy our beautiful beach, water trampoline, and a variety of amenities that make Timber Wolf Lodge a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Experience the beauty of Bear Island Lake and create lasting memories with us!
Babbitt Campground And RV Park

14. Babbitt Campground And RV Park

32mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 20 sites
The Babbitt Economic Development Authority (EDA) is dedicated to fostering growth and development in the vibrant town of Babbitt, making it a unique hub for business opportunities. With a commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs, the Babbitt EDA offers grant programs that provide financial assistance ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 for small business loans. This initiative is designed to empower local businesses and stimulate economic growth within the community. In addition to financial support, Babbitt boasts a variety of prime locations suitable for manufacturing, call centers, retail outlets, and office spaces. These sites present a wealth of opportunities for businesses looking to establish themselves in a thriving environment. For those interested in residential options, the city has several lots available for sale on Mulberry Lane. This includes five double lots priced at $16,000 each and two single corner lots available for $12,000 each, complete with water and sewer access. For further inquiries, please reach out to Andrea Zupancich at andrea@zupnorth.com or visit the z'Up North Realty website for more details. Additionally, Babbitt's revised Comprehensive Plan is now complete and can be accessed at www.arrowheadplanning.org, providing valuable insights into the town's future development strategies
Birch Lake RV Park-Campground

15. Birch Lake RV Park-Campground

33mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Birch Lake RV Park stands out as a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Minnesota's natural beauty, just 3 miles east of Babbitt. This family-owned campground has been creating unforgettable camping memories for over 30 years, making it a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a heavily wooded landscape, providing spacious sites that can comfortably accommodate large RVs, ensuring privacy and a peaceful atmosphere. As a seasonal RV park, Birch Lake RV Park offers full hookups at each campsite, including water, electricity (with 20, 30, and 50 amp options), and sewer connections. While the campsites are surrounded by majestic pine trees, they are not directly on the lake, allowing for a tranquil camping experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, with Birch Lake located just steps away. The public swimming beach is within walking distance, perfect for a refreshing dip or a day of sunbathing. For fishing enthusiasts, a fishing pier is available at the beach, along with a public boat landing just half a mile from the campground. Families will appreciate the playground equipment, log pavilion, and picnic shelter, making it an ideal spot for gatherings and relaxation. Birch Lake RV Park is not just a campground; it’s a home away from home.
Crooked Lake Resort

16. Crooked Lake Resort

35mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 10 sites
Experience the charm of the Schumachers' unique lakeside cabins, where tranquility meets nature in the heart of the Superior National Forest. Each cabin offers a cozy retreat with a kitchen and 24-hour electricity, providing a perfect base for your outdoor adventures. Please note that there is no running water, and guests are required to bring their own bedding, including pillows, sheets, and blankets. Reservations are essential, as we do not accommodate walk-ins. Our store is currently closed, so we recommend arriving prepared; Tofte and Finland are nearby for any supplies you may need. Nestled in a stunning natural setting, our cabins offer easy access to pristine lakes for fishing, miles of hiking trails, and excellent hunting and snowmobiling opportunities. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the North Woods, with the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) just a stone's throw away. As a family-owned and operated business since 1974, we take pride in providing a welcoming atmosphere where you can connect with nature and perhaps catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. Join us for an unforgettable getaway filled with adventure and relaxation!
Wilderness Wind

17. Wilderness Wind

35mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Wilderness Wind stands out as a unique destination for nature enthusiasts, offering lakeside cabins and outfitting services for unforgettable trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Our commitment to fostering transformative experiences in nature allows guests to engage in listening, connection, cooperation, and environmental stewardship. We welcome individuals from all walks of life, driven by our passion for connecting people with the natural world. Embarking on an exploration of nature's vast mysteries can spark a profound journey of self-discovery. We invite you to join us on this adventure, where our canoe excursions are based at our lakeside resort, located just 10 miles west of Ely, Minnesota, off Hwy 169 (at 1759 Bradach Rd). At our serene location on Armstrong Lake, we offer a cozy yurt and four charming lakeside cabins available for rental and retreats. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including canoeing, hiking, and swimming in nearby natural features. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, Wilderness Wind is the perfect base for your next outdoor getaway. Experience the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with us.
Lamb's Resort & Campground

