Forest Service closes Birch Lake campground and boat access for prescribed burn activities

The U.S. Forest Service has extended the closure of the Birch Lake campground and boat access while the agency conducts prescribed burns on the Kawishiwi Ranger District. The campground and boat access will be closed through Monday, May 10..
This treatment includes burning multiple units on the forest to reduce hazardous fuels in the greater Ely-area. Prescribed burns create fire-resistant forested areas that can reduce future wildfire intensity on the landscape. Prescribed fire helps reduce harvest slash and competing vegetation, while supporting natural regeneration of conifer species.
Forest visitors are encouraged to use other Superior National Forest and public campgrounds, and boat access for their recreational needs. Alternatives to the Birch Lake Campground and boat launch include:
• The South Kawishiwi River Campground (opening May 5, 2021) offers 14 campsites with electricity, a picnic area, swimming beach, shallow boat landing on Birch Lake, and a one-mile hiking trail.
• Birch Lake boat access on the Country Club Road 407, off of County Road 70.
• Boat access at the Babbitt Public Beach off Country Road 623.
Services at fee campgrounds on the forest are set to begin in early May and vary by district. If you have plans to visit a private campground in the general vicinity this week, please contact the campground to ensure this closure does not affect you.
For more information on these planned prescribed burns or camping and boat areas, please call the West Zone Fire Information phone at 218-248-2411 or the Kawishiwi Ranger District at 218-365-7600. Additional details about the planned prescribed fire units can found on InciWeb.