Free Camping in Ely

[JBMasterAngler]

Wondering if there are any free campsites in the Ely area, preferably off of fernberg trail or hwy 1 within reasonable distance of town. I know there are a thousand sites on islands or lake shores that are "boat to", but I'm looking for drive to sites. Being on or near a lake would be nice, but I'm not too picky. Just looking to make a trip a little more affordable, as well as getting a chance to explore the area a little better 

[delcecchi]

Looks like the forest service campgrounds charge a modest fee.  But the are pretty nice.

 

Fall lake, fenske lake are a couple to consider

[Cliff Wagenbach]

The local state parks are also an option. Very modest yearly fee there also.

Cliff

[ANYFISH2]

I know back in the day, late 90's, people camped out along (approaches beside it)the forest road along Birch lake.  The road on the right, right before the dam on hwy 1 south of Ely.

 

I dont know all the legalities of thr forest there, they may or may not have been legal.

[monstermoose78]

I know of a couple campsites that are free 2 are on a trout lakes

I know of a couple campsites that are free 2 are on a trout lakes

[Wanderer]

You can say that again. 

 

I've only heard you can't stay in the same place for more than 2 weeks.  I've seen people camping on some way back forest service roads.  They didn't look like designated camp sites to me.

 

How long/how often do you plan to go?  Tent or camper?

[h8go4s]

Try this:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/superior/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=36905&actid=34

And this:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5295334.pdf

Edited July 25, 2017 by h8go4s

[Wanderer]

 

Sorry for the sideways pics - I don't have time to edit.

[JBMasterAngler]

Thanks for all info. Even if I end up staying at the kawashiwi river campground (which I've done the past 2 years), now I at least know where to drive around and scout out some spots for next trip.