18. Lamb's Resort & Campground

38mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 126 sites
Discover the charm of our unique family-owned resort, nestled on 60 serene acres with over half a mile of exclusive Lake Superior beach. This tranquil setting offers a perfect escape for families and nature lovers alike, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Located conveniently between Duluth and Thunder Bay, and close to the picturesque towns of Tofte and Lutsen, our resort serves as a gateway to explore the breathtaking North Shore of Lake Superior. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking scenic trails to swimming in pristine waters, all while being surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Our accommodations include 12 cozy cabins and 100 well-equipped campsites, each featuring electricity, showers, and toilets for your comfort. We also welcome pets from responsible owners, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration at our resort, where unforgettable memories await.
Hungry Jack Lodge

19. Hungry Jack Lodge

41mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 1 site
Hungry Jack Lodge and Campground stands out as the only resort on the serene Hungry Jack Lake, making it a unique destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort. Nestled just 2.5 miles off the scenic Gunflint Trail and 32 miles northwest of Grand Marais, this lodge is conveniently located only two miles from the Canadian border and less than a mile from the breathtaking Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). This idyllic resort serves as the perfect base for day trips into the BWCA, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the area while enjoying the comforts of a lakeside retreat. Visitors can explore the pristine waters, engage in canoeing, fishing, and hiking, or simply relax by the lake and soak in the tranquility of the northwoods. With its prime location, Hungry Jack Lodge and Campground offers easy access to nearby attractions, including swimming holes and local restaurants and shops. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway or a peaceful retreat, Hungry Jack Lodge provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
Golden Eagle Lodge And Campground

20. Golden Eagle Lodge And Campground

43mi from Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · 50 sites
Discover the unique charm of Golden Eagle Lodge, a family-friendly resort nestled in the serene surroundings of Flour Lake within the Superior National Forest of Northeastern Minnesota. As the sole residents on the lake, we offer an unparalleled experience of tranquility and privacy, making it the perfect getaway for those seeking solace in nature. Our fully equipped, modern housekeeping cabins ensure that your stay in the North Woods is both comfortable and memorable. Each season at Golden Eagle Lodge brings its own set of adventures. In the summer, enjoy excellent fishing, hiking, sightseeing, and canoeing, while winter transforms the landscape into a haven for nationally-renowned Nordic Cross-Country Skiing. With the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) just 2 miles away, your outdoor escapades can begin right at your doorstep. For a detailed look at seasonal activities, be sure to visit our activities page. To maintain the peaceful atmosphere of the wilderness, we do not allow jet skis in the summer or snowmobiles in the winter. For those who prefer camping, our 9-site campground offers a personal touch with accommodations for both tents and RVs. Each site is equipped with water and electric hookups, and our facilities include a centralized dump station and two heated shower rooms and bathrooms. Golden Eagle Lodge is also a

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The best camping near Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, MN guide

Overview

About

Embark on a Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness camping journey in Minnesota, where pristine lakes and pine forests create a serene backdrop. As you paddle through the interconnected waterways, the tranquility of nature surrounds you. Voyageurs National Park is within reach, adding more natural wonders to your journey. A camping trip in the Boundary Waters is a unique outdoor adventure!

Nearby attractions

  • Come enjoy camping in the heart of nature! Superior National Forest hosts abundant camping spots, perfect for fishing, hiking, and exploring picturesque landscapes. Truly a gem in Minnesota's wilderness.
  • A haven for campers seeking solitude and serenity. With stunning lake views, hiking trails, and spacious campsites, Bear Head Lake State Park promises an unforgettable camping adventure.
  • Get ready for a waterfall-filled camping experience! Gooseberry Falls State Park offers scenic campsites along the north shore, making it ideal for hikers, bird-watchers, and those who appreciate Mother Nature's artistry.
  • Duluth perfectly blends city life with the great outdoors. Offering waterfront camping near the city, it's a unique spot to pitch a tent, while still having easy access to urban amenities.
  • Enchanting waterfalls, miles of hiking trails, and breathtaking Lake Superior views make Tettegouche State Park a top choice for camping. It's a magical spot to connect with nature and make beautiful memories.
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