Superior National Forest Campsite #2116

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesota residents looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the state’s world-renowned natural beauty, the Superior National Forest Campsite #2116 offers a perfect, authentic Northwoods camping experience. Located near the charming, historic town of Ely, this site is part of the sprawling, nearly four-million-acre Superior National Forest, a jewel of the Arrowhead Region.

The Superior National Forest is the largest National Forest east of the Mississippi River, renowned for its millions of acres of boreal forest, thousands of pristine lakes, and rugged, rocky landscapes shaped by glaciers. Campsite #2116, as part of this vast system, provides a rustic, semi-primitive setting that appeals to those who value seclusion, quiet, and direct access to unparalleled outdoor recreation. It is an ideal basecamp for explorers, anglers, and anyone seeking to experience the peace of Minnesota's deep woods and waters. As a rustic campsite within the Forest, it provides essential amenities while maintaining a distinct "back-to-nature" feel, distinguishing it from more developed recreational areas.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite #2116 is nestled deep within the Kawishiwi Ranger District of the Superior National Forest, placing it squarely in the heart of Minnesota's most beloved wilderness region. Its proximity to Ely, Minnesota—often called the "Gateway to the Boundary Waters"—makes it a prime location for launching excursions into the interconnected water systems and hiking trails that define the area.

The location is: X3F9+VW, Ely, MN 55731, USA.

Access to the site typically involves driving on a combination of paved highways and gravel Forest Service roads, which are common for rustic campgrounds in the region. Visitors should be prepared for varying road conditions, especially when planning a trip during the shoulder seasons. While the exact lake associated with Campsite #2116 isn't universally listed under a specific developed campground name, its location near Ely and within the Kawishiwi District places it near significant waterways and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) entry points, highlighting its strategic value for paddlers and backpackers. Getting here is part of the adventure, guiding you away from the hustle of city life and into the serene environment of the boreal forest.

Due to the remote setting common to Superior National Forest's rustic sites, cell service can be limited or nonexistent, which for many, is a significant part of the appeal. Visitors should ensure they have detailed maps and directions downloaded or printed before departing from Ely or a major nearby town.

Services Offered

Campsite #2116 and similar rustic sites in the Superior National Forest are designed to offer a balance between accessibility and a near-wilderness experience. They provide basic, essential services to support your stay without the modern conveniences found at fully developed fee campgrounds. This minimal development is key to preserving the area's natural character.

Services at typical rustic campgrounds in the Superior National Forest generally include:

• Cleared area for pitching tents or parking a small RV/trailer.
• Individual picnic tables at each designated site.
• Metal fire rings with cooking grates for safe campfires (subject to local fire restrictions).
• Vault toilets (outhouses) for sanitary waste disposal.
• No potable drinking water is typically provided at rustic sites. Visitors must bring their own water or be prepared to filter, boil, or treat water sourced from nearby lakes or streams.
• No garbage service is provided. Campers are required to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash they bring in.
• No electric, sewer, or water hookups are available for recreational vehicles.
• Sites are often available on a first-come, first-served basis, though checking the most current Forest Service information is always recommended.

Features / Highlights

The primary draw of Campsite #2116 is its place within the majestic Superior National Forest, offering features that cater to true outdoor enthusiasts. The experience is defined by the natural surroundings and the opportunities for exploration.

• Direct Access to Wilderness: This site provides a more remote and secluded experience than the Forest's developed campgrounds, making it an excellent stepping-off point for exploring the non-motorized segments of the forest or accessing more remote fishing lakes and hiking trails.
• Rich Boreal Forest Ecosystem: The campsite is surrounded by the characteristic North Woods blend of towering Red Pine, Jack Pine, Balsam Fir, and deciduous trees like Aspen and Paper Birch, providing beautiful scenery, ample shade, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing (including moose, deer, and black bear).
• Water-Based Recreation: Situated near one of the many lakes in the Kawishiwi District, the site likely offers access to non-motorized boating, canoeing, and kayaking, which are signature activities of the region. Fishing for species like Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass is a major draw.
• Stargazing Opportunities: Due to the minimal light pollution in this part of Northern Minnesota, especially near the BWCAW (which has been designated a Dark Sky Sanctuary), the night skies here are phenomenal, offering incredible views of stars and the potential for Northern Lights viewing.
• Quiet and Solitude: The rustic nature of the campground generally means fewer visitors and a more peaceful, secluded experience, perfect for those who truly want to escape the noise of urban life.

Contact Information

For visitors planning a trip to Campsite #2116, the main point of contact for management and current conditions is the nearest U.S. Forest Service Ranger District:

Kawishiwi Ranger District

Address: X3F9+VW, Ely, MN 55731, USA

Phone: Visitors should contact the Kawishiwi Ranger District Office in Ely for the most current information regarding camping fees, reservations (if applicable), seasonal opening and closing dates, and fire restrictions. While the phone number is subject to change, the main Superior National Forest information line or the Kawishiwi District office phone is the correct contact for logistical questions.

It is strongly recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Superior National Forest before your trip for current alerts, conditions, and regulations.

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Superior National Forest Campsite #2116 is choosing an authentic slice of the Minnesota Northwoods wilderness. This location is particularly appealing for local Minnesotans and dedicated campers for several key reasons:

First and foremost, it offers an unbeatable blend of accessibility and ruggedness. You can drive your vehicle to a designated spot, yet still feel completely immersed in the dense boreal forest, far removed from the sounds and lights of the city. For those who find developed campgrounds too crowded or modern, this rustic site hits the sweet spot, providing essential amenities like a fire ring and vault toilet while demanding a more self-reliant approach to camping.

Secondly, the campsite acts as a premier gateway to outdoor adventure. Its location near Ely and the BWCAW means you are positioned perfectly for day-trips of world-class canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. Anglers appreciate the proximity to lakes known for exceptional Walleye and Northern Pike fishing. Hikers can connect to numerous trails that wind through the stunning, glacier-carved landscape of the region, offering varying levels of difficulty.

Finally, the seclusion and natural beauty are the ultimate selling points. The surrounding Superior National Forest boasts over 2,000 pristine lakes and a unique ecosystem. Staying at Campsite #2116 is an opportunity to truly experience the quiet of the wilderness—to wake up to the sound of the Common Loon, observe local wildlife, and experience a night sky filled with millions of stars. It's a place to slow down, practice Leave No Trace ethics, and connect deeply with the natural heritage that defines Minnesota's Arrowhead Region. For a genuinely rustic, secluded, and nature-focused camping adventure, Campsite #2116 is one of the Northwoods' finest hidden gems.